I'm a long-time Strat/Tele player that decided to get a rock/metal guitar earlier this year. I started by researching Ibanez guitars, as that's what I owned in the 90's. I just can't get along with the necks. I looked at old 80's guitars, but they can be a crapshoot in terms of quality. Ultimately, I found the guitar that works best for me. I understand it's not on your list, and I don't know what availability would be on your side of the pond, but IMHO, this is the best "rockier" guitar I've ever owned:
This is a MIJ Charvel So Cal. They're discontinued, so you need to find either used or NOS. The neck isn't your typical strat neck, it's wider and flatter. Quartersawn maple with a fantastic matte finish. Jumbo frets. Hot DiMarzio humbuckers, and a Floyd. This easily goes from 80's hard rock/metal through more modern tones. I've modified mine with a coil split push/pull volume pot, but it's outstanding stock.
I've also had a PRS Custom 24 since the mid 90's. It's also a really great guitar for rock, although there are those who'd say that the maple-necked CE22 or CE24 is a better guitar for rock, and a bit cheaper, too.
This is a MIJ Charvel So Cal. They're discontinued, so you need to find either used or NOS. The neck isn't your typical strat neck, it's wider and flatter. Quartersawn maple with a fantastic matte finish. Jumbo frets. Hot DiMarzio humbuckers, and a Floyd. This easily goes from 80's hard rock/metal through more modern tones. I've modified mine with a coil split push/pull volume pot, but it's outstanding stock.
I've also had a PRS Custom 24 since the mid 90's. It's also a really great guitar for rock, although there are those who'd say that the maple-necked CE22 or CE24 is a better guitar for rock, and a bit cheaper, too.