loading
reading
writing
saving
searching
2003 PRS McCarty Single Cut OHSC in Near Mint condition - $2,100 (n pdx)
QR Code Link to This Post
This is one of the legendary, short-run “pre-lawsuit” Singlecuts”—highly collectible and considered some of the best PRSi ever built.
⭐ IDENTIFICATION
Model: PRS Singlecut
Year: 2003 (confirmed from your serial 154623, and PRS uses the 1 = 2001, 5 = 2005 decade marker; “03” production aligns with your serial range)
Built in: Stevensville, Maryland, USA
Finish: McCarty Sunburst with a high-grade flame maple top
Case: Original USA PRS black hardshell, correct interior
⭐ KEY FEATURES OF THE 2003 SINGLECUT1. Construction
Body: Solid mahogany
Top: Carved maple with a high 10-top-style flame even if not stamped
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: East Indian rosewood
Inlays: Moons
Scale length: 25"
Neck profile: Wide Fat (chunky but comfy)
2. Electronics
Pickups (stock for 2003):
Treble: PRS #7 Treble
Bass: PRS #7 Bass
These were medium-output Alnico V humbuckers with a slightly vintage PAF feel but more modern clarity.
Controls:
2 × Volume
2 × Tone
3-way toggle on upper bout (Les Paul-style)
3. Hardware
Tuners: PRS Phase I locking tuners with vintage-style keystone buttons
(Your photos show the correct vintage keystone buttons used at that time.)
Bridge: PRS wraparound adjustable stop tail
Hardware finish: Nickel
⭐ THE “PRE-LAWSUIT” FACTOR
The 2000–2006 Singlecuts were famously targeted by Gibson in a large lawsuit.
These pre-lawsuit Singlecuts (2000–2004 especially):
Are the most desirable run
Are built like tanks with classic PRS craftsmanship
Are considered the closest PRS ever came to making a true Les Paul rival
Often have better tops and more hand finishing than later SC models
Players frequently describe them as:
Tighter low end than a Les Paul
More consistent weight and feel
Better tuning stability
More clarity in chord work
Top
Beautiful flame—very likely a PRS “10-grade” top even if not stickered
Deep, vintage burst edges with bright amber center
Back & Neck
Mahogany grain consistent with early 2000s USA PRSi
Finish wear minimal
Tuners
Correct PRS Phase I with keystone buttons
No replacement parts
Serial
“154623” in gold marker = consistent with 2003 USA production
Hand-applied numbers are normal for PRS back then
Condition
excellent
No visible neck repairs, cracks, or major dings
Original case included, which adds value
⭐ TYPICAL SPECS FOR 2003 SINGLECUT
Body Thickness: ~1.75"
Weight: Typically 8.0–9.0 lbs
Radius: 10"
Frets: 22 medium jumbo
Nut width: 1 11/16"
⭐ TONE PROFILE
Your 2003 Singlecut produces:
Clean
Rich, full low end
Slight mid scoop but very articulate
Tightened low end vs. Gibson LP
Overdrive
Thick midrange punch
Smooth but not muddy
Great sustain (due to wrap tail and long tenon)
Versatility
Works for:
Rock
Classic rock
Blues
Jazz
Worship
Studio work
⭐ COLLECTABILITY
2000–2004 PRS Singlecuts are increasing in value because:
Pre-lawsuit era
Better woods and finishing quality
PRS collectors specifically look for 2001–2003 runs
Vintage-correct top carve thickness
Gibson lawsuit lore adds mystique