Northwest Vintage Guitars presents a super clean Black Guard Telecaster from Riggio Custom Guitars in Tacoma, Washington. Joe Riggio is regarded as one of the best, if not the best, refinish and aging experts in the country. He does custom builds like this one on an order only basis so finding one in the wild is a treat. This Black Guard model features a featherweight Pine body, a Maple neck and fretboard, and a real Bakelite pickguard. Joes Black Guard pickups are amazing. These meter 6.81k ohms at the bridge and 7.32k ohms at the neck and deliver all the 50's tele twang and chime one could want. The Pine body tames the shrill highs and adds a warmth that is very pleasing. 25.5" scale, 9.5" radius, and only 6.75 lbs. Comes safely packed and fully insured in the original Riggio branded hard case in the photos.
The nut measures 1.68", neck depth is .84"-.99" at the 1st and 12th frets respectively. It's a 50's C profile that Joe copies from actual 50's examples and it's dead on. Low action and optimum playability. The neck is straight, the truss rod turns in both directions, and the relief is currently set for optimum playability. There is waether checking and aging throughout the Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish as pictured. It is in excellent playable condition with no dead spots and very little play wear.
We only consider local trades in person. Most questions can be answered with a quick read of our info page. This item is offered on our website and other online marketing platforms and subject to prior sale. Please check our website for additional photos.
Buy with confidence. We offer a 7 day money-back return on all used guitars - all our guitars are guaranteed and a full refund will be issued if not received in the condition it was described and pictured. We do allow “buy & try” preference returns and the buyer pays shipping charges. Please read our shop policies for more information. All our guitars are deep cleaned and have received a professional service and setup - an average of a $200 value. You will not get a filthy guitar from us. If you are particular about cosmetic appearance, please message us for more details. Additionally, all our guitars are shipped fully insured, and we will assist with any claims that may arise. See the details on our Storefront.
Please ensure your address and phone number on this platform is the correct shipping address and contact info before purchasing. We cannot change addresses, phones, or names after purchase. Some shipping charges may be due before shipping if the actual shipping is more than advertised.
We are located in the Pacific Northwest USA and are exclusively online.
