The prototype built by Fender Custom Shop Artist Relations representative Alex Perez has served as John 5's main guitar since around 2003.

[citation needed] The standard features that differentiate John 5's Telecasters from the traditional Telecaster design include dual volume controls instead of both a volume and tone control, a three-way toggle switch mounted through the upper bout, chrome pickguard, and a specially shaped headstock.

there have been several versions of the J5 Tele, these include: Made at the Fender Custom Shop in Corona, California, USA.

Made in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico.

Made in China under the Squier brand as a more budget conscious variant.