Some build pics and a question...

[Cagey]

Since they're designed to fit both Teles and Strats, neither one looks like it fits. But, the way it works out, they're both contacted on enough points that they both sit in there pretty snug. At least, mine do. They're not going to be bouncing around in there like they do in one of Fender's (and others) square "universal" case.

 

[Paul_in_KC]

Since they're designed to fit both Teles and Strats, neither one looks like it fits. But, the way it works out, they're both contacted on enough points that they both sit in there pretty snug. At least, mine do. They're not going to be bouncing around in there like they do in one of Fender's (and others) square "universal" case.

I talked with a guy from SKB. He was convinced that they had it right. And for casual hand transport - I'm sure you would never have a problem. But if I were going to check this as luggage or ship it anywhere (with a guitar inside). I'd be sure to shim under the body so that everything was properly positioned and supported in the case.

They must not have problems with guitars getting broken - otherwise I'm sure we would see/hear this on the web. But I'm not the only person that finds the fit of these (for Strat/Tele) concerning.

-Paul

 

[stratamania]

I am sure you see what you see regarding case fit.  On mine, I am not certain I could get much in terms of material around the guitar. Probably if we had both cases in the same room we would both be able to see exactly the fit and compare.

 

[Cagey]

I know I've shipped guitars in them all over the states and even over to Europe and not had a problem yet, so I feel pretty good about them. They're slightly more protected when I ship them because they're in shipping cartons, but I'm not sure that adds much more than cosmetic safety.

They do make some even sturdier cases called their "iSeries" that are designed as ATA-certified flight cases suitable for exposure to the tender ministrations of airport luggage handlers. They're even waterproof. I have a couple of those and they use the same interior holding scheme for the Strat/Tele model. Downside is they're substantially heavier, like 20lbs vs. 9lbs. Anyway, the point is, I don't think you have to worry about it.

 

[Paul_in_KC]

They do make some even sturdier cases called their "iSeries" that are designed as ATA-certified flight cases suitable for exposure to the tender ministrations of airport luggage handlers. They're even waterproof. I have a couple of those and they use the same interior holding scheme for the Strat/Tele model. Downside is they're substantially heavier, like 20lbs vs. 9lbs. Anyway, the point is, I don't think you have to worry about it.

Thanks Cagey - and that is an iSeries in the picture. That's why I was saying "at that price" you shouldn't have to tweak the interior for a perfect fit.

As I say - very well made. But I am puzzled by the fit. Glad to hear a good first-hand reference on the specific case with lot's of positive experience.

I'm sure you are right - nothing to worry about.

-Paul

 

[Paul_in_KC]

I am sure you see what you see regarding case fit.  On mine, I am not certain I could get much in terms of material around the guitar. Probably if we had both cases in the same room we would both be able to see exactly the fit and compare.

It's not the "around" (side) part. That fit is fine. There is an issue with the bottom of the case. That is, where the back of the guitar makes contact. The bodies (neither Strat nor Tele) don't lay flat against the bottom while resting in the neck channel correctly.

But apparently this hasn't resulted in any harm to an instrument (at least none that I have heard). Still - I'd put something under my body to make sure everything was supported.

Incidentally - the ABS case that came with my 1995 Strat Plus-Deluxe does fit both bodies - and I think those were made by SKB for Fender (not sure about that though). Having said that, the case that came with the Strat is no where near as tough as the iSeries. No comparison.

-Paul

 

[stratamania]

Mine is also an iSeries. Just to clarify I am talking about the same case with the different interior can be seen here. I don't think I noticed what you mentioned about below the guitar which is what I checked for.

Case_1 by stratamania, on Flickr

 

[Paul_in_KC]

Mine is also an iSeries. Just to clarify I am talking about the same case with the different interior can be seen here. I don't think I noticed what you mentioned about below the guitar which is what I checked for.

Case_1 by stratamania, on Flickr

BEAUTIFUL Strat!  :headbang:

I'm guessing that's a slightly older version of the iSeries - only because yours has a door/lid on the accessory section (and mine does not). So, maybe there was another change that altered the bottom in relation to the neck?  ??? I can't fathom why - but that does seem to be the case with mine.

-Paul

 

[stratamania]

Thank you, Paul.  :icon_thumright:

I guess that case is about four years old or so. The guitar is the one in the Warmoth Quilted Purple Strat linked in my signature.

 

[Paul_in_KC]

Here are some more pics from tonight. Some folks on a Telecaster forum requested some closeups of the abalone fret markers.

So, here they are. Some are taken with a flash and some without. The flash is great at eliminating the slight camera movement, But it also kills the opalescence of the abalone shell. So, some shots are more crisp and some better convey the appearance.

-Paul

 

[rgand]

The abalone is mighty fine on there. Looks great.

 

[Verne Bunsen]

Man that turned out nice, good work!

 

[bagman67]

Just a gorgeous axe, that.  Congratulations.