Squier got a bad rep from 1988, after CBS had sold Fender in 1985, and the new owners sabotaged the brand, first by Indian and then Korean production (1987/88).

Japanese production after 1987 also took a downturn, and Asian production as a whole was relatively poor during the late 80's through the early-mid 90's.

Recognition of this is demonstrated by the change from "Made in" to "Crafted in", which was effected on all FMIC Asian production in 1997.

The trend was first bucked by the introduction of the MIJ Silver Series in the early 90's, and the Pro-Tone Series in 1995, which were made at Cort Korea, and the quality of the Standard Series Squiers made at Cort Korea also improved.

The simple fact is that one should be justifiably wary of 1988-1995 Asian production especially, both Fender and Squier. Plywood was even used on some MIJ Fenders during this period.

It is true that sometimes the first batches of any product exhibit production issues that are later ironed out, but this was not the case of early Japanese production of either Fenders/Squiers or Epiphones. It was the case of early Korean Epi production and early Squier production at Cort Indonesia from 1998.

The poor rep of late 80's/early-mid 90's Asian FMIC product is simply down to the fact that cost-cutting measures throughout this period are reflected in the product.

Gibson have had several periods of poor production, and still have quality control issues.

Fender USA have also had periods where cost-cutting measures are reflected in the product, even as recently as the late 90's.

Mexican Fender/Squier production has had finishing problems, but they are from being alone, and Mexican Fender (and Squier till ~1998) production has seen almost year on year improvements to the quality of the product.

Anyone who thinks current Fender Japan product is superior to Fender Mexico product should get a better understanding of the product ranges, as MIM Std product is superior to the entry-level CIJ product and the higher-level MIM product compares very favourably with the higher-end CIJ product.

Fender Japans strength now lies in the breadth of vintage inspired product and the J/Craft product.

Squier has struggled to improve its rep, even with the Pro-Tone Series, and the Keith Brawley inspired resurgence from 1999.

The fact is that one needs to be aware of the good/bad production times/places of all brands, and while there will be some reasonable product during the bad times, there will be more than a fair share of real dogs, and the rep and desirability usually rests with the average reported quality.

I hope you will be happy with your new axe!