kizanski Posted May 19, 2008 Posted May 19, 2008 "1981 Hamer Special. Early Specials are among the most desirable guitars from Hamer, as are most other Checkerboard logo models. It's a very hot players, with a smoking pair of DiMarzio's and a very pleasing flamed maple cap over mahogany body. As most of you know, Hamer started out in the 70's making Gibson style guitars the way Gibson *used* to make them. Following the decline in Gibson quality after Norlin bought the company, Joel Danzig recognized that there was still a strong market for Gibson style guitars but no where to turn if you wanted a new one. During this "dark" period of the 70's where quality control suffered among most of the major brands, Joel started building guitars with quality as the top priority, rather than keeping up with orders. While many Hamers are loosely based on Gibson designs, many are sort of a conglomeration of several models. The Special, with it's mahogany/maple body with dual humbuckers has its roots in the Les Paul Standard line, while the symmetrical body with its flat top and double cutaway design is an obvious nod to the early 60's Les Paul Special. Danzig wasn't merely making quality copies though as evidenced by a bridge of his own design, strings-through-body, 3-in-line controls, and unbound mahogany neck were features not found on any Gibson of this type. Sorry for the long preamble; about this guitar... This baby has seen its share of playing time, used but not abused, with no breaks or repairs. It does have its share of normal honest wear including a few minor finish ships and light arm wear as well as some buckle rash on the back that isn't through the finish. Appears all original except for one saddle replaced with a similar brass saddle (shown here); original chrome saddle needs a frozen height screw drilled out. Maple cap is nicely flamed and it presents a nice appearance overall. Frets have been slightly dressed at some point, but it was done right with a nice, round crown and this guitar's perfect neck angle and straight neck make for an excellent setup. It is an excellent player with quality tone and cool vibe. At $899, this is a good value in a Checkerboard Hamer, whether you're a collector, or just want a great guitar to gig with night after night. Includes original Hamer case."
ET_KenW Posted May 19, 2008 Posted May 19, 2008 I think that's a killer price for possibly the first burst Special I've seen.
MCChris Posted May 19, 2008 Posted May 19, 2008 I think that's a killer price for possibly the first burst Special I've seen.And one of the rare Specials conceptualized by Glenn Danzig's brother Joel.
dboy66 Posted May 21, 2008 Posted May 21, 2008 FYI: I owned that guitar for a brief bit. It was as sold to me as "perfect" and I had a hell of a time with the seller over the "frozen saddle problem". Based on his website he prides himself on the setup his guitars are sent out with. However, this thing arrived and clearly had not been touched by a tech in many a moon. Not only did it buzz and fret out all up and down the neck (you couldnt even play the guitar in that condition), but my tech also pointed out the frozen saddle. The bridge in that condition could not be intonated. He never admitted that he was at fault, nor did he ever apologize. He was not a stand-up guy about the whole thing, and it ended up costing me a good deal of dough just to get the thing back to him. Additionaly, his 'fix' clearly leaves an awful lot to be desired. Tread cautiously there. dboy
hamerhead Posted May 21, 2008 Posted May 21, 2008 I have new/unused saddles with stainless screws, if anyone wants to pick this up. Just let me know.
Hamerphite Posted May 23, 2008 Posted May 23, 2008 I have new/unused saddles with stainless screws, if anyone wants to pick this up. Just let me know.I need saddles too if you've got more. [email protected] -- thanks, Ralph
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