endpins

Endpins are projection pins used at the end of an object to provide support, attachment, or anchorage. The term is employed in several domains, but it is especially common in music.

In bowed string instruments, the endpin is a spike attached to the bottom of the instrument, typically on cellos and double basses. It rests on the floor and allows the instrument to be played at a comfortable height, with height and angle adjustable in many models. Modern endpins are usually made of steel or carbon fiber and may be retractable or extendable via a locking mechanism. The position and length of the endpin can affect playing posture and sound, and players may modify it to suit their technique.

In guitars and related instruments, the term endpin can refer to the strap button located at the bottom of the body, which provides a secure point to attach a strap. Some instruments employ variations such as recessed endpin-style connectors or, in certain electro-acoustic designs, endpin interfaces as part of a pickup system. Configurations vary by instrument and model.

Materials and design considerations include durability, grip, and the potential for movement or wear over time. Endpins can be metal or composite, finished to minimize damage to the instrument and to prevent slipping on the floor or surface.

Maintenance generally involves keeping the endpin clean, ensuring any retractable mechanism operates smoothly, and replacing worn pins to maintain stability and playability.