I've had two 000-18 Matins--the first bought in '61 or 62 and ultimately died when I smashed it over the TV set during a discussion with my wife, Carol. Then used a D-28 for many years & rather than take the time for a fret job I was too busy), I traded it for a Gurian. Neck on the Gurian never did get put on right. Got rid of it when I WON a Martin D-76 bicentennial model (limited edition) in a raffle at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago. (cost: $3.00) I've been playing that guitar in various configurations until I smashed it with the lid of a car trunk. (As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly... er,I thought there was plenty of room!) Jan Burda in Berian Springs, Michigan did a masterful job putting those matchstick pieces and splinters back together again. While it was in the shop I got my second 000-18. Did that for physical & health reasons. The smaller size etc. was easier for me to play.

Martin has always been the guitar for me. Never have seen a bad one. Later (more recently),I always tried to have two at the same time---in case one was in the shop. Always just felt good/right to own and pick on a Martin. Some o' that is just querrencia I suspect.

Art