Help! should I buy this Strat?

[Glenn Mitchell]

I finally found a local strat on Craig's list. It's a Mexican 60's Re-issue.
I've always loved the classic strat sound and assume this has it.
Of course it has to sound right and the action should be nice and low.
But what else should I know about the model?
Can anyone give me a reason I should NOT buy this? Otherwise I'm meeting him this evening. (Pacific time) and dickering over the hard earned $525 CDN
http://comoxvalley.en.craigslist.ca/msg/1276991648.html
I've seen the odd one on EBay for as low as 300 US$ but usually they are over $1000 US
The benefit here is that it's local so I can see before buying.

[Bluesberry]

Have a look at this thread Glen:
https://songcrafters.org/community/general-discussion-b8/strat-attack/msg36225/#msg36225  I think it would be a great purchase.  Go for it.

[Ferryman_1957]

Always best to be able to play before buying. It sounds good as discussed on that other threads per 48's postings. I have a MIM Telecaster and I love it, it was much better than the American Standard Teles (incuding a Deluxe) that I tried in the shoip at the same time.

Thus I can only give you reasons to buy it, like Bluesberry!

Cheers,

Nigel

[Tony W]

You can take this how you like, but I'm a beginner and just picked up a 60's re-issue at guitar center brand new for $799.00 Their website had it listed for $1109.99. I can't believe how much more sound I can get out of this guitar than my schecter.

I didn't go to GC to purchase a guitar, I wanted to check out a small amp. I couldn't pass on the deal.

I'd be willing to bet that you could talk the owner down to 400-450 on that guitar knowing the new price then telling him you'd have to have it setup which would be another $50.

[Greeny (No longer active)]

Looks great. If it plays great, I can't see why you wouldn't buy it right there on the spot. Sounds like a fair price too, for what looks like a limited edition finish / model.  Nothing wrong with those Mexican Fenders. I've heard several people say they prefer them anyway.

[Glenn Mitchell]

Thanks guys. That really helps. I was worried someone might say the necks warp over time or the electronics don't last..that sort of thing.
But there are lots of good reviews. In the end it's if you get excited playing it.
I'm taking my 60's Reverb Deluxe to play it thru just to be sure.

[Davo]

Naa dont worry about warpage or the electronics, Strats are one of the most bullet proof designs out there.  Id see if I can talk him down a bit also.
The 60's classic players are a solid step up in the quality chain over standard  MIMS.  Ive heard almost no complaints or issue about them on the message boards.  They are  lifetime guitars if taken care of.  Cant say that about many other things these days.

Also are you feeling the color?  If yes, then there is no contest.  Its cool also because its a rare color.  It will help you standout. 

[Ted]

I was about to say, "Don't ever expect a guitarist to tell you not to buy a guitar."  It's never happened.  I was about to piss on the parade here and guide you to a more rational approach to this decision.  And then...

I looked at that photo.

That is a sweet color.

Me gusta mucho.

Buy it!

[Tony W]

Good point Ted,

Asking about buying a guitar is like asking these lovely ladies whether or not to eat a pan of cupcakes.

[Vanncad]

That Valveking amp looks pretty sweet too!

The MIM strats are fairly decent. You can swap out the electronics pretty cheaply.

I had the switch and pots replaced in my Japanese '68 re-issue with Fender USA parts for about $60 (installed). So you can still end up with a pretty decent guitar for well under $600.

Play it. If it sounds good and you like it - buy it! Life's too short to p*ss around.

 P.S. - See if you can get him to throw in the Valveking too.