Fender Custom Shop LTD 60 Tele Custom (USED, 2023)

Perhaps it's an unconscious thing that stems from years of watching Andy Summers play with the Police, but whatever it is, one thing is clear: we're suckers for a double bound sunburst Tele Custom. They just look awesome, no?

Enter this very well cared for 2023 NOS finished '60 Tele Custom (the NOS bit just means New Old Stock, btw). It seems rare to see a Custom Shop in the wild that isn't relic'd but they do exist. It's cool to play one too as it feels like someone snatched a guitar from the early '60s and handed it to you before decades of wear and tear got a hold of it. In this way, this Tele Custom feels more akin to a small shop boutique guitar.

When we first picked up this ash-bodied Tele, we were immediately struck by its neck profile ('60s Oval C .79-.93"). Combined with 6105 frets (narrow tall) and a 9 1/2" radius, this neck profile feels phenomenal in hand, making it a no-brainer for Strat players looking for a Tele. It's incredibly easy to play, offers a comfortable taper, and boasts a slinkier string tension that makes every lick or riff a joy to play.

Plugged in, the Custom Shop Texas Special pickups deliver a hotter output and forward midrange, while preserving that iconic Tele twang we all know and love. Playing with a lighter touch, we like pickups that do a little of the heavy lifting for our right/picking hand. It feels like we have more control vs a guitar that we have to hit hard to get something out of. Like most Teles, this one will do either, it's more a preference thing and something we noticed with these pickups.