Hamer Brand Loyalty

[zorrow]

I'm trying to reduce my stable to five electric guitars. Three of them will be American Hamer Vectors. The other two will be Dean Vees.

[HSB0531]

It's the only guitar company that I would buy from today without playing first.

The only other was Leo Fenders MusicMan.

[HAMERMAN]

22.5 Hamer guitars

Gotta like the .5 part! :-)

[gorch]

I am not a mainstream, but analytical guy. So, I don't buy Strats, LPs, SGs and Teles just because everybody plays them. Hamer's got a nice shape, superb quality, history, and a customer base that keeps a used market running plus a great and competent HFC community.

My model selection delivers a wide array of sounds covering nearly any style. So, I don't miss anything. Why should I buy from another manufacturer when it can have one source of information to look at? Eventually, I sold my other guitars, because I needed them not anymore.

[BlueRedWhite]

I came here because i like music in general. I stayed because members here are friendly and funny as well as experienced, and because Hamer has become my standard for measuring guitars.

I learn something new here every day, i've made friends, and i enjoy the humor.

I bought my first Hamer USA with the help of the hundreds of post about models, specs etc.

Right now i have 2 hamer specials and a californian imported...i still want another hamer. I would recommend Hamer to any serious guitarist.

Is the best buy for the buck for anyone wanting to try different genres

Is the best buy for the buck for a high quality guitar, and i don't even own newer, customized models...

i don't see myself realisticlly buying anything else...not for now, Hamer offers indeed what i want.

[mathman]

Just had to say. I love your sig pic. Have to show it too my daughter. She's not into metal but I think she'll appreciate the message.

I came here because i like music in general. I stayed because members here are friendly and funny as well as experienced, and because Hamer has become my standard for measuring guitars.

I learn something new here every day, i've made friends, and i enjoy the humor.

I bought my first Hamer USA with the help of the hundreds of post about models, specs etc.

Right now i have 2 hamer specials and a californian imported...i still want another hamer. I would recommend Hamer to any serious guitarist.

Is the best buy for the buck for anyone wanting to try different genres

Is the best buy for the buck for a high quality guitar, and i don't even own newer, customized models...

i don't see myself realisticlly buying anything else...not for now, Hamer offers indeed what i want.

22.5 Hamer guitars

Gotta like the .5 part! :-)

I think I've played the .5 part if he's talking about his mini standard. If not?

[BPF]

It's the only guitar company that I would buy from today without playing first.

+1

4 Hamer USA

1 Non Hamer

Only reason i have a non-hamer is cause it's a bad ass guitar, and they dont make a Hamer USA version of it.

All but 1 of my Hamers i got new, if i like a guitar i'll buy buy it either way.

I want more Hamers (someone sell me their Daytona or Cruise bass), would have multiples of each if i had the $ and talent to justify it.

[cmatthes]

I think I've played the .5 part if he's talking about his mini standard. If not?

I'm thinking that should be more like 22.75 Hamers...

[Nathan of Brainfertilizer Fame]

I'm not surprised that so few people have Hamer imports.

But I'd recommend trying them out.

The current XT models aren't bad. I have a Californian 24-fret, fixed bridge. It looks plain, but the Duncan Design pickups aren't half-bad. It plays pretty well. I miss it a little bit.

The XT SATF feels, sounds, and looks as good as a USA Studio. I think it only lacks the street cred.

One thing I learned this week that I didn't know is that the Duncan Design pickups are made to JB and Jazz specifications. Maybe the materials and attention to detail aren't as good as actual Seymour Duncans, but again: they ain't half bad.

The Hamer Slammer Series guitars are also Korean top-quality guitars at their finest. Clearly better than what USA was putting out in the 70s, probably (IMHO) better than MIM quality. Good workmanship, good materials. I doubt anyone could tell the difference beteween my Hamer Slammer Series Californian and my Hamer USA Diablo by looking...and maybe not by playing. It's got a great sound.

Now, I wouldn't say a Hamer import should replace a Hamer USA. But the imports are great for noodling around, letting a friend borrow, giving to your kids to learn on, etc. It's an inexpensive way to fall in love with the Hamer name, without worrying about whether it gets beat up. The earlier imports really do Hamer some justice.

One of the reasons for this post is that I've finally come to grips with the idea I have to find another Hamer Stellar 1. It was a decent guitar. Aside from being a decent guitar, it was one of the most beautiful and unique guitars I've ever seen. The cherry sunburst was cheerful. And I've never seen another guitar made with the lacy oak figuring. Maybe you could special order it. But Hamer USA never made one with lacy oak tops that I know of...nor does anyone else.

So consider one of the earlier imports, or current XTs as a backup guitar, or a cheaper guitar to use when you don't want to worry about damage.

[zorrow]

I'm not surprised that so few people have Hamer imports.

But I'd recommend trying them out.

The current XT models aren't bad. I have a Californian 24-fret, fixed bridge. It looks plain, but the Duncan Design pickups aren't half-bad. It plays pretty well. I miss it a little bit.

