DIY Strat on Amazon for only $89? But is it good? Checking out the new Fesley electric guitar kit!

Hey guys, today we're checking out the all new DIY strat electric guitar kit from Fesley. At $89 it's super affordable, but what about the quality? How does it play? How does it sound? Is it easy to put together? Time to find out! Thanks for watching and be sure to subscribe.
Fesley DIY Electric Guitar Kit:
amzn.to/44n3McG
Soldering Iron:
amzn.to/3JDg4nL
1.0 mm Solder Wire:
amzn.to/3UHYQfj
Fesley F-ST:
amzn.to/3OkXdAo
Fesley FDK800:
amzn.to/48PoP8V
Get a personal video on CAMEO from The Bald Shredder or Metal Dude:
www.cameo.com/thebaldshredder
Bald Shredder Guitar Picks:
www.ebay.com/itm/126260886874
Leo Jaymz Monsoon:
amzn.to/3RzBw0l
Leo Jaymz Tempest:
amzn.to/3QmvOOD
Leo Jaymz Deluxe Tempest:
amzn.to/3QDhsLm
Leo Jaymz Sparkle Tele:
amzn.to/496DFbE
Leo Jaymz Les Paul:
amzn.to/3TLXkZr
Freebird Head Shaver:
amzn.to/3FqQPCU
** Check out my 4 albums here **
SPEED OF LIGHT
amzn.to/3JdCyw8
open.spotify.com/album/5sdKOW...
/ speed-of-light
TIGER VS DRAGON
amzn.to/3YoH4vZ
open.spotify.com/album/49HCsv...
/ tiger-vs-dragon
REFLECTIONS
amzn.to/3Zr7fna
open.spotify.com/album/3aypKy...
/ reflections
BREAKING POINT
amzn.to/3EZgwdM
open.spotify.com/album/4xIy62...
/ breaking-point
Follow me on Instagram:
/ richard_james_guitar
Links above may be affiliate links.
#guitarreview
#guitarsolo
#electricguitar
#shredguitar
#affordableguitars
#strat
#stratocaster
#fender
#squier
#diy
#cheap
#beginnerguitar

[@MainPrism]

Those instructions are fancier than the set I got from Stewmac for a $400 kit. Packaging was better too. Great job Fesley! I had a Strat project in mind so I guess I know which one I'll be buyin now.

[@thejakefromstatefarm6768]

For an $89 dollar guitar that all you have to do is assemble, it sounds great. I teach guitar to kids and if they don’t have a guitar and their parents can’t afford a decent playable one I’ll assemble them one from parts I collect and i make them playable and sound good so the kid doesn’t have to try to learn on a piece of crap that’s next to impossible to play. Im going to check these out and see if they really are this good because it would be cheaper for me.

[@Shaylok]

Very cool of you to do that for them. Those kids are lucky to have you for a teacher.

[@thebaldshredder]

This is a very good option. Keep in mind that the frets are not perfectly level, but close enough for a beginner that doesn't need ultra low action.

[@ericwright6672]

It's sanding sealer!

[@thejakefromstatefarm6768]

@@thebaldshredder ya i figure i can do a bit of a leveling like you were saying and maybe smooth of any sharp spots. Maybe work on the ends a bit if needed and as long as i can get em playing pretty good hopefully it will work out good. I do have spare necks laying around if i needed to replace one here and there. Im stoked about it.

[@thejakefromstatefarm6768]

@@Shaylok thank you. I just want to make playing available for any kid that shows intrest in it. Once a kid gets that first guitar it’s a cool moment.

[@peterb.559]

I just put one together: Instruction book is nice, covers three different guitar kits, but leaves out instructions for some steps (just a photo). Instructions don't say which screws to use for different purposes. I had to undo screws a couple of times when I used the wrong ones. No big deal. Had to redrill the bridge-screw holes (not deep enough). I was missing one pickguard screw (also used for the backplate). The claw plate is a big chunk of metal so you'll need a hot soldering iron. I like the sound of the guitar but one strange thing is the tone control wiring. The first tone control is for the neck pickup only. The second tone control is for the middle pickup only. There is no way to change the tone for the bridge pickup. I'll fix that the next time I take it apart. Instructions say you might need to chisel the neck to make it fit better but my neck fit well just as it came. Strings are very light but sound OK (once I got them unwound from each other). It says that the sealant on the body is meant for a finish but, as in the video, I left mine as it is. Overall, a very playable guitar and a good deal.

