Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $9,444

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "1958 Gibson Explorer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

In 1958, Gibson introduced a guitar that would forever change the landscape of rock music: the Gibson Explorer. With its space-age design and unparalleled craftsmanship, this guitar quickly became a symbol of innovation. The 1958 Korina Explorer is a meticulous re-creation of this legendary instrument, boasting a Korina body and neck that offer a rich, resonant sound reminiscent of the finest mahogany.

Korina, known for its clarity and balance, provides the Explorer with a naturally warm tone that emphasizes midrange frequencies. This guitar's CustomBucker Alnico III humbuckers capture the nuances of every note, delivering vintage-accurate PAF tones that are both warm and articulate. Whether you're strumming chords or shredding solos, the Explorer's sound is as bold as its look.

Aesthetically, the Explorer stays true to its roots with a 4-ply black pickguard, gold hardware, and a nitrocellulose lacquer finish that enhances its tonal qualities. The ABR-1 bridge with brass saddles ensures maximum sustain, allowing each note to bloom with rich harmonic depth.

This guitar isn't just a piece of history; it's a tool for modern musicians to craft their sound. Join the ranks of iconic players like The Edge and Rick Nielsen by adding this timeless instrument to your collection.

Key Features:

  • Korina body and neck
  • Rosewood fingerboard with pearloid dot inlays
  • Authentic Chunky "C" neck profile
  • Dual CustomBucker Alnico III humbuckers
  • ABR-1 bridge with brass saddle and aluminum stopbar tailpiece
  • Gold hardware finish
  • Comes with a case and certificate of authenticity
  • Made in USA

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape 1958 Korina Explorer
Body Material Korina
Body Finish Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Neck Material Korina
Neck Shape '58 Explorer
Neck Joint Set Neck
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Inlay Pearloid Dots
Number of Frets 22
Scale Length 24.75"
Nut Width 1.687"
Nut Material Nylon
Bridge/Tailpiece Adjustable ABR-1 Bridge with Aluminum Stopbar Tailpiece
Tuners Kluson with Celluloid tips
Neck Pickup Custom Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Custom Humbucker
Controls 2 x volume, 1 x master tone
Switching 3-way toggle pickup
Strings Gibson, .010-.046
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What kind of wood is used for the 1958 Gibson Explorer, and how does it affect the sound?

The 1958 Gibson Explorer is made from korina wood, known for its warm, resonant tone and excellent sustain. This contributes to the guitar's rich midrange and smooth high-end, making it ideal for rock music.

What is the neck profile of the 1958 Gibson Explorer like?

The 1958 Gibson Explorer features a '58 Explorer neck profile, which is slightly chunky and offers a comfortable grip for players who prefer a thicker neck, enhancing playability and control.

Are the pickups on the 1958 Gibson Explorer suitable for rock and metal music?

Yes, the 1958 Gibson Explorer is equipped with custom humbuckers, delivering a powerful and clear tone with plenty of output, perfect for rock and metal genres.

Does the 1958 Gibson Explorer come with a case?

Yes, the 1958 Gibson Explorer comes with a hardshell case, providing excellent protection for the guitar during transport and storage.

How does the 1958 Gibson Explorer handle distortion and overdrive?

The 1958 Gibson Explorer handles distortion and overdrive exceptionally well, thanks to its custom humbuckers, which maintain clarity and punch, making it a favorite for players seeking classic rock tones.

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Rick Nielsen's 1958 Gibson Explorer | Korina Gibson Explorer | CME Quick Riff | Shelby Pollard

Video thumbnail for Rick Nielsen's 1958 Gibson Explorer | Korina Gibson Explorer | CME Quick Riff | Shelby Pollard by Chicago Music Exchange

Rick Nielsen's 1958 Gibson Explorer | Korina Gibson Explorer | CME Quick Riff | Shelby Pollard

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for Special Edition! In the Shop: Appraisal on a 1958 Gibson Explorer by Elderly Instruments

Special Edition! In the Shop: Appraisal on a 1958 Gibson Explorer

Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Reviews

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Slash uses 1958 Gibson Explorer

Slash

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

In his autobiographic book, Slash by Anthony Bozza (2007), he says he used a ‘58 Gibson Explorer to record the solo for Knockin’ on Heaven's Door, included in Guns N’ Roses’ album Use Your Illusion II (1992).

See how Allen Collins uses 1958 Gibson Explorer

Allen Collins

Guitarist

Lynyrd Skynyrd

...
Verified via Photo

Allen Collins is confirmed to have used the 1958 Gibson Explorer guitar while recording four of Lynyrd Skynyrd's debut albums, including the track "Free Bird," as evidenced by a photograph from the source.

See how Charlie Starr uses 1958 Gibson Explorer

Charlie Starr

Guitarist

Blackberry Smoke

...
Verified via YouTube

Charlie uses a Korina Explorer during a cover of Flirtin’ With Disaster

See how Ken Andrews uses 1958 Gibson Explorer

Ken Andrews

Singer, Guitarist

Failure

...
Verified via Photo

Ken Andrews is seen playing a 1958 Gibson Explorer in the user-uploaded photo, suggesting he uses this iconic solid body electric guitar.

See how Pata uses 1958 Gibson Explorer

Pata

Guitarist

X Japan

...
Verified via Google Docs

He used this guitar extensively during X Japan's Blue Blood tour in 1989-90.

See how Rolf Kasparek uses 1958 Gibson Explorer

Rolf Kasparek

Singer, Guitarist

Running Wild

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture shown, Rolf uses an 1958 Gibson Explorer. He later customized it with a sticker of the band´s logo.

Genre Usage

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