Reggie, Yes I love thrift stores and have bought several fair guitars at around the $30 mark. But the bargains are few and far between (fortunately, or our music room would be full to the ceiling) and it might be difficult to coordinate one search with the 'expert friend'.

Sam, of course if you have the time to look around you should be able to buy a dozen or more for $300 and about 30% of them should be reasonable.

Bert.