So heres MY new Rocketfire Strat!!!

[codyj84]

Been friends with Nick for awhile now. Great guy and a great friend. We've been talkin about this for forever and finally got to it. He did an outstanding job!!! The guitar is beautiful and so much more than I anticipated! If you havent checked out www.rocketfireguitars.com (http://www.rocketfireguitars.com/) yet, you should. Nick is a great guy to deal with and builds a great guitar!

Here she is...loaded with Rocketfire 60's handwound pickups!

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/P1010006.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/P1010007.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/P1010005.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/P1010004.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/P1010001.jpg
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/P1010003.jpg

[esoteric pete]

nice! looks great! i really dig the arm wear...it looks pretty natural. the dirty dot inlays and the worn in RW looks great, knobs look pretty authentic as well....

killer!

[mprvise]

Very cool man! Looks somewhat familiar. :) You need to bring that thing over sometime. :BEER

[crosse79]

I like the way he aged the plactic knobs :)

[jiml]

Do any of these guys relic anything other than black guitars?

[pickaguitar]

Nice guitar! I didn't know about them...do now :)

[Glowing Tubes]

I like it, I like it ALOT.
Congrats.

Specs?

[KeithC]

It looks like someone played the heck out of it for many years!

Nice :)

[B Vance]

Looks like a really comfortable guitar.

[codyj84]

Do any of these guys relic anything other than black guitars?


www.rocketfireguitars.com (http://www.rocketfireguitars.com) Yea he does.

BLACK is what I wanted...;)

[codyj84]

couldnt stand to see her go to page 2... not yet.

to the top. haha

sorry guys, im just really proud of her... :BEER

[cyrja]

That reminds me of Mayer's Fender Custom Shop...thats a VERY good thing. Beautiful guitar!!! :)

[codyj84]

That reminds me of Mayer's Fender Custom Shop...thats a VERY good thing. Beautiful guitar!!! :)

Hopefully after I play it for a few years. In regards to the body, its not too heavily reliced so that my actual playing will give it the character of me....

[whoismarykelly]

Hahahaha "Not too heavily reliced"

Thats a hoot.

[codyj84]

Hahahaha "Not too heavily reliced"

Thats a hoot.

haha... its an oxymoron... jumbo shrimp.;)

[AnthonyL]

Does he use pre-cut bodies/necks or is everything done in house?

[codyj84]

Precut bodies and necks... you can read about all of it on the website.... www.rocketfireguitars.com (http://www.rocketfireguitars.com) . Thats easier than me copying and pasting it and takin up a page...

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Here's the original photo that this guitar build was based on. Just had to post it as a reference. Cool guitar! Cody had a few requests that were good and to make this more of his specific wants.

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg177/RocketfireGuitars/CodysGuitar.jpg

I used no white undercoating (the original had a white undercoat). He debated whether or not on the undercoat for a bit. We decided to go with no undercoat. I like the look! Also, I tried to make the pickguard look a little more gradual than the original.

Anyways, thanks Cody for a good idea. I'm proud of the guitar and it's been great working with you on the project!

talk to you soon,
Nick

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Does he use pre-cut bodies/necks or is everything done in house?

Hi Anthony,
I've made a few bodies by hand (hand router). While a fun project, it's not economical to do it this way. Seems like most small builders hand cutting bodies and/or necks charge in the $3-5k range. To me it's just not wise to add 20-30 hours or work/wage to a guitar build if the quality is not improved. And sadly machine beats man everytime in guitar body making. CNC machines are much more accurate and they can get done in about 30 minutes what would take a person a week or two of hard/careful work. And the vintage specs, sound, and look are in no way compromised. The feel of a good playing vintage guitar can be just as easily achieved. It's all in the setup, finishing (Nitro-Cellulose), and using quality parts. Remember, Vintage (Pre-CBS) Fender used state of the art machinery for the times which was pin routers. They are simply put, a duplicating router, just like the CNC machine is today but with slightly more man hours involved. But none the less they are a duplicating machine.

Now pickups... different story. I only Handwind pickups. It's worth the extra time. There's a huge sonic difference between handwound and machinewound. There's a reason vintage pickups sound so good. There's definitely a technique to a good sounding pickup, and I use the same general wind pattern every time for my Total 60's set. It seems like most of the boutique pickup manufacturers today don't wind as Fender did in the 50's and 60's (wire guided onto the coil by a human hand with some slight variability). This gives the pickup guts. I didn't find the vintage tones that I was looking for in the available boutique pickups I had tried. And I've tried them all. So... I began winding my own. Thankfully, they've been something people enjoy. They give my guitars something other builders don't have to offer. I still offer the other brand names. But I always recommend my handwound set. And I offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee behind them. So far I've not had to refund for a set of pickups in a guitar yet. They're very much the vintage (Pre-1965) Fender sound. They've been a great set and a good seller. I'm glad to offer them in my guitars.

Do things right; treat people like you want to be treated and business is good. :AOK The golden rule is a great one to live by!

[BobbyRay]

This thread helped me make-up my mind to order a Rocketfire!

Now the wait.:worried

[codyj84]

This thread helped me make-up my mind to order a Rocketfire!

Now the wait.:worried

TOTALLY worth the wait!! It'll go by fast... Although I did start gettin ancy once we neared the end..... But it wasnt bad. "good things come to those who wait....":roll

[BluePowder]

Very nice, probably the most authentic relic style guitar I've seen in pics!

What are the specs?

Great looking instrument, congrats!

[codyj84]

thanks man. its based off a 63 strat in the pic and a 64 that a player here in Tulsa has. the neck is a 10" radius, which is what Nick recommended. Not a small C, but not a boatneck either. Its just basic black, no primer. The wear is minimal, with the exception of the plastics.... looks like a real "player" but not a beat to death one.

[KSKONDOR]

Wanted to push this back up as I have interest in the brand just from looking at their site....is the guitar still treating you well?

[codyj84]

Absolutely. The tone and feel are way beyond what I expected. Not that I didn't have HIGH expectations, I've just really "connected" with this guitar in a way I havent with any other. The neck is perfect in my hand, its really light and resonates forever it seems like. The pickups are great! I have the 60s. The finish is great and I can honestly tell you the pics dont do it justice at all. The checking doesnt come through on the pics very well...hardly at all. All in all, Nick went the extra mile, as I know he does for all his guitars, and I couldnt be happier. Im looking forward to wearin the rest of the finish off of it. haha

If you have any specific questions...Id be happy to answer for sure. I think the ONLY thing I may change is getting some "fender pat pending" saddles for the bridge. Nick doesnt use fender stuff for copyright reasons Im sure.

Hey KSKONDOR, what are you thinkin about?? I love my strat, and have always really been into old 72 tele customs. Im thinkin I may commission one, pending if Nick builds em.

[M I K E D.]

Beautiful guitar; thanks for sharing!

[KSKONDOR]

Thanks for the reply....I'm very early in the decision making process...haven't even contacted them, I just thought they looked like a worn in pair of jeans and want something different than what everone else has. I would go the strat style route most likely...very traditional.

What do you have in your arseonal that you would compare it too?

[codyj84]

Sweet man. I dont have anything to compare it to, which is why I got it. I do have a strat with a set of Novaks, but its just not the same... Nothing to do with the pickups, but everything to do with the feel of the guitar.

The 10" neck is butter in my hands, and the pickups can give me exactly what I need and expect from them. plus its a really light-weight guitar.

Hopefully that helps....nothin compares to it...haha

[Pastor Jeff]

I have one of Nick's guitars for sale on this forum. It's Tobacco sunburst Strat, a really outstanding guitar.

jeffdorothy@pastor.com

[codyj84]

Havent seen this thread for awhile... Wanted to revive it and see if anyone else has a Rocketfire to share!

I still can't play mine enough! It's my #1 and I love it!!!!

Anybody else???? Got pics???

[Dion]

Just awesome, congrats!

[BobbyRay]

I know that he just finished one recently, so I'm thinking, based on lead times that mine must be on the bench right now!