The XT SATF feels, sounds, and looks as good as a USA Studio. I think it only lacks the street cred.

One thing I learned this week that I didn't know is that the Duncan Design pickups are made to JB and Jazz specifications. Maybe the materials and attention to detail aren't as good as actual Seymour Duncans, but again: they ain't half bad.

The Hamer Slammer Series guitars are also Korean top-quality guitars at their finest. Clearly better than what USA was putting out in the 70s, probably (IMHO) better than MIM quality. Good workmanship, good materials. I doubt anyone could tell the difference beteween my Hamer Slammer Series Californian and my Hamer USA Diablo by looking...and maybe not by playing. It's got a great sound.

Now, I wouldn't say a Hamer import should replace a Hamer USA. But the imports are great for noodling around, letting a friend borrow, giving to your kids to learn on, etc. It's an inexpensive way to fall in love with the Hamer name, without worrying about whether it gets beat up. The earlier imports really do Hamer some justice.

One of the reasons for this post is that I've finally come to grips with the idea I have to find another Hamer Stellar 1. It was a decent guitar. Aside from being a decent guitar, it was one of the most beautiful and unique guitars I've ever seen. The cherry sunburst was cheerful. And I've never seen another guitar made with the lacy oak figuring. Maybe you could special order it. But Hamer USA never made one with lacy oak tops that I know of...nor does anyone else.

So consider one of the earlier imports, or current XTs as a backup guitar, or a cheaper guitar to use when you don't want to worry about damage.

Yes, the Hamer imports are in general of very good quality. I've owned four: one 90's Cali (great guitar), one Slammer by Hamer Centaura (not bad at all), one Korean Vector XT (which sounded and played really great) and one Chinese Standard (great guitar, but never adapted to its shape).

Sadly, the only Hamer import that's left in my stable (a Slammer Series with the small switch, whose body is made of light mahogany) is for sale here: http://www.hamerfanclub.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=40448

I'm selling it just because I need cash now and I don't even use Floyds anymore, but this little Superstrat has all the potential to make a caring shredder VERY happy. It's specially well-built, and sounds and plays REALLY amazing.

[velorush]

Wow, I was feeling out of place until I cast my vote. I am currently Hamerless, having dropped (figuratively speaking, of course) my last Hamer in the mail last week. I have owned two, both of which I have posted about here ad nauseum, both of which were incredible guitars in quality and tone (pardon me, TONE). In both cases, however, I just couldn't get along with the necks.

I was hesitant to continue posting here because I thought it might be somewhat hypocritical of me, being Hamerless, but the poll results show I'm not alone. I'd have no hesitation purchasing another Hamer, I've just got to find one with a neck I can get along with.

Anyway, I started lurking here to find out about Hamer Phantoms. I joined and started posting here when I bought one. That led me to possibly the best sounding solid body guitar I've ever played (and that is on its way to Canada as I type), the '80 Special. I've remained here because of the general attitude and comradarie that I have found nowhere else on the 'net. This is a great place, a great bunch of guys and gals and I hope that I can continue to contribute a little something here and there.

[gorch]

I can confirm. The Hamer XT lines are not as bad as the are said they would be. Within there price range they deliver great quality for money. Actually, the same what Hamer USA guitars do within their price range.

Nevertheless, any Hamer to me is an Import! The notion import is not exact, however. Even the USA made Hamers are equipped with imported Schaller tuners. The electronics cavities are painted with this Belgian soup that is an imported product as well according to Jol. The base woods are grown in Honduras. Etc.

[Feynman]

Can't argue with any of it - all good replies I think.

Brand Loyalty? Not a chance. Unless some company is paying me to use their stuff exclusively, why would I limit myself to one brand? Way too much cool gear out there.

Every Hamer I've touched has been exquisite, consistently superb. I'd buy one untouched any day of the week. You certainly can't argue with the used resale either, as a buyer.

I have zero Hamers right now.

I came to the HFC for the guitars, but stayed for the people.

The HFC is just such a fine collection of folks that I enjoy it too much to leave.

[Armitage]

I've got about 90 guitars, 9 are USA Hamers.

[BTMN]

I think I've played the .5 part if he's talking about his mini standard. If not?

I'm thinking that should be more like 22.75 Hamers...

The .5 is the Hamer USA Daytona neck on my Mighty Hamer Daytona Mite. Late 70s Mighty Mite(Wayne Charvel) Explorer body mated with a Daytona neck. Love!

[cmatthes]

The .5 is the Hamer USA Daytona neck on my Mighty Hamer Daytona Mite. Late 70s Mighty Mite(Wayne Charvel) Explorer body mated with a Daytona neck. Love!

Pretty sure Ed Roman can do one of those for you...

[BTMN]

[mathman]

I think I've played the .5 part if he's talking about his mini standard. If not?

I'm thinking that should be more like 22.75 Hamers...

