When I need a fixed-bridge guitar that I can just throw in a gig bag or into the back seat (with no case), this is the one I grab. It’s an Ibanez Apex II (2004, I think) that I bought used through one of the guitar forums I frequent. It was pretty beat up and played-in, so I stripped and stained it–going for an “antiqued” look. This is the guitar I use for alternate tunings.

Here’s a list of the modifications I made:

• Original paint stripped and re-stained
• 3-way pickup selector (Hum/Hum/Hum)
• Bare Knuckle Aftermath 7 pickup set
• 2″ black DiMarzio ClipLock strap
• Replaced plastic nut with bone
• Schaller locking tuners
• Fret level-and-crown