Westcreek Guitars Racer

Discovering the Perfect Electric Guitar for Shredding Metal Riffs

The Westcreek Guitars Racer has become one of the most popular high-performance electric guitars for metal guitarists over the last few years. Known for its incredible playability, aggressive metal tone and stunning looks, the Racer offers an unbeatable combination of features perfect for extreme shredding.

If you’re looking for an electric guitar that can handle the fastest solos and heaviest riffing, the Westcreek Guitars Racer should be at the top of your list. This buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Racer, from its stand-out features to how it compares to other metal-focused guitars. You’ll learn all about the available models, pricing, specifications, and ownership experiences so you can decide if the Westcreek Racer is the right choice for your shredding needs.

Overview of the Westcreek Guitars Racer’s Stand-Out Features

The Racer was designed from the ground up to deliver no-compromise playability and tone for hardcore metal guitarists. Here are some of the most impressive features that make this guitar stand out:

• Super-playable neck – The Racer features a thin, flat and fast neck profile with a 16″ radius that allows incredibly smooth and comfortable riffing across the entire fretboard. It’s built for high speed soloing.
• High-output pickups – The Racer comes loaded with custom-designed Westcreek Metalhead humbuckers, optimized for aggressive high gain tone with tight bottom end and searing lead tones.
• Advanced tremolo bridge – It includes a double-locking tremolo bridge that stays perfectly in tune even with heavy whammy bar use, dive bombs and extreme tuning fluctuations.
• Premium construction – With components like Grover tuners, graphite nut and stainless steel frets, the Racer is crafted for pro-level performance and reliability.
• Striking visual style – The Racer has an iconic metal look with its pointed headstock, rear-routed electronics and available eye-catching finishes.

These features let the Racer excel at everything from chugging rhythm parts to melodic leads, making it a favorite of metal virtuosos. It’s built to deliver the tone, feel and reliability that the most demanding shredders need.

How the Westcreek Racer Compares to Other Metal Guitars

The Racer enters a crowded market of guitars marketed towards metal players. How does it stand apart from its major competitors?

Compared to classic shredder guitars like the Jackson Soloist, the Racer has a thinner and faster neck profile more suited for lightning runs across the whole fretboard. It also has a more robust tremolo bridge system for better tuning stability when abusing the whammy bar.

Against modern metal-focused guitars like the Schecter Hellraiser and ESP LTD EC-1000, the Racer’s neck carve and fretboard radius give it more effortless playability for quick lead work. Its pickups also have a tighter and more precise response on the low end compared to the other guitars.

When looking at guitars like the Ibanez RG series optimized for shredding, the Racer matches their fast playability but adds more character to the tone with its hot-rodded Westcreek pickups. The Racer also tends to use higher end components that improve the overall performance.

Overall, the Racer combines the best aspects of existing metal guitars and kicks everything up a notch for truly exceptional speed, comfort and tone. No other mass-produced guitar completely beats it as an uncompromising metal machine.

Buying Options: Where To Get the Westcreek Racer

The Westcreek Racer is carried by a wide range of major music equipment retailers, so finding one to try or purchase shouldn’t be a problem. Here are some of the best places to buy a new or used Westcreek Racer:

• Online retailers – Sweetwater, Musician’s Friend and Zzounds all carry the full Racer lineup available for purchase online. Amazon and Ebay also have new and used Racers for sale.
• Local guitar stores – Most independent guitar shops that sell mid-level to high-end instruments will have some Racers in stock that you can try out in person before buying.
• Westcreek’s custom shop – For the ultimate in customization, you can order a personalized Racer direct from Westcreek’s custom shop with options like exotic wood choices, unique finishes and upgraded components. Lead times for custom orders are around 6-8 weeks.
• Reverb – This online musical instrument marketplace has both new and used Racers for sale from music shops and individual sellers. You may be able to find limited edition Racers here too.

Shop smart by comparing prices between retailers and buying from an authorized Westcreek dealer to ensure you get a genuine Racer with the full warranty.

Racer Price Range: How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

The Westcreek Racer is considered a mid-tier to premium guitar, and pricing reflects that. Here’s an overview of the price range you can expect:

• Base models – The most affordable Racer models with standard features retail between $800 and $1000. This gets you high quality components with versatile tone.
• Upgraded models – Step-up Racers with premium woods, components and appointments sell for $1200 to $1600. These offer long term value with pro-quality materials and craftsmanship.
• Custom Shop – Building a Racer to your exact specs via Westcreek’s custom shop starts around $2000, with some options adding substantially to the price. Dream guitar with no compromises!
• Used market – On the used market, expect to pay $600 to $900 for good condition base models, and $900 to $1400 for higher end Racers a few years old. Deals can be found!

