Fender American Standard Strat HSS, black, 2008. There's not many models that ran as long or did as well as the Am Standard Strat, they're the ever-reliable go-to for so many players. This one dates to 2008, so it gets the slick satin finish neck and a slightly thinner gloss poly on the body than previous versions of the model. The neck feels great: slim, quick, solid as a rock, straight as an arrow, great frets... perfectly pragmatic. The single coils are glassy and bright with plenty of breathy articulation, while the bridge pickup delivers a fat, raspy growl that brings so many more possibilities to the table. You can't really go wrong here, this is surely a pragmatist's dream guitar. 

Model: Fender American Standard Stratocaster
Made: 2006, Corona USA (serial Z8229300)
Finish: black, gloss poly, 3-ply white guard
Body: alder
Neck: maple with maple board, 22 frets, 9.5" radius, 25.5" scale, deep C profile
Weight: 3.605kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Fender American Standard single coil x2, humbucker (bridge)
Case: original Fender ABS deluxe case, inc trem arm but no docs/certificate

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some dimples on the end. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor rub wear on the back only. The back has widespread surface scratches and light scuffs but no major marks. The sides have dimples on the top horn, elbow area and near the jack. The front has widespread light surface scratches and scuffs on the whole body, dimples in the elbow area and top horn and play wear on the guard and horns. It seems likely the finish on the body has been deliberately rubbed or finely scratched to take the edge of the gloss; it's a little tricky to capture in the photos as it's a subtle effect. Overall: good condition (7/10)

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have minor wear only, 9/10 for life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.