How can I stop a camera strap tri-glide buckle from slipping loose?
Asked 3/23/2024
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2 answers
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My shoulder strap uses a tri-glide style buckle, and the lower loop gradually loosens over time. I keep checking and re-tightening it, but I’d like a safer long-term fix, especially when carrying a heavier setup. Is there a better way to thread the buckle so it locks more securely, or are there reliable ways to add friction or secure the loose end without weakening the strap?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
2y ago
2 Answers
18
Reverse the direction the buckle is laced and back lace it; I've always laced camera straps this way... This is how the tri-glide buckle on a climbing saddle is laced and it is very secure..,
When laced in this way, sliding the buckle and back loop/end together adjusts the length of the free loop/strap.
Set the minimum size of free loop/max strap length before lacing the back loop. It can get pretty tight getting three layers through the buckle, but I haven't found one I couldn't make work yet.
Edit: I found an old drawing from a Minolta SLR owner's manual that had the basic lacing diagramed; so I edited it to add the double back ending... it looks a lot better than my crude drawing.
Originally by user70370. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user70370
2y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes — the best fix is usually to re-thread the strap through the tri-glide correctly, with a doubled-back “back lace” path like the method shown in many camera manuals and climbing harness buckles. That routing adds friction and is much less likely to slip than a simple straight pass.
If it’s still creeping after being threaded properly, the answers suggested a few ways to secure it:
- add friction by locking the overlapping strap sections together with a small zip tie
- make it permanent with a row of stitching across the overlap
- use a small amount of glue only if you’re sure the adjustment is correct
- add a snap/rivet to hold the free end in place
Of those, re-threading correctly is the first thing to try. Stitching can work, but it makes the adjustment permanent and should be done carefully so you don’t weaken the webbing. Glue also makes that section stiff and permanent. Replacing the buckle may help, but proper lacing is usually the key.
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