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Average Price: $198

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Description

The B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5 is an electric guitar that combines striking aesthetics with robust sound capabilities, making it a favorite among rock and metal guitarists. Known for its iconic body shape, this solid body electric guitar is crafted for those who wish to make a bold statement both visually and sonically. Its aggressive design isn't just for show; it supports a high-output performance suited for heavy riffing and fast leads.

Equipped with dual humbucker pickups, the Warlock Mk 5 delivers a powerful and versatile tone. The pickups are designed to handle high gain with ease, ensuring clarity and punch during intense performances. The guitar features a bolt-on maple neck that provides a smooth playing experience across the fretboard, while the rosewood fingerboard offers a rich tonal depth. The Warlock Mk 5 also includes a Floyd Rose tremolo system, perfect for dive bombs and expressive vibratos without sacrificing tuning stability.

This guitar doesn't just stand out in looks; it promises durability and reliability needed for both stage and studio. With its balanced weight and ergonomic design, players can enjoy extended sessions without fatigue, making it a practical choice for serious musicians.

Key Features:

  • Iconic Warlock body shape for a distinctive look
  • Dual humbucker pickups for high-output sound
  • Bolt-on maple neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Floyd Rose tremolo system for advanced performance capabilities
  • Designed for rock and metal genres with versatile tonal options

Product specs

Brand B.C. Rich
Model MK5-WL-BK Warlock
Finish Gloss Black
Year 2010s
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5?

The B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5 features a slim neck profile, which is designed for fast playability and comfort, making it ideal for shredding and solos.

What type of music is the B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5 best suited for?

With its aggressive design and dual humbucker pickup configuration, the B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5 is well-suited for rock and metal genres, providing powerful tones and sustain.

How does the pickup configuration affect the sound of the B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5?

The B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5 is equipped with HH (dual humbucker) pickups, offering a thick, high-output sound with reduced noise, perfect for heavy distortion and high-gain settings.

Is the B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5 suitable for beginner guitarists?

While the B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5 can be used by beginners, its design and features are more tailored towards intermediate to advanced players who appreciate its metal-oriented aesthetics and sound.

What is the body shape of the B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5?

The B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5 features a distinctive double cutaway body shape with an offset design, providing easy access to higher frets and a unique visual appeal.

Guitar World

Guitar World

B.C. Rich MK5 Warlock

Video thumbnail for B.C. Rich MK5 Warlock by Guitar World

B.C. Rich MK5 Warlock

Guitar World

Guitar World

Video thumbnail for B.C. Rich MK5 Warlock by Scott Eames

B.C. Rich MK5 Warlock

Scott Eames

Scott Eames

Video thumbnail for ¿Que tal BC Rich gama media? BC Rich Warlock MK5 by DHE guitars

¿Que tal BC Rich gama media? BC Rich Warlock MK5

DHE guitars

DHE guitars

Video thumbnail for New NEVALRA Teaser - B.C. Rich Mk5 Warlock & Randall Satan by Scott Eames

New NEVALRA Teaser - B.C. Rich Mk5 Warlock & Randall Satan

Scott Eames

Scott Eames

Reviews

PROS

  • Attractive design with a striking, edgy look

  • Lightweight and offers good upper fret access

  • Versatile sound range with 3-position switch for varied genres

CONS

  • Inconsistent build quality; some units arrive damaged

  • Stock pickups lack power, especially for metal genres

  • Issues with fretwork; sharp fret ends and uncomfortable nut

  • Tuning stability concerns due to low-quality nut

  • Requires significant upgrades for optimal performance

  • Neck pickup sound issues persist even after upgrades

  • Overall sound may be muddy without modifications

  • Quality varies drastically between different production eras

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5.

Build quality

  • The neck is reportedly narrower, affecting string spacing and playability for some users.

    Source
  • Owners of early 2000s NJ Warlock models report exceptionally fast necks and thick sound, with ebony fretboards and dual volume controls as standout features.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend swapping the electronics for Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates pickups in both neck and bridge positions for enhanced tone.

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  • A user mentioned fixing neck dive issues by relocating the strap button to the neck heel and adding wheel weights in the electronic cavity.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users express difficulty finding decent B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5 models available for sale locally.

    Source
  • Despite its distinctive look, some owners found the Warlock's weight distribution and pointed edges uncomfortable during long play sessions.

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  • Owners emphasize the importance of trying the guitar in-store to assess comfort in both sitting and standing positions, as well as to evaluate the scale length and weight.

    Source
  • One owner has reported that their Warlock provides excellent feel for palm muting and pitch harmonics, with the shorter, narrow frets contributing to faster playing.

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Use cases and applications

  • The unique V shape can be comfortably positioned around the right thigh for stability when sitting, aligning the guitar similarly to its standing position.

    Source
  • The Warlock is favored for metal, particularly in drop D tuning, providing a suitable tonal range for heavier music styles.

    Source
  • Warlock guitars are noted for their suitability in metal genres, with specific owners emphasizing their effectiveness in delivering heavy, aggressive tones.

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Comparisons

  • The Warlock's unconventional shape is likened to other models like the Kramer Gunstar for its ergonomic benefits, especially for players with specific physical needs.

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  • The Warlock is often compared unfavorably to LTD and Schecter models at similar price points, with many preferring the latter for their consistent quality and better value.

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Value and pricing

  • Due to its recent popularity spike from media exposure, the Warlock's market value is reportedly increasing significantly.

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Features and functionality

  • Some users highlight that the Warlock's output jack placement can be awkward, limiting comfortable play positions on couches or beds.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Reports indicate that certain Warlock models may have uneven frets and poor bridge design, leading to intonation issues and requiring adjustment or repair.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: B.C. Rich MK5 Warlock Guitar | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The B.C. Rich Warlock Mk 5 is a striking guitar that merges aggressive aesthetics with reliable performance. Its elegant black finish and white binding make a bold visual statement, while its ergonomic design ensures comfort during play. Equipped with high-output humbucking pickups, the Mk 5 offers a versatile sound that fits various music styles, not just metal. The guitar’s hardware and electronics maintain a balance of classic and modern features, appealing to both purists and newcomers. Priced at $499.99, it delivers excellent quality and value, making it a promising addition to B.C. Rich's lineup.

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