Used Electric Guitars

Why Buy a Second Hand Electric Guitar?

If you want to step up to a professional-grade instrument without paying brand-new retail prices, the pre-loved market is exactly where you need to look. Buying a second hand electric guitar allows you to stretch your budget much further. For the price of a brand-new entry-level model, you can often secure a high-quality, road-ready instrument with better pickups, upgraded hardware, and superior tuning stability.

That Played-In Feel

One of the biggest advantages of an older electric guitar isn't just the price, it's how it feels in your hands. A guitar that has been well-played often features naturally rolled fingerboard edges and a smoother, less sticky neck finish, removing that stiff, factory-fresh feel. Instead of waiting years to break an instrument in, you get a neck that instantly feels comfortable, fast, and familiar.

Discontinued Models, Finishes, and Specs

Manufacturers constantly update their lineups, meaning certain neck profiles, wiring circuits, and limited-run colours disappear from catalogues entirely. If you prefer the exact specifications of a 2012 model over this year's version, the used market is your only option. Browsing used electric guitars gives you the chance to track down discontinued gems, rare anniversary editions, or just a really cool finish that is no longer in production.

The Smart Choice for First-Time Buyers

If you are just starting out, dropping hundreds of pounds on a brand-new instrument can feel like a massive commitment. However, opting for the absolute cheapest new guitar available often means battling with poor tuning stability and high string action, which can quickly kill your motivation to learn. Browsing the second-hand electric guitar market lets beginners pick up a reliable, mid-tier instrument, like a high-end Squier, Epiphone, or Yamaha, that actually stays in tune and feels great to play, giving you the best possible start to your guitar journey.

Retail vs. Private Sellers: Shop with Confidence

Buying a pre-loved guitar from a private seller on an auction site or social media can be risky. Hidden issues like scratchy volume pots, worn-out frets, or a twisted neck can easily turn a cheap deal into a massive repair bill. At Fair Deal Music, we take the gamble out of buying used gear. Our workshop team thoroughly inspects the electronics, checks the fret life, and properly sets up the action and intonation on every single guitar. Complete with a warranty, you can shop our collection knowing the instrument is fully functional and ready for the stage.

Upgrade Your Rig with Part-Exchange

Got old gear gathering dust? We don't just sell second hand electric guitars—we buy them, too. If you have an instrument you no longer play, drop into our Birmingham store or get in touch online to discuss a part-exchange. Trading in your current gear is a fast, hassle-free way to fund your next dream guitar without having to deal with the stress of selling privately.