What to Stay Away From when Buying a Used Guitar

Buying a used guitar can be a great move — but only if you know what to avoid. In this quick video, we break down the red flags to watch for so you don’t end up with a headache instead of a deal.

🚩 The Biggest Red Flags in a Used Guitar

Used guitars can be awesome — especially when they’re professionally inspected or refurbished — but not all of them are worth your money. Here are a few things to watch out for:

1. Cracks in the body or around the neck joint

Tiny finish cracks might be harmless, but deep or structural cracks can spell big trouble.

2. Warped necks

Always check that the neck is straight. A bowed neck usually means expensive repairs.

3. Fret wear that affects playability

Used guitars can have some wear, but if the frets are flat, sharp, or buzzing everywhere? That’s a sign to pass.

4. Electronics that don’t work properly

On electrics and acoustic-electrics, test the pickups, knobs, and switches. Make sure it all works!

5. No return policy or unclear seller info

Buying from someone with no reputation, no setup info, and no return policy? That’s a major red flag. Stick with sellers who stand behind their guitars.

✅ What Should You Look for Instead?

Focus on used guitars that:

• Come from a trusted shop

• Have been professionally set up

• Include clear photos and descriptions

• Are priced fairly based on condition

At Morris Guitar Company, we inspect, clean, and set up every used and refurbished instrument so it plays like new — with no surprises.

🎯 Ready to Shop with Confidence?

Check out our latest selection of used guitars and refurbished acoustics — all hand-checked and beginner-approved.

Need help deciding? Reach out — we’re happy to guide you.