The early-’80s “Dan Smith” Strats have become increasingly appreciated in recent years, representing a fascinating transitional period for Fender as the company worked to regain some of its old form during the final Fullerton years. This 1982 Stratocaster is a great example of that era, finished in classic Black and featuring the cleaner, more straightforward styling that makes these guitars so appealing. Built during the late Fullerton period under Dan Smith’s leadership, it captures an interesting moment in Fender history before production eventually moved on from the original factory a few years later.

The Maple neck features the Black/Gold Fender logo of the period, tuners are the correct F stamp versions, the neck is dated 1982 with 4-bolt neck construction. Pickups are the correct moulded plastic bobbin type of the period, with PVC wiring throughout. The black finish gives it a properly sharp, no-nonsense look, and the overall condition is excellent!

The neck has a fairly slim C profile, making it an easy and comfortable player with a fast, comfortable feel in the hand. Measurements come in at 41.9mm at the nut, with a depth of 20.4mm at the 1st fret and 22.7mm at the 12th, so it has a noticeably slimmer feel than many earlier Strats while still retaining enough substance to feel solid and balanced.

These Dan Smith-era Stratocasters have a character all of their own, without the price tag of the earlier pre-CBS and ’70s instruments, and they increasingly stand as collectible guitars in their own right. For anyone after a cool, original early-’80s Strat from the later years of Fullerton production, this is a very appealing example.

Comes with non-original flight case.