CF Martin Backpacker Guitar

[Okie34]

Ok, I'm sure you're wondering "A Guitar review in a MC Camping forum?". Well, in a word, "Yes".

For those that can play and those that like to annoy the neighbors, or even plunk out a few chords at the camp, this is the guitar for you! Add to this, the distinction of owning a real CF Martin!

http://www.martinguitar.com/guitars/choosing/pImages/Steel%20String%20Backpacker%20Guitar_f.jpg

This comes in two flavors, A Classical Nylon String, and a Standard Steel String. This is a very light and STURDY guitar. It's no Dreadnaught though. The pitch is a little high and the Bass notes really aren't there like you find in your concert guitars. However, for what it does? You can't beat it!

The body, neck and head are all one piece. That is what makes it strong. It's got a narrow neck and the cut away body style makes this very hard to play without a strap. Looks a lot like a canoe paddle and would probably work as one in a pinch and then play it again that evening!

Mine is an older one that has the straight head piece. It comes with a gig bag that's relatively water resistant and padded nicely. Even comes with a tuning fork. I haven't seen one of those in years.

This straps right on to the luggage rack of my Voyager XII and stays put. Even holds it's tuning pretty well after being lugged around all day.

MSRP is around $300, but I find them quite often on E-Bay for about half that.

So if you play guitar and miss having that extra something at the campfire, this little guitar is the way to go. Doesn't play half bad, is small enough to carry just about anywhere and if your any good at all... You might get visited by the neighbors. If you play like I do? You're likely to have the garbage tossed your way! :D

-- JD

CF Martin Guitars: http://www.martinguitar.com/guitars/choosing/guitars.php?p=m&m=Steel%20String%20Backpacker%20Guitar

[David R]

Man, that is a wild looking guitar. I had no idea Martin made something like this. I'm a strummer and think it would be neat to put in my camper trailer.

Thanks for sharing...

[Okie34]

This guitar has been around for years. There's been some changes and from what I've heard the latest design is a much better player than the one I have.

That being said, it not a full size, or even a junior by any stretch. It plays well, but don't expect big sounds out of it. It's designed tobecarried and beat up, and played in all sorts of adverse conditions. It does that very well.

The sound really isn't bad though. A little tinny, and really light in the lower registers. It's fun to play though and a coversation piece where ever I go.

-- JD

[Trekker]

I have a Washburn Rover Travel Guitar. Can't play for beans, but it's fun to mess around with. They are a little cheaper than the Martin and sound just fine. Comes in a nice padded case too. Either model is good.

After messing with guitars for a good number of years now, I'm thinking a kazoo might be more suited to my musical talents. At least they pack smaller.

[greybeard]

I found the best musical instrument for me to play is the radio

[Okie34]

Hey! I like that little Washburn. I think the only problem I would have with it though, it's put together like a full size guitar. If it were to drop, or something placed on top of it, it's going to break at the seams. However, that's offset with the hard case too.

Looking at it's build, it's probably more susceptable to humidity and altitude changes that the Martin. But, again... For the price, you probably can't beat it. Nice find!

-- JD

[webistrator]

The Martin is really a design from McNally, called the "Strumstick (http://www.strumstick.com/index.html)". The normal 3-string Strumstick comes in fixed-tune or in 4-string chromatic (multi-key) versions. There's also multi-necked and electric pickup models, or you can add an acoustic pickup to a non-electric model.

They sell that six-string Martin version for a bit less than the list price.

Cheers!

Jack S.

[billybackpacker]

I own three Martin Backpackers and love them. Throw one in the overhead bin for vacation and I'm all set. I have also invented an attachment to make "strapless" playing of this wonderful instrument possible - check it out at kraftboy.com
Heading to Myrtle beach soon and bringing the Backpacker, it's great being able to play on the beach without having to worry about ruining my 1959 Martin 00-17.

[Okie34]

Now that's an interesting little piece of work. Love how it doubles as a dog toy!

Keep watching for yet another instrument review! I've come up with a coupe of really unique toys that will enhance your camp time!

-- JD

[R and R]

With the Bunkhouse I took two full size guitars ( hauled brother in laws for him) on Blackhills trip this year. Used gig bags to save space set on edge in trailer and packed around. worked well. I couldnt have taken eather with my cargo trailer so a BP would be nice there.

Would like to try a Back Packer some time. How about volume?

Thanks for the reoprt JD

Thanks R

[Okie34]

R & R,

Obviously, it's volume isn't as loud as a full size guitar, but certainly loud enough for frinds around a campfire. The Bass tones aren't as pronounced either, however, you're not in a concert hall. For something that is small, lightweight and tough, it's a great instrument.

I'm considering selling mine as I don't play it like I used to and have the strumstick and a stick dulcimer to take it's place.

-- JD

[oldmanriver1951]

another alternative is the Ovation Applause, very small body, composite back, weather friendly, but neck is full sized! I have a Dean Markley pick up ounted on it, and have a small battery powered amp, give you all the sound you could ever need. Don't need the amp, but we travel a lot, and can always pick up some spending bucks at the occasional tavern.....4564