Introducing the Chris Shiflett Cleaver Telecaster® Deluxe: A Rock Machine Ready for the Stage

Night after night, Chris Shiflett of the Foo Fighters commands the stage, wielding a guitar designed to cut through any mix with precision and power. Dubbed The Cleaver, this fierce Telecaster® Deluxe lives up to its name, delivering tones that roar with gritty aggression yet clean up with soulful clarity. Once an exclusive Fender Custom Shop Masterbuilt Artist model, the Chris Shiflett Cleaver Telecaster® Deluxe is now available for players who want a no-nonsense rock machine built for relentless performance.

At its core, this guitar is all about dynamic playability and tone. A resonant alder body provides the perfect canvas for massive, stadium-shaking sound. The nitrocellulose lacquer finish enhances both the guitar’s visual appeal and tonal resonance, while a “belly cut” ensures exceptional comfort for even the longest gigs. The 25.5” scale maple neck features a 12” radius rosewood fingerboard with 21 medium jumbo frets, giving players effortless access to fiery leads and smooth bends. Pearloid block inlays add a touch of elegance, proving that this workhorse can look as good as it sounds.

The guitar’s true magic lies in its pickups: two Custom Chris Shiflett “Cleaver” Noiseless™ CS-90s. These pickups combine the punch and brilliance of vintage single coils with the added benefit of hum-free operation, ensuring clarity and power in every note. A string-through body hardtail bridge enhances sustain and resonance, while high-quality “F”-style tuning machines, a bone nut, and a wing string tree with a nylon spacer deliver rock-solid tuning stability throughout marathon sets.

With its robust design, versatile sound, and road-tested pedigree, the Chris Shiflett Cleaver Telecaster® Deluxe is built for players who demand dynamic tone and uncompromising reliability. Plug in, turn up, and carve your way through any mix—the Cleaver is ready to lead the charge.

Explore this model in Charcoal Frost Metallic and Dakota Red to find the perfect look for your stage.