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Average Price: $1,861

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Step back in time with the 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail, a guitar that melds vintage allure with enduring craftsmanship. Renowned for its iconic design and pure, unadulterated tone, this Stratocaster variant features the desirable hardtail bridge, offering enhanced tuning stability and sustain. The absence of a tremolo system lends itself to a more focused resonance, making it a favorite among players who prioritize tone over dive bombs.

Crafted in the late 1970s, this Stratocaster carries the legacy of an era when rock was king. Its solid ash body is not only resilient but also contributes to a crisp, articulate sound that shines in both studio recordings and live performances. The natural finish highlights the grain of the wood, providing a look that is both timeless and unique.

Equipped with three single-coil pickups, this hardtail Strat delivers the classic Fender sound that has shaped countless musical genres. From shimmering highs to robust lows, its tonal versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of musical styles. The C-shaped maple neck offers a comfortable playing experience, allowing for fluid transitions across the fretboard.

Whether you're a collector seeking a piece of musical history or a performer looking for a reliable workhorse, this 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail is a testament to Fender's enduring legacy of quality and innovation.

Key Features:

  • Hardtail bridge for improved tuning stability
  • Solid ash body with a natural finish
  • Three single-coil pickups delivering classic Fender tones
  • C-shaped maple neck for a comfortable playing experience
  • Vintage 1979 model, embodying a piece of rock history

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Stratocaster Hardtail
Finish Antigua, Black, Blonde, Natural, Olympic White, Sienna Sunburst, Sunburst, Walnut (Mocha), Wine
Year 1978 - 1981
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder, Ash
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Black, Brown, Red, Tan, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender Vintage CBS Era

FAQs

What makes the 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail unique compared to other Stratocasters?

The 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail features a non-tremolo bridge, which is less common than the tremolo-equipped models. This design offers enhanced tuning stability and a distinct tonal response, appealing to players who prefer a fixed bridge setup.

What kind of wood is used in the body of the 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail?

The body of the 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail is made from either alder or ash, both known for their balanced tone and sustain. This choice of wood contributes to the guitar's classic Stratocaster sound.

Is the 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail suitable for beginner guitarists?

While the 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail can be played by beginners, its vintage status and specific setup might be more suited to experienced players who appreciate its historical value and unique characteristics.

How does the pickup configuration of the 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail affect its sound?

The 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail features an SSS (single-coil) pickup configuration, providing a bright, clear tone with excellent articulation. This setup is ideal for genres like rock, blues, and funk.

What is the neck profile like on the 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail?

The 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail typically has a comfortable C-shaped neck profile, which offers a smooth playing experience suitable for various playing styles and techniques.

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - 1979 Fender Hardtail Stratocaster and 1965 Fender Deluxe Reverb

Video thumbnail for "Pick of the Day" - 1979 Fender Hardtail Stratocaster and 1965 Fender Deluxe Reverb by Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - 1979 Fender Hardtail Stratocaster and 1965 Fender Deluxe Reverb

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1979 Fender Stratocaster “Hardtail” by Capsule Music

1979 Fender Stratocaster “Hardtail”

Capsule Music

Capsule Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Creamy, thick, and warm tone with bright characteristics from the maple neck

  • Strong sustain and full sound, especially in pickup positions 1, 3, and 5

  • Hardtail design provides excellent tuning stability

  • Comfortable neck shape and functional micro tilt system

  • Vintage 70's models offer unique mojo and character

  • Versatile and durable, suitable for both beginners and professionals

  • Big headstock and handy bullet truss rod add to playability

  • Known for incredible tone and playability despite age and wear

  • Still affordable compared to other vintage models

CONS

  • Significant wear and cracks in finish due to age

  • Some models may be heavier than others, even heavier than a Les Paul

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Stratocaster Hardtail (1978-1981).

Build quality

  • Late 70s Strats, including 1979 models, often have peeling issues with their transparent finishes due to a problematic water-based clear coat used by Fender.

    Source
  • It's noted that the wood grain on natural finishes is particularly impressive, adding to the guitar's visual appeal.

    Source
  • Some owners mention that the three-bolt neck configuration often suffers from poor manufacturing tolerances, leading to potential air gaps between the neck and body.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Hardtail versions are often preferred by some players over vibrato-equipped Strats for their underrated simplicity and perceived improved tone stability.

    Source
  • The natural ash finish paired with black accents and a rosewood board is highly praised for its aesthetic appeal.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • 1979 hardtail Strats can sell between $2300 to $3000 if untouched, although there are significant discrepancies between asking and actual selling prices on platforms like Reverb.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners describe the neck of the 1979 hardtail Stratocaster as having a particularly great feel, contributing to its reputation as a highly desirable guitar among its peers.

    Source
  • Owners report the guitar's weight as being notably heavy, with one user humorously comparing its heft to a "boat anchor."

    Source
  • One user reports their 1979 hardtail Strat offers great sustain and fuller tone despite being heavy at 10 lbs, indicating solid sound performance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Hardtail Strats are noted to be more expensive than their vibrato-equipped counterparts from the same era due to their rarity and perceived tonal advantages.

    Source
  • A comparison suggests that late 70s Strat pickups, with flat pole pieces, are particularly suited for funk music due to their tonal characteristics.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The use of a DiMarzio pickup in the bridge is confirmed, suggesting a focus on enhancing tonal versatility.

    Source
  • Users frequently mention that properly filing nut slots and using locking tuners can significantly improve tuning stability on these models.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar is affectionately referred to as a "tone monster," indicating its strong performance in delivering rich sound.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • It's noted that using 4-5 springs and fully tightening the tremolo claw can stabilize tuning as effectively as blocking the tremolo.

    Source

Other

  • A preference for non-tremolo setups is evident, with owners suggesting that blocking or removing the trem entirely can enhance tuning reliability.

    Source
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Based on 3 Reviews and 10 Ratings

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bsilva1984

1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail Natural Finish

That great first guitar for beginners is awesome. I want that too.

davizqui

White colour

Incredible guitar, perfect tuners, incredible bridge... with texas special pickups...

jesterjrz

Feeling

Great first guitar, best guitar for those who want to get started with an Electric. Good for beginners to pros.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how George Harrison uses Fender Stratocaster Hardtail (1978-1981)

George Harrison

Singer, Guitarist

The Beatles

...
Verified via Photo

George Harrison used the 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail with a natural finish during spontaneous gigs in the USA. This is supported by a user-uploaded photo.

See how Geordie Walker uses Fender Stratocaster Hardtail (1978-1981)

Geordie Walker

Guitarist

Killing Joke

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video from the Belgian TV show "Generation 80," Geordie Walker is seen playing a 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail Natural Finish during Killing Joke's performance of "Unspeakable" and "Exit." The video, uploaded by ScottishTeeVee on YouTube, captures this appearance from 1981.

See how Phillip Cope uses Fender Stratocaster Hardtail (1978-1981)

Phillip Cope

Guitarist

Kylesa

...
Verified via Photo

Seen in source photo.

See how Guy Mazig uses Fender Stratocaster Hardtail (1978-1981)

Guy Mazig

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via guy mazig

Guy Mazig has confirmed that he plays a 1979 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail in Natural Finish, as noted on his official website.

Album Usage

The Fender Stratocaster Hardtail (1978-1981) has been featured on the following albums:

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 Stratocaster Hardtail (1978-1981), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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