[font=trebuchet ms]Gibson? Fender? $300 - $600? It doesn't add up.

Gibson doesn't make anything worth owning for less than $600. Unless you get a very lucky deal on a used axe. You can get a decent Fender for $600, but again I would go used for that kind of money.

Ignore that crap about American-made Strats being better. If a Stratocaster is really what you want, get a Jap-strat and replace the pickups. The body and neck are much better on the MIJ strats and Teles, and you'll save enough on the purchase price to cover the cost of the pickups.

I think used is still the best bang for the buck. And don't restrict yourself to just Fender or Gibson. You can't see the name on the headstock when you're playing, but you can always feel and hear whether you have a good 'un in your hands.

Remeber - Eyes shut - Ears and mind open.[/font]