Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$11.49
Amazon
4.4 (102)
Used
Reverb
$4.49 11 available New
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$11.49
Thomann
4.4 (54)
$5.30

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Fender Nickel Plated Steel .012-.052 strings". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your guitar’s sound with Fender Nickel Plated Steel .012-.052 strings, the perfect fusion of dynamic steel tone and smooth nickel feel. Fender, a name synonymous with musical innovation and quality, delivers strings that cater to both the discerning ear of professional musicians and the enthusiastic strums of hobbyists. These heavy-gauge strings are crafted to bring out the best in your electric guitar, ensuring a bold presence whether you're crafting rock anthems or exploring new sonic landscapes.

The nickel-plated steel construction provides a striking balance between brightness and warmth, offering the rich, high-output tones needed to cut through any mix. From the stage to the studio, these strings maintain their integrity and sound, thanks to Fender's dedication to using the finest materials and precision manufacturing. Sold with ball ends for easy installation, they are ideal for players who demand longevity and consistent performance.

Perfect for a variety of genres, these strings are a testament to Fender’s legacy of excellence, making them a reliable choice for guitarists looking to enhance their sound with clarity and punch.

Key Features:

  • Nickel-plated steel material for a blend of bright tone and smooth feel
  • Heavy gauge: .012, .016, .024w, .032, .042, .052
  • Round wound for a traditional feel and sound
  • Ball ends for easy restringing
  • Designed for high-output and dynamic sound perfect for rock and other demanding styles

Product specs

Guitar Type Electric Guitar
Number of Strings 6
Coated No
Gauges .012, .016, .024w, .032, .042, .052
Core Material Hexagonal Steel
Winding Material Nickel Plated Steel
Winding Type Round Wound

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from Fender Nickel Plated Steel .012-.052 strings?

Fender Nickel Plated Steel .012-.052 strings offer a bright and punchy tone with enhanced clarity and sustain, making them well-suited for rock and blues genres.

Are these Fender strings suitable for drop tuning?

Yes, the heavy gauge of .012-.052 provides the tension needed for drop tunings, offering stability and maintaining intonation.

How do Fender Nickel Plated Steel strings compare to pure nickel strings in terms of feel?

Fender Nickel Plated Steel strings typically have a slightly brighter and more modern feel compared to the warmer, vintage tone of pure nickel strings.

Are these strings compatible with all electric guitars?

Yes, Fender Nickel Plated Steel .012-.052 strings are designed for use with most standard electric guitars.

How often should I change Fender Nickel Plated Steel .012-.052 strings?

String lifespan varies with playing frequency and style, but generally, these strings should be changed every 3-4 months for optimal tone and performance.

Reviews

PROS

  • Retains original late 1950s feel on vintage models

  • Impressive longevity, lasting over a month with daily play

  • Smooth feel and easy bending for expressive play

  • Clear, crisp sound ideal for blues and rock genres

  • Competitive price, often cheaper than other major brands

  • Colored ball ends simplify restringing process

  • Versatile sound suitable for different tunings and genres

  • Durable with consistent tone retention over time

  • Minimal packaging waste with organized color-coded strings

  • Flexible and suitable for both electric and acoustic guitars

CONS

  • High tension may require frequent tuning

  • Lacks sustain and brightness in higher registers

  • Not ideal for floating bridges due to tuning instability

  • Strings may get dirty quickly and require maintenance

3.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Pete Townshend uses Fender Nickel Plated Steel .012-.052 strings

Pete Townshend

Singer, Guitarist

The Who

...
Verified via Thewho

Documented for 1967 is Pete’s use of Fender strings. In 1967 and 1968 on Fender Stratocasters, he likely used Fender pure nickel wrap #1500 Spanish Guitar [Smooth Round Wound]. These sets were standard issue on new Fender guitars 1966–1969.

.012 .016 .016p (substituted for .026w) .034 .044 .052 Pete likely substituted the .016 (plain) for the set’s .026 (wound) for the G string, as was a common for British guitarists in the early to mid ’60s, a practice Pete would continue into the ’70s with his Gibson guitars.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fender Nickel Plated Steel .012-.052 strings, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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