Custom Neck Shaving & Re-profiling: For $135 plus shipping, the shop can thin down or reshape existing necks to better fit a player’s hand. This service includes a professional refinish on the back of the neck to preserve the wood and maintain a smooth feel.

• XX-Wide “Big Hands” Necks: Designed for players with large hands or thick fingertips, Haywire offers nut widths ranging from 1-3/4″ up to 2-1/8″ (51mm to 54mm). These wider fret-boards provide more space between strings to prevent accidental muting and improve chord clarity.
• Recessed Heel Crest: This proprietary modification, developed in 1981, moves the heel crest approximately 7/8″ further into the body. This reduces the bulky wood at the neck joint, providing “total access” to frets past the 12th position.
• Ultra-Lightweight Builds: By “baking” moisture out of Swamp Ash bodies, Haywire can reduce guitar weight by up to 30%. Many of their “XX-Light” custom builds weigh between 5.2 lbs. and 5.7 lbs., specifically targeted at players with back or shoulder issues.
  

  Electronic & Tone Enhancements

• The shop frequently incorporates custom wiring to maximize tonal versatility:

  7-Sound Pickup Modification: Also known as the “Gilmour Mod,” this adds a mini-toggle or push-pull pot to activate the neck pickup in any position. This allows for two additional combinations not found on standard Strats: neck and bridge together (Telecaster-like) and all three pickups simultaneously.

  • Treble Bleed Circuits: Haywire installs a 220K resistor in parallel with a 470pf capacitor to preserve high-end clarity. This prevents the tone from becoming “muddy” or “thick” when rolling down the volume control.

  • Custom Shop Offerings & Service

  • Haywire builds complete custom instruments and offers rapid-turnaround repair services:

    Build Examples: Notable models include the 

    Nashville #1 (roughly $2,125), featuring 7-sound switching and roasted maple necks, and various custom Strats and Tele-style guitars typically priced between $750 and $1,225.
    • Rapid Service: The shop is known for fast turnaround, often completing neck shaves, installations, or setups in two days or less. They also offer “One Day Urgent Care” for time-sensitive professional repairs.
    • Direct Collaboration: Rick Mariner personally consults with players to translate their specific vision into a playable instrument, often spending significant time over the phone to record exact specifications
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  Profile of a guitar neck (cross-section) with truss rod inside.

  Haywire Custom Guitars Inc. stands out in the world of custom guitar craftsmanship, showcasing an exceptional commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Renowned for its visually striking instruments, each guitar is a testament to the artistry and precision that goes into its creation. Customers frequently praise the meticulous attention to detail and the aesthetic appeal of the guitars, which are not only functional but also beautiful. The brand’s offerings include a variety of custom options, such as unique neck profiles and top-tier electronics, allowing musicians to find the perfect fit for their playing style and preferences. With an impressive reputation built on years of experience, the Luthier at Haywire Custom Guitars, Rick Mariner, is celebrated for his ability to listen to clients’ needs and deliver tailored solutions. This dedication to service is highlighted by the absence of pressure tactics, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience for every customer. Whether addressing specific modifications or building entirely new instruments, Haywire Custom Guitars demonstrates an unmatched expertise in guitar building. The brand’s commitment to creating instruments that enhance play-ability and sound quality has earned it a loyal following among musicians, making it a go-to destination for those seeking exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service in the world of custom guitars.