Guitar String Trees and Retainers 11 products
Fine-Tune Your Guitar’s Playability with String Trees and Retainers
Guitar string trees (or retainers) do more than just guide your strings—they set the right break angle over the nut and reduce friction at a critical contact point. That means cleaner behind-nut behavior, fewer buzz issues, and more reliable return to pitch, especially on Fender-style headstocks and trem-equipped guitars. From vintage-correct disc and butterfly trees to self-lubricating Graph Tech TUSQ XL and roller string retainers, StewMac has the pro-grade options trusted by builders, repair techs, and players.
Built for Every Style of Instrument
Prefer a period-correct look? Our vintage disc (3/8") and butterfly trees each hold two strings for proper downforce. Need lower friction for trem work? TUSQ XL and roller retainers help strings move smoothly and maintain tuning. Solving a “buzzing G”? The Three-String Tree adds controlled break angle to the G without drilling a new hole and includes three spacers to fine-tune height. Working on bass? Choose bass disc or bass string retainers designed for heavier gauges. (Always drill the recommended pilot hole for the mounting screw.)
Quality You Can Rely On
Every retainer here is spec’d for dependable, shop-worthy installs: clean hardware, correct spacers, and finishes that match vintage or modern builds. Easy to install and built to last, these small parts make a big difference in feel and tuning consistency. And with our Lifetime Promise, you can choose with confidence.
Why Choose StewMac Guitar String Trees and Retainers?
We’re builders and repair pros with over 50 years in the industry, so we know and include what you actually need—clear instructions, pilot-bit guidance, and setup tips—right on the product pages. Whether you’re chasing vintage authenticity or modern reliability, our string trees and retainers help your instrument stay quiet behind the nut and return to pitch.