# Steadfast Stopbar: Locking strings at the tailpiece

> A new string-locking tailpiece replaces your Gibson stopbar with a tool-free tuning upgrade that keeps guitars in tune like a Floyd Rose bridge.
- Title: Steadfast Stopbar: Locking strings at the tailpiece | Shortify
- Summary: A new string-locking tailpiece replaces your Gibson stopbar with a tool-free tuning upgrade that keeps guitars in tune like a Floyd Rose bridge. The…
- Keywords: steadfast stopbar, guitar tailpiece, string locking, gibson les paul, tuning stability, stopbar replacement, guitar hardware, locking system, restringing, guitar upgrade, Steadfast, Stopbar
- Source: Guitar World — https://guitarworld.com/gear/accessories/steadfast-stopbar-review
- Published: 2026-09-25T16:54:41+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: steadfast stopbar, guitar tailpiece, string locking, gibson les paul, tuning stability, stopbar replacement, guitar hardware, locking system, restringing, guitar upgrade
## Floyd Rose showed the way
When Floyd Rose introduced his double-locking bridge system in the 1980s, it proved that locking strings down keeps them stable under heavy use. The Steadfast Stopbar applies that same principle in reverse, at the tailpiece instead of the nut.
## What is the Steadfast Stopbar
It's a direct drop-in replacement for a standard Gibson-style stopbar tailpiece that uses six stainless-steel set screws to lock strings in place instead of relying on friction alone.
## Built from billet aluminum
Made from CNC-machined billet 6061 aluminum instead of die-cast zinc, the Steadfast is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and reportedly provides a tonal upgrade over standard stopbars.
## Five finishes, five price points
The Steadfast ranges from $99 for the Faded silver version to $169 for the 24-karat gold-plated Custom, with Studio, Pro, and Standard finishes in between. Custom Shop and Cerakote options are also available.
## How the locking works
Thread the ball end into the tuning post, feed the loose string end through the Steadfast, then tighten the set screws with the included 2.5mm hex wrench to lock everything in place.
## Reduces string slip and drift
By anchoring ball ends at the tuning posts instead of the bridge, you eliminate excess string winds that cause tuning slip. This lets you tune up faster and maintain better tuning stability.

> Essentially, the Steadfast turns the stop bar into a locking nut, only in reverse
## Cuts restringing time by 75%
The locking system eliminates the need to cut ball ends and reduces the number of tuning post winds, making string changes quick and straightforward.
## A clever safety detail
The tailpiece's downward-sloped rear edge angles toward the body, keeping trimmed string ends tucked safely away from your picking hand.
## Real-world test on a Les Paul
After installing the Steadfast on a Gibson Les Paul Custom, the guitar stayed remarkably in tune and sounded more lively and springy. The entire restringing process took just a few minutes.

> The Les Paul sounded more lively and felt springier
## Better than locking tuners
Unlike locking tuners, the Steadfast doesn't add bulk or cause neck dive, and you can easily reinstall your original stopbar if you change your mind.
## Top-wrapping is possible
While the standard Steadfast requires string maneuvering for top-wrapping, the designer is working on a dedicated top-wrap version that's already in development.
## Five-star verdict
The Steadfast Stopbar keeps your guitar in tune like a locking tremolo while preserving the original look. It's rock-solid, quick to install, and already appearing on professional players' guitars.

> I have a feeling you're going to start seeing Steadfast tailpieces on plenty of professional players' guitars
## Key takeaway

The Steadfast Stopbar locks strings at the tailpiece instead of the nut, reducing tuning slip and restringing time while keeping your guitar's original look.