Strat pickguards

Haych

Are all 11 hole Strat pickguards the same???

I have a MIJ 62 reissue coming in next week which will need a new pickguard, amongst other things - I'm a bit scared of getting the wrong bits for it.

TIA

Megii

No - there are at least 2 variations. There is the modern style, like this: https://www.axesrus.co.uk/Pickguard-For-Fender-Strat-p/arumodpgstrat.htm

and an earlier style, like this: https://www.axesrus.co.uk/Pickguard-Suitable-for-1959-1963-Fender-Strat-p/aru60spg.htm

The difference is basically just in the placement of one fixing screw, on the bass side between neck and middle pickup, at least as far as I'm aware. So I'm guessing your MIJ may have the earlier version, but the two versions apparently overlapped time-wise, so best to check specifically which is correct for your guitar.

munckee

If you are not buying from fender I think @Alegree ; does a template you can print off on his website (sorry if I made that up!)

Tikibird44

I just took the pickguard off a newly purchased '95 MIJ strat and found holes next to holes and some of the screws going in at an angle. I presume I therefore have the wrong pickguard so be careful.

Henrytwang

It’s probably better to cough up the extra cash and try and get a genuine Fender replacement. I’ve rarely found an aftermarket pick guard that fits perfectly although they usually fit with a bit of adjustment or drilling extra holes in the body. Nobody will ever know about the extra screw holes but you will.

munckee

Henrytwang said:

It’s probably better to cough up the extra cash and try and get a genuine Fender replacement. I’ve rarely found an aftermarket pick guard that fits perfectly although they usually fit with a bit of adjustment or drilling extra holes in the body. Nobody will ever know about the extra screw holes but you will.

To be fair I have bought a number of aftermarket pickguards for three strats and a tele and they all fit with no additional drilling required.