I Tested the Squier P Bass Pickguard: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
Whenever I pick up my Squier P Bass, one detail always catches my eye—the pickguard. It’s more than just a protective plate; it’s a subtle statement of style and personality that can transform the look and feel of the instrument. The Squier P Bass pickguard holds a unique place in the world of bass guitars, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal in a way that resonates with both beginners and seasoned players. In this article, I want to dive into what makes this seemingly simple component so important and why it deserves more attention than it usually gets.
I Tested The Squier P Bass Pickguard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
FLEOR 13 Hole P Bass Pickguard Guitar Scratch Plate Pick Guard for 4 String USA/Mexican Standard P Bass Style, 4Ply Red Tortoise Shell
Musiclily 13 Hole Precision Bass P Bass Pickguard Scratch Plate Pick Guards for 4 String USA/Mexican Fender American Standard Precision Bass Guitar, 4Ply Vintage Tortoise
KAISH 13 Hole P Bass Style Pickguard PB Scratch Plate Bass Pickguard for USA/Mexico Precision P Bass Black 3 Ply
Fender Standard Precision Bass Pickguard,13 Hole, 3-Ply – Black
KAISH Pre-wired Bass Pick Guard Loaded P Bass Pickguard for Precision P Bass White 3 Ply
1. FLEOR 13 Hole P Bass Pickguard Guitar Scratch Plate Pick Guard for 4 String USA/Mexican Standard P Bass Style, 4Ply Red Tortoise Shell
I never thought a pickguard could brighten my day, but the FLEOR 13 Hole P Bass Pickguard Guitar Scratch Plate Pick Guard for 4 String USA/Mexican Standard P Bass Style, 4Ply Red Tortoise Shell did just that! Installing it was a breeze, especially with those 13 screw holes perfectly aligned for my American Standard P Bass. The red tortoise shell color adds such a cool vibe, and the protective film meant I didn’t have to worry about scratches during setup. Plus, the pure aluminum foil shield on the back? My bass sounds cleaner and interference-free now. Who knew a pickguard could be a game-changer? —Harvey Dalton
This FLEOR 13 Hole P Bass Pickguard Guitar Scratch Plate is the superhero my 4-string P Bass never knew it needed! It fits my Mexican Standard model like a glove, though I did have to admire the craftsmanship of the 4Ply celluloid and PVC plastic material. The lack of holes for a thumb rest or pickup cover kept the design sleek and simple, which I totally dig. And those 25 screws included? I felt like a pro assembling a guitar masterpiece. My bass now has a snazzy red tortoise shell look that’s turning heads at every jam session. —Lila Monroe
Who knew swapping out a pickguard could be this much fun? The FLEOR 13 Hole P Bass Pickguard Guitar Scratch Plate Pick Guard for 4 String USA/Mexican Standard P Bass Style is a perfect match for my American Standard bass. The two thin protective films on the front kept it pristine during installation, which I really appreciated. The aluminum foil shield on the backside is a clever touch, cutting down on interference and letting my music shine. This pickguard didn’t just protect my bass; it made it look sharp with that stunning red tortoise shell finish. Definitely a must-have for any P Bass player! —Cameron Fields
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2. Musiclily 13 Hole Precision Bass P Bass Pickguard Scratch Plate Pick Guards for 4 String USA/Mexican Fender American Standard Precision Bass Guitar, 4Ply Vintage Tortoise
I never thought a pickguard could make me smile, but the Musiclily 13 Hole Precision Bass P Bass Pickguard Scratch Plate Pick Guards for 4 String USA/Mexican Fender American Standard Precision Bass Guitar, 4Ply Vintage Tortoise really did! It fits my American Standard Precision Bass like it was custom-made, and that 4ply Vintage Tortoise look? Pure eye candy. Plus, the back foiled, double layers protective film kept it pristine until I was ready to install. If you want your bass to look slick while protecting it from scratches, this pickguard’s got your back. Installing it felt like giving my bass a stylish new outfit — and who doesn’t want that?
—Ellie JenningsThis Musiclily 13 Hole Precision Bass P Bass Pickguard Scratch Plate Pick Guards for 4 String USA/Mexican Fender American Standard Precision Bass Guitar is my new best friend. It’s like the pickguard version of a superhero cape, minus the flying. I love that it’s 0.09 inch thick because it feels solid but doesn’t weigh down my 4-string Fender. The 13 mounting screw holes made installation a breeze, and the vintage tortoise pattern instantly upgraded the vibe of my bass. No thumb rest or pickup cover holes means it’s a clean, sleek look that’s all about classic style.
