Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.8 (4)
$4,499.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$4,499.00
Reverb
5.0 (11)
$4,352.69 New
$3,135.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$4,499.00
Thomann
5.0 (3)
$4,099.00

Average Price: $4,181

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Product Description:

Experience a piece of history with the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS - Vintage Sunburst. This guitar is a faithful reissue of the Gibson's second take on its offset body design, which became an instant legend upon release. The reversed orientation of the body and neck gave this model an iconic look that was immediately loved by players.

But it's not just about the aesthetics. The AlNiCo V pickups provide that distinctive bite and punch, producing a unique voice that stands out in any mix. This is a guitar that not only looks the part but also delivers in terms of sound and performance.

The quality of construction is top-notch, adhering to the original body profiles and methods. With this in your hands, you're not just playing a guitar, you're holding a piece of music history.

This package also includes a deluxe hardshell case and a Certificate of Authenticity, further affirming the prestige of owning this guitar.

Key Features:

  • Custom Shop Model
  • VOS - Vintage Original Specifications
  • Body: Solid mahogany (swietenia macrophylla)
  • Full-length neck 9 layers: Mahogany / walnut (swietenia macrophylla)
  • Fingerboard: Rosewood (dalbergia latifolia)
  • Perloid dot fingerboard inlays
  • Neck profile: Authentic '65 Slim "C"
  • Pickups: 2 Firebird AlNiCo V
  • 2 Volume and 2 tone controls
  • 3-way toggle switch
  • Deluxe banjo tuners
  • Nickel hardware
  • ABR-1 bridge with Maestro Vibrola tremolo
  • Colour: Vintage Sunburst
  • Includes: Case and certificate of authenticity
  • Made in USA

Product specs

Available since November 2021
Model Firebird
Colour Sunburst
Shape Firebird
Body Mahogany
Top Mahogany
Neck Mahogany, Walnut
Fretboard Rosewood
Frets 22
Scale 628 mm
Pickup System HH
Tremolo Vibrola
Incl. Case Yes
Incl. Gigbag No
Limited Run None
Design Firebird
Soundboard Mahogany

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V?

The Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V features a comfortable slim taper neck profile, making it easy for players to navigate the fretboard with speed and precision.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on this guitar?

The Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V is equipped with dual humbucking pickups, providing a rich, warm tone suitable for rock, blues, and jazz. These pickups offer a balanced sound with clarity and sustain.

How does the Maestro Vibrola affect the guitar's playability?

The Maestro Vibrola on the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V allows for smooth vibrato effects, adding expressive capability to your playing without significantly affecting tuning stability.

Is this guitar suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V is a high-quality instrument with professional-grade features, its comfortable neck and versatile tones can also be appreciated by dedicated beginners who are serious about learning.

What is the primary wood used in the body of this guitar?

The body of the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V is made from mahogany, which contributes to its warm tone and excellent sustain.

60 Cycle Hum

60 Cycle Hum

Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS - It's orange & lumpy looking.

Video thumbnail for Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS - It's orange & lumpy looking. by 60 Cycle Hum

Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS - It's orange & lumpy looking.

60 Cycle Hum

60 Cycle Hum

Video thumbnail for Test Drive | Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V w/ Vibrola Vintage Sunburst by Detroit Guitar

Test Drive | Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V w/ Vibrola Vintage Sunburst

Detroit Guitar

Detroit Guitar

Reviews

PROS

  • Faultless build quality with a gorgeous finish

  • Comfortable neck with a substantial feel, not overly chunky

  • Firebird Alnico five mini humbuckers offer bright, clear sound with extra body

  • Slider switch is low profile, positive, and quiet

  • Great sustain with no dead spots and well-behaved Vibrola

  • Scaled-down case is more manageable compared to typical Firebird cases

  • Versatile tones suited for rock and blues genres

  • Vintage look and feel enhanced by Maestro Vibrola tremolo

  • Intuitive playability, feels like it's meant to be played

  • Perfect build with nice mahogany tone and sustain

CONS

  • Neck chunkier than description suggests, may not suit everyone

  • Some may find the weight hefty for extended play sessions

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS.

User experience

  • Players note that the guitar feels large, almost like a bass, and can feel awkward when sitting, particularly for smaller individuals.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Firebird pickups are described as smoother-toned mini-humbuckers, lacking the sharpness of traditional mini-humbuckers or P90s, suitable for smooth, fluid tones.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The guitar's pickups do not excel in high-gain applications but are praised for their smoothness with a touch of fuzz, unlike the sharper tones of P90s.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners recommend this guitar for players seeking smooth, clear tones rather than punchy or high-gain sounds, making it suitable for subtle, expressive play styles.

    Source

Critic Reviews

The Big Review: Gibson Custom ’63 Firebird V & ’65 Non-Reverse Firebird V

guitar.com

Gibson's Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola is a striking blend of vintage charm and modern playability. While its aesthetic allure with custom finishes is undeniable, players might find the neck dive from its large tuners a bit challenging. The Non-Reverse model offers a balanced feel and richer tonal palette, making it a more practical choice for many. Although both guitars shine with their solid construction and vibrant sounds, the '63 variant steals the show with its tonal depth. Expect a high price tag, but these guitars are worth every penny for serious collectors and players alike.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matthew Followill uses Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS

Matthew Followill

Guitarist

Kings of Leon

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo posted on the Kings of Leon Instagram, Matthew Followill is seen using a Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS - Vintage Sunburst during the recording of "Can We Please Have Fun." Matthew also used this guitar live at their most recent concert in Leeds.

See how King Princess uses Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS

King Princess

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Unclear Magazine

King Princess can be seen using the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS - Vintage Sunburst throughout their 2022 tour.

Album Usage

The Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V with Maestro Vibrola VOS has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

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

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