Fender '72 Strat, olympic white, made in Japan 1997-00. Now, controversial take, but honestly: I like these 90s era reissue Strats better than the 70s originals they are modelled on. It's a feel thing mostly: this is pretty lightweight, the neck is slim, straight and stable with great fret and finish work, the neck pocket is tight and tidy... it just has that certain integrity in the hands that a really well-made guitar should have. The neck is a particular highlight: it's comfy slim U shape and made from a gorgeous piece of subtly flamed maple, with attractive figuring all the way up the back. Paired with the big headstock and an olympic white finish with a couple of decades of yellowing and light play wear, this looks like a million bucks. The tone is punchy, full and balanced take on the Strat spank. The USA pickups deliver an eloquent brightness that brings out the detail of your playing nicely, while being warm and juicy enough to feel forgiving and fun. So hey, save yourself a fortune compared to a legit early 70s example and strum yourself to ecstasy.

Model: Fender '72 Reissue Stratocaster (ST72-55)
Made: Japan, Dyna plant, 1997-00 (serial O025169)
Finish: olympic white (OWH), 3-ply white guard
Body: basswood
Weight: 3.615kg
Neck: maple with maple board, U profile, 7.25" radius, 25.5" scale
Mods: none
Pickups: Fender USA ST-Vintage single coil x3
Case: basic non-original gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some discolouration around the bullet truss adjuster, an extra hole from a removed string tree, some scuffs on the top and bottom edge and some dimples on the end. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has some light scuffs on the top horn, elbow area and back edge, no major marks. The sides have some light discolouration and scuffs on the top horn and elbow area, a couple of minor dents near the jack and some rub wear on the bottom horn. The front has a little scratch on the top edge up from the bridge, some light scuffs in the elbow area and on the back edge and some standard play marks on the guard and top horn. Overall: very good condition (8/10)

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. The frets have minor wear only, 8/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.