[Frankenstrat2]

And mine is right behind you in the pipeline.
I had to retire my Frankenstrat #02 after the neck went south on me. I still play my #01 all the time, but #02 was pretty special.
I was toying with placing an order with the Fender Custom Shop for a replacement to my specs when I came across Nick's work, and gave him the commission.
He's been great to work with, we spec'd out the guitar together, and its due later this summer. Really looking forward to getting it.

[goodasaf]

just received mine today!!!

1963 spec' strat in sonic blue.

WOWOW!!!

the sound is amazing (even head to head with my original 61...)

the finish is truely art-work and the playability is awesome!!

this is a jam!!

on top of all that, nick is a wonderful guy to work with,

THANKS NICK for a wonderful guitar and experience.:dude

[BobbyRay]

just received mine today!!!

1963 spec' strat in sonic blue.

WOWOW!!!

the sound is amazing (even head to head with my original 61...)

the finish is truely art-work and the playability is awesome!!

this is a jam!!

on top of all that, nick is a wonderful guy to work with,

THANKS NICK for a wonderful guitar and experience.:dude

What the heck are you doin'?! Pics man! PICS!

You cannot possibly think it's good form to post on this thread about a new guitar without pics?!!!!

LOL!

But seriously...Do you have some pics?;)

[BobbyRay]

And mine is right behind you in the pipeline.
I had to retire my Frankenstrat #02 after the neck went south on me. I still play my #01 all the time, but #02 was pretty special.
I was toying with placing an order with the Fender Custom Shop for a replacement to my specs when I came across Nick's work, and gave him the commission.
He's been great to work with, we spec'd out the guitar together, and its due later this summer. Really looking forward to getting it.

You might be ahead of me.

I just recieved an email from Nick stating that he has put the color coat on my guitar yesterday, but still has the clear to go, which apparently is a lengthy process. I know nothing about painting, but Nick said I'm still about 4 weeks out.

I too was asking around on the board about custom shop guitars and dealers when I got turned on to Nick's work. I talked to him on the phone and decided he was the guy. Just got the feeling that he was the "right" guy, ya' know?

[goodasaf]

did someone mention pic's?

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg111/goodasaf/DSCN0249.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg111/goodasaf/DSCN0250.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg111/goodasaf/DSCN0253.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg111/goodasaf/DSCN0254.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg111/goodasaf/DSCN0251.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg111/goodasaf/DSCN0252.jpg

[codyj84]

NOW THATS WHAT I'M TALKIN ABOUT!!! Thats beautiful!!! Those plastics are KILLER!

Just as goodasaf posted, yall ALL better post pics as they come in~!

Sonic Blue was a top color choice for me as well, goodasaf... Its just really classy lookin! Great pics! And great guitar!! Did you go with the 50s or 60s handwounds?

[BobbyRay]

WAAY Cool! Looks killer!

Thanks for the pics!

[goodasaf]

60's handwounds, and they are f#%$%#ing amazing!

[goodasaf]

let me just add that i'm a lousy photographer...
it looks much better in real life!

anyone in NYC area don't hesitate to PM me and visit

[BobbyRay]

let me just add that i'm a lousy photographer...
it looks much better in real life!

anyone in NYC area don't hesitate to PM me and visit

The neck looks great! I've seen some guitars that were relic'd where it looks like the finish was removed etc. and that part looked good, but the rest of the back of the neck where the finish was left still looked new. This looks way better!

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Asaf, thanks for posting! I'll have to put up my photos of your guitar when I get a minute.
Again, Great!!! working with you. Thanks for being patient with me through your order changes from 3 tone to Sonic Blue and Veneer board instead of slab etc. Really, I'd love a Sonic Blue if I ever had the time to build one for myself. Time... wouldn't that be nice. Americans are the worst at keeping constantly busy. Oh well, I guess that's part of life. At least I'm busy doing something I like!

Anyways, enjoy the guitar! I think you'll be tossing that TS pedal when you get the modded rocketfire box in a few days:) lol! Just kidding, I'll let you be the judge of that. But I use mine all the time. Sounds great with my Deluxe amp. Looks like we have similar taste in amps!

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Asaf,
Couldn't help it... here are my pics of your guitar before it was shipped. Had to post! I need to use my Nikon for something right! Might as well get some use so here goes.
thanks,
Nick
http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg177/RocketfireGuitars/Front-1024pix.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg177/RocketfireGuitars/Back-1024pix.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg177/RocketfireGuitars/AssafSonicBlueFrontonBlack-1024pix.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg177/RocketfireGuitars/Closeup-1024pix.jpg

[drjenkins]

Man Nick, those finishes are just awesome!! The reliced necks are usually where most people fall short to me. But I have to say that yours are amazing. Great eye for detail!!:BEER

[codyj84]

Man Nick, those finishes are just awesome!! The reliced necks are usually where most people fall short to me. But I have to say that yours are amazing. Great eye for detail!!:BEER

Thats prolly my favorite part, other than the pups! The back of the neck is so nice!!!! Like an old friend.

[Mowcheeba]

A few years ago I bought a SRV replica (minus the neck) from Nick before
he started Rocketfire Guitars. The relic work was just amazing, great attention
to details and to me it looked more accurate then Fenders 10.000USD SRV relic.
Nick seems to be a true artist and I would recommend his work any day of
the week.
BTW...How many SRV bodies did you ship to Sweden? I put a SRV neck
on it and put it up for sale. People went crazy :)
One older guy, who had actually played Stevie's #1 said your replica
was the best he'd ever seen.

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Man Nick, those finishes are just awesome!! The reliced necks are usually where most people fall short to me. But I have to say that yours are amazing. Great eye for detail!!:BEER
thanks! Thanks so much! I work hard to try to 'keep things real'. Every one is an interpretation of what the customer wants. Hopefully I hit it on the head most of the time. CodyJ84 on this forum actually sent me pics which helps! I think I posted the pic I duplicated for him somewhere in this thread. It's a black real 60's strat leaned against a brown Fender amp. That guitar has been on and off eBay through a few hands and keeps selling in the 25-35k range. Pretty Nuts!! if you ask me. But people keep buying those things. I guess they won't be made ever again (the real thing) so it's somewhat of a rarity.

A few years ago I bought a SRV replica (minus the neck) from Nick before
he started Rocketfire Guitars. The relic work was just amazing, great attention
to details and to me it looked more accurate then Fenders 10.000USD SRV relic.
Nick seems to be a true artist and I would recommend his work any day of
the week.
BTW...How many SRV bodies did you ship to Sweden? I put a SRV neck
on it and put it up for sale. People went crazy :)
One older guy, who had actually played Stevie's #1 said your replica
was the best he'd ever seen.

thanks!! I'm not nearly perfect at this craft but I've done enough that I'm happy with my results. I think I haven't seen one yet that I'd mistake for the real thing from anyone building them. But of course I build these things so I guess that makes me a trained eye:AOK I even critique things in my own guitars. I have to, that's what helps me get better!

I did have a group from our church come visit one time and a kid freaked out. He said, where'd you get that. How... What... What'd you pay to get that. Like he was looking at the Mona Lisa hanging on my wall or something;)

I work pretty hard on my SRV's. Of course I'm honored to be building one of the best guitar player of all time's guitar. Hopefully I do it justice! I think Stevie had a rough but Great life! The end of his life was as redemptive and great as anyone could have ever hoped for, from everything I've read. Great player and great guy. I wish I could have met him. Maybe I'll meet him in Heaven someday! I don't know if you can meet other people who've gone before but if so, I'm tracking him down quick! I'm glad this life is not the end!

[codyj84]

I'm glad this life is not the end!

+1 Nick!!

Just bumpin it back up.... I know some of you have some Rocketfires on the way and I wanna see em!!!

[Frankenstrat2]

Mine's due this summer. Maybe next month (I hope!)

[BobbyRay]

Mine's due this summer. Maybe next month (I hope!)
Me too!

[astigtigas]

wow killer strat... great relic job

[PosterBoy]

I'm gonna start saving for one. I've never been a big strat fan but there is something about his relic'd strats that are making me drool.

