What is a good guitar for Blues other than a Stratocaster?

Sounds easy right? But here's the catch, I need it to be durable, easily modifiable, and it would help if it was under $499.99. Anybody got any idea's? I've been playing for 3 years, however I want a different sound and I'm starting to get into Blue's. Although I lack experience I can keep up with some of the better people that have been playing more than double the time as me, thats unimportant however. And why not a Strat? I already have one but I use it as my guinea pig pretty much. Any ideas? thank you.