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2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer

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Page last updated Feb 15, 2026

Pricing and availability

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Price

Average Price: $1,950

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Solid Body Electric Guitars category, 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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The 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer is a bold statement for left-handed guitarists who crave both style and substance. Inspired by its ground-breaking 1958 ancestor, this angular masterpiece is more than just a nod to the past—it's a celebration of rock and roll history. Its iconic asymmetrical body and pointed headstock are unmistakable, providing a visual and sonic punch that has kept guitarists coming back for decades.

Equipped with two fiery Burstbucker humbuckers, this Explorer delivers the warm, fat tones that Gibson is renowned for. These pickups are designed for players who demand both power and nuance, offering a dynamic range that can handle anything from searing solos to lush chords. And thanks to the Plek'd precision playability, the neck is a dream to navigate, ensuring each note is both clear and resonant. The '60s SlimTaper neck profile strikes a perfect balance between speed and comfort, inviting hours of effortless play.

The lightweight mahogany body is designed with the performing musician in mind, allowing you to rock long sets with ease. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring rockstar, the 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer offers a compelling mix of classic and modern features, perfect for those ready to make their mark.

Key Features:

Lightweight mahogany body with iconic asymmetrical design
SlimTaper neck profile for balance between comfort and speed
Plek'd neck for precision playability and smooth fretboard feel
Equipped with Burstbucker 2 (neck) and Burstbucker 3 (bridge) humbuckers
Fast-access heel for improved reach to upper frets
Adjustable titanium zero-fret nut for fine-tuning action

Product specs

Brand	Gibson
Model	Explorer Left-Handed
Finish	Antique Natural
Year	2018
Made In	United States
Categories	Left-Handed Electric Guitars, Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape	X-Style
Body Type	Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type	Stop-Bar
Color Family	Tan
Fretboard Material	Granadillo
Model Family	Gibson Explorer
Neck Construction	Set-Neck
Number of Frets	22
Number of Strings	6-String
Offset Body	Offset Body
Pickup Configuration	HH
Right / Left Handed	Left Handed

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer best suited for?: The 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer is ideal for rock and metal genres due to its powerful humbucker pickups and iconic design, which deliver a bold and aggressive tone.
What is the neck profile of the 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer like?: The 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer features a comfortable, slim taper neck profile, making it easy to play fast riffs and solos.
How does the Granadillo fretboard on the 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer affect playability?: The Granadillo fretboard offers a smooth playing surface with a tonal quality similar to rosewood, providing a balanced sound and comfortable feel.
Is the 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer suitable for beginners?: While the 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer is more commonly favored by intermediate to advanced players due to its distinctive design and powerful sound, beginners with a preference for rock and metal may also find it appealing.
What is the pickup configuration on the 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer?: The 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer features a dual humbucker (HH) pickup configuration, providing a thick, high-output sound ideal for heavy music styles.

Reviews

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PROS

Stunningly figured body, visually appealing design
Exceptional pickups with warm, smooth distortion
Lightweight with excellent resonance, ideal for extended play
Premium quality materials like aluminum tailpiece and saddle
Cryogenically treated frets for enhanced playability
Slick action and killer 12" radius neck for comfortable play
Versatile sound range from classic rock to smooth jazz
Unique nitro finish aroma adds an authentic touch

CONS

Fretboard might not match the playability of similar models
Rosewood fretboard preference not met in this model
Aesthetic preference for a black pickguard over current design

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer.

User experience

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The 2018 Left Handed Gibson Explorer feels surprisingly comfortable and stable when seated, despite its awkward shape, though the body extension requires some adaptation.
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Weighing approximately 8.3 lbs, the Explorer is considered on the heavier side but lighter than a Les Paul Standard, which can exceed 9 lbs.
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Comparisons

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Tonal qualities are similar to a Les Paul Studio with Burstbucker pickups, offering a familiar sound for Les Paul enthusiasts.
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Natural finish Explorers are likened to the Kelly model for their strikingly similar aesthetics and unique wood grain patterns, enhancing the guitar's individuality.
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