Buying a used guitar, what to look for

Buying a used guitar, what to look for

by Brian Howard, Luthier

So you found a used guitar you really like. You've always wanted one like it perhaps or it just speaks to you instantly.... We've all been their as guitarists. But how can you avoid bad deals, headaches and grief? How can you tell if the instrument has any issues? Here are some tips.

Do a bit of research, there are online price guides to help assist you in knowing if the price is truly right. Become familiar with the standard grading system used  by shops. Typically 1-10 with 10 = brand new un-played, 9 = Mint used all the way down to 1 = non functional/parts only. This is really helpful for the ever more frequent online purchases.

Areas to look for trouble include the back of the headstock where it joins the neck. This is a common area of breakage and repair. Do you see any cracks? Is the finish here darker or different than the rest of the neck? Odd looking finish even if smooth and glossy likely hides a repair. Done correctly these repairs are solid, done poorly and they are much expense to correct... If this repair was not disclosed buy the shop or seller you should probably walk away. If it was disclosed have it examined by a competent tech to asses stability.

Neck angle on flat top acoustic guitars should be examined as neck resets are expensive to impossible  depending on the guitar.  Use a ruler ( take one with you to the shop) to check this, 12 inches will work but an 18 inch will be better. With the guitar at concert pitch lay the straight edge of the ruler on top of the frets along side an E-string and slide it off  the end of the fretboard toward the bridge. If the ruler slides over the bridge and hits the saddle you are good. If it hits the face of the wooden bridge you may be looking at a guitar that needs major surgery.  This will also typically be accompanied by higher than normal action and a very low bone saddle. Some guitars such as Taylor can have the neck reset easily and for about $75 while Gibson's typically cost closer to $750.

The truss rod should also be checked. Is the adjusting nut chewed up? This can be as simple as replacing the nut or mean the guitar is trashed..... depending on exact type of rod. If you are uncomfortable assessing truss rod function take it to a qualified tech or have the shop show you it works.

Fret condition. Slide the strings  side to side and look for divots or wide shiny spots under where they typically run. Some wear is acceptable but at a certain point it will need a level, crown & polish or perhaps a re-fret. Many guitars are easily worth the cost of these services so this should not be a deal breaker automatically but should be reflected in the condition and price.

Tuners. Loosen and re-tune each string. Take note of the feel of the tuner. Is it smooth? Is it really tight or loose feeling? They should be very smooth and just snug feeling even when the strings are slack. If not, maybe an adjustment or maybe new tuners may be required.

Tap around lightly all over with your knuckle while muting the strings  on any acoustic guitar body while listening to the soundhole (s). It should sound kinda taught like a drum. There should be no rattles or other funny noises. Noises mean issues inside somewhere.

Give the back of the neck a fairly decent rap in the middle from the back with the palm of your hand again with strings muted. Listen closely for a buzz as this may signal a loose fitting truss rod and lead to buzzes at certain notes on the instrument.

You should always have a more in depth examination done by a qualified tech (other than the shop it was purchased at) before your return period expires. Many times the joy of a new(ish) guitar overwhelms the senses and problems are not noticed until it is too late to deal with the seller and you must face the repair bill or the loss.....

P.S. If you have any questions for the Luthier on any and all stringed instruments please feel free to e-mail howardguitars@verizon.net and I will answer them as time allows.

Brian Howard, Luthier

Howard Guitars

(302) 310-2035

7 South Main st

Magnolia, DE 19962