I have a MIM black standard that I dressed up like a Gilmour. I was considering putting a 70s reissue neck on it.

I think I like the idea of the big headstock and the bullet truss rod adjuster. I currently have the standard neck, but I would like something a little more vintage-looking. I am also considering a 50s neck.

The question is would it be better to go with the 3 screws, or is it possible to drill another hole in the neck and mount it with 4 screws?

One other question, would the holes on a 50s neck line up with the holes on the standard?

All opinions are welcome and I would appreciate any feedback.

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Well I wouldn't really support putting the '70's re-issue neck on.
And there not reaaly alot of point in the '50's because they look so similar to a modern one.
Maybe you should go for a 60's one.

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• Fender American Series Stratocaster (Olympic white, maple)
• Gibson Flying V (dusty faded cherry)
• Fender 1969 Custom Shop Stratocaster (3-tone sunburst, maple)
• Fender Highway One Stratocaster (Honey blonde, rosewood)

I really want to go with a maple fret-board, most of the 60s I've seen are Rosewood. The reason I'm thinking 50s is that I like the tint of the finish better. I'm not sure how the "soft v" profile feels though.

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I have a MIJ '72 RI Strat with the 3 bolt maple neck and 70s size frets, large headstock, bullet truss rod end, etc. It is one of my favorite guitars, and has been for over 20 years. I have never had any problem with the 3 bolt neck at all, NONE. As a matter of fact, it has been rock solid for me. I do take good care of my stuff, and it is not gigged out regularly, so it is not abused. But still, it is soooo nice in my hands.
The Classic series 50s Strat I have has a 4 bolt maple neck in a soft V shape with vintage style frets. It is kinda chunky in my hands, but not too much. Feels kinds substantial and meaty, something to really grab onto. I also like it. I do miss the truss rod end at the headstock tho. It is a pain to take off the neck to adjust it.
I would not hesitate using either one. The 3 bolt will require some mods, but it can be done with a good ruler and drill press.

Maybe a you should go for new guitar. If you want something very affordable, a Mexican made Classis Series 70's one. If you want to spend alot, maybe an American Vintage 70's.

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• Fender American Series Stratocaster (Olympic white, maple)
• Gibson Flying V (dusty faded cherry)
• Fender 1969 Custom Shop Stratocaster (3-tone sunburst, maple)
• Fender Highway One Stratocaster (Honey blonde, rosewood)

FYI: A three bolt Strat neck's top two mounting screws are closer together to each other than that of a four bolt's. If you plan on modifying a 3 bolt neck for a 4 bolt body, these two screw holes on the 3 bolt will have to be doweled tightly, strongly and absolutely flush with the back base of the neck because aside from all the usual concerns, when you redrill, the two new screw holes with the 4 bolt spacing will be right on the inner diameter of the old ones.

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You dig?

Thanks Martian,I always wondered about the spacing,thanks for clearing that up for me. Knowledge is good.

Glad to help!

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You dig?