[mprvise]

Hey Cody, I just had a funny thought. Why don't you let me use that thing on a Pryor gig sometime? :)

[codyj84]

Hey Cody, I just had a funny thought. Why don't you let me use that thing on a Pryor gig sometime? :)

Dude you totally should. BTW-lookin forward to tomorrow. Been in and out of town so much I feel out of touch.....

[codyj84]

Hey, so I figured I'd post some pics of the guitar "now"... It's seen alot of play time and a few long distance trips. Just got back from Ohio this past week... Played at the Alive Festival in Canal Fulton.

This is what 4-6 hours a day will do to a nitro finish in a matter of months....

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/DSC02425.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/DSC02426.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/DSC02427.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/DSC02431.jpg

[Frankenstrat2]

Relics are cool, IMO. I love 'em. But when you put your own relicing on 'em is when they really become YOURS.
Cool.
Really looking forward to getting mine. It should make a Gallagher strat look like its just slightly shopworn. Nick and I are going for the 'what the hell happened to that guitar' look. LOL.
At least we dont have to worry about buckle rash....

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Just checkin in with my waiting customers. Hang in there, it's been a crazy summer. I am working hard. I just got back from a week of vacation to see family in Wisconsin (my 28th B-day). We had a great time and felt so nice to rest. I didn't play ANY guitar ALL week. That's very rare for me but felt good after a very busy year. Anyways, when I arrived back home my shop looked exactly as it did when I left it. I was hoping a few guitars would have assembled themselves. Oh well. Anyways, I'm back at it and working hard. Your guitars should be done soon. Thanks for your patience!


By the way Cody, you really are not kidding! Man you played that thing! Looks great. All that pick wear above the guard is the real thing! I didn't do that. If I ever have the opportunity to see you play I'm standing far away! I can imagine chips and shreds flying off of your pick hitting people's eyes in the front row by the amount of wear you put into that Alder above the pickguard! It's probably a danger zone to be near you while you're playing!! But seriously, it looks great! Your guitar will look like Number One before long I'm betting! If you can do that by pure playing, I'll build you a new one and trade you for it! LOL:)

[codyj84]

Hey Nick,

Glad to see ya back! Hope you had a great time with the fam and a great bday. I tell ya... everybody needs a vacation! Can't wait to see these new guitars youre workin on!

And youre right! Shouldn't be long before I see bare wood! I give it to December!!! haha. Funny though, the back is still pretty clean. I wear my buckle on the side to not hurt the finish.... so it stays pretty nice. Maybe I need to put it back in the front!!!!! No matter where I go or where I play, people constantly ask about the guitar! Still can't thank you enough for all the time you took in building it! It plays better than ever! And the pickups can't be beat.... PERIOD!

[Frankenstrat2]

time to check in and bump this thread up because.....
My Rocketfire should be just about ready any time now

[Docgab]

Here is a pic of my Rocket Fire heavy relic. I have had it for over 6 months and still love it.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l104/Docgab_2006/Rocketfire011.jpg

[ukslinger]

+1000 for Nick. I've got an SRV. At the time I thought it would be cool and I had never found a fender strat that I liked. Now it's by far my favorite guitar. The pickups and feel/playability are awesome. Its tough because I want to keep it "looking new" but its hard to put down.

Even if someone is not into a relic, I wouldn't hesitate to have Nick build you a guitar. I just wish he did Les Pauls too.

[BobbyRay]

I'm just about due any day now as well! Startin' to get that impatient feeling. I don't know why that is. I've been fine waiting since I placed the order, but now all of a sudden, I can't wait any longer. What gives?

You guys are gonna have to quit talkin' about your guitars until after I get mine. LOL!

[c94123]

You guys are killing me. I just placed my order. I have to hang on until Christmas.

[BobbyRay]

Nick just sent me a couple pics of mine. Look-a real nize-ah! Couple of things left to do, and it'll be on the way!

Wooo-Hooo!

[codyj84]

Nick just sent me a couple pics of mine. Look-a real nize-ah! Couple of things left to do, and it'll be on the way!

Wooo-Hooo!

Where are those pics?!?!?!?!?!:dude

[BobbyRay]

Where are those pics?!?!?!?!?!:dude

I have them right here on me 'puter! The thing is, the guitar is still getting a couple of cosmetic tweaks before it ships out. so the pics I have aren't really the finished product.



Oh alrighty then. I'll post them. give me a coupe of minutes to upload them to photobucket...

[BobbyRay]

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa201/BobbyRay8/Rocket1.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa201/BobbyRay8/Rocket2.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa201/BobbyRay8/Rocket4.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa201/BobbyRay8/Rocket3.jpg

[BobbyRay]

Now somebody order one in a different color than black already. I'm sure Nick is getting tired of black by now! LOL!

[codyj84]

Dig it! You just cant go wrong with a classic.

[c94123]

Now somebody order one in a different color than black already. I'm sure Nick is getting tired of black by now! LOL!

Mine is Sonic Blue. Don't know if I can stand a few more months.

[BobbyRay]

Mine is Sonic Blue. Don't know if I can stand a few more months.

In a few months I'll be expecting pictures!:dude

[BobbyRay]

time to check in and bump this thread up because.....
My Rocketfire should be just about ready any time now


Have you heard anything about yours? What color did you go with?

[codyj84]

the guitar is still getting a couple of cosmetic tweaks before it ships out..

Hey, what are the tweaks?? Looks pretty killer from where Im standing!

[shark_bite]

I stumbled onto these in the Manufacturer's & Retailer's Emporium -- I need need NEED to own one. Unfortunately I have some amps to buy first...

Damn GAS.

[BobbyRay]

Hey, what are the tweaks?? Looks pretty killer from where Im standing!

I just wanted a little bit more wood showing. Not much, but just a little more. Other than that I think it looks perfect!

[codyj84]

I just wanted a little bit more wood showing. Not much, but just a little more. Other than that I think it looks perfect!

i hear ya there....;)

[Frankenstrat2]

Have you heard anything about yours? What color did you go with?
Yes. Nick is running behind between summer vacations and being short handed with help in the shop. So instead of July it will be August or after.
Can't rush a masterpiece.
I ordered a light alder body, 3 tone sunburst with hardly any of it left- sort of a Rory Gallagher thats been dragged on a rope behind a pickup. Maple fingerboard. My own custom pickup configuration, a combination of active EMG pots and Kinman Woodstock + AvNs. Some actual '50s parts as well that I had lying around in drawers. She'll be set up for slide with my SOB 11-52s.
This guitar is intended to replace my Frankenstrat#01 that had an actual '55 neck that became unplayable. I actually lent the neck to Nick for a while so he could study the way my 58 year old neck aged.
I have to admit I'm getting antsy.

[BobbyRay]

Yes. Nick is running behind between summer vacations and being short handed with help in the shop. So instead of July it will be August or after.
Can't rush a masterpiece.
I ordered a light alder body, 3 tone sunburst with hardly any of it left- sort of a Rory Gallagher thats been dragged on a rope behind a pickup. Maple fingerboard. My own custom pickup configuration, a combination of active EMG pots and Kinman Woodstock + AvNs. Some actual '50s parts as well that I had lying around in drawers. She'll be set up for slide with my SOB 11-52s.
This guitar is intended to replace my Frankenstrat#01 that had an actual '55 neck that became unplayable. I actually lent the neck to Nick for a while so he could study the way my 58 year old neck aged.
I have to admit I'm getting antsy.

I'll be very interested to hear your review of that guitar as well as to see some pics!:AOK

[Frankenstrat2]

As soon as I get it!
I was hoping to have it for the Tampa ToneFest, but Nick doesn't think he'll be done in time.
Too bad- thats a great venue to promote new talent.
I'm sending my Red Iron amp and my Glaswerks down there since there's no other way for people in that region to hear them.
I'll certainly post pix when its done.
I'm sure it will look sufficiently destroyed. LOL
Its more about the weight, the neck, and the tone.
I know Nicks pups are highly regarded, but this one will have my stuff in it since thats where my comfort zone is.
After this, I'll probably order another one with Nicks electronics. Maybe a killer tele. I need one.
:NUTS

[BobbyRay]

As soon as I get it!
I was hoping to have it for the Tampa ToneFest, but Nick doesn't think he'll be done in time.
Too bad- thats a great venue to promote new talent.
I'm sending my Red Iron amp and my Glaswerks down there since there's no other way for people in that region to hear them.
I'll certainly post pix when its done.
I'm sure it will look sufficiently destroyed. LOL
Its more about the weight, the neck, and the tone.
I know Nicks pups are highly regarded, but this one will have my stuff in it since thats where my comfort zone is.
After this, I'll probably order another one with Nicks electronics. Maybe a killer tele. I need one.
:NUTS

I hear ya' on the Tele. I've kind of had one lurkin' in my mind for awhile now. If my guitar is as nice as I think it's going to be, there might be a Candy Apple red/rosewood tele...or maybe Lake Placid Blue....Hmmm....

