For guitar enthusiasts, the instrument is more than just a tool; it’s a statement, a piece of art, and a source of immense joy. Keeping your prized guitar tucked away in a case might protect it, but it denies you and your visitors the visual pleasure of its beauty. This is where a Guitar Wall Holder becomes an essential accessory for any guitarist wanting to display their instrument with pride. More than just a display solution, a quality guitar wall holder offers security and accessibility, making it a superior choice for storing your beloved guitars.
Choosing the right guitar wall holder can seem simple, but understanding the nuances ensures your instrument is both safely displayed and readily available for your next playing session. Let’s dive into why a guitar wall holder is a must-have and how to choose the perfect one for your needs.
Why Choose a Guitar Wall Holder?
Beyond aesthetics, guitar wall holders offer a multitude of practical benefits:
- Space Saving: Floor space is precious, especially in smaller rooms or studios. By mounting your guitar on the wall, you reclaim valuable floor area, making your space feel less cluttered and more organized.
- Instrument Display: Guitars are beautiful objects. A guitar wall holder turns your instrument into a piece of wall art, showcasing its craftsmanship and your passion for music.
- Protection: Contrary to simply leaning a guitar against a wall or leaving it on a stand, a secure guitar wall mount minimizes the risk of accidental bumps, falls, and potential damage, especially in homes with children or pets.
- Accessibility: Having your guitar readily visible and easily accessible encourages more frequent playing. Instead of the hassle of opening a case, your guitar is always within reach, inspiring spontaneous jam sessions and practice.
Types of Guitar Wall Holders
The market offers a variety of guitar wall hangers, each with unique features to suit different guitars and preferences:
- Yoke Style Hangers: These are the most common type, featuring two arms that cradle the guitar’s headstock. Gravity engages the yoke, securely holding the instrument. Many yokes are auto-closing, providing extra security as the guitar’s weight further tightens the grip.
- Cradle Style Hangers: Similar to yokes but often with a more open design, cradles support the guitar’s body or neck. These can be suitable for guitars with unusual headstocks or for those preferring a different aesthetic.
- Hook Style Hangers: These minimalist hangers use a simple hook to support the guitar, often under the headstock. They are less bulky and can be a good option for tight spaces or for a very clean look.
- Horizontal Guitar Wall Mounts: For a different display style, horizontal mounts hold the guitar sideways, showcasing the body more prominently. These are often preferred for particularly decorative instruments.
- Multi-Guitar Wall Racks: If you own multiple guitars, consider a multi-guitar rack that mounts to the wall. This is an efficient and stylish way to display a collection while saving space.
Choosing the Right Guitar Wall Holder for You
Selecting the ideal guitar wall mount involves considering several factors:
- Guitar Type: Acoustic guitars, electric guitars, bass guitars, ukuleles, and other instruments have different weights and shapes. Ensure the hanger is designed to safely support your specific instrument type. Some hangers are universal, while others are designed for specific instrument categories.
- Wall Type and Mounting: Consider the wall material (drywall, plaster, wood stud). For drywall, use appropriate anchors to ensure secure mounting. Ideally, mount into a wall stud for maximum stability, especially for heavier instruments.
- Safety Features: Look for hangers with padding or cushioning on the contact points to protect your guitar’s finish. Auto-closing yokes and locking mechanisms offer enhanced security.
- Material and Durability: Choose a guitar wall holder made from robust materials like steel or solid wood that can reliably support the weight of your guitar for years to come.
- Style and Aesthetics: Guitar wall hangers come in various styles, from minimalist and modern to decorative and vintage. Select a style that complements your guitar and room décor. Consider finishes like wood, black metal, chrome, or even hand-shaped designs for a unique touch.
- Budget: Prices for guitar wall hangers range from affordable basic models to premium designer options. Determine your budget and find a hanger that offers the best balance of quality, features, and style within your price range.
Installation Tips for Your Guitar Wall Mount
Proper installation is crucial for the safety of your guitar. Here are some basic steps:
- Locate Wall Studs: Use a stud finder to identify wall studs for secure mounting. Mounting directly into a stud is always recommended for maximum strength.
- Mark and Drill Pilot Holes: Position the guitar wall holder at your desired height and mark the screw locations. Drill pilot holes slightly smaller than the mounting screws.
- Install the Hanger: Align the hanger with the pilot holes and screw it securely into the wall studs or anchors. Ensure it is firmly attached and can support the weight of your guitar.
- Test for Stability: Before hanging your guitar, gently test the hanger’s stability to ensure it is securely mounted and won’t wobble or pull away from the wall.
Top Brands in Guitar Wall Holders
Several reputable brands specialize in high-quality guitar wall hangers:
- String Swing: Known for their durable and reliable hangers, String Swing offers a wide range of options, including wood block hangers and metal hangers.
- Hercules Stands: Popular for their innovative designs, Hercules Stands features auto-grip system hangers that securely hold guitars of various shapes. The GSP38WB Wood Wallmount Guitar Hanger, as mentioned previously, is a highly-rated model.
- K&M (König & Meyer): A German brand renowned for its robust and professional-grade music accessories, including durable and functional guitar wall holders.
- FretRest: Offers a variety of guitar hangers and stands, focusing on instrument safety and quality construction.
- Grip Studios GuitarGrip: For a unique and artistic touch, Grip Studios’ GuitarGrip hangers, shaped like hands, are both functional and visually striking.
Conclusion
A guitar wall holder is more than just a storage accessory; it’s an investment in showcasing, protecting, and making your guitar more accessible. By carefully considering the type of hanger, your guitar, and your space, you can select the perfect guitar wall mount to proudly display your instrument and enhance your musical environment. Explore the options, choose wisely, and get your guitar out of its case and onto the wall where it belongs!
