Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (15)
$499.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (27)
$499.99
Amazon
4.5 (214)
$499.99
Reverb
5.0 (16)
$448.06 New
$299.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$499.99
Thomann
4.5 (72)
$457.00
Gear4Music
£419.00

Average Price: $467

Standard/Professional

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a unique blend of vintage design and modern innovation, packed with personality. Based on Tim Armstrong's trusty '60s Fender acoustic guitar, this instrument is not just a tribute, but an embodiment of the legendary punk band Rancid's sound and style. Key elements of Armstrong’s original guitar are retained, but with a modern twist.

The distinctive pearl acrylic "Hellcat" logos on the third, fifth, and seventh frets, and the dual skulls on the twelfth fret, give this guitar an edgy and unique look. The solid mahogany top and back with scalloped bracing deliver a warm, robust tone, whether you're playing unplugged or connected.

When you're ready to amplify your sound, the Fishman Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic preamp ensures a solid amplified acoustic tone. The black painted headstock and 4-ply tortoiseshell pickguard add to the instrument's signature vibe, making the Hellcat distinctively Armstrong.

Key Features:

  • True signature instrument with detailed visual appointments inspired by Tim Armstrong's original Fender acoustic guitar
  • Solid mahogany top and mahogany back and sides for a warm, robust tone
  • Pearl acrylic Hellcat logos on the 3rd, 5th, and 7th frets and double-skulls at the 12th fret
  • Fishman Tim Armstrong preamplifier with a built-in tuner for solid amplified acoustic tone
  • Black painted headstock and a 4-ply tortoiseshell pickguard for an added signature vibe
  • Maple neck and walnut fingerboard offer great playability and response
  • Concert body shape with advanced scalloped bracing
  • Vintage-style open-gear tuners for reliable tuning stability.

Product specs

String Type Steel
Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Concert
Back & Sides Wood Laminated Mahogany
Top Wood Solid Mahogany
Finish Satin
Body Bracing Scalloped X-bracing
Binding Multiple
Neck Wood Maple
Neck Shape C
Radius 11.81"
Fingerboard Inlay Hellcat
Number of Frets 19
Scale Length 25.3"
Nut Width 1.692"
Nut/Saddle Material Nubone/Nubone compensated
Bridge Material Rosewood
Tuning Machines Vintage-style with Aged White Plastic Buttons
Electronics Fishman Isys III
Strings Fender, .012-.052
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately
Body Length 19.25"
Body Width 15.25" Lower Bout, 11.75" Upper Bout

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the body of the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar?

The body of the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar is made from laminated mahogany for the back and sides, with a solid mahogany top, providing a warm and resonant tone.

What electronics are included with the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar?

This guitar is equipped with Fishman Isys III electronics, which include an active onboard preamp and tuner, offering reliable amplification and easy tuning for live performances.

Is the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable concert body shape and easy playability, making it a great choice for new players seeking a quality acoustic-electric guitar.

What kind of neck profile does the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar have?

The guitar features a C-shaped neck profile, which is comfortable for a wide range of playing styles and hand sizes, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced players.

Does the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar come with a case?

No, the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar does not come with a case or gig bag; it is sold separately.

Fender

Fender

Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat-12 Demo | Fender

Video thumbnail for Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat-12 Demo | Fender by Fender

Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat-12 Demo | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar by Musician's Friend

Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar TEST by Guitar Joint

Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar TEST

Guitar Joint

Guitar Joint

Video thumbnail for The AWESOME Fender Tim Armstrong Signature Hellcat Acoustic! - New Checkerboard Finish! by PMTVUK

The AWESOME Fender Tim Armstrong Signature Hellcat Acoustic! - New Checkerboard Finish!

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic Demo by Progressive Guitar Studio

Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic Demo

Progressive Guitar Studio

Progressive Guitar Studio

Video thumbnail for Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat acoustic by MADMALKO

Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat acoustic

MADMALKO

MADMALKO

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar.

User experience

  • Owners note the Hellcat's ability to withstand extreme weather conditions and rough handling, making it a durable option for travel and outdoor use.

    Source
  • The smaller body size is highlighted as a positive feature, providing comfort for those who find dreadnoughts too large.

    Source
  • Despite being a budget-friendly model, the Hellcat is described as having a "warm, raspy character," appealing to those who value a unique sound.

    Source
  • Players appreciate the Hellcat's action, stating it is "pretty sweet right out of the box," indicating minimal setup is needed for comfortable playability.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the delightful smell of the guitar, adding an unexpected sensory pleasure to the ownership experience.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The built-in tuner is appreciated for its convenience, allowing players to perform without additional equipment.

    Source
  • The Hellcat includes a zero fret, which some players find seamlessly integrates with their playing, offering a different but unnoticed feel compared to traditional nut setups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • One user, despite preferring a Martin X series 00 for its compatibility with their vocal range, acknowledges the Hellcat's solid build and decent electronics for its price.

    Source
  • The 10th anniversary Hellcat version is noted for its glossy finish and solid spruce top, which provide a more punchy sound compared to the regular model.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners have noted that the guitar breaks in nicely over time, improving playability and feel with use.

