Locking toggles or Guarded toggles?

Opinions? Thoughts? for those places an inadvertent bump off would be a problem

I Used toggle guards (the half-round guards available from Stein or others) to protect my ignition switches. Over 1300 hours on my -7 and never had an inadvertent operation.

I used locking toggles on all three projects. Of late, this is the switch type I?m using. It has a nice feel.
https://www.alliedelec.com/product/nkk-switches/s6al/70192232/
Carl

I used missile switch protectors for anything that is only on temporarily (fuel pump, alternate static source etc.). This gives a good visual clue that the item is activated. I initially had the ones from Stein, however they would close off at the slightest bump so I now use ones from Jaycar (Australia).

I used shuttle switch guards for all other items (lights/fans, 3 position master switch etc.). I used the cast ones as they don't need additional holes drilled in the panel, although you do need to make sure that there's enough thread on your switches/switch breakers to make them useful, as they are a little thick (most switch styles are and everything from Stein worked except the anti rotation tab needed to be ground down to be compatible with the Tyco switch breakers). They are available in the regular and 1/4" sizes. They make useful rests for your hand when trying to activate things in turbulence. I would definitely use them again. There is no way I would have togel switches (or rockers for that matter) on the bottom row under the EFIS unless they had switch guards, as they bottom of your jeans (or feet) can catch the switch easily when getting into the aircraft.

http://www.periheliondesign.com/switchguards.htm





Tom.

I chose locking toggles for my critical switches. I'm electrically dependent, so really don't want an "oops" at an inopportune time. I haven't flown with them yet, but have flown other planes with them and like them.

Lots of combinations . . .

I used locking switches for master buss & backup battery so I can not bump them. These go on and stay on.

The guards are to enable finding them in the dark and/or stabilizing my hand in rough conditions. I can find them by feel when my eyes are elsewhere. The FP is far left and the flaps far right.

I added a recessed switch panel below my panel and paid attention to switch organization/placement and have had no issues of any kind.

Locking toggles

I use locking toggles on my Main/alternator and my mags. I originally had guards to prevent an inadvertent action but guards don?t prevent user error.

Locking toggles make you think more when you go to turn them off so it help to prevent dumb mistakes - at least it has for me.

Great feed back everyone!! Thanks.