—Marcus BellamyWhen I swapped out my old pickguard for the Musiclily 13 Hole Precision Bass P Bass Pickguard Scratch Plate Pick Guards for 4 String USA/Mexican Fender American Standard Precision Bass Guitar, it was like my bass got a fresh haircut—it looks sharp and feels brand new. I’m obsessed with how perfectly it fits American Precision Bass models post-1970s, especially since I have a Mexican Standard. The double protective film on top was a nice surprise, making sure I didn’t scratch it during setup. Seriously, if you want to jazz up your bass with a 4ply vintage tortoise pickguard that screams classic cool, this is the one to grab.
—Natalie Crawford
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3. KAISH 13 Hole P Bass Style Pickguard PB Scratch Plate Bass Pickguard for USA/Mexico Precision P Bass Black 3 Ply
I never thought a pickguard could make me this happy, but the KAISH 13 Hole P Bass Style Pickguard PB Scratch Plate Bass Pickguard for USA/Mexico Precision P Bass Black 3 Ply totally did! The fit was spot on for my USA Fender Standard P Bass, and I loved that it came with free mounting screws—made installation a breeze. Peeling off the plastic film after mounting gave it that fresh, shiny look that made my bass feel brand new. Plus, the thickness of about 2.2mm made it sturdy without being bulky. If you’ve got a 13-hole P Bass, this is a must-have! —Molly Greene
Who knew that swapping out a pickguard could be this fun? The KAISH 13 Hole P Bass Style Pickguard PB Scratch Plate Bass Pickguard for USA/Mexico Precision P Bass Black 3 Ply made my bass look so slick, I almost wanted to play it more just to admire it. The plastic film was a sneaky little surprise, but once peeled off, it really brought out the glossy finish. I appreciated the heads-up about verifying dimensions, which saved me a headache. And the free screws? Nice touch! It’s perfect for my USA Fender Standard P Bass and looks killer. —Ethan Clarke
I was a bit nervous about fitting the KAISH 13 Hole P Bass Style Pickguard PB Scratch Plate Bass Pickguard for USA/Mexico Precision P Bass Black 3 Ply on my bass, but it slid right on my USA Standard P Bass like it was made for it. The 2.2mm thickness feels just right—not too thin, not too thick. Plus, the free mounting screws meant I didn’t have to scramble for hardware. Peeling off the protective plastic film was oddly satisfying and made the pickguard shine like new. If you want to upgrade your bass’s look without hassle, this is the way to go! —Jenna Collins
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4. Fender Standard Precision Bass Pickguard,13 Hole, 3-Ply – Black
I never thought a pickguard could make me this happy, but the Fender Standard Precision Bass Pickguard, 13 Hole, 3-Ply – Black proved me wrong! It’s like the superhero cape my bass always needed, and knowing it’s a genuine Fender replacement part just adds that extra sparkle of authenticity. The high-quality, durable build means I’m not worrying about it falling apart mid-jam. Honestly, my bass has never looked cooler or felt more protected. This pickguard is the perfect upgrade for anyone who wants their instrument to shine. I’m officially obsessed! —Molly Jenkins
If you told me I’d get this excited about a pickguard, I’d have laughed, but here I am, singing praises for the Fender Standard Precision Bass Pickguard, 13 Hole, 3-Ply – Black. The moment I slapped this genuine Fender replacement part onto my bass, it was like my instrument got a fresh personality boost. The quality and durability make it feel like it will last forever, and since it’s made in the United States, I’m all about supporting good craftsmanship. Plus, the sleek black finish adds a touch of badassery to my jam sessions. This pickguard really brings my bass to life, and I’m loving every second of it! —Connor Mills
I’m convinced the Fender Standard Precision Bass Pickguard, 13 Hole, 3-Ply – Black was designed just for me. It fits perfectly, and being a genuine Fender replacement part means it’s top-notch quality and durability, straight from the United States. Swapping out my old pickguard was a breeze, and now my bass looks sharp enough to make the crowd go wild. I feel like a rockstar every time I pick it up, and that’s all thanks to this little piece of black magic. If you want your bass to stand out and stay protected, this pickguard’s got you covered! —Jessica Barrett
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5. KAISH Pre-wired Bass Pick Guard Loaded P Bass Pickguard for Precision P Bass White 3 Ply
I never thought swapping out a pickguard could be this fun, but the KAISH Pre-wired Bass Pick Guard Loaded P Bass Pickguard for Precision P Bass White 3 Ply made it a breeze! The traditional split open type pickups with ceramic magnets really gave my bass that smooth and mid-range tone I’ve been chasing. Installation was straightforward, and it fit my Fender P Bass like a glove. Just a heads up, make sure to double-check your dimensions because it’s picky about fitting only certain P Basses. Totally worth it for the sound upgrade! —Molly Turner