Consider the Racer an investment that will hold its value while also being an workhorse guitar that you can gig and record with. Paying a little more for upgraded models gets you lasting performance and tone.

Is the Racer a Good Choice for Beginners?

The Westcreek Racer is designed first and foremost with professional and advanced players in mind. However, there are a few reasons why it can also work well for motivated beginners:

• The thin neck and 16” fretboard radius make it very easy and comfortable to play compared to many starter guitars. The Racer’s effortless feel makes learning faster.
• The Racer sounds fantastic even at lower volumes, retaining its aggressive tone when played through something like a modeling amp. Beginners will love the inspiring metal tones.
• There are a few affordable base model Racers that are relatively cost competitive with other mid-range guitars aimed at students.
• The Racer’s rock-solid tuning stability from the double locking tremolo helps prevent beginners from getting frustrated with constant tuning issues.
• The guitar is well-crafted from quality components so it will last through years of regular practice.
• Experienced guitarists often report that the Racer revitalizes their motivation and makes them excited to keep improving.

The most important things for a beginner are getting a guitar that sounds and feels great to provide the most enjoyment and inspiration to practice. In that respect, the Racer can be a good fit for starting guitarists who connect with its fast playing neck, metal sound and stylish looks.

Racer Construction and Materials Overview

Westcreek guitars are known for using high quality components, tonewoods and craftsmanship, and the Racer is no exception. Here’s an overview of how the Racer is constructed:

• Body wood – Mahogany or alder, selected for balanced and responsive tone. Some models have gorgeous maple tops for beauty and brightness.
• Neck – Most Racers have 3-piece maple necks which offer stability and sustained notes. The maple/mahogany 5-piece necks have similar traits with enhanced midrange.
• Fingerboard – Rosewood and maple are the most common fingerboard woods. Maple provides snappier attack, while rosewood has more rounded warmth.
• Frets – Stainless steel jumbo frets are chosen for super slick feel with effortless string bending. The tall fret height maximizes speed.
• Bridge – A Floyd Rose 1000 series double locking tremolo bridge delivers rock solid tuning stability even under heavy shredding technique.
• Tuning Machines – Quality Grover tuners keep the Racer staying in tune. Many models have locking tuners for added tuning security and sustain.
• Electronics – Westcreek Metalhead humbuckers provide the Racer’s signature growl. CTS pots and quality capacitors complement them.

With attention to design at every step, the Racer’s materials all work together in harmony to provide amazing playability, tone and reliability.

Caring for Your Westcreek Racer: Upkeep and Maintenance

The Racer is built to handle serious abuse from aggressive playing styles. But to maximize the lifespan of your guitar, follow these basic care and maintenance tips:

• Change strings regularly – Replace strings at least every 2-3 months to keep your tone fresh and prevent undue neck wear.
• Clean fretboard – Wipe down the fretboard with a soft cloth and lemon oil every 10-15 hours of play to prevent grime buildup.
• Adjust truss rod – If buzzing develops or action gets too high, turn the truss rod nut in quarter turn increments to adjust neck bow as needed.
• Set bridge intonation – Using a tuner, make sure notes fretted at the 12th fret are in tune with harmonics at the 12th fret. Adjust bridge saddles if needed.
• Tighten loose parts – Periodically check that all knobs, jacks and strap locks are tightened down to prevent issues.
• Clean finish – Wipe off fingerprints and grime from the body, neck and hardware using a soft polishing cloth to prevent finish degradation.
• Store properly – Keep the Racer in a guitar case or stand when not in play to avoid knocks, falls and temperature/humidity extremes.

Following this basic routine will keep your Racer sounding, feeling and looking its best for years of intense shredding. Treat it well and it will treat you well!

User Impressions: What Guitarists Are Saying About the Racer

The Racer has earned strong praise and fan loyalty from metal guitarists around the world. Here’s a look at what users highlight in reviews of the guitar:

• “The most playable guitar I’ve ever tried.” – The Racer’s thin, flat neck profile gets consistent kudos for its effortless feel.
• “Stays in tune no matter how hard I dig in.” – Players love the rock solid tuning stability, even with heavy tremolo arm abuse.
• “Sounds killer no matter what amp I use.” – The versatile high output pickups get tons of praise for their aggressive yet balanced tone.
• “Sustain for days.” – Reviewers are consistently impressed with the Racer’s excellent note sustain and harmonic richness.
• “Super comfortable to shred on.” – The ergonomic arched top body design wins points for playing comfort.
• “Killer metal tone right out of the box.” – Users appreciate that the Racer offers pro metal tone without upgrades needed.
• “Built like a tank.” – Players comment on the Racer’s stability and durability under heavy use.

