Fender '71 Strat, sunburst with gold hardware, crafted in Japan 1999-02. When I first plugged this in, it took about about three seconds to start really enjoying myself. The combo of an alder body, overwound Texas Special pickups and a chunky U shape neck with a maple board makes for a sizzling tone with extra BBQ sauce. There's a natural punch to the low end paired with a snappy, assertive treble... it loves a bit of overdrive and eats really responds to a varying attack from the hands. This model usually ships with an ash body, but the alder on this takes a few grams off the weight, cleans up the lines on the burst finish and adds a certain breathiness balance to the tone; it's a tasty treat. The gold hardware is a fun gaudy touch; it clashes enthusiastically with the red tort guard and adds a certain pirate swagger to the aesthetic. Strats are generally pleasant to the ear and fun to play, but this is especially pleasant and fun.

Model: Fender '71 Reissue Stratocaster (ST71-85TX)
Made: Japan, Dyna plant, 1999-02 (serial P027322)
Finish: sunburst, gloss poly
Body: alder
Weight: 3.455kg
Neck: maple with maple board, 7.25" radius, 25.5" scale, chunky U profile
Mods: back cover removed, one tone knob replaced, guard replaced
Pickups: Fender USA Texas Special single coil x3
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. Headstock has some very minor marks on the end. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has some scuffs around the outside edge and dimples around the cavity, no major marks. The back cover is missing. The sides have very light scuffs around the whole body. The front is pretty clean, just some scuffs near the jack and some play wear on the guard and top horn. Overall: very good condition (8.5/10)

Playing condition notes: Action is very low, neck is straight, intonation is good. All electrics tested and working properly. Frets are looking great, 9/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.