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Graph Tech Guitar Labs has announced the release of two new 7-string models in its popular Un-Lock Nut lineup. Engineered specifically for 7-string electric guitars equipped with double-locking tremolo systems, the new drop-in replacements eliminate traditional metal clamps, mounting screws, and hex keys while maintaining solid tuning stability.
Crafted from self-lubricating Black TUSQ XL, the pre-slotted nuts allow extended-range players full-time access to their headstock machine heads for quick tuning tweaks, alternate tunings, and fast string changes on stage.
Engineering & Performance Features
- Substantial Weight Reduction: Weighing roughly 7.5 grams (about the weight of a single AAA battery), the Un-Lock Nut removes heavy metal hardware from the headstock compared to traditional 35.5-gram metal locking nuts.
- Triple-Lubricated Black TUSQ XL: Infused with Graph Tech’s proprietary self-lubrication to eliminate string binding and friction without affecting slot integrity.
- Optimized Slot & Ramp Geometry: Extended slot ramps distribute string stress evenly across the nut bed, accommodating heavy bottom-string gauges and improving low-fret bending dynamics.
- Drop-In Installation: Designed as a non-permanent modification that fits into existing locking nut slots. Minor sanding on the ends or bottom allows for custom string height precision.
Graph Tech 7-String Un-Lock Nut Models & Specs
| Model # | Style / Application | Fretboard Radius | Dimensions (L x T x H) | String Spacing | Street Price |
| PU-6521-00 | 7-String Floyd Rose (FR) Style | 12″ Radius | 1.887″ x 0.524″ x 0.335″ (47.94 x 13.32 x 8.52 mm) | 1.63″ (41.4 mm) | $24.95 USD |
| PU-6522-00 | 7-String Ibanez Style | 16″ Radius | 1.887″ x 0.600″ x 0.337″ (47.93 x 15.25 x 8.56 mm) | 1.626″ (41.3 mm) | $24.95 USD |
“Seven-string players often use different tunings and string gauges, so being able to tune at the machine heads and change strings quickly is a real advantage if they are using a tremolo stabilizer. The Un-Lock Nut removes the unnecessary hardware and hassle at the headstock while giving players the tuning performance, tone, and playability they expect from Graph Tech.”
— Dave Dunwoodie, Founder of Graph Tech Guitar Labs
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The MikesGig Takeaway
- No More Hex Key Hassles: Ditching locking clamps allows 7-string players to retune on the fly or drop into alternate tunings right from the headstock without reaching for an Allen wrench.
- Lighter Headstock Weight: Trimming roughly 28 grams of metal off the headstock improves instrument balance and reduces neck-dive on lightweight 7-string body shapes.
- Fast Emergency String Changes: If a string breaks during a live set, replacing it through a self-lubricating TUSQ nut takes seconds instead of unscrewing clamps under pressure.
Where to buy:
MikesGig — Gear Moves Music. Music Moves People.
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