LOL!

[BobbyRay]

In case anyone was wondering the specs on mine...

Nick's pickups
10" radius
5 way switch
Alder Body
Rosewood Board

Those were pretty much my only criteria beyond color.

[codyj84]

any new pics? anybody taken delivery?

[TRW]

Has anyone got the 1" neck carve on their Rocketfires? How is it, what do your necks feel like or what do you have?

Currently ironing out a spec with Nick but could use some user feedback.

Cheers T

[codyj84]

Hey guys... Just a heads up.

My Rocketfire strat was stolen....along with some other stuff. There are pics on this thread. If it happens to show up anywhere (you Okies please keep an eye out) please let me know. It was my favorite guitar and I'm really hopin I find it.

Thanks guys.

cody

[mprvise]

Hey guys... Just a heads up.

My Rocketfire strat was stolen....along with some other stuff. There are pics on this thread. If it happens to show up anywhere (you Okies please keep an eye out) please let me know. It was my favorite guitar and I'm really hopin I find it.

Thanks guys.

cody

I was wondering if/when you were going to post about this. You know I'll be calling if I see it. You might want to post a stolen gear thread in the Lounge as well.

[Frankenstrat2]

Crap! That sucks!
Yes- put up a stolen guitar thread on the general guitars forum here with pix and description. Its pretty distinctive- maybe it will turn up.
I assume you did the usual stuff- police report, notified the pawn shops and local dealers, etc.
I hate hearing stuff like this.
So sorry!
barry

[codyj84]

yep and yep. notified my local stores and such. put an alert to local pawn shops (didnt know they all network, btw).....police report because other things were stolen too.

its good times.

hey barry, hows yours coming along?

[curlygates]

Sorry bout the guitar and stuff. hate a theif, we'll try to keep an eye out here in tulsa town for it.

[Frankenstrat2]

No news from Nick.
I try not to call cause everytime I bother him he pushes the delivery date back as punishment ;)
It was due in July- he got bogged down with vacation and workers getting sick. I was hoping to show it off at the Tampa ToneFest, but that just ended, so now its just a waiting game.
You can't hurry perfection.
b.

[codyj84]

true that. yea i know one of his guys broke an arm... i'll be anxious to see pics of it. from what you describe, it sounds pretty sweet!

[Rocketfire Guitars]

No news from Nick.
I try not to call cause everytime I bother him he pushes the delivery date back as punishment ;)
It was due in July- he got bogged down with vacation and workers getting sick. I was hoping to show it off at the Tampa ToneFest, but that just ended, so now its just a waiting game.
You can't hurry perfection.
b.

Done today hopefully! I always quote around 16-18 weeks but this is summer so I'm slowed up a little by trips etc. We always take two trips in the summer since my folks and my wifes both live in opposing ends of the country. So to be fair we visit them both so nobody gets mad and dis-owns us as relatives;) :) Makes for a lot of 8 hour crying baby car rides. I'm not sure they are vacations! LOL! But seriously too!

But the good news is!!! It should be done today or tomorrow... unless something unforeseen happens, then for sure this week.

true that. yea i know one of his guys broke an arm... i'll be anxious to see pics of it. from what you describe, it sounds pretty sweet!

My helper didn't just break an arm... he almost died! I picked him up on the side of the road after missing a deer on his Harley just a few miles from my house out in the country and he nearly died on the way to the hospital. When he arrived at the nearest hospital (town of 16,000 30 minutes away) they life-flighted him to a bigger city for emergency surgery to save his life.

He ended up coming out ok in the end thank God! but he had broken his shoulder blade, both bones in his right wrist, seriously injured his hip, broke most of his ribs, and had to have his spleen removed because of internal bleeding (the part that almost killed him).

So... he won't be back to work for a while, most likely a year to recover. But I'm sure he's thankful to be alive.

That has put a little bit of a damper on speed now that I'm doing most of the work by myself. But I'm glad he's still alive. He's actually anxious to work again because he's getting tired of sitting! He's been a great help and it's been a tough summer without his time savings. Now I've got my kids helping a little bit but they're no where near as capable as Dan was. He's in his late 50's (retired) and has been the best help I could have asked for. I'm really hoping to have him back in the next year.

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Hey guys... Just a heads up.

My Rocketfire strat was stolen....along with some other stuff. There are pics on this thread. If it happens to show up anywhere (you Okies please keep an eye out) please let me know. It was my favorite guitar and I'm really hopin I find it.

Thanks guys.

cody

Wow! That's an unmistakable guitar. Not like you'll find a bunch that look just like yours in Tulsa. I'm sure if you see someone playing with a guitar that looks remotely like yours, they're getting tackled!

Man Tulsa... I never thought so much stuff got stolen. You'd mentioned you were building for a friend who had his guitar stolen (in Tulsa). I don't even lock my car door when shopping or parked somewhere with guitars, pedals, etc on board. Maybe I should! or get a one of those bank ink bombs that'll blue ink the crap outta whoever picks up the guitar!

Shoooooot Cody, That really stinks!

[Frankenstrat2]

Done today hopefully! I always quote around 16-18 weeks but this is summer so I'm slowed up a little by trips etc. We always take two trips in the summer since my folks and my wifes both live in opposing ends of the country. So to be fair we visit them both so nobody gets mad and dis-owns us as relatives;) :) Makes for a lot of 8 hour crying baby car rides. I'm not sure they are vacations! LOL! But seriously too!

But the good news is!!! It should be done today or tomorrow... unless something unforeseen happens, then for sure this week.

.
Yahoo!
Hey Nick- y'know I was only funnin'
And I knew about your helper and your vacations- you were always very communicative- there were no surprises.
But I think my strategy of not calling paid off. At least you were working instead of chewin the fat with me on the phone!
It sounds like you're just about up to the part where you are ready to drop that harness in and see how my guts sound in your guitar.
I'll be interested in seeing if your reaction is similar to Chris Kinman's (Holy SH*T!) Especially since you wind your own pups and they are highly regarded in their own right.
Looking forward to your report
barry

[Frankenstrat2]

Today's the day the pups go in. Then she is going to get hog-tied and dragged through the gravel parking lot of Piggly Wiggly behind a pickup for several hours. :roll

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Today's the day the pups go in. Then she is going to get hog-tied and dragged through the gravel parking lot of Piggly Wiggly behind a pickup for several hours. :roll

Barry, I got back from a long night behind Piggly Wiggly driving a pickup through gravel and your guitar is done! :roll

It's about as beat as Rory Gallagher's. Probably more than SRV's. Looks very cool. I think I'm as close to your original '54 or '55 neck (the one you sent) as I can get. I did the fingerboard ad lib because the finish on your board was all but gone. I think this board looks more traditionally finger-worn from a 54. I'll try to get you pictures soon. I always feel bad after all the hard work that goes into a nitro finish:jo to tear it all off the guitar. But every time I see a customer pic of themselves playing the guitar at a gig, I love what I see! Lot's of mojo! And the heavy relics get the most comments from people who'd usually care less about what guitar who-ever is playing. I think this is going to be one of my favorite heavily worn guitars!!

