Gear article

Dunlop Capo Trigger Fly Curved Black

The Dunlop Capo Trigger Fly is a professional-grade spring-action capo designed for rapid repositioning on curved fretboards. It features an ergonomic grip and a custom-engineered spring mechanism to ensure consistent pressure and accurate intonation during live performances and studio sessions.

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Overview

The Dunlop Capo Trigger Fly Curved Black is a high-performance accessory designed for guitarists who require reliability and ease of use. Part of Dunlop's extensive line of guitar hardware, this model focuses on balancing speed with precision. The 'Trigger' designation refers to its squeeze-handle design, which allows players to move the capo across the fretboard with a single hand, minimizing downtime between songs.

Construction and Mechanism

Built with durability in mind, the Trigger Fly features a custom spring mechanism. This internal component is calibrated to apply the optimal amount of pressure across the strings without pulling them sharp. The ergonomic grip is shaped to fit comfortably in the palm, reducing the force required to open the clamp. Its black finish provides a professional, low-profile aesthetic suitable for any instrument.

Functional Features

Key features of the Dunlop Capo Trigger Fly include:

  • Custom Spring Mechanism: Engineered for long-term tension retention and precise pressure.
  • Ergonomic Handle: Designed to facilitate quick changes and reduce hand fatigue.
  • Curved Profile: Specifically shaped to match the radius of standard acoustic and electric guitar fretboards.
  • Intonation Stability: The pressure distribution is designed to maintain tuning accuracy across all six strings.

Suitability

This capo is best suited for active performers who frequently change keys or experiment with different tunings. Because it is designed for curved fretboards, it is ideal for most steel-string acoustic guitars and electric guitars. It provides a more robust alternative to lighter accessories like the Flight Aluminium Ukulele Capo, making it appropriate for full-sized stringed instruments where higher tension is required.

Market Comparison

Within the Dunlop ecosystem and the wider market, the Trigger Fly sits as a premium utilitarian choice. While products like the K&M 30910 Classical Guitar Capo are intended for flat fretboards, the Trigger Fly is dedicated to curved radii. Unlike manual screw-tension capos, the trigger-style design prioritises speed, though it maintains the build quality associated with Dunlop's professional hardware line.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary benefit of the Trigger Fly design?
The primary benefit is the ability to perform quick, one-handed adjustments. The ergonomic grip and custom spring allow the player to move the capo instantly without disrupting their performance flow.
Can this capo be used on a classical guitar?
This specific model is designed for curved fretboards, typically found on acoustic and electric guitars. Classical guitars usually have flat fretboards, which would be better served by a flat-profile capo like the K&M 30910.
Does the Dunlop Trigger Fly affect the guitar's intonation?
The Trigger Fly is specifically engineered to maintain precise intonation. Its custom spring mechanism applies even pressure to ensure strings are pressed down without being pulled out of tune.
What material is the Dunlop Trigger Fly made from?
The capo features high-quality Dunlop construction, typically using aircraft-grade aluminium for a balance of strength and light weight. This ensures the capo is durable enough for heavy touring use.
Is the handle design ergonomic?
Yes, the Trigger Fly features a redesigned ergonomic grip. This shape is intended to fit the hand more naturally than older trigger styles, making it easier to squeeze and move.
What is the price range for this model?
The typical price range for the Dunlop Capo Trigger Fly Curved Black is approximately EUR 20. This puts it in the mid-range category for professional guitar accessories.
How does it compare to a ukulele capo?
Compared to a model like the Flight Aluminium Ukulele Capo, the Trigger Fly is much larger and exerts higher tension. It is designed for the wider necks and higher string tension of guitars rather than ukuleles.
Will the black finish scratch my guitar neck?
No, the capo is designed with protective padding on the surfaces that contact the instrument. This ensures that the metal construction does not damage the wood or finish of the guitar neck.
Can the spring tension be adjusted manually?
The Trigger Fly uses a fixed-tension custom spring mechanism. While it cannot be manually adjusted, it is calibrated to provide the correct pressure for standard curved fretboards.
Is this capo suitable for electric guitars?
Yes, as long as the electric guitar has a curved fretboard radius, which most do. The trigger mechanism is fast enough for the rapid changes often required in electric guitar performances.
How does this differ from the K&M 30910?
The K&M 30910 is a chrome capo specifically for classical guitars with flat fretboards. The Dunlop Trigger Fly is black and designed for curved fretboards with a quick-release trigger mechanism.
Is this a 'must-have' for creative players?
Dunlop describes this as a must-have for players who want to get creative. The ease of repositioning allows for spontaneous key changes and exploration of different registers on the instrument.