hello streople, hows everyone doing today. About other than American MADE stats, check it out Mexicans aren't really Mexicans the necks are made in America and sent to M for assembly. Now I own a 76 A, amongst other vintage pieces, and I was in a pawn shop last month saw this black M made hanging. Well for under 2C notes this was to good to let it be this would be my FIRST M made Strat. It still had the plastic on the pick guards and spring cover. Listen up this piece is sweet I haven't been able to put it down. I went over it with a fine tooth comb, and I can't believe what I found. Now I wouldn't give up my 76, but I have to say if you find the genuine thing out there for that kinda money I say jump on it. I've never bought a new guitar always second hand, and repair what needs work. That is what I've done since the late 70's, and played in bands for years. One big giveaway on the older strats is the neck plate on the back looks like a superman emblem that's crucial for you techs.

Well actually Mexico has been producing their own necks and bodies for some time. True they used to be made in America and shipped to Mexico, but that isn't the case anymore. An the "Superman emblem" neckplate you speak of isn't on all older strats, Just CBS strats from 1971-1982. Older strats don't have the 3 bolt necks, they use the standard 4 bolt pattern

i dont understand the point of this topic...

The point is, don't let the fact that the strat is Mexico-made stop you from buying it if it calls out to you...

I happen to really like the MIM's. They're affordable, fun, sound good and as close as you can get to an early 70's strat without actually getting an early 70's strat.