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Average Price: $3,650

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$1001+

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Description

The 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom is a piece of musical history that continues to captivate guitarists with its classic design and unparalleled craftsmanship. Crafted during an era celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail, this Les Paul model delivers the iconic sound and feel that Gibson is renowned for. Equipped with dual humbucking pickups, this guitar provides a rich, full-bodied tone that suits a variety of musical styles, from rock to blues and beyond.

The solid mahogany body and carved maple top contribute to its warm, resonant sound, while the ebony fretboard offers a smooth playing experience. The custom binding and gold hardware add a touch of elegance, making it as visually striking as it is sonically powerful. With its medium C-shaped neck, players will enjoy a comfortable grip that facilitates both rhythm playing and intricate lead work. This model embodies the essence of Gibson’s heritage, proving itself a reliable choice for both stage and studio settings.

Whether you're an experienced professional or an avid collector, the 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom promises to deliver a timeless performance with every strum.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany body with carved maple top
  • Dual humbucking pickups for versatile tonal range
  • Ebony fretboard with custom binding
  • Medium C-shaped neck for comfortable playability
  • Gold hardware for an elegant aesthetic touch

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Les Paul Custom
Finish Alpine White, Burgundy Mist, Charcoal Metallic, Cherry Sunburst, Ebony, Ferrari Red, Tobacco Sunburst, Wine Red
Year 1986 - 1989
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, Brown, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Gibson Les Paul
Model Sub-Family Gibson Les Paul Custom
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom?

The 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom typically features a '60s Slim Taper neck profile, which is known for its comfortable and fast playability, making it ideal for players who prefer a thinner neck.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom?

The 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom is equipped with dual humbucker pickups, providing a rich, warm tone with plenty of sustain, making it versatile for genres ranging from rock and blues to jazz and heavy metal.

Is the 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom is well-suited for advanced players due to its high-quality construction, versatile tonal range, and professional-grade components, making it a popular choice for seasoned musicians.

What type of wood is used in the body of the 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom?

The body of the 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom is made from mahogany with a maple top, offering a balanced tone with warmth and clarity, which is a hallmark of the Les Paul sound.

How does the 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom compare to other Les Paul models from the same era?

The 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom is distinguished by its luxurious appointments, such as an ebony fretboard and multi-ply binding, offering a more premium feel and aesthetic compared to other Les Paul models from the same period.

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Michael Lemmo playing a 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom in White

Video thumbnail for Michael Lemmo playing a 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom in White by Normans Rare Guitars

Michael Lemmo playing a 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom in White

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for AKA Gun Metal Grey! 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom Charcoal Metallic | Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

AKA Gun Metal Grey! 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom Charcoal Metallic | Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom, Part1 by GregsGuitars

1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom, Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for GIBSON LES PAUL CUSTOM 1986!! | First Take by Sixty Sixty Sounds

GIBSON LES PAUL CUSTOM 1986!! | First Take

Sixty Sixty Sounds

Sixty Sixty Sounds

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional tone with warm cleans and clear, crunchy distortion

  • Heavy body with great sustain and a fast, smooth ebony fretboard

  • High-end feel with improved build quality post-1986 acquisition

  • Versatile sound with coil-split humbuckers and distinctive Gibson mid-range

  • Attractive vintage aesthetic with notable craftsmanship

  • Inspires improved playing experience and musical performance

  • Bill Lawrence pickups provide surprising clarity, even with distortion

CONS

  • Potential for wear and tear, particularly on the headstock

  • Inconsistent listing details or unclear product images can lead to misunderstandings

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom.

Setup and maintenance

  • A maxed-out truss rod with homemade shims indicates potential neck stress, which may require professional luthier assessment to prevent long-term damage.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners observed homemade truss rod shims in 1986 models, resembling those in some 1990s Gibsons, suggesting consistency in certain quality control practices across decades.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Brian Blush uses 1986 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Brian Blush

Guitarist

The Refreshments

...
Verified via Photo

Brian recorded the Refreshment's first independent album "Wheelie" with his Les Paul Custom. It was originally Alpine White, but aged to the color it is now.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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