What a good question! This is what Open Discussion is really about for me, by making us look at obvious aspects of our instrument from a different perspective.
My 18 year old son (like me, a southpaw) insists on taking his strat and/or AC30 when 'shopping'. Eliminates the variables, he says. I must admit, it makes sense to use a known amp or guitar if you are spending serious money.

For myself, as I look too straight to pose a threat to the usual saturday 15 year old shread-heads, I prefer to lay down a note perfect Heartbreaker solo or Entrance of the Capulets & Montagues from Romeo & Juliet as a bit of a party piece. An old fart, huh? Been there, done it, got the tee shirt, mate!