Talk to you soon.
Nick

[Frankenstrat2]

Barry, I got back from a long night behind Piggly Wiggly driving a pickup through gravel and your guitar is done! :roll

It's about as beat as Rory Gallagher's. Probably more than SRV's. Looks very cool. I think I'm as close to your original '54 or '55 neck (the one you sent) as I can get. I did the fingerboard ad lib because the finish on your board was all but gone. I think this board looks more traditionally finger-worn from a 54. I'll try to get you pictures soon. I always feel bad after all the hard work that goes into a nitro finish:jo to tear it all off the guitar. But every time I see a customer pic of themselves playing the guitar at a gig, I love what I see! Lot's of mojo! And the heavy relics get the most comments from people who'd usually care less about what guitar who-ever is playing. I think this is going to be one of my favorite heavily worn guitars!!

Talk to you soon.
Nick
Awesome!
That gravel at the Piggly Wiggly jas its own special mojo! LOL
Don't forget to sign her
somewhere.
Now she needs a name!

[ghisi]

New pics of mine (62 specs burst). It has been here for a while and it is a lovely guitar.


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b392/ghisi/IMG_1797.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b392/ghisi/IMG_1798.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b392/ghisi/IMG_1800.jpg

[Frankenstrat2]

Nice! Thanks for posting.
Nick's editing the pix of my new baby right now!

[codyj84]

Nice! Thanks for posting.
Nick's editing the pix of my new baby right now!

+1 thanks for posting.

Frankenstrat2...you know what to do....:dude

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Nice! Thanks for posting.
Nick's editing the pix of my new baby right now!

I tried to get a photo collage together and ended up getting on the phone for an hour so I had to scrap the photo project. If you get a chance to upload those babies, try to put that closeup of the aged wood. I like that shot!

[codyj84]

Hey guys...So Barry (Frankenstrat2) is on the road, but sent me some sweet pics of the guitar! So I'm postin em for him....... Check out the back of the body! Best I've seen...PERIOD!

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/Front.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/Back_of_Body.jpg

[codyj84]

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/Back_of_Neck_Wear.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/Close_Up_Wear.jpg

[Frankenstrat2]

Thanks Cody!
Can't post pix from a Blackberry phone.
Hey Nick!
I forgot to ask-How much does she weigh?

[Seegs]

normally I'm not a fan of the heavily relic'd stuff usually preferring the relics that look like they've aged naturally.. but I have to say that...that guitar looks really cool...I'll bet it plays like butta...

Chow,
Seegs

[Frankenstrat2]

Thanks guys.
Considering I haven't seen her in person yet, it looks like Nick did exactly the job I commissioned him to do.
I didn't want a clone or copy of a Gallagher or SRV or Mayer. We were replacing my own #01 frankenstrat which had a '55 maple neck that became unplayable from age and 'squirrely-ness'.
After Nick and I talked, I sent him #01 so he could see my actual '55 neck close up and feel the contour. Its a round back '55. Hardly any V at all. Since I wasn't particularly interested in 'authenticity' we decided to go with an alder body rather than ash, which I prefer.
The electronics were lifted directly from the now retired #01. Nick did all the wiring and some required repairs as well. The real vintage pat pend saddles were moved over from #01 as were some of the other hardware.
Keep in mind that I haven't played her yet, but Nick said that he thought the neck felt very similar to how he remembered my '55 when he had it in the shop.
I'm really excited to get this guitar. I know its an over-the-top uber-relic, but that's what I had in my head. I'm not one for pretty, new shiny guitars, and I like my stuff to feel really broken in like a great old pair of jeans.
It looks like Nick nailed it, but as we all know, the proof is in the playing.
I let you guys know and maybe even cut some clips when she arrives next week.
Thanks for your encouragement and positive feedback
Barry

[codyj84]

Got her yet, Barry???

Well guys, I'm commissioning another strat from Nick. Gotta move forward. Although its not the best of circumstances, there is no otehr builder I'd rather endorse than Nick. Great quality and top notch guy.

Hey, do any of you guys have myspaces for your music? or just for you? If you do, add Rocketfire! www.myspace.com/rocketfireguitars (http://www.myspace.com/rocketfireguitars)... I like to see the new pics he puts up... figured you would too.

[Frankenstrat2]

Got her yet, Barry???.
Shhhh.........
I'm busy playing her.
Better get your order in ahead of mine.
I'm probably doing a blackguard tele next.

[codyj84]

Shhhh.........
I'm busy playing her.
Better get your order in ahead of mine.
I'm probably doing a blackguard tele next.

BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!! Thats great man! My order is IN! So top THAT!

And why is it that I read your post in a whisper..after the word shhhh...?
:roll

[jerseydrew]

I can see a Rocketfire in my future. Anyone have a Strat that they want to trade/sell?

[codyj84]

Thanks for bumping this! Still be on the lookout for this s-type (the black one....)

[mprvise]

Thanks for bumping this! Still be on the lookout for this s-type (the black one....)

Bump for news? :YinYang

[codyj84]

YOU KNOW IT!!!!

For all that say when you lose something it wont find its way home.....

Friday I got a call from a friend that runs a guitar instruction school with an EZ Pawn adjacent. He frequents the shop in search of deals... Yesterday he ran across a very familiar black strat.... MY BLACK STRAT!!!

Shes home boys! Thats right! I was with mprvise last night at a show and it was the first thing I said!

Still had my initials on the back! The pawn shop is looking into the situation, and the perp lives somewhere in east Tulsa. I dont care about all that at the moment...

So yea! Im doin backflips are cartwheels as of yesterday!

Between this and pickup giveaway, it must be my birthday!!!

cody

[mprvise]

Okay, so NOW can I use it on a Pryor Band gig sometime? :D

Too cool that you got it back. :cool:

[crosse79]

Cody - glad that you've got your black strat back :)

Frankenstrat,
That is one really mean looking guitar. I agree with the other post - the most authentic back of body relic I have ever seen.

[Mr Meaner]

Hey Cody...
Man that's great!!! At least it didn't take as long as Mark the guy in our band... It took him about 10-15 years!!!
You still gettin' the Sunburst?
I like the black'n better... I know you just have a thang for those solid colored sunburst... heh
The black one though looks similar to a friend of mine, Will "Smokey" Logg's guitar...
His had a maple neck though and he had painted the original black pickguard pickup covers & tone/volume knobs white. So now after several years of playing the white has worn through and showing the black... Pretty unique looking! Got some pics of new and old I may send ya if I can find them...
Anyway bro congrats and keep one eye on her at all times!!!

[crosse79]

10 -15 years ... it must have been a real special guitar. I don't know if I could recognise my guitar if it was 10-15 years after I lost it.

[Mr Meaner]

10 -15 years ... it must have been a real special guitar. I don't know if I could recognise my guitar if it was 10-15 years after I lost it.

Actually the guy I was referring to doesn't really even play this guitar anymore... It I believe was a Fender Mustang or something like that... He was playing a lot of rock stuff back then. He's really liking his G&L Strat now. Still though it was crazy that he eventually got it back, and how it actually was brought back to him from someone mentioning they had this particular guitar at a gig we were playing. The guitar was stolen off stage and he never seen it for many years until this person mentioned about it and brought it to show him and sure enough it was his old guitar...

[jerseydrew]

congrats Cody!!!

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Yep Cody!!! That's pretty amazing. I'm really shocked that you have it back!!!

I bet you're happy.

I still can't imagine why someone has the nerve to steal someone's stuff.

[Frankenstrat2]

OMFG!
How cool is that!
I'm amazed you got it back!
A tribute to small town living.
Did you have to get the cops for the Pawn Shop to release it!?
I need to carve my name on. mine tonight!
Congrats Cody. Glad she's home. Now you know she's really very special.
B.

[Rocketfire Guitars]

.....
I need to carve my name on. mine tonight!



How's it going Barry!

Hey that's a great idea. I think I'll follow in you and Cody's steps with the carving. Maybe I'll use my soldering iron to make it look a little more permanent.

Hope you're enjoying your guitar!!!

[jw112]

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/P1010006.jpg


that just might be my dream guitar!!! very nice

[Frankenstrat2]

How's it going Barry!

Hey that's a great idea. I think I'll follow in you and Cody's steps with the carving. Maybe I'll use my soldering iron to make it look a little more permanent.