It’s clear the Racer hits the mark on all fronts for demanding metal guitarists. It has earned its reputation as one of the most capable guitars for heavy playing styles.

What Makes the Westcreek Racer Special?

When you consider everything that goes into the Westcreek Racer, it’s easy to see why it has become a premier choice for metal guitar virtuosos. Here are a few standout qualities that make the Racer extra special:

• Pure shredding DNA – Every design decision in the Racer centers on creating the ultimate guitar for blazing fast metal soloing.
• Killer metal tone – The custom Metalhead humbuckers, mahogany body and meticulous construction give the Racer a tone profile that stands out from any competitor.
• Obsessive playability – From low action to extended fret access to a contoured neck joint, nothing beats the Racer for speed riffing across the whole fretboard.
• Industrial strength – This isn’t a cheap guitar built to a price point – the Racer meets the security, stability and reliability demands of pros.
• Standout looks – Attention grabbing inline headstocks, beveled body edges and exclusive finishes give the Racer tons visual attitude.
• Continuous evolution – Westcreek constantly refines the Racer with new models, options and technologies to push the limits of metal guitar performance.

Simply put, no other mass-produced metal guitar out there offers the Racer’s ideal balance of tone, speed, power and style. It’s a finely tuned metal machine.

Learning to Shred: Racer Video Lessons and Tutorials

One of the best ways to maximize your skills on the Racer is by learning from the pros. There are numerous videos online that can help take your shred playing to the next level:

• Manufacturer lessons – Westcreek has an entire YouTube channel dedicated to video lessons for getting started on the Racer, from basic setup to essential metal techniques.
• Artist lessons – Many big name metal virtuosos have detailed video lessons on how they achieve their signature sounds on the Racer. Great for inspiration!
• Gear walkthroughs – There are lots of videos reviewing the Racer and explaining how to dial in killer metal tones using amps, effects and EQ tricks.
• Shredding techniques – Improve your speed and precision with Racer-specific videos on topics like string skipping, sweeping, tapping and tremolo picking.
• Song tutorials – Find lessons that teach you how to play popular metal songs note-for-note on the Racer to expand your repertoire.

Learning the Racer’s techniques and tricks from seasoned metal players will help you improve much faster. Take advantage of these lessons to unlock the Racer’s full potential!

Available Racer Models and Variations

One great thing about the Racer is that it’s offered in numerous models to fit any budget or playing style. Here are some of the most popular Racer variants available:

• Racer Elite – Top of the line shred machine with premium tonewoods, Fishman Fluence pickups and ebony fretboard. The pinnacle of Racer design.
• Racer Deluxe – Upgraded model with Seymour Duncan Black Winter pickups, coil tap and an eye-catching flame maple top.
• Racer Pro – The most popular model, with versatile HSH pickup configuration and the classic Racer shape. An amazing workhorse guitar.
• Racer Plus – Affordable version with dual humbuckers and basic contoured body. Fantastic quality for the price.
• Racer Special – Loaded with EMG 81/85 pickups and a Floyd Rose Original tremolo for maximum durability.
• Racer Custom – Build your dream Racer from the ground up with personalized options via the Westcreek Custom Shop.

No matter your skill level or budget, there’s a Racer model that’s just right to unleash your metal guitar shred skills.

Racer Color and Finish Options to Suit Your Style

One of the Racer’s signature qualities is the huge array of eye-catching colors and finishes it is offered in. Options include:

• Solid color finishes – Glossy shades like Blood Red, Phantom Black, Demon White and Midnight Blue give the Racer a bold and uniform look.
• Two-tone finishes – Combining colors like Snow White with a Black Marble top creates stunning contrasts.
• Sunbursts – Gorgeous sunburst finishes in shades like Crimson, Sapphire and Emerald radiate under stage lights.
• Fades – Blending from light colors at one end to dark at the other end in Fade finishes such as Arctic Sky produces unique looks.
• Figured maple tops – Flame, quilt and spalt maple tops add beautiful depth and figuring that sets the Racer apart.
• Special prints – Skulls & Roses, Digital Pixel Camo and other wild graphic prints on a solid color base create edgy visuals.
• Custom artwork – Westcreek’s custom shop can do one-of-a-kind airbrushed artwork or engrave designs into the Racer.

Stand apart from the crowd with a Racer in a finish that represents your personal style and attitude. It’s more than just a guitar – it’s an extension of your identity.

