Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $4,897
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.
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Description
Step back in time with the Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic, a guitar that channels the spirit of an era defined by innovation and classic tones. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this masterpiece showcases a roasted alder body paired with a roasted quartersawn maple neck for a blend of durability and resonant warmth. The large "C" neck profile ensures comfortable playability, complemented by the 9.5" radius rosewood fretboard that hosts 21 jumbo Sanko 6100 frets—perfect for dynamic bends and speed across the fretboard.
At the heart of this vintage-inspired guitar are the three hand-wound Custom Shop Texas Special single-coil pickups, delivering that unmistakable Stratocaster sound—rich with biting mids, shimmering highs, and a full-bodied low end. The vintage hardware, including a synchronized tremolo, echoes the iconic look and feel of the original '61 model, while the 1/2 Strat Blender wiring offers nuanced tonal control.
Whether you're a seasoned performer or a collector, the Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic is a testament to timeless craftsmanship, blending historical accuracy with modern reliability. Its nitrocellulose lacquer finish gives it the aesthetic of a well-loved instrument, worn by years of music-making.
Key Features:
- Roasted alder body and roasted quartersawn maple neck
- Rosewood fretboard with 9.5" radius and 21 jumbo Sanko 6100 frets
- Large "C" neck profile
- 3x Handwound Custom Shop Texas Special single-coil pickups
- Vintage hardware and synchronized tremolo
- 1/2 Strat Blender wiring for enhanced tonal control
- Includes deluxe hardshell case and certificate of authenticity
- Made in USA
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Shape | S-Style |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Finish Features | Relic |
| Model Family | Fender Stratocaster |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Number of Frets | 21 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Fender Custom Shop |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile of the Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic?
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The Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic features a "C" shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable and familiar feel for most players, suitable for both rhythm and lead playing.
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What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic?
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This guitar is equipped with vintage-style single-coil pickups that offer classic Stratocaster tones, ranging from bright and bell-like cleans to warm, bluesy overdrives, making it versatile for genres like rock, blues, and jazz.
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Is the Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic suitable for professional use?
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Yes, the Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic is crafted with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail, making it an excellent choice for professional musicians seeking authentic vintage tones and aesthetics.
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How does the relic finish affect the playability of the Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster?
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The relic finish on this guitar replicates the look and feel of a well-played vintage instrument, offering a broken-in feel that many players find enhances playability and comfort during extended sessions.
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How does the Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic compare to a modern Stratocaster in terms of sound?
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The '61 Reissue offers a more vintage-accurate sound with its period-correct single-coil pickups and construction, providing a warmer, more nuanced tone compared to the brighter, more aggressive sound of many modern Stratocasters.
Videos
Reidys Home Of Music
Original 1962 Fender Strat vs 2016 Fender Custom Shop 1961 Reissue Strat with Jerry Donahue
Reviews
PROS
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Outstanding relic job adds tons of mojo in looks and feel
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Large C neck profile offers substantial grip without being cumbersome
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Pickups sound superior to standard Texas specials
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6100 frets provide a smoother playing experience than 6105s
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Tone is amazing, delivering rich sound quality
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Finish distress provides a unique, cool aesthetic
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Rock-solid tuning stability for bends and whammy usage
CONS
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Persistent tuning issues, especially with G and B strings
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High price point doesn't resolve typical Strat tuning problems
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Custom Shop '61 Reissue Stratocaster Relic.
User experience
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Owners describe the guitar as "buttery smooth" with pickups that deliver an indescribable magic, enhancing the playing experience beyond expectations.
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Some owners find the high E and B strings have weak output high up the neck, which affects lead tones.
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Some find the thicker neck radius fills the hand comfortably, enhancing playability without needing a break-in period.
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Value and pricing
Features and functionality
Build quality
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The guitar features a thin nitro finish without a poly undercoat, which can be dented easily with a fingernail, giving it a quickly worn look.
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Setup and maintenance
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Guitar has a quarter sawn maple neck with a 10" radius and weighs approximately 7.25 lbs, making it lighter than typical Strats.
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Comparisons
Mods and upgrades
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Owners often consider swapping WW10 pickups for options like SSL1 or CS60 for different tonal qualities.
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Use cases and applications
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The guitar excels in clean/semi-clean tones for pretty chords, but struggles with gnarly, throaty tones.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings