McNally Strumsticks • Shoreline Music

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At one of my first NAMM trade shows, I ran across the Strumstick made by Bob McNally (who invented the Backpacker now built by Martin). I had to wait in line to buy one, though, because Earth, Wind and Fire were busy loading up on several each. I bought one for my kids, but found that I played it about 10 times as much as they did.

The Strumstick is the kind of instrument that makes novices sound really good, and gives accomplished guitarists a great little noodling instrument. It's small in profile like the backpacker, with three strings tuned in a chord (usually G or D, but you can of course experiment with tunings), and diatonic fret markers like a mountain dulcimer. So every note you play just sounds right. The instrument is surprisingly loud, and sounds a bit like a small-profile banjo (you can hear an audio clip here). Whether you've been playing guitar for 30 years or are just looking for an introductory stringed instrument for a young niece or nephew, you'd be hard-pressed to find anything as fun to play as the McNally Strumstick. Available in standard G scale, G scale with wood rosette, and longer D scale. Bob also makes these with upgraded tonewoods; the nicer models also include a free abalone rosette. (pic)

Standard McNally Strumsticks	Description	Price*
Standard Strumstick	Standard model, tuned to a G.	$155.00
Rosette Strumstick	Same as regular Strumstick, with wood rosette	$169.00
Grand Strumstick	Longer scale, tuned to a D	$185.00
Strumstick Gigbag	Sizes for standard or grand Strumsticks	$12.00
Custom Models (may take an extra week)	Description	Price*
Standard	Standard size, tuned to a G.	$184.00
Grand	Longer scale, tuned to a D.	$204.00
Abalone Rosette	Free on the upgraded Strumsticks

*The prices for all McNally Strumsticks include free shipping anywhere in the US. CO residents add 2.9% sales tax. Please see our Shipping page for additional international shipping information.