The iconic Mosrite Guitars are officially back in business. Following its acquisition by the legendary lap-steel pioneers Sho-Bud, the brand that defined the jagged edges of surf, rock, and punk is entering a bold new era.
The comeback kicks off with the highly anticipated reissue of the Mosrite Mark II, a guitar synonymous with the raw energy of Johnny Ramone and the counter-culture spirit of Bakersfield, California.
A Legacy Reconnected: From Bakersfield to Nashville
Founded in 1956 by Semie Moseley, Mosrite became a cult favorite for its “faster-than-lightning” necks and avant-garde body shapes. Its roster of players reads like a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction list: Jimi Hendrix, The Ventures, and Kurt Cobain, who famously tracked Nevermind with a Mosrite Gospel.
After years of quiet operation following Moseley’s passing, the brand’s acquisition by Sho-Bud marks a “full circle” moment for the industry.
“This is a personal project for us,” says Dawn Jackson, Co-CEO of Sho-Bud. “Our father, David Jackson, collaborated closely with Semie Moseley. They shared a friendship built on chasing tone. Bringing Mosrite into the Sho-Bud family is about reconnecting those roots.”
The New Mosrite Mark II: Vintage Mojo, Modern Precision
The 2026 Mark II reissue isn’t just a lookalike; it’s a meticulous recreation of the “house-of-mirrors” offset design that made the original a masterpiece of quirky ergonomics.
Key Specifications:
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Body: Choice of Solid Basswood or Alder.
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Neck: One-piece maple (bolt-on) with a 22-fret rosewood fingerboard.
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The “Zero Fret” includes the signature zero fret for authentic Mosrite sustain and low action.
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Scale Length: The “peculiar” 24 5/8″ scale—shorter than a standard Gibson but longer than a Fender Jaguar—provides a unique tension and playability.
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Electronics: SH-configured Seymour Duncan pickups for high-output clarity.
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Hardware: Classic Volume/Tone dials with a three-way toggle.
Production has already begun at Sho-Bud’s Las Vegas facility, with the first units expected to ship in March 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where are the new Mosrite guitars being built?
The guitars are currently being produced under the direction of Sho-Bud’s Las Vegas operations, ensuring high-end American craftsmanship and consistency.
Will other models, such as the Mark I or Gospel, be available?
Yes! Sho-Bud has confirmed that the Mark I and the Gospel models are scheduled to enter production later in 2026.
What is the price and wait time for a Mark II?
The Mosrite Mark II is priced at $2,750.00, which includes a custom hardshell case. The estimated delivery time is currently six months from the date of order.
How does the “Zero Fret” affect playability?
The zero fret allows for more consistent string height at the nut end of the neck, resulting in lower action and better intonation, a hallmark of Semie Moseley’s original “fast neck” philosophy.
Conclusion: Chasing the Tone of Tomorrow
The revival of Mosrite by Sho-Bud is more than a simple brand acquisition; it is a preservation of American luthiery. By combining the precision of Sho-Bud’s pedal steel expertise with Mosrite’s rebellious design language, the “Signature Tone” is finally back in the hands of players.
Whether you are looking to channel the surf-rock reverb of the ’60s or the down-stroke fury of ’70s punk, the Mark II is ready to reclaim its throne on stage.
Ready to own a piece of history?
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