    Source
  • The acoustic fretboard on the Hellcat is praised for its exceptional playability, likened to an electric neck with jumbo frets, enhancing the playing experience.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • When plugged in, the Hellcat is described as having a "lovely deep sound," making it suitable for live performances.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Guitar Expert Review (Updated 2025)

sixstringacoustic.com

The Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat offers a warm, mahogany-driven tone in a compact concert size, perfect for beginners or those seeking a smaller guitar. While its unique styling adds visual appeal, the high action might require adjustment for optimal playability. The laminate back and sides are typical at this price point, but the solid mahogany top and scalloped X-bracing enhance sound quality. Though the plastic nut and saddle are potential areas for upgrade, they keep the guitar affordable. Overall, it offers excellent value for money, making it an attractive choice for those on a budget.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 9 Reviews and 35 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
crusaderofsteel

Literally nothing to say

No real issues. Did have to get the action lowered but it was still decent without it lowered. Nothing else to say.

F

Nice affordable electric/acoustic

This is only the second acoustic guitar I ever purchased for myself. It sounds great unplugged which is most likely how you'll be playing it mostly anyway. I has a nice matt wood finish but I noticed the pick guard scuffing and scratching after only a couple of uses. The Hellcat inlays might not impress everyone but then if you're buying a Tim Armstrong guitar you're buying it for yourself.

scott_sage

Great tone!

Love this acoustic, perfect size. I had read some previous reviews that said the unamplified volume wasn't very loud, but I don't see that at all. It sounds great unamplified or plugged in.

From Gear Setup
bthompson2020

Amazing

It was one of my favorite acoustic, I loved how the mahogany sounds, it gives a very deep rich and full sound. in addition it sounded great plugged into both an acoustic and electric amplifier.

madcitykap

Got Me Going Strong

This guitar revived my lust for playing guitar! Found it on Craigslist for $200 & worth every penny! Sounds great, feels good & it's Tim Armstrong for the love of god! Legit guitar! Get one! Now I want the checkerboard version! :)

madcitykap

Added Real Bone Bridge Saddle, Bridge Pins & Nut: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018SA2CPE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s03?ie=UTF8&psc=1

_ikierani

Perfect Acoustic Tone

Slightly smaller and narrower than standard acoustic sizing makes it far more comfortable. The best acoustic guitar I've owned.

joe_halligan01

Not bad

Good cheap acoustic guitar. Sounds and plays great.

H

Main Acoustic

This is my main acoustic guitar

sonnysoul

Good Sounding Guitar

It's a good sounding guitar, but did not feel right in my hands

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Krewella uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Krewella

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

In an acoustic rendition of their song "Alive" Krewella's Kris plays the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar.

See how Matt Skiba uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Matt Skiba

Guitarist, Singer

Blink-182

...
Verified via YouTube

Throughout this acoustic video of Blink-182, Matt uses this in the three songs that they play.

See how Pete Doherty uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Pete Doherty

Guitarist, Singer

The Libertines

...
Verified via YouTube

In the Cardinal Sessions video "Peter Doherty - All At Sea," Pete Doherty can be seen playing a Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar.

See how Tim Armstrong uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Tim Armstrong

Singer, Guitarist

Rancid

...
Verified via YouTube

Throughout this video of Tim Armstrong perfroming the song "Big River," he can be seen playing his own signature model Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar. The distinguishing features include Tim's signature on the headstock and the cat inlays in the frets.

See how Jake Ewald uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Jake Ewald

Singer, Guitarist

Modern Baseball

...
Verified via Vimeo

Jake uses a Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat throughout this video published June 17, 2012. He has used it in a few other acoustic "session" videos on YouTube.

See how Brendan Lukens uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Brendan Lukens

Singer, Guitarist

Modern Baseball

...
Verified via YouTube

At around 0:03 in this video of a basement acoustic show, you can see Brendan playing what looks like a Tim Armstrong Hellcat.

See how Neck Deep uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Neck Deep

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

Used by Matt West.

See how Matt West uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Matt West

Guitarist

Neck Deep

...
Verified via Photo

One of two acoustic guitars given to Matt by Fender.

See how Gerry Cinnamon uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Gerry Cinnamon

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Gerry cinnamon can be seen playing his fender Tim Armstrong hellcat I’m this video.

See how Eli Maiman uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Eli Maiman

Guitarist

Walk the Moon

...
Verified via YouTube

Eli can be seen playing the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat in this video at 0:17.

See how Tom Smith uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Tom Smith

Singer, Guitarist

Editors

...
Verified via YouTube

Around 22:00 in this video of Editors performing at Pinkpop 2014, frontsmith Tom Smith can be seen playing Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar. The distinct marks on the headstock, as well as the shape and length of the pickguard confirm it is this particular model. It appears he has a capo on it on the 7th fret. The song he plays it on is Formaldehyde.

There is a difference, however, as Tom's acoustic looks to have dot inlays, whereas the Hellcat has skulls and "Hellcat" logos.

See how Dan Campbell uses Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Dan Campbell

Singer

The Wonder Years

...
Verified via YouTube

Here, Soupy is shown using this guitar for Aaron West and The Roaring Twenties

Album Usage

The Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar 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 Tim Armstrong Hellcat Acoustic-Electric Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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scott_sage

scott_sage

Gear IQ 151

kadenkc3

kadenkc3

Gear IQ 159

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