Conversations with Justin Hackl

Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Hackl. 

Hi Justin, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
In 2006, I had just got done with a 9-month long tour with the band The Blackout Pact. We had burned out. Band over. By this time, I had been touring with whatever band I was in and working whatever job I could easily quit or that would allow me to travel like that for close to 10 years. I was ready to find something a little more stable. I considered going into computer tech or something along those lines to land me a decent income. But then the thought of that terrified me and I knew I’d be miserable. Eventually, I stumbled upon a school in Arizona. Roberto-Venn School of Lutherie. At the end of 2008, I moved to Phoenix and I spent 10 hours a day, 5 days a week for 6 months learning how to build acoustic and electric guitars. There was also a 6-week repair course. Because of my time spent playing music in the Denver area for so long, I knew it wouldn’t be too hard to get people to start bringing me their instruments. It took few years to become stable with work, but eventually, it became my full-time job. I’m coming up on 13 years now. I couldn’t be more thankful for everyone that has given me a chance and helped the business grow to what it is today. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Having the confidence to keep going even when things get rough. That could mean business, relationships, health, or quality of life overall. I’ve been through a really nasty divorce and still deal with those issues occasionally. That takes a heavy toll on my mental health. I just recently had necrotizing pancreatitis and lost 70% of my pancreas. I had to close the shop for 6 months while I recovered. In fact, as I type this, I’m having yet another surgery in a few days. This will be my 10th surgery in the last 6 months. It’s been hell. But I am working again and pushing through the pain and discomfort to keep things moving. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
What do I do? I offer proper care for guitars, basses, and occasionally other stringed instruments. 

What do I specialize in? 

Getting these instruments playing and sounding their best. That could mean just a basic setup, installing new electronics, fret levels, new custom-made bone nuts and saddles, custom-made pickguards. If I like you a lot, and we dig each other’s ideas, I can make custom handmade guitars or basses too. 

What am I most proud of? 

The fact that I’m still in business and people trust me with their instruments. 

What sets me apart from others? 

I’d like to think that because it is just me, you’re dealing with when coming to the shop, that you get no BS. I am very honest and open about what I think your instrument needs. Sometimes to a fault where I know I won’t make as much money. It’s not always about the money to me. Yes, it’s my job and my only source of income. I’m fortunate to be able to work from home which keeps my overhead extremely low. Therefore, I try as best as I can to pass those savings onto my customers. I have been playing guitar for over 30 years. And in that 30 years, I’ve been playing in a band ever since. At the peak of my touring days, we reached somewhere around 200 shows a year. I know what is ultimately important for live shows and what is just overkill and sometimes downright silly. I will always do my best to convince my customers to do what’s best for their playing style/needs instead of spending tons of money on gimmicks and/or “tricks of the trade”. 

How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
If you are interested in my services, emailing me at justin@hacklguitars.com is the best way to get an appointment. Word-of-mouth referrals are the best way to support me. 

Contact Info:

• Email: Justin@hacklguitars.com
• Website: www.hackguitars.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hacklguitars/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justin.hackl/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/hackl-guitars-denver
• Other: https://g.co/kgs/GHkXyL