aubs1 wrote:
The first thing thieves do, is remove the serial number......that's easy.....unfortunately. They do it with cars (engine numbers, or change them, you know like make a 3 or 5 an 8, etc).
We can't underestimate these bastards....(sorry)....we have to think like them to "out-smart" them! But yeah, that's a start...... M.
Really? You could remove the serial number from my Morgan, but it wouldn't be that easy and unless you're up to removing a couple of frets, taking the neck off and then refitting the neck you'd risk damaging the guitar. Also anybody who wants and appreciates good guitars is going to want to see a serial number so that they know what they're getting.
There's a chapter on guitars and theft in The Acoustic Guitar Owner's Manual. They make the point that guitars are likely to get stolen from shops or at gigs. So one rule of thumb is to keep the guitar with you - this includes not leaving it in a car.
A while back somebody who was wandering around Andy McGibbons "accidentally" picked up my Morgan (in it's case) and started heading for the door. One of the staff noticed and had a word with the guy.
They also recommend gigging with a guitar that you can afford to lose - financially and emotionally. IE get a good Takamine for your gigs, leave the Martin D45 at home.
Some points from the Acoustic Guitar Owner's Manual.
1) Insure your instrument - for as close to full replacement value as possible. This includes getting it re-valued regularly and appraising the insurers of a change in value.
2) Write down the serial numbers and take good quality photos. Now. Before anything happens.
3) Engrave your name on your capos and put a business card in the case. That way something that ties the guitar to you is in the case with the guitar. The thief is going to try to fence the guitar with case and any other contents as quickly as possible. You might print a message like "If not in the possession of Bob Dubery then this guitar is stolen" on the back of the card.
4) In case of theft, report to the police and get a case number. Then alert all the music stores within, say, 100Km and include serial numbers, case number and photos. This makes it easier for them to act if the guitar pops up in their store.
5) Get attached to the music, not the instrument. If the worst comes to the worst but you are adequately insured then you will be able to embark on further adventures with a new guitar.
