Who makes the best strat type guitar?

Don't rule out partscasters, either. You can score some pretty good deals on used parts guitars -- they never sell anywhere close to the sum value of all the parts.

 

You might be able to land a used G&L Legacy Tribute. Those are absolutely the best bang for the buck

 

80s MIJ Charvel Model

 

A G&L 'Legacy' (USA) or 'Legacy Tribute'(made elsewhere) ?? Both are good instruments .

I have a USA Legacy in Fullerton Red ; it's a damn fine guitar .

 

No love for the 90's USA made Peavey Predator's? I've been seeing them go up in price lately. At minimum, replace the tuners though. Mine hold okay but they're not high quality.

 

I've been really happy with my Stagg Strat --- got it for only $175 brand new with a gigbag, and it beats many Fenders I've played for feel and tone.

The rounded body heel at the neck joint is much more comfortable and allows easier high-fret access than the original squared-off design.

 

I'd say G & L as well. For more vintage i'd also 2nd Greco guitars or Tokai offerings, i got a nice newer Tokai strat for $400 with a case and its everything you could ask for.

 

Yamaha Pacifica is an excellent value guitar. Most have a HSS setup.