Bridge cover question

Hi.

I'm assuming that the inclusion (or not) of a bridge cover in a build is a matter of personal taste.
Are there particular factors that make some people opt out of using them ?
Do they get in the way when playing ?
Do they make the guitar a tight fit in cases ?

Also, how are they kept on ? Friction fit ?

Thanks in advance.

For one, you can't palm mute with a bridge cover on.

Do they make the guitar a tight fit in cases ?

Also, how are they kept on ? Friction fit ?

Thanks in advance.

1.No
2.Yes

The bridge cover was a carryover feature from steels, and was a primitive form of electrical shielding, like a beta version of a pickup cover.

With it on the average person can rest their hand and strum acoustic-style, with no bridge parts bothering them. IMO there is a slight advantage in shielding.

When played acoustically the bridge cover seems to act like the cone on a dobro.

Covers that don't fit well or have chipping chrome on the inside and some features missing are a reissue, worth about $22.

Real '60s/'70s covers will IMO have about a 15 degree lip on the bell mouth and a lower lipped flange that keeps all the shapes of the top surface, a better quality steel and almost indestructible chrome everywhere, fit perfectly, and just be a massive piece of work.

Anybody know when the less-great repro parts came out?