Current Deals: Where to Find Racer Sales and Discounts

The Racer provides exceptional value for performance, but who doesn’t like saving some money on their dream guitar? Here are some tips for finding Racer sales and special offers:

• Holiday sales – Most major music retailers offer discounts on the Racer for seasonal holidays like Christmas, New Years and July 4th. Memorial Day and Labor Day sales are also common.
• Gear package deals – Some stores offer the Racer at a discount when bundled with other items like amps, effects pedals and cases. Watch for these money saving bundles!
• Used market – Considering a lightly used Racer can save hundreds versus buying new. Reverb and eBay both frequently have great deals.
• Discontinued models – As updated Racer models are released, retailers will often discount remaining old stock. Grab deals while supplies last!
• Westcreek Custom Shop sales – Occasional sales directly through the custom shop can save big when building your dream Racer. Call to inquire.
• Price matching – Retailers like Sweetwater and Zzounds will match lower authorized prices from competitors – take advantage!

Keep your eyes open for these opportunities to grab an amazing Racer guitar without breaking the bank. With the right sale or deal, high-end metal tone could be more affordable than you think!

The Westcreek Racer Sound: Flexible, Aggressive Metal Tone

With its specialized design and components, the Racer delivers a certain signature sound that makes it one of the best electric guitars for metal on the market today. Here are some key characteristics of its versatile high gain tone:

• Ultra tight and percussive – The Racer has an exceptionally fast attack thanks to its bright tonewood combination and reduced string tension behind the nut. Heavy palm muted riffing has an aggressive punch.
• Precision focused low end – Compared to many guitars, the Racer’s bass response stays tight and articulate even at higher gain levels. You can hear every note in high speed passages.
• Smooth singing leads – When soloing, the Racer excels at producing rich and expressive midrange with liquid-like sustain. Vibrato notes bloom with character.
• Killer harmonic content – When playing intense pinch harmonics and other embellishments, the Racer sings with harmonic richness and complexity.
• Tuned for versatility – From old school metal crunch to the most extreme modern tones, the Racer’s pickups have the dynamics to handle a wide range of metal genres.

The Racer transparently amplifies your technique and intensity while adding its own touch of crispness and attitude. Form and function combine to create a metal monster.

Advantages and Drawbacks of the Westcreek Racer

The Racer has a lot of outstanding qualities – but there are a few downsides to consider too. Here’s a balanced look:

Advantages:

• Amazing high speed playability
• Dialed-in metal tone
• High quality components for reliability
• Super solid tuning stability
• Great ergonomic design
• Consistent quality matched instruments

Drawbacks:

• On the expensive side
• Not as versatile as some guitars
• Very focused on shred playing
• Locking trem isn’t beginner friendly
• No single coil pickup options
• Signature looks aren’t for everyone

For diehard metal players looking for a high performance guitar built for speed, the upsides easily outweigh the downsides. But more versatile players may prefer something a little less specialized. It all comes down to your personal playing needs!

Options for Customizing the Westcreek Racer

One of the Racer’s strengths is that it offers extensive options for customization via Westcreek’s Custom Shop. Some popular ways to tailor the guitar include:

• Wood grades and finishes – Choose from premium figured maple, exotic woods like ebony and luxury finish upgrades.
• Fretboard options – Opt for different radius sizes, alternate fingerboard woods and luminlay position markers.
• Pickups and electronics – Choose from boutique pickups brands and specialty switching options for broad tonal variety.
• Hardware upgrades – Go for gold, colored and locking tuners, chrome or black bridges and other hardware aesthetic tweaks.
• Inlays and bindings – Select custom inlay designs, multi-ply binding colors and matching headstock colors for unique looks.

Since Westcreek offers these options for complete guitar assembly, you are assured a perfect fit and seamless integration of all custom components in your one-of-a-kind Racer.

Westcreek Racer Warranty Protection

The Racer comes standard with a solid warranty to protect your investment in case issues arise. Here are the key details:

• Workmanship warranty – This covers any manufacturer defects in assembly, construction and materials for 1 year from purchase date.
• ** Electronics warranty** – The electronic components including pickups, pots, switches and jacks are covered for 3 years from purchase date.
• Warranty transfer – The warranty conveys automatically to any subsequent owners as long as an authorized Westcreek dealer originally sold the guitar.
• Exclusions – Damage from accidents, neglect and normal wear and tear are not covered, only true manufacturing faults.
• Claim process – You’ll need to provide proof of purchase date. Westcreek handles all repairs or replacement.