[@robertsilva5041]

You can always tuck the ground wire between the screw and spring bracket. If you are in a pinch 🤔

[@matthewotremba9230]

Closed Captioning Has you as the Ball Shedder

[@onefatstratcat]

there's pills for that :)

[@thebaldshredder]

That's hilarious. I should officially change my name to that.

[@stewarttomkinson3356]

🤡🤡🤡🤡🤡

[@Riverking1]

😂😂😂

[@madmick78]

Nah, you're not her...

[@TonyFuentesTV]

Congratulations James! Great video and guitar build! Chops to you!

[@mikeg6666]

Good deal , I built a diy kit about 4 years ago that my wife got me for Christmas , it wasn't painted either. I painted it and upgraded the hardware , electronics and pickups. The neck is better than some of my $600 guitars , it's a Tele and plays excellent. PS missed your live stream yesterday but I heard the new Crue song this morning , absolutely horrible IMO!!✌️🤘

[@andrewbecker3700]

I think for $30 dollars more, the new Amazon Squire would be the way to go? Assembled and painted Fender product for a few bucks more, doesn't guarantee its better. But it is.

[@ForceOfNorse]

I just got the Tele style one, and I'm fabric-topping it. So far, so good! Good vid, Richard! Thanks!

[@JoeR203]

You should build a guitar to look like the KZbin Play button.

[@Talon18136]

I thought someone did that already I could’ve wrong though

[@itsalwayssomething7490]

@@Talon18136 davie504 made a YT Bass

[@paxchristi2014]

​@@Talon18136 Davey503 the bass player did make a bass out of his play button

[@nxzw]

Wow Richard this is another awesome guitar review I love it. Shred on dude.😃👍❤️🔥⚡️🎶🎸

[@sonoranscout]

Another great recommendation from the Bald Shredder. I, too, love the “unfinished” wood look. Fesley is making a favorable impression on many KZbin channels. But then again , you make anything you play sound amazing! Shoutout to Nomoonlaser, an American luthier that produces amazing handmade, affordable guitar bodies from Eastern pine and reclaimed wood .I’ve build a couple of barncaster guitars using his handiwork. Highly recommended!

[@rlyman5302]

Thanks for adding your amp tone settings. It really helps us new guys.

[@thebaldshredder]

No problem!

[@HEMI42652]

Another informative, fun video thank you sir

[@rogerboswell5483]

Only one hour to put together ? That's really cool

[@rickbrunet2559]

Looks real nice. And the single coil pickups sound pretty good!

[@wallyinthebox1]

I have done a few Kits. My first one was from Carvin in the early 2000s. my latest is from Guitar kit world 335 style with a Spalted maple body. Fun stuff. That Fez looks like they done a nice job with the finish. Some kits need sanding and other work. Thanks RJ

[@robinstehwien6841]

Was looking for a cheap way to build a Strat. Thanks for the info!

[@crucifixgym]

What a cool guitar with the raw wood and I like that it’s not a major brand name, makes it even cooler.

[@Jeffadamsandonthisrockwerock]

You Have one Bad Ass .Amp I love that RAw.TONE I got the squire debut stratocaster DR.pepper .red .I love it . keep playing be happy ...

[@robertholtom9345]

Thanks for your video and input, I think I need something extra to do in my spare time, besides just playing my guitars. To learn more about the maintenance and building a guitar in general.

[@stewarttomkinson3356]

I built two guitars. I buy all the parts separately and then put them together because I’m a lefty. I have a strat with humpbacking pick ups and another Strat with P90. The p 90. One has a PRS neck and the one with the humpbacks has a right handed neck on it. Like a Jimmy Hendrix. Bough great

[@ericwright6672]

I too like reverse headstocks!

