Fender Bullet 1981 Manual

Fender Bullet Guitar 1981 Guitar manual cover
Pages 10
Year 1981
Language(s)
English en

Fender Bullet Guitar 1981 Guitar Specification

The Fender Bullet Guitar 1981 is a distinctive model that marked a transition in Fender’s lineup, offering a blend of affordability and quality construction. Designed as a student guitar, it features a solid body made from a combination of alder and basswood, providing a balanced tonal quality suited for a variety of musical styles. The neck is crafted from maple, delivering a smooth playing experience, with a 21-fret rosewood or maple fingerboard depending on the specific variant. The scale length measures a comfortable 25.5 inches, typical of Fender guitars, promoting ease of play and familiarity for guitarists.

The 1981 Bullet series is equipped with two single-coil pickups that produce a bright, crisp sound, embodying the classic Fender tone. The electronics include a master volume and a master tone control, enabling straightforward sound adjustments. The bridge design is unique, incorporating a hardtail construction with a steel bridge plate, which provides stable tuning and sustain. The hardware is chrome-plated, ensuring durability and a clean aesthetic.

Aesthetically, the Bullet Guitar 1981 carries the iconic Fender look, featuring a smaller body shape that retains a traditional appeal. It was available in a variety of finishes, including red, sunburst, and cream, each adding to its visual charm. This model represents an important era in Fender’s history, as it was manufactured in the USA, reflecting the brand's commitment to quality even in its more economical offerings. Overall, the Fender Bullet Guitar 1981 is celebrated for its blend of affordability, playability, and classic Fender sound, making it a cherished piece among collectors and players alike.

Fender Bullet Guitar 1981 Guitar F.A.Q.

What is the recommended string gauge for a 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar?

The recommended string gauge for the 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar is typically .010-.046, which provides a good balance of playability and tone.

How can I adjust the truss rod on my 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar?

To adjust the truss rod, locate the adjustment nut at the headstock. Use an appropriate Allen wrench to make small adjustments, turning clockwise to tighten and counterclockwise to loosen. Always make small increments and check the neck relief frequently.

What are common issues with the electronics on a 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar and how can I fix them?

Common issues include crackling pots and loose output jacks. Clean the pots with electronic contact cleaner and tighten the output jack with a wrench. If problems persist, consider consulting a professional technician.

How do I intonate my 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar?

To intonate, use a tuner and check the pitch at the 12th fret harmonic and the fretted note. Adjust the saddle position on the bridge forward or backward until both notes are in tune. Repeat for each string.

What maintenance routine should I follow for my 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar?

Regularly clean the guitar with a soft cloth, change strings as needed, check the neck relief and action, clean the fretboard with appropriate cleaner, and check electronics for any loose connections.

How can I improve the tuning stability on my 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar?

Ensure the nut slots are properly lubricated and not binding the strings. Consider upgrading to locking tuners and properly stretching the strings after installation.

What type of pickups are installed in the 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar, and can they be upgraded?

The 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar typically comes with single-coil pickups. They can be upgraded to higher-quality single-coils or humbuckers, depending on the desired tone. Professional installation is recommended.

How do I polish the body of my 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar?

Use a guitar-specific polish and a microfiber cloth. Apply the polish sparingly and buff gently to avoid damaging the finish. Avoid using household cleaners.

What should I do if the action on my 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar is too high?

Check the neck relief and adjust the truss rod if necessary. Lower the bridge saddles incrementally until the desired action is achieved, ensuring there is no fret buzz.

How can I identify if my 1981 Fender Bullet Guitar is an original model?

Check the serial number on the neck plate and compare it with Fender's serial number database. Original models typically have a distinct headstock shape and specific hardware unique to that production era.