Fender Japan Boxer Series Stratocaster ST-456 Olympic White 1986
Fender Boxer ST-456 Strat, Olympic White, made in Japan 1985-6. The Boxer Series was Fender's modern offerings from the mid 80s, offering some twists on their classic shapes aimed at hard rock and shred players. This particular model is one of the more moderate takes: a full scale HSS Strat with a modern fretboard radius, simple two knob electronics and simple robust hardware. The last one of these we got was black, but this example in the crisp reverse-tuxedo finish with the maple board is super cute. The neck is a dream: these early Fujigen made Strats were very carefully put together, and you can really feel the love and care that's gone into it. It's lightweight, resonant and effortless to move around on, I really like it. The pickups are on the slightly hotter side of vintage: punchy and clear on the single coils, creamy and growly on the humbucker. This sounds awesome, it's a hefty strong take on the classic Strat-spank. I really like this one, it's a winner.
Model: Fender Japan Boxer Series Stratocaster ST-456
Made: Japan, 1985-6, Fujigen Gakki factory
Serial: E901659
Finish: Olympic White, gloss poly
Body: alder
Neck: maple, maple fretboard, 25.5" scale, 42mm nut, slim C, 9.5" radius
Weight: 3.500kg
Mods: back cover removed and misssing
Pickups: Fender Japan ST-Current x2, Dragster HB x1
Accessories: basic gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has dimples on the end, bottom edge and front near the logos. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples and play wear on the back only. The back has scuffs along the belly carve, back edge, bottom corner and elbow area and some minor dimples on the horns and around the cavity. The sides have minor cracks in the finish only on both sides of the neck pocket, a dent on the bottom horn and minor scuffs around the whole body. The front has dimples along the back edge and elbow area and some play wear on the guard and horns.
Overall: very good condition (8/10)
Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.
Fret life: 7/10, minor wear only