The .5 is the Hamer USA Daytona neck on my Mighty Hamer Daytona Mite. Late 70s Mighty Mite(Wayne Charvel) Explorer body mated with a Daytona neck. Love!

So, if i calculate correctly, it should be 22.25 considering the 3/4 standard.

[BTMN]

While Shorty may be 3/4 sized it is 24.75 in scale length.

Counts as 1 in my book gents.

Or 22.5 Hamer guitars ....

[59burst]

I think it would be strange to limit oneself to just one brand of guitar. I only have one Hamer, a mid '90's Studio. It's my best playing guitar. I have:

'80 Les Paul

Suhr Classic

American strat

Nash Tele

Warmoth Tele

'80's Kramer

If I didn't already have 2 strats and 2 teles I'd be interested in a T-51 and a strat style Hamer (can't recall model). I play the Hamer more than the Lester-it weighs about half as much. I'd love a Korina V. I got into Hamers kind of late so most of my arsenal was already bought, otherwise I'd probably have a few more. I've always liked the studios-I remember a GP review from '93 or so and I've wanted one ever since. They mentioned what a bargain it was back then-unfortunately, the new ones aren't so cheap anymore.

[Studioplayer]

I have just one Hamer. It is a Studio Custom. Of the three electrics I own, it is has the best workmanship and attention to detail. It does not cover all the bases as far as tone goes. I look at it as an individual piece from an excellent American manufacturer. I look at my Strat and Les Paul in similar regard. I don't prefer one over any of the others. The Studio Custom has a wide range of tones, but it does have its' own voice. It does not sound like a Lester or a Strat. I enjoy listening and playing all three.

[Rodan]

My non-Hamers are a Washburn USA MG-120 (I guess I'm keeping it) and a Yairi Signature DY-62 southern jumbo acoustic. I'm glued to Hamer as a trustworthy, fave brand, but when you recognize a quality axe at a glowing bargain and there's room in the stable...

I've gravitated toward Diablo's as a favorite model and design. Just a really playable, jaunty and functional H/H design. With 3, I've got some pickup experiments on the horizon, to mitigate the redundancy. I've been talked into one or two Tonestyler pots, too.

My Mirage I is a really beautiful horse of a different color that I acquired from Kevin Thiel, whom I got to know at the old Arlington Heights plant. If that wasn't a great looking/playing/sounding axe, it'd still have great sentimental value. Not going anywhere.

My white Chap' is the only EMG-loaded guitar I've ever owned and its H/S/S config' sounds more like a monster 'bucker, splittable to a mini, with middle and neck mini's. And I like me some Floyds, too I guess.

My Hamer history -

Californian Standard - blackcherry metalflake

Diablo Ltd. - amberburst

Standard Custom - 59 burst

Mirage I

Chaparral Custom

Diablo - red

Diablo - green.

I've owned 15 guitars, total. And yeah, I'm a USA snob, I'm afraid. I just like the assurance of quality and relative protection of my investment(s).

[Hamerhack]

2 Hamer USA

1 Gibson Marauder

1 Vintage Dano

1 Carvin Doubleneck

1 Hondo bass

1/3 Hamer.

Both Hamers bought sight unseen.

Perfect for someone like me, a guy who hasn't owned many guitars (the above is all I've ever owned).

I'd certainly be no expert at sorting through a pile of other brands to find a "good" one. I know a Hamer's gonna be great, so it's an easy decision. If I get any other guitars, they'll almost certainly be Hamer USA.

[markooo]

I am really very new to playing and collecting. I am proud to say and truly believe that a used Hamer is probably the best value.

My case is a beautiful 93' Studio Gold Top with P90s. I would have believed it was new ... truly surprised to find out the actual age.

Although new, I am a quick learner. Sadly low resale values are the downside if you buy a new Hamer .... but great if you want the quality for a great price. What other company offers the same quality for the $$ when considering used gear.

I have a PRS CE22 - bolt on neck USA, Epi Dot, and an Epi LP ( Korean Saien plant .) The PRS is basically new and the Epi's are 9.75 and for $300 and $375 I can enjoy them and can modify them. I had a Gibson Gold Top with P90s on my wish list but am so happy that I have learned about Hamer guitars and will enjoy this one instead.

For $1000 I know this Hamer is truly crafted better than a Gibson LP which would cost at least 2.5 to 3 times as much.

I will be adding more Hamers in the future but still want the classics.

I do feel, even though I am new to all this, that the best days are over for Hamer. The American way is to buy an existing top quality company and basically squeeze out as much as you can get while running it into the ground.

Look at Volvo, Mercedes, Allen Edmonds shoes ....

They are not what they used to be.

So personally, I hope to find more bargains in the future.

[hardheartedbill]

no Hamers at this time, unlikly that I'll get another. I came for info 10 years ago, became one of the first board mods, custom ordered a guitar, got the "keyman" discount from my sales rep. things for me and Hamer went downhill from there, I spent time away but starting posting again cause it's such a great crew on the HFC