Fender 1961 Stratocaster

$3,888.00 Price Tier: High-end

4.0 (1)

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Page last updated Jun 25, 2026

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We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 19, 2026.

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4.5 (4)

$3,890.00 $3,888.00 $2.00 · All time low

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Average Price: $3,955

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Solid Body Electric Guitars category, Fender 1961 Stratocaster is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Fender 1961 Stratocaster". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

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The Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red is more than just a guitar; it's a piece of history reimagined for the modern musician. Bursting with the unmistakable essence of the early '60s, this Stratocaster offers a timeless blend of vintage flair and modern playability. The body, crafted from Swamp Ash, resonates with a rich tonal palette that is both dynamic and versatile. Its Maple neck, topped with an Indian rosewood fingerboard, provides an inviting touch that encourages hours of effortless play.

For those who crave authenticity, the '60s Oval "C" neck profile and 21 Dunlop 6110 frets are a nostalgic nod to the past, while the three Texas Special single-coil pickups deliver that classic Stratocaster sparkle with a punch. Whether you're laying down smooth blues licks or rocking out with gritty riffs, the 5-way switch allows for a vast array of tonal possibilities.

Finished with a Nitrocellulose lacquer, this guitar not only looks stunning but will age gracefully, developing a unique patina over time. With its vintage tremolo and chrome-plated hardware, you'll find both style and substance in every detail. Plus, it includes a case and certificate, confirming its authenticity and quality.

Key Features:

Body: Swamp Ash
Neck: Maple with '60s Oval "C" profile
Fingerboard: Indian rosewood with 9.5" radius
Frets: 21 Dunlop 6110
Pickups: 3 Texas Special single coils
5-Way switch for tonal versatility
Pickguard: Mint green
Vintage tremolo with chrome-plated hardware
Finish: Nitrocellulose lacquer, NOS - New Old Stock
Made in USA
Includes case and certificate

Product specs

Available since	February 2018
Colour	Red
Body	Ash
Top	None
Neck	Maple
Fretboard	Rosewood
Frets	21
Scale	648 mm
Pickups	SSS
Tremolo	Vintage
incl. Bag	No
incl. Case	Yes
Limited Run	None
Model	1961 NOS
Shape	ST-Style
Pickup System	SSS

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red have?: The Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red features an SSS pickup configuration, which consists of three single-coil pickups known for their bright and clear tone, ideal for classic rock, blues, and surf music.
Is the Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red suitable for advanced players?: Yes, the Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red is well-suited for advanced players due to its high-quality construction, vintage-style tremolo, and versatile tone options, making it a great choice for professional performances.
Does the Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red come with a case?: Yes, the Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red includes a case, providing protection and convenience for transport and storage.
What is the neck profile of the Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red?: The Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red features a maple neck with a comfortable profile that offers smooth playability, making it suitable for a variety of playing styles.
How does the ash body affect the sound of the Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red?: The ash body of the Fender 1961 Stratocaster Hot Rod Red contributes to a bright, resonant tone with a strong midrange presence, enhancing the guitar's overall sound character.

Reviews

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PROS

Close specs to Mark Knopfler's original '60s vintage Red Strat
Exceptional build quality and craftsmanship
Killer sound that stands out
Stunning aesthetics with a classic look
Authentic playing experience reminiscent of the original MK model

CONS

Price may be prohibitive for some buyers
Discrepancy in wood specifications reported
Different neck shape than advertised
Long wait time experienced for delivery

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender 1961 Stratocaster.

User experience

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Guitars used extensively, especially in challenging environments, age differently, showing more wear similar to vintage models used by musicians in the past.
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A replacement guitar from Sweetwater showed improved playability over the initial purchase with a defective truss rod.
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Some users find the neck tapering comfortable for smaller hands, despite traditional C shape.
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A user mentioned treating their guitar roughly to encourage aging, resulting in a finish they find appealing.
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Owners note that the guitar will not achieve a vintage relic look due to the poly undercoat; it will develop a patina over time instead.
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The Fiesta Red color can appear more coral with pink/orange hues in soft light, rather than a typical bright red.
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The guitar weighs approximately 7.6 pounds, contrary to reports of similar models exceeding 8 pounds.
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Comparisons

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Cory Wong signature and American Ultra cater better to modern playing styles than AVII models.
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American Original models reportedly offer Custom Shop-like quality and comfort, potentially a better value than AVII.
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Some users feel the AVII doesn't age like Custom Shop models due to its construction and finish.
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Features and functionality

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The 7.25" radius, while initially challenging, often doesn't choke out, even with significant bends.
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The vintage pickups deliver a classic 1960s Strat sound, adding warmth and character not found in more modern pickups.
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Build quality

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A few owners reported needing neck resets and truss rod adjustments upon purchase.
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A notable issue is a large paint blemish under the nitro finish, particularly visible in certain lighting conditions.
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The nitro finish is delicate and easily dinged, revealing a clear poly coat underneath upon damage.
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Setup and maintenance

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Action set to 1.4mm bass side, 1.2mm treble side post-fret dress for optimal playability.
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No fretting out on bends with the 7.25” radius when properly set up; setup quality is crucial for optimal performance.
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Artist usage

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Drake Bell

Guitarist, Singer

Verified via Photo

Drake Bell used a Fender 1961 Strat Hot Rod Red guitar during the first two seasons of "Drake and Josh," as shown in a user-uploaded photo from Mtvnimages.