Guitar knobs are not universal; their fit and compatibility can vary based on several factors. Here’s a rundown of what affects their functionality:

Push-On vs Set-Screw Knobs

Push-On: These knobs are held in place by friction. They have a specific inner diameter that matches the shaft size.

Set-Screw: These knobs have a small screw that tightens onto the shaft. These knobs are held in place by friction. They have a specific inner diameter that matches the shaft size.

Shaft Types

Split Shaft: Common on many guitars, these shafts have a split or slit that allows push-on knobs to fit snugly. The inner diameter of the knob must match the diameter of the split shaft.

Solid Shaft: These are smooth and round, and require knobs that either push on or have a set-screw to secure them.

D-Shaft: These shafts have a flat side to prevent the knob from slipping. The knob must have a matching D-shaped hole.

Splines

Potentiometer splines are the ridges or grooves on the shaft of a potentiometer (pot) that engage with the knob. They play a crucial role in ensuring that the knob stays securely attached and rotates smoothly with the pot.

Coarse Spline: Split Shaft Potentiometers have 16 splines , 8 on each side. Coarse spline knobs have 18 splines.

Fine Spline: Split Shaft Potentiometers have 20 splines , 10 on each side. Coarse spline knobs have 24 splines.

There is always the exception, but a good rule of thumb is...

• Import/Asian Pots = Coarse Spline Guitar Knobs
• Domestic/US Pots = Fine Spline Guitar Knobs

Guitar pickup covers are not universal; their fit can depend on several factors including the type of pickup and pole spacing. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:

Types of Pickups

• Single-Coil
• Humbucker
• F-Spaced
• Mini-Humbucker
• P90 Dogear
• Soap Bar
• Thunderbird® Bass
• and more!

Pole Spacing

Pickups operate using magnets aka poles. Pole spacing is the distance between the two outer magnets, center-on-center. and measured in millimeters (mm). The pole spacing measurement will tell you what size pickup covers are needed.

Close counts in horseshoes, hand grenades and pickup covers. EXAMPLE - A  49mm humbucker cover will fit a 49.2mm humbucker pickup and no one will be the wiser. Just don't stray too far off the beaten path.

Additional Considerations

Some pickups have mounting rings or specific attachment methods that might affect cover compatibility. Different guitars may have unique pickup configurations and dimensions, so it’s important to match each and every cover to your guitar's requirements. Always check the pickup type and pole spacing before purchasing.

NOS stands for new old stock. Referring to an aged supply of guitar hardware that was never sold to a customer and is still in new condition. Such goods may not be manufactured anymore, and may represent the only current source of a particular item.

Electroplated Finishes

A process used to deposit a layer of metal onto a surface through the use of electrical current. Improves appearance, corrosion resistance and wear resistance.

• Aged Gold (Relic)
• Aged Nickel (Relic)
• Anodized
• Black
• Black Chrome / Cosmo Black
• Black Nickel / Pearl Chrome
• Chrome
• Gold
• Nickel
• NOS Black Chrome
• Satin Chrome
• Satin Gold
• Satin Nickel
• and more!

Polished

Hardware that has no plating and is just the base metal, buffed to a luster.

• Polished Aluminum
• Polished Brass
• Polished Nickel-Silver
• Polished Stainless Steel
• and more!

Powder Coating

Dry finishing process used to apply a protective and decorative layer to a variety of surfaces, most commonly metal. It’s known for its durability and high-quality finish.

• Cream
• Solar Black
• and more!

Raw

These guitar parts have no plating or polish. Pieces will have roughness and/or grime from the manufacturing process. The hardware can have a very industrial, aged, relic and almost steampunk look and feel.

• Raw Aluminum
• Raw Brass
• Raw Nickel-Silver
• Raw Stainless Steel
• Raw Steel
• and more!

Nickel

• Appearance: Nickel has a slightly less bright and more subdued finish compared to chrome. It can be polished to a shiny appearance but is generally not as reflective as chrome.
• Properties: Nickel is also very resistant to corrosion and has good wear resistance. It’s often used as a base layer before chrome plating to improve adhesion and overall durability.
• Chemical Stability: Nickel can develop a patina over time, but it’s generally very resistant to rust and corrosion. Nickel plating is less likely to chip compared to chrome.

Chrome

• Appearance: Chrome has a bright, shiny finish that is highly reflective. It often appears as a mirror-like surface.
• Properties: Chrome is known for its hardness and corrosion resistance. It forms a very thin but durable oxide layer that protects it from tarnishing.
• Chemical Stability: Chrome is quite resistant to tarnishing and oxidation. However, the chrome plating process can sometimes result in a surface that is more prone to chipping compared to nickel plating.

Key Differences

• Chrome provides a more striking, mirror-like finish, while nickel tends to be more subdued and less reflective.
• Nickel will age / relic and is the more vintage or historic option, while chrome will retain it's luster over time.

Guitar knobs come in all sorts of different shapes, sizes, colors and weight. A single knob can have multiple different correct names.

Types of Knobs

• Barrel
• Bell
• Speed
• Top Hat
• Witch Hat
• and more!

Barrel Knobs

Very popular with Telecaster® guitars and bass guitars. The name comes from the guitar knob's similarity to a barrel. Available in a flat or domed top. Sometimes the top of the guitar knob has a fancy jewel or engraving. Manufactured with plastic or metal, usually the latter.

Bell Knobs

These have been around since the '50s. The name can trace it's origins to being shaped like a bell. Often seen on Les Paul® and Stratocaster® electric guitars and Epiphone® acoustic electric guitars. Can be made from metal or plastic, normally plastic.

Speed Knobs

Arriving in the '50s and gaining popularity in the '70s. Big and round. More accessible than other guitar knobs due to their size and shape. Allowing for faster and smoother control adjustments. Speed knobs were the cat's pajamas during the Norlin era of Gibson® electric guitars. Can have flutes on the side of the guitar knob for added grip. Made from plastic.

Top Hat Knobs

Another old school guitar part. Gaining fame in the '60s. Acquiring the name from looking like an actual top hat. Styles include flat, domed or with inserts. Inserts commonly say Volume or Tone. Traditionally produced with plastic, can also be metal.

Witch Hat Knobs

They hit the scene in the '60s. Often seen on SG® guitars. A combination of bell knob and top hat knob. Has a striking resemblance to a witch's hat. This version also has insets that say Vol. or Tone. Made from plastic.

Most parts have an "A" side and a "B" side. This is direct from the factory and intentional. The A-Side is what's visible after installation.  The B-Side is what's not visible after installation. The B-Side may contain blemishes from the manufacturing process.

If you are the slightest bit unsure if a part will fit, we highly recommend seeking assistance to verify compatibility. This will help avoid any potential issues and ensure that the part functions as intended. Our team is more than happy to provide guidance or answer any questions you may have about fitting the part.

Please be aware you may be asked to provide very accurate dimensions and details. Even though you may have the same brand of guitar and the same model, the guitars could have entirely different hardware.