[@stewarttomkinson3356]

@@ericwright6672 out of 20 Guitars I have two

[@davidbachy5627]

Great playing! Can hear some of that Eric Johnson influence!

[@lesleylee1495]

Fantastic video! Thank you! 👍

[@fletcher75er]

Good video, I'm gonna try out one of these strat kits. Thx.

[@retropuffer2986]

Great value that's for sure!

[@ricksmithwick6199]

I'm a newer subscriber. Your channel is great. Love your commitment and your sense of humor. My kind of people here.

[@thebaldshredder]

Thanks and welcome

[@davespin9034]

Beautiful guitar. And great shredding.

[@Mattguitarmania]

Good video! Thanks dude

[@christopheraaron8299]

RSW has a DIY Strat kit also for $100 that's basswood and has the Fender shaped headstock. Also a maple fretboard. I built one of those kits and was quite pleased. I would say it's on par with my 2 Affinity Strats. They sell it on Walmart's website and eBay. Oh, I forgot to add that it has quick connectors for all the electronics, so there's no soldering at all.

[@bluematrix5001]

hahahahaha, such a Drama Boy!!! I want this kit in Maple Fretboard!

[@thejakefromstatefarm6768]

I use those goofy gasket for the neck plates as shimmes sometimes. I’ve came across a few of them along the way so i throw them in a parts box i have.

[@brettmarlar4154]

You could always swap out the single coils for the single coil sized humbuckers or stacked humbuckers (if those are still a thing).

[@thebaldshredder]

That's exactly what I'm going to do. Got a set of hot rail style pickups from Musiclily and a cool pickguard on the way.

[@keovongvilaykeo4799]

Nice thank you 🙏 I’ll get one 😊

[@davesilbersdorf3639]

Thanks, now I want one 😜 Great playing as always 🤟😎

[@thebaldshredder]

Get one before they are gone!

[@Dave6SS]

Turned out Good man..I did the Sunburst one on my channel about a month ago..I was really impressed..the Quality and tone..Great work 😎

[@thebaldshredder]

Thanks Dave

[@Briansgate]

Of course it comes in strat style. If only someone could design an affordable guitar, with Humbuckers, and a fixed bridge.......

[@thebaldshredder]

Or an even better option would be a 4 string guitar (aka a bass).

[@davva360]

Inexpensive way to try building a guitar for the first time. Might give it a try at some time.

[@LesterMitchell]

That sounds awesome and looks sick! Guitar building and kits are over my head lol.

[@thebaldshredder]

You could do this one. Super easy.

[@DaisyHollowBooks]

I’d like to get this kit. I really admire your chops!

[@thebaldshredder]

Thanks!

[@marlan3rd]

Very good presentation, nice assessment of the kit. Electrical tape can be useful for keeping the pickup wires in place. I would be interested in seeing what upgrades you make to it. Have you ever considered gold foil pickups?

[@thebaldshredder]

I've got a set of hot rail pickups that will be going into this.

[@stevemora7845]

Too cool! I want one! 🎸

[@thebaldshredder]

Get one before they raise the price!

[@user-wr3mf2ei5z]

well, not only are you a awsome shredder..Guitar builder too. kit looks cool but i think Metal Dude Needs thiis axe, just think, he might just really appreciate it. Is not the mint chip guitar so he might keep it,not re gift it lol. natural wood up grades and you Will make this scream looking foward to that..shred this one with no mercy.😎

[@MacPakinga-gl8bu]

Yup I'm in 🎸👍🏼🤘🏼 I'll buy four 4 my students ❤. $89.00 bucks 💵 what a steel 😂

[@InGrindWeCrust2010]

That's the best looking poplar body I've ever seen, lol. How many pieces? I'm assuming 3-5? And I'm a fan of synthetic materials for the fretboard.

[@JohnnyBeane]

Sweet!

[@Earthshaker1965]

I'd put a clear coat on it and keep it just the way it is. 💜 Excellent demo by the way.😎👍🎸

[@trudge78]

When you do pinch harmonics are they on an upstroke or downstroke or both? Thanks!

[@thebaldshredder]

Down

[@trudge78]

@@thebaldshredder Have you done a video showing how you do it?