Hope you're enjoying your guitar!!!
Hey Nick
At least I got you to sign mine! LOL
I have been enjoying it, thanks.
It's been my #01, and I've been playing it extensively. Feels like home. Sounds like me.
We still need to talk about some fingerboard options, but otherwise,
its a home run!
Best
barry

[matte]

We still need to talk about some fingerboard options, but otherwise,
its a home run!
Best
barry
i already had that exchange with nick. his response was a deal breaker for me.

[Frankenstrat2]

Hi Matte
Its been a while since we talked.
Let me be specific.
Nick did a fantastic job on my strat.
He was a delight to work with. Totally responsive, open to ideas and suggestions, and willing to do anything and everything within his abilities to create exactly the guitar I envisioned.
I wanted an ultimate relic, a beater that was a player, built to my spec.
Price was an issue, particularly in these times, I had put a deposit down on a $5500 John Cruz custom shop uber relic, and then discovered Nick.
I think he built a guitar that is every bit as good as the John Cruz relics, the Rory Gallagher custom shop relics, and those of many other builders working outside of the Fender domain, for an extremely reasonable price.
However, because Nick does not machine his own wood, the choices are limited to the production bodies and necks that he sources from his suppliers. We talked about what I wanted, and with his advice we settled on body wood, weight, neck profile, radius, and fret wire. I have no complaints in any regard to my choices or Nicks work.
Actually, the real '55 maple neck that I own is simply played out and squirrely. I sent the neck to Nick for him to study the wear on it and the way it felt in terms of profile, since every neck made back then before CnC machines is different.
Nick did a superb job relicing my neck.
My reference to Nick regarding fingerboard options has to do with the relicing of the lacquer down to the bare wood on my maple fingerboard.
I am still deciding whether to leave it as is, or take all of the lacquer off, as it is on my '55.
Since I was not hampered by the pre-selection of necks and bodies by Nick, there were no 'deal breakers' for me. Just options to be discussed. Even though the guitar has been finished and delivered, Nick has been totally open to doing anything it would take to make sure my satisfaction would be 100% rather than 98%, and is still waiting for me to decide.
The longer I now have the guitar and play it, the harder it is to consider parting with it, or changing anything that already feels so good.
I certainly didn't intend for my comment regarding the fingerboard to have any negative connotations. Just want to be clear on that.
Barry

[matte]

Hi Matte
Its been a while since we talked.
Let me be specific.
Nick did a fantastic job on my strat.
He was a delight to work with. Totally responsive, open to ideas and suggestions, and willing to do anything and everything within his abilities to create exactly the guitar I envisioned.
I wanted an ultimate relic, a beater that was a player, built to my spec.
Price was an issue, particularly in these times, I had put a deposit down on a $5500 John Cruz custom shop uber relic, and then discovered Nick.
I think he built a guitar that is every bit as good as the John Cruz relics, the Rory Gallagher custom shop relics, and those of many other builders working outside of the Fender domain, for an extremely reasonable price.
However, because Nick does not machine his own wood, the choices are limited to the production bodies and necks that he sources from his suppliers. We talked about what I wanted, and with his advice we settled on body wood, weight, neck profile, radius, and fret wire. I have no complaints in any regard to my choices or Nicks work.
Actually, the real '55 maple neck that I own is simply played out and squirrely. I sent the neck to Nick for him to study the wear on it and the way it felt in terms of profile, since every neck made back then before CnC machines is different.
Nick did a superb job relicing my neck.
My reference to Nick regarding fingerboard options has to do with the relicing of the lacquer down to the bare wood on my maple fingerboard.
I am still deciding whether to leave it as is, or take all of the lacquer off, as it is on my '55.
Since I was not hampered by the pre-selection of necks and bodies by Nick, there were no 'deal breakers' for me. Just options to be discussed. Even though the guitar has been finished and delivered, Nick has been totally open to doing anything it would take to make sure my satisfaction would be 100% rather than 98%, and is still waiting for me to decide.
The longer I now have the guitar and play it, the harder it is to consider parting with it, or changing anything that already feels so good.
I certainly didn't intend for my comment regarding the fingerboard to have any negative connotations. Just want to be clear on that.
Barry
my issue with nick came from his hard sell on indian rosewood based on it's look. for me, if it's gonna be rw, it's gonna be madagascar or brazilian, based on it's feel. his priorities and mine simply did not mesh.

[Rocketfire Guitars]

i already had that exchange with nick. his response was a deal breaker for me.

Hi Matte,
Hope you're doing well, not a big deal on not ordering from me. There are lots of builders and lots of options out there. I'm friends with some of our other TGP builders and I'm glad to say they do great work. But let me clarify one thing: As far as our conversation, I was 100% open to using the fingerboard wood of your choice. I made my suggestion and what I suggested in terms of necks and the list of standard options has earned the reviews you see posted various places online. I did mention the Madagascar Rosewood you'd requested would be a decent bit more expensive if I have to custom order it. But I can of course use it.

If you order from me in the future, great! I'd be glad to work with you. But I do want to clarify for your sake and the public's sake, that the skies the limit with neck options. I have recommendations and things that will help on price. But there are Plenty of options on necks, pickups, etc. when I build a guitar. I have things I prefer (i.e. stuck in the mud in somethings;)), but I am open to new ideas. My philosophy in general is this: If it works, don't change anything, it might not work as well. I'm careful with what I just said. I know what I use works well and will not give me any trouble after building many many guitars using my normal parts list.

Hi Matte
Its been a while since we talked.
Let me be specific.
Nick did a fantastic job on my strat.
He was a delight to work with. Totally responsive, open to ideas and suggestions, and willing to do anything and everything within his abilities to create exactly the guitar I envisioned.
I wanted an ultimate relic, a beater that was a player, built to my spec.
Price was an issue, particularly in these times, I had put a deposit down on a $5500 John Cruz custom shop uber relic, and then discovered Nick.
I think he built a guitar that is every bit as good as the John Cruz relics, the Rory Gallagher custom shop relics, and those of many other builders working outside of the Fender domain, for an extremely reasonable price.
However, because Nick does not machine his own wood, the choices are limited to the production bodies and necks that he sources from his suppliers. We talked about what I wanted, and with his advice we settled on body wood, weight, neck profile, radius, and fret wire. I have no complaints in any regard to my choices or Nicks work.
Actually, the real '55 maple neck that I own is simply played out and squirrely. I sent the neck to Nick for him to study the wear on it and the way it felt in terms of profile, since every neck made back then before CnC machines is different.
Nick did a superb job relicing my neck.
My reference to Nick regarding fingerboard options has to do with the relicing of the lacquer down to the bare wood on my maple fingerboard.
I am still deciding whether to leave it as is, or take all of the lacquer off, as it is on my '55.
Since I was not hampered by the pre-selection of necks and bodies by Nick, there were no 'deal breakers' for me. Just options to be discussed. Even though the guitar has been finished and delivered, Nick has been totally open to doing anything it would take to make sure my satisfaction would be 100% rather than 98%, and is still waiting for me to decide.
The longer I now have the guitar and play it, the harder it is to consider parting with it, or changing anything that already feels so good.
I certainly didn't intend for my comment regarding the fingerboard to have any negative connotations. Just want to be clear on that.
Barry

And to Barry, of course as we had discussed if you ever decide you want a neck swap, I'll be glad to do it.

To the public regarding fingerboard wear:
Fingerboard wear is something that everyone has a different picture in their head of how it is supposed to be. Just look at the different people (Danocaster, Revelator, Nash, GVCG, etc.) building aged guitars and you'll see things all over the spectrum. Part of this is because we've all seen different guitars that are the icon we work from, we've dealt with different customers who've shaped our aging techniques, and of course we all learned to do this mostly by trying things. That's what makes this fun, competitive, and keeps us turning out something better each time. That's what keeps us humble and that's what pays our bills.:AOK

[matte]

If you order from me in the future, great! I'd be glad to work with you. But I do want to clarify for your sake and the public's sake, that the skies the limit with neck options.
how about a trussrod free 1 piece brazilian rosewood neck like norm's desert sand "57?

[Rocketfire Guitars]

how about a trussrod free 1 piece brazilian rosewood neck like norm's desert sand "57?

No truss-rod. No Soup for you. :D

J.K. and LOL!

