Fender USA Jim Root Stratocaster Black

Fender USA Jim Root Stratocaster Black Overview

Fender Jim Root Stratocaster Black Overview by GAK

For heavy, molten nu-metal Strat® style, the Jim Root Stratocaster delivers crushing detuned tone with a stark utilitarian look. The towering Slipknot guitarist joined us in creating a huge-sounding signature Strat model that complements his heavy playing style, and it's a monster—right down to its compound-radius fingerboard (12" to 16"), EMG® active humbucking pickups, sparse control layout and more. Brutal.

Featuring a Mahogany body with sharp radius, Modern “C”-shaped neck profile and large headstock, Ebony or maple compound-radius fingerboard (12” to 16”) with 22 jumbo frets and no position inlays (side-dot inlays only), EMG® 60 (neck) and 81 (bridge) active humbucking pickup, Single control knob (volume) and three-way pickup switch, and Hardtail strings-thru-body bridge.

For a decidedly non-traditional design and configuration, the crushing nu-metal sound of the Jim Root Stratocaster is produced by a fearsome pair of EMG® active humbucking pickups.


This instrument features a compound-radius fingerboard, a sophisticated and carefully crafted feature in which the fingerboard has a more pronounced curvature across its width near the nut (ideal for chording) and gradually flattens to a very slight curvature toward the upper frets (perfect for bending notes and soloing).

A convenient high-end, high-performance feature, locking tuners offer increased tuning stability, especially on tremolo-equipped guitars, and they make changing strings substantially faster and easier than conventional tuners.

The Jim Root Stratocaster in Flat White features a traditional maple fingerboard with no inlays. The Flat Black model has a darkly alluring ebony fingerboard with no inlays.

The finish on this instrument combines the resonance and thin breathability of lacquer with the stylishly muted matte look of a satin color coat.

The largest of the fret sizes, jumbo frets are tall and wide, which lets you get a better grip on the strings, enabling more control over them and making bends and vibrato easier. A good choice for players with larger hands and thicker fingers.