Gibson Custom Explorer Custom Electric Guitar With Bound Head Veneer - Ebony

With its angular body shape, iconic “hockey stick” headstock and unmistakable stage presence, the Explorer remains one of Gibson's most daring electric guitar designs. The Gibson Custom Explorer Custom with Bound Head Veneer takes that iconic platform in a decidedly upscale direction, combining its bold silhouette with a three-ply bound headstock, elegant appointments and meticulous Gibson Custom craftsmanship throughout. Its angular, space age-inspired mahogany body is paired with long neck tenon construction for rich warmth, sustain and resonance, while a Medium C mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard deliver a comfortable, responsive playing experience. A matched pair of Gibson 490R and 498T humbuckers offers everything from shimmering cleans to aggressive overdrive, while gold hardware throughout further elevates the Explorer's already commanding visual presence. The result is a powerful, refined interpretation of one of Gibson's most radical original designs.

Solid Mahogany Construction for Legendary Explorer Authority

The Explorer's distinctive silhouette has always been more than a visual statement. Built from solid mahogany, the body delivers the warmth, sustain and powerful midrange response that have made the model a favorite among rock and metal players for decades. Long neck tenon construction strengthens the connection between the neck and body, enhancing resonance and note transfer throughout the instrument. Combined with the Explorer's naturally balanced feel and expansive body shape, the result is a guitar that feels substantial, resonant and remarkably alive in the hands.

Medium C Mahogany Neck and Ebony Fingerboard

A mahogany neck carved to a comfortable Medium C profile provides a familiar feel that strikes an ideal balance between speed and substance. The ebony fingerboard contributes clarity, strong note definition and a smooth playing surface, while 22 medium-jumbo frets offer ample room for expressive bends and articulate lead work. Mother-of-pearl block inlays and single-ply binding reinforce the guitar's premium presentation, and the traditional 24.75" scale length delivers the effortless feel and responsiveness players expect from a Gibson Custom instrument.

490R and 498T Humbuckers for Versatile Gibson Tone

A matched set of Gibson humbuckers gives the Explorer Custom its broad tonal range. The 490R neck pickup delivers warmth, clarity and smooth sustain for clean passages and expressive lead playing, while the higher-output 498T bridge pickup provides added punch, harmonic richness and aggressive midrange character when pushed into overdrive. Handwired electronics featuring CTS potentiometers ensure reliable performance and responsive control, allowing players to move effortlessly between articulate cleans, classic rock crunch and heavier modern tones.

3-Ply Bound Headstock and Premium Custom Appointments

This Gibson Custom creation exudes vintage elegance from tip to tail—starting with a three-ply bound headstock that sets it apart from other Explorers. A mother-of-pearl Gibson logo complements the bound head veneer, while multi-ply body binding, a bound ebony fingerboard and mother-of-pearl block inlays reinforce the guitar's upscale presentation. Gold-plated hardware throughout, including the ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridge, stopbar tailpiece, Grover Rotomatic tuners and pickup covers, provides a striking visual contrast against the instrument's stealthy Ebony finish. A multi-ply black pickguard completes the look, and each guitar ships with a Gibson Custom certificate of authenticity and hardshell case.

A Bold Gibson Original, Elevated

This Explorer Custom with Bound Head Veneer takes one of Gibson's most daring and influential designs in a more luxurious direction. By pairing the Explorer's unmistakable visual identity and powerful voice with upscale appointments, premium materials and renowned Custom Shop craftsmanship, it delivers a sophisticated interpretation of a true electric guitar icon. The result is a striking instrument that feels every bit as bold today as it did when the Explorer first challenged convention in 1958.