The Highway One Strat has hotter single-coil pickups than normal strat out there, so if you're a fan of vintage strat sound, you won't like it; however, if you play modern rock or blues and like a bit over-driven sound, you will love HW1.

Jumbo frets on the Highway 1 strats are meant for easy playing, however it takes getting used to. If you press too hard with your fretting hands, it will go sharp. The key is to exert moderate to light pressure. Bending is easier with the jumbo frets. The 70's style big headstock will evoke either a hatred or love in the beholders. I kinda like it because it's different and it's vintagey. I kinda dislike it because it looks a bit outdated and cheap. Your mileage will vary.

It's a Fender Strat. American-made quality. What's not to love?

It's a well-made guitar, better than the Fender standard mexican made strat I have. They use better quality wood and components for their American made guitars.

It's the best value for American-made guitars at this time. No China-made guitars can match it. Pay a little more for American product that's better made and feel better.

Fender's known for their customer support. Their guitars come with 5-year warranty. I have never had to use their support, only on-line forums support.

I love the thin, matte, nitro finish on the body. It's light in weight compared to my other guitar and resonates well.

Semi Pro

Rock, Blues, Country, Jazz