Stratocaster Electric

Stratocaster Electric
Is my Stratocaster (electric guitar) made for a certain gauge string or can I put in any gauge strings?

I don’t know what kind of string to buy for my stratocaster
if i buy really thick strings will i damage the bridge or nut or neck?

Hello! Although recommended by Fender, you do not need to use the “Bullet” series strings. In reality, you have a wide range of string gauges and styles from which to choose for your Stratocaster. I would recommend starting with a set of nickel-plated 9’s (e.g., 9-11-16-24-32-42), 10’s (e.g., 10-13-17-26-36-46), or 11s (e.g., 11-14-18-28-38-48) from Ernie Ball, D’Addario, or GHS brands, which are reasonably priced. Make sure to check and adjust (if necessary) the intonation (string saddle position), neck relief (truss rod), and bridge orientation to the body (tremolo block springs) after going either up or down in string sizes. Check out http://www.fender.com/support/stratocaster.php for details on making these adjustments. The only physical limitation you may have would be at the nut, which if you went to 12’s (e.g., 12-16-24-32-42-52) or 13’s (e.g., 13-17-26-35-45-56), you will likely need to have to have the slots widened to accommodate the larger diameter wires. Rest assured you will not damage the bridge, nut, or neck with the heavier gauge strings! Best regards, Dana

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