Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (12)
$2,799.99
Guitar Center
$2,799.99
Fender
$2,799.99
Amazon
5.0 (2)
$2,799.99
Reverb
4.0 (9)
$2,609.34 New
$1,499.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$2,799.99
Gear4Music
£1,949.00

Average Price: $2,587

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Fender Stratocaster KWS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Fender Stratocaster KWS is a tribute to the masterful artistry of Kenny Wayne Shepherd, capturing the soulful essence of his beloved 1961 Stratocaster. Designed for those who crave authenticity, this guitar features a trio of custom single-coil pickups that deliver the dynamic, expressive tones Shepherd is renowned for. Whether you're channeling the deep blues of Muddy Waters or exploring your own soundscapes, this instrument responds with precision and warmth.

The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the Fender Stratocaster KWS. The quartersawn maple neck with an artist-profile shape offers a comfortable grip, ideal for intricate blues riffs. The vintage 7.25-inch rosewood fretboard, adorned with pearloid block inlays, invites fluid playability and classic aesthetics. Additionally, the Vintage-Synchronized Tremolo bridge with Graph Tech saddles ensures smooth bending and tuning stability, making it a reliable companion on stage or in the studio.

For those seeking a guitar that not only celebrates the rich heritage of blues-rock but also provides the tools to forge new paths, the Fender Stratocaster KWS stands out as a remarkable choice. It's more than an instrument; it's a connection to a legacy, allowing you to explore and expand your musical horizons.

Key Features:

  • Trio of custom KWS single-coil pickups for authentic tone
  • Quartersawn maple neck with artist-profile shape
  • Vintage 7.25-inch rosewood fretboard with pearloid block inlays
  • Reverse wound/reverse polarity middle pickup for hum-canceling
  • Vintage-Synchronized Tremolo bridge with Graph Tech saddles

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Kenny Wayne Shepherd Signature Stratocaster
Finish Transparent Faded Sonic Blue
Year 2020 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Artist Kenny Wayne Shepherd
Body Material Ash
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Blue
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender Artist Series

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Fender Stratocaster KWS like?

The Fender Stratocaster KWS features a 25.5”-scale quartersawn maple neck with a bound rosewood fingerboard, offering a comfortable and smooth playing experience suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

What types of music genres is the Fender Stratocaster KWS suited for?

With its custom KWS single-coil pickups and vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge, the Fender Stratocaster KWS is versatile and well-suited for blues, rock, and classic rock genres.

How does the pickup configuration affect the sound of the Fender Stratocaster KWS?

The Fender Stratocaster KWS features a single-coil SSS pickup configuration, providing bright, clear tones with a pronounced midrange, ideal for expressive playing styles and dynamic soundscapes.

Is the Fender Stratocaster KWS suitable for beginners?

While the Fender Stratocaster KWS is designed with professional features for advanced players, its comfortable neck and versatile sound make it accessible for dedicated beginners looking to invest in a quality instrument.

Does the Fender Stratocaster KWS come with a tremolo bridge?

Yes, the Fender Stratocaster KWS is equipped with a vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge, allowing for smooth pitch modulation and expressive playing techniques.

Fender

Fender

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Stratocaster | Artist Signature Series | Fender

Video thumbnail for Kenny Wayne Shepherd Stratocaster | Artist Signature Series | Fender by Fender

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Stratocaster | Artist Signature Series | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for This Might Be the Coolest New Strat | 2020 Fender Kenny Wayne Shepherd Signature Stratocaster Review by The Trogly's Guitar Show

This Might Be the Coolest New Strat | 2020 Fender Kenny Wayne Shepherd Signature Stratocaster Review

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Fender Vision | Kenny Wayne Shepherd on his Signature Strat | Fender by Fender

Fender Vision | Kenny Wayne Shepherd on his Signature Strat | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for Fender Kenny Wayne Shepherd Signature Stratocaster | A Sonic Blue Blues Machine by Alamo Music Center

Fender Kenny Wayne Shepherd Signature Stratocaster | A Sonic Blue Blues Machine

Alamo Music Center

Alamo Music Center

Video thumbnail for Fender Kenny Wayne Shepherd Signature Stratocaster by Premier Guitar

Fender Kenny Wayne Shepherd Signature Stratocaster

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Fender Kenny Wayne Shepherd Stratocaster {This is a Bluesman's Strat!} by MooreMusicGuitars

Fender Kenny Wayne Shepherd Stratocaster {This is a Bluesman's Strat!}

MooreMusicGuitars

MooreMusicGuitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique alnico III pickups offer a full, airy sound with impressive tone sensitivity

  • Superior neck workmanship with a comfortable feel for thumb-over playing style

  • Distinctive aesthetics with binding, block inlays, and matching headstock

  • Rosewood neck with 7.25 neck radius adds to the guitar's playability and comfort

  • Versatile sound with punchy and twangy tones ideal for various playing styles

  • High-quality hardware, including Graph Tech saddles, enhances tuning stability

CONS

  • Inconsistencies in setup quality, particularly with string alignment over pickups

  • Overpriced for the features offered, with similar components available on less expensive models

  • The inlays and aesthetic choices may not align with traditional Fender designs

  • The guitar is not a true replica of Kenny Wayne Shepherd's personal signature Stratocaster

  • Lack of authenticity: doesn’t include the same strings or exact specs used by KWS

  • Body workmanship reportedly less precise compared to neck craftsmanship

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The KWS Strat is noted for its surprisingly lightweight build compared to older models like the '97 Strat and Tele.

    Source
  • The guitar did not come with a tremolo bar, requiring owners to purchase a separate Fender one.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners have installed Seymour Duncan Antiquity Texas Hot pickups for a grittier sound, enhancing the guitar's tonal range.

    Source

User experience

  • The KWS Strat delivers powerful tones through a Bartel tube amp, even without additional pedals, making it versatile for styles like Hendrix and Velvet Revolver.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The KWS Strat is described as "hotter" than a '97 Strat with upgraded pickups, suitable for driving rock sounds.

    Source

Comparisons

  • It's noted that when using the amp's gain all the way up, the KWS Strat can mimic humbucker-like tones.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
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1 star
john_amarantidis

Fender Texas Special with Kenny Wayne Shepherd

Bought this guitar which needed a bit of attention. Its an American Texas body fitted with a KWS MIM signature neck. I used this guitar to learn how to file and re-dress frets. Have moved this one on since (at a nice small profit)

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