Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,850

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Gibson Challenger is a testament to the brand's rich history and dedication to innovation. Born in the early '80s, this solid body electric guitar was Gibson's answer to creating an affordable yet high-quality instrument that wouldn't compromise on craftsmanship. Modeled after the legendary Les Paul™, the Challenger boasts a solid maple body that promises robust sound and durability, making it a reliable choice for both seasoned musicians and those just starting their journey.

One of the standout features of the Challenger is its bolt-on maple neck, which provides a smooth, fast-playing experience that is perfect for those intricate solos and complex chord progressions. The simplicity of its design is its greatest strength—eschewing unnecessary frills for a focus on pure performance. This guitar is all about delivering a seamless connection between the player and their music.

In this particular case, the Challenger prototype lacks the silkscreened Gibson logo on the headstock, adding an exclusive touch with an impressed “PROTO” stamp on the back. This unique characteristic not only sets it apart but also enhances its collectible value.

Perfect for the gigging musician or the home studio enthusiast, the Gibson Challenger is a rare piece of musical history that continues to inspire with its exceptional build quality and timeless design.

Key Features:

  • Solid maple body inspired by the Les Paul™
  • Bolt-on maple neck for fast playability
  • Single-pickup configuration for straightforward performance
  • Prototype model with unique “PROTO” stamp
  • No silkscreened Gibson logo on the headstock

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Challenger
Finish Natural
Year 1983
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Wrap-Around
Color Family Tan
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson Challenger
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of neck does the Gibson Challenger have?

The Gibson Challenger features a bolt-on maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard, providing a comfortable playing experience with 22 frets.

What pickups are used in the Gibson Challenger?

The Gibson Challenger is equipped with a humbucker pickup configuration, offering a versatile range of tones suitable for various music genres.

Is the Gibson Challenger suitable for beginner guitarists?

While the Gibson Challenger is a vintage model with unique features, its straightforward design and solid build make it accessible for both beginner and experienced players.

What is the body shape of the Gibson Challenger?

The Gibson Challenger has a single cutaway solid body design, reminiscent of classic Les Paul styles, allowing for easy access to higher frets.

Does the Gibson Challenger have any notable design features?

The Gibson Challenger stands out with its natural finish and wrap-around bridge, which contribute to its distinctive look and sustain.

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

This Was* The Worst Gibson I've Ever Played | 1984 Gibson Challenger Review + Demo

Video thumbnail for This Was* The Worst Gibson I've Ever Played | 1984 Gibson Challenger Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

This Was* The Worst Gibson I've Ever Played | 1984 Gibson Challenger Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for 1984 Gibson Challenger III 3 Guitar Review By Scott Grove by Groovy Music Lessons

1984 Gibson Challenger III 3 Guitar Review By Scott Grove

Groovy Music Lessons

Groovy Music Lessons

Video thumbnail for 1983 GIBSON CHALLENGER I VINTAGE LES PAUL GUITAR OWNED BY GIPSY KINGS UP CLOSE VIDEO REVIEW by Essex Recording Studios

1983 GIBSON CHALLENGER I VINTAGE LES PAUL GUITAR OWNED BY GIPSY KINGS UP CLOSE VIDEO REVIEW

Essex Recording Studios

Essex Recording Studios

Video thumbnail for Gibson Challenger Guitar circa 83/84 Tony Touris  Les Paul TT by Tony Touris

Gibson Challenger Guitar circa 83/84 Tony Touris Les Paul TT

Tony Touris

Tony Touris

Video thumbnail for An Unusual Gibson Guitar Model You Must See by Lonely Rocker

An Unusual Gibson Guitar Model You Must See

Lonely Rocker

Lonely Rocker

Reviews

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Artist usage

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See how St. Vincent uses Gibson Challenger

St. Vincent

Singer, Guitarist

The Polyphonic Spree

...
Verified via Photo

Annie Clark playing this guitar with the Polyphonic Spree.

See how Tom Linton uses Gibson Challenger

Tom Linton

Guitarist

Jimmy Eat World

...
Verified via Photo

This is also guitar he uses quite a bit. In this photo he can be seen playing it.

Genre Usage

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

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