easiest way to 'let go' of guitars?

[Aeon]

Whenever somebody talks about buying a mid-range Strat/Tele guitar, I always tell them the same thing...

Build it instead!

If you already like your Strat, but just don't like the way it wears, salvage the pickups/hardware/etc. and install them in a new body and neck. I have had great experience with USACG bodies and necks, and have also played on some good Warmoth necks. You can buy unfinished bodies/necks for relatively cheap, and you can spec them out to your liking (whatever fret radius or neck thickness, or possibly you want some different pickup routes, etc.). Then you can take some time and finish them with real nitrocellulose lacquer in your favorite color. The result? A guitar that was put together by YOU, that will get easily worn-in by YOU, and will develop a new sentimental attachment.

Now if you were talking about selling your collection to fund a higher-range Strat, like say an American Vintage Reissue Series, or a Custom Shop, Thin Skin, etc... Well okay. But it makes no sense to me for you to ditch your collection just to upgrade to a mid-range instrument. I'm sure the Roadworns are nice, but I bet if you're patient you can find one used (ha!) for like half the price of the MSRP. Strats are a dime a dozen, one will come up at some point.

[moore65]

I think you'll be more pleased wearing it out yourself than buying it pre-worn.