Hamer Guitars

Hamer Guitars, founded in 1973 in Wilmette, Illinois, by Paul Hamer and Jol Dantzig, emerged as a prominent electric guitar manufacturer known for its boutique, vintage-style instruments. Initially featuring designs inspired by the Gibson Explorer and Flying V, Hamer gained recognition for catering to professional musicians and was the first to produce a 12-string bass guitar. The company was incorporated in 1976 and underwent several ownership changes, including an acquisition by Kaman Music in 1988 and later by Fender in 2008. Notable models like the Sunburst and Phantom GT gained popularity among high-profile musicians, including members of Cheap Trick and Judas Priest. After a hiatus in production, Hamer was reintroduced in 2017 under KMC Music with a new line of imported guitars.