[@eddiejr540]

Good looking guitar.. I like the wood look as well…just a heads up…the sealer they use is for painting only…it will repel a stain!!

[@thebaldshredder]

Yes, you can totally feel the sealer on the wood.

[@mickeymessstudios109]

I purchased the DONLIS high gain humbucker pickups but they ONLY make them spaced for TREM (like Trembucker) - but YOU put them in your guitars which are NOT Trembuckers from what I assume - - question then is, do they or don't they align with your pickups ?? Does that really influence the sound and tone quality ???

[@FlipGuitarist80]

Is the body standard strat thickness or thin?

[@matthewotremba9230]

The claw need be good and hoy as you solder to it It is more likely to stay for good then

[@johnnywomack548]

@FesleyMusic The ST Natural kits are sold out on Amazon and I can't get through to your website...I'll bet the server is overloaded with people trying to order the ST Natural kit! Do you have any idea when they will be back in stock? I want to purchase 2 of them.

[@benpowersguitar]

Seems good for a cheap kit to play around with.

[@icanplayriffs]

"Don't force it!"- That's what she said 😏

[@ChrisBrown-oo4bf]

how about a lesson on the midgain with delay and reverb ditty. Beautiful!

[@thebaldshredder]

Thanks. I'll think about it.

[@CrushingAxes]

One of the coolest things is painting ! Not a Dinky but still quite nice!

[@thebaldshredder]

I'm going to keep this one natural. I've got a really cool pickguard on the way!

[@CrushingAxes]

@@thebaldshredder Sorry, by "painting" I meant just some sort of oil finish or something, most of my custom guitars have natural finishes. I think it's a shame to paint some very beautiful woods. Niiice hope to see the final product soon! 🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@RJsCave]

Looks great. Most cheap kits have lousy fit. Sounds like everything lines up on this one. Usually, you only see that on $300 kits

[@goop3213]

So the screws don't bottom out if you leave out the plastic neck plate gasket??

[@thebaldshredder]

nope

[@onefatstratcat]

For $30 more you can get the Debut Squier and it's ready to jam...? Only difference is 21 frets vs 22 frets

[@thebaldshredder]

Absolutely. But some guys, like me, enjoy building and modding guitars. For someone that wants to try that but never has, this is a perfect first project. Cheap and easy to do.

[@onefatstratcat]

@@thebaldshredder Guys like me just fuck shit up :)

[@Shadowcruise99]

How is the neck to body fit?

[@thebaldshredder]

Perfectly snug.

[@barnaclerusty]

Are you saying the neck top is synthetic? All it says is maple on Amazon

[@deadweasel7942]

Is there anything that would prevent a person from installing a name-brand replacement neck if one was lying around?

[@thebaldshredder]

Nope. It would have to be 22 or 21 frets, scale length 25.5 ", and you'd need to check to see if it fits in the neck pocket.

[@K.V.H.]

I bought an $89 kit from ebay recently. Not a Fesley, come to think of it, I'm not exactly sure what the brand is lol. I hope it turns out as good as it is in my head 😂

[@MarkNordeen]

You are bald, you shred, and you are loved!

[@thebaldshredder]

Yes, yes, and thank you.

[@bluwng]

It is essentially a premade guitar you assembly like Wayfair furniture.

[@davessparetime83]

They shouldn't have to solder the ground wire. The kit should have a wire with an eyelet and a hole in the term spring bracket. Not everyone has a solder iron.

[@MashaT22]

Can you use electric tape instead of a soldering iron? Cool kit guitar from Fesley - but now the headstock logo is too small lol. Why can’t they get this logo thing right? Either it’s overkill or too little! 😂😂😂

[@davidellis4785]

Have you seen the Leo Jaymz version of that?

[@thebaldshredder]

Seen it on Amazon, but not in person.

[@davidellis4785]

@@thebaldshredder I was thinking about getting one. Same price for a Strat model. I had now idea Leo had that kind of quality till I started watching your channel.

[@MitchHaman]

I have to say, it does sound fantastic, but that's all you.. I could get it, put it together just for the experience, and maybe have a giveaway on my channel. Good video Richard.