Ok I guess I did say the skies the limit;) and really it is, but I do have preferences and suggestions and things I think work well based on experience and history (early Fender experience with truss-rod free guitars). PM or email me with that idea if you're serious and we'll talk about it.
thanks,

[codyj84]

Just wanted to share a recent shot of my Rocketfire.......

Ok, so really she's just a camera hog and loves the exposure...

Enjoy!




http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/HPIM2647.jpg


She gets rode hard and put away wet.... I play her about 6 hours a day, sometimes more.... And yea... that pick wear isnt simulated... Big thanks to Nick for the super thin finish!!! Just what I asked for!

It truly is an inspiring guitar to play every day! She's my #1.

[madscientist]

GREAT looking axe!

[codyj84]

GREAT looking axe!

Thanks man!!! i LOVE IT.

[codyj84]

I LOVE MY ROCKETFIRE bump....

hahahahahahahaha

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/HPIM2641-1.jpghttp://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/HPIM2647-1.jpghttp://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/HPIM2640-1.jpghttp://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w33/codyj84/HPIM2644.jpg

[codyj84]

Just getting better and better....

[mprvise]

You STILL need to bring that out to a Pryor Band gig sometime. :)

[codyj84]

You STILL need to bring that out to a Pryor Band gig sometime. :)

I just need to make it OUT PERIOD!!! Sheesh! Think I may just need to hitch a ride to Docs with ya on Friday!:banana

[mprvise]

I just need to make it OUT PERIOD!!! Sheesh! Think I may just need to hitch a ride to Docs with ya on Friday!:banana

Cool, just let me know. :BEER

[codyj84]

Oh how I love my RF!!! Can't wait to get my 3-tone burst s-type. Goin with the 50's wind for somethin different...

[FREELESSONSNOW]

I have a Rocketfire on order. Can't wait to get it.

[bluesgolfer]

I have a Rocketfire on order. Can't wait to get it.


What are the specs, color, style, neck size, etc?

[codyj84]

What are the specs, color, style, neck size, etc?

http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=511029

[Mr Meaner]

I guess you're still keeping one eye on your guitar at all times!!!

[bluesgolfer]

I have a Rocketfire on order. Can't wait to get it.

Didn't you order yours back in February?

[FREELESSONSNOW]

Didn't you order yours back in February?

Good memory there. Yeah, I think it was in February. Nick was a little backed up and I insist that he take his time. He did send me a pict though taht has me a bit anxious to play it.

[FREELESSONSNOW]

http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=511029


Thanks for putting the link in to my specs. One thing that I had wrong was pearloid dots. They will be clay.

[FREELESSONSNOW]

Oh how I love my RF!!! Can't wait to get my 3-tone burst s-type. Goin with the 50's wind for somethin different...


Keep us posted on the 50s wind. My first Rocketfire will have the 60s.

[dobro man]

I wish I could understand the attraction of relicing....

But no matter how I try, I just cant....

[Mr Meaner]

I wish I could understand the attraction of relicing....

But no matter how I try, I just cant....

Don't try... It's either you like or you don't in most cases...

[dobro man]

Why not try.....

Surely when we buy a new car, mostly, we want it to be like, you know...new....

When we buy a new suit we mostly dont want it to look like someone had lived in it for 10 years...

So why do folk want to buy a new guitar that looks like someone has abused it for ages...

I just really want to know :-)

[DANOCASTER]

Why not try.....

Surely when we buy a new car, mostly, we want it to be like, you know...new....

When we buy a new suit we mostly dont want it to look like someone had lived in it for 10 years...

So why do folk want to buy a new guitar that looks like someone has abused it for ages...

I just really want to know :-)

good grief :horse

search "relic" and have your fantasies fullfilled

[dobro man]

You really cant explain can you :-)

Go on give it a try....

Because I really want to know :-)

[codyj84]

You really cant explain can you :-)

Go on give it a try....

Because I really want to know :-)

Hey man!

It's just different strokes for different folks. I personally don't see the attraction to new, highly polished guitars. But thats why theres something for everyone. Please do not turn my thread into a "why relic?" debate. Thanks bro!

cody

[Jim S]

You really cant explain can you :-)

Go on give it a try....

Because I really want to know :-)
:facepalm

They same reason why we vote differently, somebody likes green while another black, I don't eat red meat and others can't get enough of it. Different strokes for different folks.

I have quite a few guitars and basses; some relic'd and some not. I like both.

Distressed furniture is not unpopular. Does that help?


I am an idiot for even replying to this. :bkw

[TikiJoe]

You really cant explain can you :-)

Go on give it a try....

Because I really want to know :-)

I don't have any reliced guitars.

A reliced guitar feels very different, especially then neck. If the neck is rolled and the finish is worn off the guitar just plays differently.

Beyond that, some just prefer the looks of an old guitar but can't afford vintage. I have a vintage Gretsch and a '98 Gretsch. The old guitar just looks "hipper" to my eye.

Hopefully, now you know.

[tapeup]

I probably shouldn't even reply to the above post, or post in this thread in general, but the analogy that comes to my mind is equating a visibly much-played or 'relic'd' guitar to that of one of my favorite pairs of old worn-in jeans or shoes, that just feel 'right' after many many wears, washes, years, etc...or an old favorite t-shirt that just 'feels' great to me, and makes me feel better when I wear it. These articles of clothing that I've perhaps had for years, make me feel good, and maybe that's just the way I am, but I like them, and some guitars that are 'relic'd' feel and sound great to me, just like these old comfortable 'go-to' items in my wardrobe...and I don't have to worry about the guitar aquiring more scratches, dents, chips, etc., just like I don't have to worry about my already broken-in favorite sneakers or jeans aquiring more 'wear'. Anyhow, this is just my take on it. Cheers.

[Kingbeegtrs]

everyone fell for the trap set by a troll.

shame shame shame

[dobro man]

Sorry Cody didn't want to hijack your thread...

But I do feel its a bit of a bandwagon..

[Rocketfire Guitars]

I just don't understand why all these people are buying a guitar that is beaten up. Well Worn with Scratches, Dings, Checking, Smudges, Aged Patina to the finish... I just don't get it. Why would you want all that when you could buy a nice shiny brand new Chinese made S-Style copy for $100 and it even comes with a deluxe 1 ply gig-sack.

[dobro man]

Troll?????

Wonder what that is......

[dobro man]

Whos talking about a Chinese made strat style guitar for 100US???

[Rocketfire Guitars]

Whos talking about a Chinese made strat style guitar for 100US???

Sorry, I'm being ridiculous. This argument comes up so much on this site. I see arguments like the one I posted (post #160 above) constantly. People will actually say stuff like that.

But as the others have said... it all comes down to taste. Also once you've played a worn out Fender, you know. They have a certain feel to them that Leo Fender probably never had planned when he made them. But it's definitely part of what made his guitars so great. They wore out. Finish was gone, the neck was worn to the wood. The edges of the board had a smoothness to it that isn't matched in most new guitars. That's why shops like the Fender Custom Shop has people who are trained to make guitars that look old. And look at the price tags... It's obvious that there's a demand for this. See below:

http://www.themusiczoo.com/fendercustom/FenderMasterbuilt_JasonSmith_60_Stratocaster_Heavy Relic_ShellPinkBurgandyMist_R41594.html

There's a reason these guitars are going at these prices. If you bought the real thing you'd pay 5 times this much.

But yes, to each his own. If you don't like them, buy new guitars. As many others have said, it's almost annoying playing a new guitar after you've owned something that's broken in. And I think that it's a spreading trend.

As others have said, it's near impossible these days to find a stark blue pair of jeans. Everything has at least some wash to it. It just feels too squeaky clean and sterile according to our taste. We've gotten used to jeans with some fade or break-in. But of course everyone has their own prefs. Which is what makes the world cool. What would it be like with no variety, right?

[Jim S]

I love a nice relic guitar and this is super sexy



http://www.themusiczoo.com/fendercustom/60_Stratocaster_Heavy_Relic_Shell_Pink_over_Burgun dy_Mist_Jason_Smith_R41594combo.jpg





b u t



http://www.themusiczoo.com/fendercustom/FenderMasterbuilt_JasonSmith_60_Stratocaster_Heavy Relic_ShellPinkBurgandyMist_R41594.html

There's a reason these guitars are going at these prices.

http://www.mediabistro.com/unbeige/original/barnum.jpg

[Irreverent]

Troll?????

