Buying used - hidden repairs

[Alexb1090]

hi everyone
This might sound a bit naive but got my first les Paul recently and I’m probably gunna be in the market for more in the future and I’m just wondering what you guys do regarding spotting repairs, headstock breaks etc. I know that for the most part on looking closely enough you can simply see it, but I’ve seen some examples of repairs online so perfect I honestly don’t think I’d spot it. Though I suppose luthiers advertising online could be photographing them selectively to attract custom.
Are there any methods to check beyond looking, are they all visible if you look closely enough or is it just a case of if you really can’t tell it’s not worth worrying about
Thanks

 

[Cjsinla]

Some use a black light to spot repairs. Personally I would only purchase from places that take returns or cover you in cases of misrepresentation or lies.

 

[Alexb1090]

Some use a black light to spot repairs. Personally I would only purchase from places that take returns or cover you in cases of misrepresentation or lies.

Yeah I always use PayPal but I suppose it’d only do any good if you spot it. Would a black light show the seam?

 

[PierM]

Yeah I always use PayPal but I suppose it’d only do any good if you spot it. Would a black light show the seam?

Black light will show any finish touchup (and nitro blemish in general), no matter how good it looks at the naked eye.

 

[chasenblues]

Headstock repair and refinish.

Normal lighting.

Black lighted.

 

[Alexb1090]

Thanks both that’s exactly the kind of thing I was after.

 

[Cjsinla]

We are here to help.

 

[cherrysunburst00]

Headstock repair and refinish.

Normal lighting.

Black lighted.

WOW, that's really telling. I learned about the benefit of black light, but that picture is graphic proof

 

[chasenblues]

In no particular order.

 

[Dick Banks]

hi everyone
This might sound a bit naive but got my first les Paul recently and I’m probably gunna be in the market for more in the future and I’m just wondering what you guys do regarding spotting repairs, headstock breaks etc. I know that for the most part on looking closely enough you can simply see it, but I’ve seen some examples of repairs online so perfect I honestly don’t think I’d spot it. Though I suppose luthiers advertising online could be photographing them selectively to attract custom.
Are there any methods to check beyond looking, are they all visible if you look closely enough or is it just a case of if you really can’t tell it’s not worth worrying about
Thanks

1. Never buy a guitar without playing it first.
2. Never buy a guitar you can't return and get your money back for at least 30 days.

 

[MSB]

2. Never buy a guitar you can't return and get your money back for at least 30 days.

Why not? I'll agree with that if its brand new or purchased online. But I couldn't begin to tell you how many great deals on CL and/or pawn shops I've received over the years. If you know what you're looking at and give it a proper test drive, what's left for wanting?