Hamer Explorer Guitars

The Hamer Explorer is actually just an Explorer shaped guitar. It is actually called the Hamer Standard. There are multiple reviews around the net, but we'd like to see some Hamer postings in our forum here.

Hamer guitars are available in the used market, as they had been produced for several decades before the company's closure. It's essential to research the model you're interested in and ensure that it meets your preferences and requirements. Ebay's auction format provides an excellent venue for used Hamer's, especially if you sing up for email updates when Hamer's are posted.

About Hamer Explorers

These Hamer Standards appear to be high quality guitars but I've never actually owned one, as a matter of fact, I have no close friends who play the Standard who I can count on for their prfessional opinion.

It is my understanding however, from what I have read, that the Standard is a well featured guitar for the price.

It is reasonably weighted and comfortable from what owners have stated in the various reviews I have seen.

In general, Hamer guitars are known to stay in tune even during rough or somewhat harsh play. Hamers are built to last for years, and I guess that would be a selling point for any guitar manufacturer.

I believe Hamer was actually bought out by Fender, but don't hold me to that one. Left-hand Hamer Standard guitars are available from their custom shop if you're a lefty and you have some extra cash you'd like to part with.

Lefty's always seem to have access to premium guitars whenever their pocketbook cooperates. This is just a fact of life for left-handers, not only for guitars but for many other commercially available products.

Any Hamer experts, feel free to chime in using our forum. The playing public would definitely like to hear your thoughts on Hamer's explorer-shaped guitar, the Standard.

If you are looking to buy or get an idea on prices, some of the online guitar supply houses stock Hamer guitars and their custom shop is open for business if you've got the cash to inverst in a custom Standard.

This is all the specific info I have right now but if you'd like to add to this description I'd appreciate any information on Hamer ownership. I'm looking for descriptions, pictures, production years, availablilty, and that sort of info. If you can help out with some details, please do.

Hamer Explorer Forum

Stand by for the return of the Hamer guitar forum...

Hamer for Dummies

For those who are unfamiliar with the Hamer brand, this is what I call "Hamer for dummies". The first Hamer guitar was made in 1973. Hamer Guitars was founded that year by Paul Hamer, Jol Dantzig, and John Montgomery in the Chicago area of Illinois in the USA. The company started as a small workshop crafting high-quality custom guitars and basses, and it quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional craftsmanship and unique designs.

One of the earliest notable Hamer guitar models was the "Standard," which was heavily influenced by the classic Gibson Les Paul design. The Hamer Standard became popular among musicians for its playability, build quality, and attention to detail.

Throughout the 1970's and onwards, Hamer continued to produce a variety of guitar models, both original designs and replicas, that appealed to a wide range of players and musical genres. Their instruments were well-regarded in the music industry and used by many professional musicians.

Being a private company means that Hamer Guitars was not publicly traded on stock exchanges, and its ownership was not distributed among public shareholders. Instead, the ownership and decision-making authority rested with the company's founders and any other private investors or stakeholders involved.

Sadly, Hamer Guitars ceased production in 2013 due to financial difficulties. However, the legacy of their instruments lives on, and used Hamer guitars from different eras can still be found on the used market, cherished by guitar enthusiasts and collectors.

during its years of active guitar production, Hamer Guitars had worldwide distributors to make their instruments available to musicians and customers around the globe. As a well-known guitar manufacturer with a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship and unique designs, Hamer aimed to reach a broad customer base and expand its market presence.

Having a network of global distributors allowed Hamer Guitars to offer their instruments in various countries and regions, making it easier for musicians worldwide to access and purchase their guitars and basses.

Pros and Cons of Hamer's

As with any guitar brand, Hamer Guitars received both positive feedback and occasional complaints from guitar players and customers. It's important to note that individual experiences can vary, and what might be a complaint for one person might not be an issue for another. Some of the common complaints or criticisms about Hamer Guitars reported by some players include:

1. Price: Some players felt that Hamer guitars were relatively expensive compared to similar guitars from other brands, especially considering the used market.
2. Availability: Hamer Guitars faced financial difficulties and ceased production in 2013. As a result, new Hamer guitars became increasingly rare, and certain models might be challenging to find in the market.
3. Quality Control: Some players reported inconsistencies in build quality, especially on certain models. These complaints included issues with fretwork, setup, and finish.
4. Resale Value: While Hamer guitars were well-regarded during their production years, some players felt that their resale value was not as strong compared to certain other vintage guitar brands.
5. Limited Model Options: Some players wished for a more extensive range of model options, especially towards the later years of the company's production.

It's important to keep in mind that the above complaints represent only a portion of the feedback from players, and many other musicians had positive experiences with their Hamer guitars. Hamer Guitars gained a strong following during its active years, and their instruments were praised for their playability, craftsmanship, and unique designs.

As Hamer Guitars is no longer actively manufacturing new instruments, any complaints mentioned here pertain to experiences reported before their production ceased in 2013. If you're considering a used Hamer guitar, it's essential to research the specific model you're interested in, inspect its condition thoroughly, and ensure that it aligns with your preferences and requirements. There were many accolades with these guitars also.

There are several reasons why some guitar players and collectors might consider buying a Hamer guitar:

1. Unique Designs: Hamer Guitars were known for their distinctive and unique guitar designs. If you're looking for a guitar with a bold and eye-catching appearance, a Hamer guitar might be an excellent choice.
2. Craftsmanship: Hamer was celebrated for its craftsmanship and attention to detail. Their guitars were made with high-quality materials and built to high standards, which is appealing to players who value instrument quality and playability.
3. Vintage Appeal: Some guitar enthusiasts and collectors seek out Hamer guitars for their vintage appeal. Owning a vintage Hamer guitar can be a nod to the guitar's history and the era in which it was produced.
4. Versatility: Hamer guitars were produced in various models and configurations, catering to different playing styles and musical genres. Whether you're into rock, blues, jazz, or other genres, you might find a Hamer guitar that suits your needs.
5. Used Market Prices: Since Hamer is no longer producing new guitars, their instruments can often be found on the used market at different price points. Depending on the specific model and condition, you might be able to find a Hamer guitar at a reasonable price.
6. Collector's Item: Hamer guitars have gained a certain collectible status among guitar enthusiasts due to their historical significance and unique designs. If you're a guitar collector, owning a Hamer guitar could be a desirable addition to your collection.
7. Appreciation for the Brand: Some players simply have an affinity for the Hamer brand and appreciate the instruments they produced during their active years.

Before buying a used Hamer guitar, it's essential to research the specific model you're interested in, inspect its condition, and play it if possible. Since Hamer is no longer manufacturing new instruments, the availability and condition of used guitars may vary. Be sure to purchase from reputable sellers or consult with experienced guitar technicians for their insights on the guitar's condition and value.

Other Explorer style guitars...

See also: Agile | Aria Pro | Cort | Dean | Dommenget | Epiphone | ESP | Gordon Smith | Hamer | Ibanez | Jackson | Kramer | LTD | O Hagan | Peavey | Tokai