Gearank

This is a DIY Strat style guitar that does away with any branding, so it can be had for really cheap.

All the parts needed to build the kit are included in the package, most notable of which is its unpolished double cutaway okoume wood Strat body. The neck is crafted from maple, and the fingerboard is described as composite ebony. While there are no specs given to look at, reviews describe it as having a thin profile. It comes pre-drilled for easy mounting of hardware and neck joint.

The pickguard comes prewired with the pickups and controls, making this an easy straight build, and it also comes with all essential hardware including a Strat style tremolo bridge and tuners.

Features:

• Building Difficulty: 5/10
• Body: Strat
• Tonewood: Okoume
• Neck: Maple
• Fingerboard: Composite Ebony
• Pickups: SSS (Three Single Coils)
• Controls: Volume, 2 x Tone, 5-way Switch

Pros
For something so affordable, this DIY kit has exceeded the expectations of many, especially with the quality of the wood used. The simplicity of assembling, thanks to good pre-drilling and cavities, are also often praised. The neck in particular is well received for having a thin comfortable profile, and the frets are also described as surprisingly well setup for the price.

Cons
While many are content with the included hardware, there are some who recommend replacing the tuners to prevent annoying tuning problems. Swapping out the electronics is also suggested by some to get the most out of its good wood quality.

Overall
If you're looking for an affordable and easy to build starter guitar kit, then this is for you.

Unfortunately this is no longer available. For alternatives see our guide to The Best DIY Guitar Kits.