guitars and such
Strats usually have a flush vibrato, which allows for pitch-lowering, and not pitch-raising, although I have mine set up for both. In case you're still confused, the vibrato arm, or "trem" (which is actually an incorrect term musically, but has stuck), is also known as a "whammy bar."
Squiers tend to be fairly cheaply made in Korean factories (at least as of a few years ago), but there are definitely good ones -- you just need to be careful. Telecasters have a distinctive tone, but are generally limited because of the one pickup, and you won't be able to play anything super-heavy, but you might not be looking for that anyway.
Mexican strats, as far as I can tell, are pretty good. And the Yamaha Pacifica that I have played was fairly well-made as well. Ibanez is a very good name, but I don't know much about them.
The most important thing is to play them all, preferably with the same amp, and at the same time. Take your time; it's your money and your musical enjoyment at stake. Compare how each of them feels. If you really like one guitar but it just doesn't "feel" right, ask if you can have it adjusted by the guitar tech in shop. Also be mindful of the amp you play them on, as different amps can make a single guitar sound entirely different.
You have to enjoy playing it. Or else soon enough you won't be playing it at all.
good luck
k
