So you just bought a new Schecter, and you know nothing about it? Great! Here's a little guide to help you identify your guitar.

Diamond Series:

Diamond series guitars are easy to date and identify. They always have "Diamond Series" stamped on the headstock, and the name of the model can be found on the truss rod cover. Dating is as simple as finding the serial number on the headstock. The first two numbers of the serial are the year the guitar was made. For example, a serial of 08XXXX, would mean that the guitar was produced in 2008.


Texas Era:

These are a little more difficult to identify, however not impossible. These have "Schecter" printed on the headstock of the guitar, but nothing else. The serials on these are found either on the neck plate or in the neck joint, and they are 5 digit, always beginning with an "A" followed by four numbers. Example, AXXXX. There were only 3 models of guitars produced during this time, 2 of which where stratocaster replicas, and one which was a telecaster replica. The telecaster is known as the Saturn (aka Pete Townshend model). The stratocasters are known as the Mercury and the Scorcher. You can easily tell the difference between the two by looking at the controls. The Mercury has 2 volume knobs and 1 tone, while the Scorcher has only 1 volume and 1 tone. There is no way to accurately date these guitars, however they were all produced between 1983 and 1987.

Van Nuys Era:

Like the Texas Era, these are slightly more difficult to identify, but still not a big deal. They have "Schecter printed on the headstock, but nothing else. The serials on these are found either on the neck plate or in the neck joint, and they are 5 digit, always beginning with an "S" followed by four numbers. Example, SXXXX. All guitars from this era are stratocaster or telecaster replicas, however they come in many different color/wood combinations, so the only way to tell if it is indeed Van Nuys era is by the serial number. There is no way to accurately date these guitars, however they were all manufactured from 1979-1983. A few were also built in 1984.

USA Custom Shop

As these are custom, they can come in any shape and form. They can be quickly and easily identified as a USA custom by looking at the back of the headstock, where you will see "Made in USA".


You've identified your Schecter but its missing parts? Fear not! They are replaceable!


Diamond Series:

Replacement parts, although not official, can be purchased at nearly any music store that sells guitars. If you must have official Schecter parts, you can ask your local music store to order the parts from Schecter. You can also check eBay, where many Schecter replacement parts can be found. If all else fails, you can steal them off another Schecter at a store like GC. They won't tell you this, but they replacements sitting around just in case something like that ever happens, and they won't sell them to you. Do this at your own risk.


Van Nuys and Texas Era:

These parts are much more difficult to replace. Some of the hardware on these guitars can be replaced with modern parts, but if you want official you will have to check eBay and craigslist, as most of the parts are no longer made. There are original, official Schecter parts to be found in those places, but expect high prices. Dave Schecter also makes replacement brass pick guards for these Schecters. Although they are not technically official because Dave cannot put his name on them due to legal issues, they are exact replicas of the old pick guards and cam be bought at a much more reasonable price.

Dave Schecter pick guards can be bought here:

http://ozoneguitars.com/


USA Custom Shop:

Same as diamond series


Now that you've got your Schecter all fixed up, post some pics for everyone!