The only thing that you need to keep in mind is that they're all clones of each other.

The "relic" has no actual story to it. It's just a beat-up looking guitar.

Not only do they now have a story, the certainly don't "feel" like a beat up, played on guitar. The maple necks LOOK cool, and look like they'd feel broken in and worn very nicely, but they feel like a stiff, too-new neck. Which, to me, defeats the purpose of that whole look and feel. I'd be interested in a guitar that might look AND feel like a veteran's guitar, but not something that just looks like one only.

+1

But if I may go back to the Hwy1's for a sec, I think they're actually pretty sweet guitars. Due to their NITRO finish, you can have your own personal relic if you simply put enough playing time into it. This can only add to sentimental value.

I like the honey blonde w/ maple neck version. I'm really hoping my local guitar store has one in stock when I go in on Saturday.