Wonder what that is......


It's what people are who would come into a thread that a guy started about his guitar that he (and others) is really jazzed about, and then start the tired old tangent about "I don't get relics. I don't get why anyone would want a new guitar that looks all worn out". THAT is trolling. And if you didn't know, now you do. And at the very least it is classless and rude. So move along, do a search and don't buy a relic if you don't like 'em. I don't own any, but I respect the attraction that others have to them.

Peace.

[bluesgolfer]

Why not try.....

Surely when we buy a new car, mostly, we want it to be like, you know...new....

When we buy a new suit we mostly dont want it to look like someone had lived in it for 10 years...

So why do folk want to buy a new guitar that looks like someone has abused it for ages...

I just really want to know :-)

Well, let's see.

New car -vs- used car.

I have been purchasing or leasing new cars for over 20 years. I haven't owned a used car since grad school. I prefer a new car over used. I get the full warranty with new. Used cars have a more limited life span. They are only good for so many miles. I'd rather turn them in or get rid of them while I am still under warranty. But, I am capable of understanding why somebody else may prefer a used car over a new car. Comparing used cars to used or relic guitars, however, is an apples and oranges comparison. You will outlive your car but you won't outlive your guitar. Your car will wear out and depreciate until it breaks down. Your guitar will age and sound better. The wear on your guitar will enhance your comfort and help you play better.

New suit -vs- old suit. Unfortunately, I must wear a suit everyday in my line of work. I don't want to wear a worn looking suit because it is important that I look neat and professional. Relic guitars, look nice and, with a good builder, will feel comfortable and play like a dream. But, I am capable of understanding why somebody else may prefer a new guitar over a relic. Just as relic guitars look nice, new guitars look nice also.

I like relics and I like new guitars. I can understand how some people may prefer one or the other. I prefer my relic over my new Eric Johnson strat. However, even though I prefer my relic over my Eric Johnson strat, I am capable of thinking of reasons why somebody else may prefer the pristine look of the Eric Johnson over the relic. If you played both, however, I guarantee that you would take my relic over the EJ unless you were going on looks alone and you just don't like the relic look.

Bottom line is, if you really want to know how somebody, maybe not you, would prefer a relic and you are incapable of figuring it out through the ordinary thought process, and you really want to know, then I guess you'll just have to experience a good relic. Step up to the plate and buy a relic made by a good builder such as Rocketfire or other quality builder and then you will really know one way or the other, that is, if you really want to know and the true intent of your post was not for the purpose of criticizing relic owners.

[dave19er]

All I know is that Nick just got my deposit for a blonde ash-bodied s-style light-relic Rocketfire. And I'm dang excited. Now the wait starts.

I used to think relics were kind of silly, until I played one. Love the broken in feel, love that I don't have the heartbreak that comes when one of my kids accidentally smacks the guitar with a Hot Wheel, chipping the lacquer, or my grandmother accidentally knocking it off the stand. I just play it, and don't worry. I like that it looks like an old guitar, because I like old guitars, and can't afford a real vintage Strat or Tele. And I do think that the thinner finish that they normally come with does allow them to resonate better. Admittedly, that's anecdotal, but, seriously who cares? I just don't get why, literally EVERYTIME someone posts something about their new relic, pleased about their cool new guitar, some troll has to come in and crap on it. If you don't like them, fine, but why waste your time announcing it to the world? I don't like those big Gucci sunglasses with the G on the side, but I'm not trolling around on Gucci sunglass forums (is there such a thing?) announcing how much I dislike them. Live and let live.

[bluesgolfer]

All I know is that Nick just got my deposit for a blonde ash-bodied s-style light-relic Rocketfire. And I'm dang excited. Now the wait starts.

I used to think relics were kind of silly, until I played one. Love the broken in feel, love that I don't have the heartbreak that comes when one of my kids accidentally smacks the guitar with a Hot Wheel, chipping the lacquer, or my grandmother accidentally knocking it off the stand. I just play it, and don't worry. I like that it looks like an old guitar, because I like old guitars, and can't afford a real vintage Strat or Tele. And I do think that the thinner finish that they normally come with does allow them to resonate better. Admittedly, that's anecdotal, but, seriously who cares? I just don't get why, literally EVERYTIME someone posts something about their new relic, pleased about their cool new guitar, some troll has to come in and crap on it. If you don't like them, fine, but why waste your time announcing it to the world? I don't like those big Gucci sunglasses with the G on the side, but I'm not trolling around on Gucci sunglass forums (is there such a thing?) announcing how much I dislike them. Live and let live.

There is a tendency for many people to say they don't like something if they simply cannot afford it. And if you can afford it, they'll criticize you out of jealousy.

[ukslinger]

IMO anyone wanting a straight up great guitar should try Rocketfire. Relic or not, if someone just wants a players guitar at a good price they should give it a try. Between the pickups, setup, and broken in feel I think even those that don't like the relic thing would be pleased.

If its about sound and feel instead of looks, as most people always try and claim, just try one. They are really that good. After all, if its all about the guitar and not the look, the fact that its a relic shouldn't matter.

[dave19er]

IMO anyone wanting a straight up great guitar should try Rocketfire. Relic or not, if someone just wants a players guitar at a good price they should give it a try. Between the pickups, setup, and broken in feel I think even those that don't like the relic thing would be pleased.

If its about sound and feel instead of looks, as most people always try and claim, just try one. They are really that good. After all, if its all about the guitar and not the look, the fact that its a relic shouldn't matter.

Yeah - I decided to take a look at Rocketfire after all the glowing reviews I've read of them - I couldn't find a single bad one. The only issue I could find that anyone had with the guitars is that the neck Nick prefers to use is a bit chunky, and I prefer that. And then chatted with Nick over email, and he just seemed like a great guy to do business with.

[Mr Meaner]

There's this misconception that ALL reliced guitars are the same. If you buy from a reputable builder such as RocketFire, Danocaster, ect... you get a quality product. In most cases they use the same or better parts than the originals! I only name these because that's who I've followed and have yet to hear one negative comment about their work. The relicing is just a preference. I'm not certain about Dano because he has kinda changed his production to build and sell from what I understand. RocketFire, on the other hand, takes orders and builds to your specs. Either way you can't go wrong with the quality of craftsmanship. So... even if you go with a guitar made by Big F you may not get the quality and you will definetely not get the customer satisfaction of the finished product. Just call Fender up and ask them to change the neck or whatever for you because you don't like it... Bet it won't happen unless you're a well-known musician...

[dave19er]

There's this misconception that ALL reliced guitars are the same. If you buy from a reputable builder such as RocketFire, Danocaster, ect... you get a quality product. In most cases they use the same or better parts than the originals! I only name these because that's who I've followed and have yet to hear one negative comment about their work. The relicing is just a preference. I'm not certain about Dano because he has kinda changed his production to build and sell from what I understand. RocketFire, on the other hand, takes orders and builds to your specs. Either way you can't go wrong with the quality of craftsmanship. So... even if you go with a guitar made by Big F you may not get the quality and you will definetely not get the customer satisfaction of the finished product. Just call Fender up and ask them to change the neck or whatever for you because you don't like it... Bet it won't happen unless you're a well-known musician...

Very good point - I had, earlier in my search, looked at getting a team-built custom shop Strat, but wanted a few of the specs changed - the dealer said that to make the changes would be an additional $500, I believe, and then another $100 for a lightweight sort (to get a light guitar). So I looked at the Wildwood 10 strats, which really are impressive guitars and were spec'd out how I wanted, but I just couldn't justify $3500 for a guitar - money is just too tight right now.

When I mentioned all of these same specs to Nick at Rocketfire, he said, sure, we can do that. And the price change? $0. So I am REALLY hoping this guitar is as great as everyone has been reporting their Rocketfires to be. Might order an extra set of his pickups for my American Standard strat, too (do I get a discount if I get them when I'm paying off the second half of the payment? ;-) )