Squier Vista Series Jagmaster, made in Japan 1997, candy apple red. The Vista Series marked Squier's first real attempt at producing original models, instead of just releasing budget versions of equivalent Fenders. They were made in Japan very briefly from 1996-8 out of a then-new partnership with Tokai Gakki, before the whole thing was called off. There's a couple of wackier shapes in the series, but the Jagmaster is surely the easiest of the lot to love: take the classic Jag shape, add a HH pickup set, switch the complex offset trem for a simple Strat one, simplify the electronics to a 3-way switch and a master volume and tone, and you're away.  This one is a 'first run' example with the heel-end truss rod adjuster, dating to the first half of 1997. We've had a few Jagmasters through the store in white, black, sunburst or sonic blue, but this is first example I've ever laid eyes on in candy apple red. Paired with the rosewood board, tort guard and white plastics, this has an offbeat janky swagger that's all sorts of awesome. Between the slim neck, short scale and simple hardware, this really feels good in the hands; it's a friendly thing. The ease of play paired with the immediate, punchy growl make for absolute party of a guitar plugged in. It's perfect for big rhythm parts or nasty riffs, it's so much fun. These aren't getting any more common, especially in red, so if you're tickled, don't waste too much time.

Model: Squier Vista Series Jagmaster, JGM-55 
Made: Japan, Tokai factory, 1997, first run (serial A006370)
Finish: candy apple red, 4-ply red tort guard
Body: basswood
Neck: maple with rosewood board, 9.5" radius, 24" scale, slim C shape
Weight: 3.635kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Fender 'Dragster' humbucker x2
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has a dent on the front near the 'Vista Series' decal, plus some dimples on the end and bottom edge. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has some chips on the top horn and on the bottom edge near the jack, as well as dimples between the cavity cover and the back and some light scuffs along the belly carve and bottom side. The sides have dimples on the top horn, dents and dimples in the elbow area, a couple of chips, dents and scuffs near the jack and some dimples on the bottom horn. The front has a chip on the top edge up from the bridge pickup and on the top horn, as well as some dimples behind the bridge and elbow area and some standard play wear on the guard and horns. Overall: good condition (7/10)

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly, truss rod also works. The frets have normal wear, but they're pretty even with no major buzz issues, 6/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 11/49 Moonshiners Strings.