The Fender Custom Shop Limited Edition Hotshot Stratocaster Heavy Relic – Black Sparkle over Aged Chartreuse Sparkle is an extraordinary statement piece from Fender’s most elite craftsmen, built exclusively for a Fender Custom Shop Event. This limited-edition creation pushes the boundaries of classic Strat design with bold aesthetics, exceptional tonewoods, and an unmistakably “Hot-Rod” edge. Its masterful combination of 1960s inspiration and Custom Shop innovation results in an instrument that looks fierce, plays effortlessly, and sings with pure vintage soul.

Visually, the Hotshot Stratocaster is nothing short of stunning. Its Select 2-piece alder body features a dazzling Black Sparkle over Aged Chartreuse Sparkle finish, treated with a Heavy Relic process that gives it the attitude of a battle-tested stage veteran. The expertly aged lacquer reveals layers of color beneath the surface, with realistic wear patterns that evoke decades of passionate playing. The sparkle finish catches light and attention alike—equal parts elegant and rebellious. The body’s tonal foundation of select alder provides the signature Strat balance: articulate highs, present mids, and punchy lows that make it equally at home in blues, rock, and beyond.

The neck is carved from quartersawn maple, ensuring rock-solid stability and superior resonance. Its comfortable 1960 Strat “C” profile offers a fast, familiar feel that’s substantial without being bulky. Capped with a AAA rosewood laminated fingerboard, this neck provides a silky smooth playing surface and the warm, rich tonal response that only top-tier rosewood can deliver. A 9.5" radius and Medium Jumbo 6150 frets make bending and vibrato effortless while maintaining precise intonation across the fingerboard. The bone nut and 1.650" width contribute to exceptional tuning stability and clarity from open strings to the highest frets.

Tonally, the Hotshot Stratocaster roars with vintage flavor and refined dynamics. Outfitted with a trio of hand-wound Tomatillo Strat pickups, this guitar delivers the slightly underwound sparkle and chime reminiscent of early ’60s single-coils, but with extra warmth and a sweeter top end. Each pickup responds beautifully to touch and pick attack, providing glassy cleans, expressive midrange growl, and rich harmonic content. The Strat Vintage Mod #2 wiring adds further versatility, offering expanded tonal options while preserving the iconic Strat character.

Adding a touch of Tele-inspired power, the guitar features a Bobbed Tele RSD bridge, a unique design choice that enhances sustain and midrange punch while keeping the Strat’s signature responsiveness intact. The 3-ply parchment pickguard, aged chrome hardware, and carefully relic’d controls and knobs complete the vintage aesthetic, blending classic Fender style with Custom Shop individuality.

Each Fender Custom Shop Limited Edition Hotshot Stratocaster Heavy Relic comes housed in a Deluxe Hardshell Case and includes a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring its rightful place among the most collectible instruments Fender has ever built.

With its striking double-sparkle finish, vintage-hot tone, and the unmistakable feel of a hand-built masterpiece, the Hotshot Stratocaster isn’t just another Custom Shop guitar—it’s a bold artistic statement. It celebrates Fender’s rich history while daring to stand apart, designed for the player who wants something as rare and electrifying as their music.