Here for sale we have a very interesting Fender HM Strat in Bright White finish. The HM (Heavy Metal) series of guitars were a short-lived run of instruments between 1988-92 that were aimed at competing with the popular 'Super Strats' of the day such as Jackson and the Ibanez RG series. Primarily made in Japan, a small number of instruments were made in the USA using Japanese components, and due to the specification of this instrument we believe that this particular guitar is one of those rare few. The serial number of this guitar indicates that it was made in 1988, and is found at the neck heel; the usual location for a Japanese-made instrument. 
 
The Maple neck plays exceptionally well, with the Narrow 'C' profile feeling very fast and manoeuvrable in all registers. The smooth finish to the rear is pleasant to the touch and assists with smooth navigation of the fretboard, whilst the shorter than usual 25.15" scale helps to slightly reduce the tension on the strings for a slinkier feel. The 17" fingerboard radius is notably flat and ensures that lead lines and solos are a fast and breezy affair, whilst the Medium Jumbo frets improve the feel of vibrato and string bending techniques. The sculpted neck heel enhances access to the upper register, meaning you can really make use of all 24 frets.
 
The pickups in this guitar are installed in an HSS configuration, with a Dragster humbucker in the bridge and two Hot Rod single-coils in the neck and middle positions. The bridge is powerful, with a strong bass response and smooth high end that allows you to turn up the treble and presence controls on the amp without fear of thinning out the sound. There are traditional Stratocaster tones to be found in the neck and middle pickups, but in combination with the TBX (Treble/Bass Expander) controls these pickups can be 'beefed' up for a more 'Spandex Friendly' tone. That said, the addition of the coil split toggle switch means that it's possible to achieve a more conventional Fender sound when necessary. A very interesting guitar in excellent condition, and at 35 years old is one that is beginning to move into vintage territory. 
 
Please be aware that for international buyers import fees are not included in our postage and packaging cost, this only covers the cost of the guitar being sent to you. Import fees will be charged by Customs upon the guitar's arrival in the recipient country. Due to Brexit, this also applies to EU buyers. We advise checking the total import cost with Customs as this is not information we are able to accurately provide.