anyone else hate locking RCAs?

I agree, they are a real pain. Bdgregory has the good point that even when they do work as intended , getting them off from a crowded Preamp is a real stuggle.

One question for those who like the Eichmann bullets. Do you have any issues w the single pin grounding arrangement? APL warns that there could be problems using those w the WBT Nextgen RCA jacks.

APL warns that there could be problems using those w
the WBT Nextgen RCA jacks.
Swampwalker (System | Threads | Answers)

There's really no problem. This warning created a fire for no reason.

Here's the issue...

The WBT Nextgen jacks have metal contact on only a portion of the outside
barrel. Since the Eichmann bullets have only the small metal contact point on
their barrels, the end user needs to be certain the contact point of the
Eichmann connector makes contact with the Nextgen's contact point.

I've randomly installed and uninstalled Eichmann RCAs plugs onto Nextgen
RCA connectors many, many times, and I've had contact issues fewer than
1/10 times. The fix is simply to rotate the Eichmann bullet until contact is
made.

I agree. Locking RCA plug is a pain to use in tight space. Some how, I always tune them in the wrong direction.

I like them for several reasons. Some female RCA's vary in size and invariably, one of them is small and the male fits loose. Thus, the locking RCA can be a way to ensure the fit is consistent. They are a pain at times, but they can work. I prefer XLR connectors if given the choice.