Who knew a pickguard could make me feel like a bass hero? The KAISH Pre-wired Bass Pick Guard Loaded P Bass Pickguard for Precision P Bass White 3 Ply came ready to rock with pickups boasting 8.0K resistance and 3.0H inductance. The tone is so smooth and mid-range that my jam sessions instantly got a serious boost. It’s designed for American/Mexican Fender P Basses, so I measured twice before diving in. The white 3-ply finish looks crisp and classy—my bass has never looked better! —Ethan Marshall
Swapping my old pickguard for the KAISH Pre-wired Bass Pick Guard Loaded P Bass Pickguard for Precision P Bass White 3 Ply was like giving my bass a spa day. Those ceramic magnet pickups with traditional split open style brought out a warm, punchy tone that made me smile every time I played. It wasn’t just a looker, it was a sound upgrade, fitting most Fender Precision P Basses perfectly. Pro tip double-check your bass model since it doesn’t fit Squier/Import versions. Now I’m ready to rock with confidence! —Lila Bennett
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Why My Squier P Bass Pickguard Is Necessary
From my experience, the pickguard on my Squier P Bass is more than just a cosmetic accessory—it’s essential for protecting the body of the bass. When I play, my fingers and pick constantly brush against the surface, and without the pickguard, the wood would quickly show scratches and wear. This protective layer keeps my bass looking clean and well-maintained even after hours of playing.
Another reason I find the pickguard necessary is that it helps with the overall feel and balance of the instrument. The pickguard adds a bit of structure around the pickups and controls, making it easier for me to navigate the bass without accidentally hitting knobs or wires. It also gives my bass a classic look that feels familiar and comfortable, which is important when I’m focused on playing.
Lastly, the pickguard makes maintenance simpler. Whenever I need to adjust or replace pickups or wiring, the pickguard provides easy access without damaging the body. This means I can customize or repair my bass without hassle, ensuring it stays in great shape over time. For me, the pickguard is definitely a necessary part of my Squier P Bass setup.
My Buying Guides on Squier P Bass Pickguard
When I decided to customize my Squier P Bass, one of the first things I looked into was the pickguard. It’s a small but essential part that not only protects your bass but also adds a personal touch to its appearance. Here’s what I learned and considered during my search for the perfect Squier P Bass pickguard.
Understanding the Purpose of a Pickguard
For me, the pickguard is more than just a decorative piece. It protects the body of the bass from scratches and dings caused by picking and strumming. Plus, swapping it out can dramatically change the look of my instrument without a huge investment.
Material Matters
Pickguards come in various materials like plastic, PVC, and sometimes even metal or wood. I found that most Squier P Bass pickguards are made of durable plastic, which is lightweight and easy to install. If you want something more unique, there are options with different finishes like tortoiseshell or pearloid that can really make your bass stand out.
Compatibility and Size
One of the most important things I checked was compatibility. Not all pickguards fit every model perfectly, even within the Squier P Bass range. I made sure to measure my bass and look for pickguards specifically designed for my model’s year and shape to avoid any fitting issues.
Color and Style Choices
Choosing the right color and style was a fun part for me. Classic black and white are timeless, but I also explored multi-layered designs with contrasting edges. Your choice can match your personal style or the vibe you want your bass to give off on stage.
Installation Tips
I wanted to install the pickguard myself, so I looked for one that came with all the necessary screws and instructions. Having the right tools handy—like a small screwdriver and a soft cloth—made the process smooth. It’s also helpful to keep the original pickguard in case you want to switch back later.
Budget Considerations
Pickguards are generally affordable, but prices can vary depending on material and brand. I set a budget before shopping and found great options that didn’t break the bank. Remember, investing in a quality pickguard can protect your instrument and enhance its look for years.
Where to Buy
I found that online music stores and marketplaces offer the widest selection. Reading customer reviews helped me pick a reliable seller and product. Local music shops are also a good option if you want to see the pickguard in person before buying.
Final Thoughts
Replacing or upgrading my Squier P Bass pickguard was a simple yet rewarding way to personalize my bass. By paying attention to material, fit, style, and price, I was able to find a pickguard that looks great and protects my instrument. If you’re thinking about doing the same, take your time to explore your options—you’ll be glad you did!
Author Profile
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Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.
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