National Raw Steel 14 Fret Resophonic Guitar

Released for 2020, the National Raw Steel 14 Fret sports a new lightly “distressed” finish and still delivers the warm, rich unmistakable National sound.  Also available in a 12-fret model and in a Raw Brass finish. 

The National Raw Steel 14 is built like other  models with steel bodies and single 9.5 inch resonator cone, but is visually distinct with its retro ‘Chickenfoot’ style cover plate and new finish.   This finish can ‘work’ a bit better than the highly polished and reflective surface on the more expensive models, as in not showing smudges as easily.   The neck is Mahogany, with an unbound Indian Rosewood fingerboard.   Truss rod adjustment is at the head, and the tuners are strip style with creme buttons.  

The original high quality National branded hard shell case is included, and contains keys, a polishing cloth, and a tin of protective compound for the finish.  

More From The Builder On The New National Raw Steel 14 Fret model: 

“After 30 years National Guitars is proud to introduce our Raw Series. Instruments designed to naturally distress over time. Available in Steel, Brass and German Silver. Craftsmanship, Tone and Playability you would expect from a National!

Raw Series instruments have a minimal, wax body finish giving a naturally smooth feel that will patina over time. They are expertly handcrafted in our California workshop to the high quality standards our reputation is built on. Steel models, like all National steel bodied instruments, have an interior finish to protect against rusting.

The Raw Series instruments are available in steel, brass, and German silver and feature a hardrock maple neck and a chicken-foot resonator coverplate. 12-Fret models have a slotted headstock and flat-cut F-holes while the 14-Fret models have a peghead and rolled F-holes.

Currently we are the only company making guitars of German silver alloy in the tradition of the original 1930’s Nationals. Our Raw Series instruments offer an affordable option to anyone looking to recreate the tone of a vintage National.”