For extra protection, many retailers also offer supplemental warranty plans to extend coverage past the standard periods. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your Racer has strong backing.

How to Choose the Right Racer Model For Your Needs

Because Westcreek offers many Racer models with differing features, you’ll want to consider how you plan to use the guitar when deciding which version to purchase. Here are some tips:

• Genre – The pickup configuration that suits extreme metal may be very different from classic metal. Choose the right pickups for your sound.
• Budget – How much you can invest determines if it’s best to grab an affordable base model or go for more exotic upgrades.
• Tremolo use – Do you heavily depend on the tremolo bar? The Special and Pro have the strongest locking tremolos.
• Acoustics – The chambered body Deluxe models have increased acoustic resonance that jazz and clean players may prefer.
• Aesthetics – If looks are critical, browse the various finishes and opt for premium top wood figuring that matches your style.
• Electronics – Need maximum tonal variety from coil taps and multiple tones? Opt for HSS or HSH pickup layouts.

Thinking about your needs and priorities will steer you towards the ideal Racer for your budget and playing style. Select the perfect model for you right from the start!

Top Accessories for the Westcreek Racer

The Racer sounds and plays fantastic on its own, but can be made even better with a few choice accessories:

• Tuner pedal – A tuner like the Boss TU-3 lets you keep the Racer in tune when aggressively using the tremolo. Essential for gigs!
• Guitar case – A padded case from Gator or SKB will protect your Racer from dings, scrapes and the elements.
• Strap locks – Dunlop strap locks securely hold your strap to the Racer when rocking out on stage.
• Cables – Quality cables from Mogami and George L ensure full sound transmission from guitar to amp.
• Power conditioner – For home use, a power conditioner like the Furman PST-8 handles voltage fluctuations and power protection.
• String lubricant – Applying Ernie Ball Wonder Wipes when changing strings reduces string drag and tuning issues.
• Backup guitar – For pros, having a spare Racer as a backup for gigs prevents missed performances if issues ever crop up.

Start with the basics like a case and tuner, then add accessories over time to craft a pro-level Racer rig.

Getting the Most from Your Racer: Tips for Setup

Proper setup is key to making sure your Racer plays its absolute best. Here are some tips for an ideal Racer setup:

• Adjust action – Use a capo and feeler gauges to set action to 1/8″ on bass side and 3/32″ on treble side for fast playability.
• Set intonation – Intonate the Racer by comparing fretted notes to harmonics and adjusting the saddles as needed.
• Tune stability – Set floating tremolo balance, lubricate nut slots with graphite and use locking tuners for rock solid tuning stability.
• Adjust pickup height – Raising or lowering the pickups relative to the strings can customize tone. Find the sweet spot.
• Tighten hardware – Use screwdrivers and hex wrenches to tighten any loose strap buttons, knobs and bridges parts.
• Electronics – Replace any crackling pots or switches and shield cavities to reduce noise.
• Plek it – Some pros use Plek machines to optimize the fretwork for the lowest possible actions.

Take the time to really dial in and customize your Racer’s setup. An expertly set up Racer absolutely sings!

Where to Find the Racer User Manual

As a medium-high end import guitar, the Racer doesn’t come with a printed user manual from the factory. However, there are a few places to find the information you need:

• Westcreek’s website – They have downloadable copies of the user manual covering specs, assembly, care and electronics diagrams.
• Retailer product pages – Often you can find helpful information about the Racer embedded in the descriptive copy on retailer websites.
• Review websites – In-depth reviews from sites like Ultimate Guitar often provide tips and manuals stats pulled from various sources.
• Forums – The Westcreek section of forums like SevenString.org have threads where owners share setup tips and manual details.
• Westcreek support – You can always email Westcreek’s customer service department to ask specific questions about manuals, specs and documentation.

The Racer isn’t overly complex, so with a little research online you can find all the crucial reference material on specs, settings and care that you need.

Conclusion: Is the Westcreek Racer Right For You?

The Westcreek Racer stands apart as one of the most impressive metal-focused electric guitars available today. With its unparalleled playability, versatile high gain tones and rock-solid reliability, it’s a dream machine designed for shredding.

This guide has given you a comprehensive overlook at all the different Racer models, features, pricing and ownership experiences to help inform your buying decision. For dedicated metal guitarists seeking the ultimate guitar for speed riffing and leads, it’s hard to beat what the Racer brings to the table. Its combination of quality, tone and blistering fast playing feel is unmatched.

If no-compromise heavy metal performance is what you seek, then the Westcreek Racer could very well be your perfect electric guitar soulmate. Grab one today and unleash your own extreme shredding fury!