[@thebaldshredder]

Thanks Mitch

[@papablue3015]

Nice! And I didn't even mention hair! Did I just mention hair? 😳 😅 thanks Shredder 🤘

[@jimmyz2098]

I need this like..... 0.0000001 ...... I mean.... I need this like I need a hole in my rod. But ..... I want one. It looks nice. I'd throw a rail in the bridge, and roll this baby! Looks like a very nice kit - esp for that price. A shame though - that it's not routed for a Bucker in the bridge.

[@mikal]

I'm surprised you need to solder the wire on the back. A lot of guitars just attach the wire to a screw in the plate.

[@patrickshannon4516]

It's probably as good as the squire affinity series I would say you paid about standard price for what it is I actually think that squire are a little bit too high for what you get should probably drop their prices to about 100$ for a basic squire.

[@oddshot60]

Does Fesley have a DIY Tele? Are there any good CHEAP diy Tele kits out there?

[@thebaldshredder]

They do have a DIY Tele kit, but it appears to be sold out now. Keep watching that Amazon listing. I'm sure it will be back in stock at some point. They also have an LP kit.

[@chadwilliams8583]

Wow

[@Jeffadamsandonthisrockwerock]

I been looking for fat strat .kits I love guitars ..

[@321bytor]

'Sordering' 🤣

[@tobystrickland8000]

I've watched a few of your videos and I tell ya what! If ya play some blues I'll subscribe brother because ya can play brother!

[@nunyaBusiness152]

22 frets

[@ralphdrees4413]

Be aware that the unpainted fesley stuff has a finish of some kind on it so you can’t stain it unless you sand that shit completely off. Royal pain in the ass. Amazing kit otherwise. Neck pocket fit on my wife’s tele was bad though.

[@thebaldshredder]

Neck pocket is perfectly snug on this one. Yes, as I mentioned, it has a sealer coat on it.

[@alexhamilton4084]

As usual, these kits are not available on Amazon in the U.K. 🙄

[@user-uk3pl6pj4y]

Leo Jaymz with LJ headstock is much better and cheaper

[@stephenanthony217]

🤘🤘🔥🔥🤘🤘👍

[@JosePFdez]

Why they cannot make a Tele style ???? 😢

[@thebaldshredder]

They do! Click the Amazon link and you'll see there's a Tele model option.

[@gabedestellano]

FESLEY! WE WANT A FLYING V KIT THAT'S WORTH A DAMN!! BOLT ON NECK, STEEL BALL END FRETS! HARD TAIL! NO PICKGUARD! HH, 3 WAY, VOLUME & TONE! THINK DEAN BABY V ON STEROIDS!! PLEEEEEEASE!!

[@lesleylee1495]

Thank you so much for your advice. 🙌I will pass it on to Fesley's R&D department.

[@Ingchao]

I want kits of their finished guitars not a generic strat.

[@TRICK-OR-TREAT236]

ELVIS FESLEY ? 😂 🤣 😂

[@DonovanMcNabb5]

lol rick james

[@thebaldshredder]

I'm a super freak.

[@matthewotremba9230]

Is it no longer "ELECRATRIC" ?

[@ThaiThom]

For that price, I'll go with Harley Benton.

[@tokairic3925]

For hardly any more money you can buy a guitar already finished - built and lacquered.

[@thebaldshredder]

Of course. But this is for people that WANT to build a guitar kit and/or do mods to it. Putting guitars together can be a lot of fun.

[@TeleCaster66]

Good guitar for someone just learning maybe, but cheap junk.

[@johncarlo7395]

Can you please slow down your talking a bit? there's not a half second break between sentences. It sounds like a machine talking, just take a breath between sentences, you will sound more credible.

[@rustyshackleford9557]

To each his own but my favorite thing about this guy is how articulate he is with no " hmmm" "ya know" etc. But I realize that if English wasn't my first language this guy might be talking too fast. 👍 Not an argument just expressing my personal opinion.

[@thebaldshredder]

You can always slow down the video if you can't follow what I'm saying.

[@bluwng]

6.4 lbs 🤎🤎🤎. I love the look and the fact it doesn’t require paint or stain.