Pricing and availability

Average Price: $1,950

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Gibson Explorer 2018 Antique Natural is a bold statement for any guitarist looking to channel the rebellious spirit of the original 1958 Explorer. Known for its distinctive angular body and commanding presence, this guitar isn't just about looks—it delivers on performance with a solid mahogany body that resonates with classic hard rock tones. Its SlimTaper neck, crafted from mahogany and topped with torrefied granadillo, offers a fast, comfortable playing experience that's perfect for long sessions on stage or in the studio.

What sets the Explorer apart are its Burstbucker pickups, designed to replicate the iconic PAF humbucker sound with tight low end, complex mids, and sweet highs. These pickups ensure that every note you play is imbued with that legendary Gibson character. Adding to its durability, the cryogenically treated frets promise longevity, so you can bend and slide with confidence, knowing they will withstand the test of time.

This guitar is not just about nostalgia; it's a modern rock machine that embraces the future while nodding to its storied past. Whether you're shredding leads or laying down chunky rhythms, the Gibson Explorer 2018 is your ticket to a world of sonic possibilities.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany body for rich tones and great sustain
  • Fast-playing SlimTaper mahogany neck with torrefied granadillo fingerboard
  • Burstbucker pickups for timeless PAF humbucker tone
  • Cryogenically treated frets for enhanced durability
  • Nitrocellulose lacquer finish for improved aesthetics and tone
  • Comes with a hardshell case for protection and transport

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Gibson Explorer 2018 Antique Natural?

The Gibson Explorer 2018 features a SlimTaper neck profile, which is known for its comfortable and fast playability, making it suitable for various playing styles.

What kind of pickups does the Gibson Explorer 2018 Antique Natural have?

This guitar is equipped with BurstBucker 2 and BurstBucker 3 pickups, which deliver a classic humbucker tone with a mix of warmth and clarity, ideal for rock and blues genres.

Is the Gibson Explorer 2018 Antique Natural suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson Explorer 2018 offers professional-grade features and quality, its unique body shape and premium components may be more suitable for intermediate to advanced players seeking a distinctive style and sound.

What is the body wood used in the Gibson Explorer 2018 Antique Natural?

The body of the Gibson Explorer 2018 is made from solid mahogany, providing a rich, warm tone with excellent sustain.

Does the Gibson Explorer 2018 Antique Natural come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson Explorer 2018 comes with a hardshell case, ensuring protection during transport and storage.

Xander Raymond Charles

Xander Raymond Charles

2018 GIBSON EXPLORER DEMO - AN HONEST REVIEW

Video thumbnail for 2018 GIBSON EXPLORER DEMO - AN HONEST REVIEW by Xander Raymond Charles

2018 GIBSON EXPLORER DEMO - AN HONEST REVIEW

Xander Raymond Charles

Xander Raymond Charles

Video thumbnail for 2018 Gibson Explorer review (in depth!) by guitarwrecker

2018 Gibson Explorer review (in depth!)

guitarwrecker

guitarwrecker

Video thumbnail for Gibson Explorer 2018, Antique Natural | Gear4music demo by Gear4music Guitars

Gibson Explorer 2018, Antique Natural | Gear4music demo

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for 2018 Gibson Explorer In Antique Natural Guitar Demo by C. A. House Music

2018 Gibson Explorer In Antique Natural Guitar Demo

C. A. House Music

C. A. House Music

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Value and pricing

  • Discontinued status of the model may drive future price spikes, similar to what happened with the Firebird.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 2018 model features a Torrefied granadillo fingerboard, while later models use rosewood, impacting traditional feel preferences.

    Source
  • The 2018 model uses Burstbucker pickups, with potential differences in Burstbucker 1s and 2s versus 2s and 3s.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners compare the 2018's rounder neck profile and different pickups to newer models, with some preferring the 2020 version.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some owners report tooling scratches on the fretboard and a bent volume pot right out of the box.

    Source
  • There are reports of scalloping at the fretboard edges due to improper sanding, impacting playability.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Issues noted with neck pickup height, as pickup poles hit the wood when action is lowered, requiring potential pole trimming.

    Source

User experience

  • Multiple owners have returned guitars due to poor factory setup, including sharp fret ends and a loose toggle switch.

    Source
  • Despite QC issues, some owners affirm the guitar's foundational quality, emphasizing the need for post-purchase luthier work.

    Source

Other

  • Reports suggest QC focus might have been more on Les Paul models, with Explorers getting less attention.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Andrew Stockdale uses Gibson Explorer 2018

Andrew Stockdale

Guitarist, Singer

Wolfmother

...
Verified via YouTube

see the YT video above, playing a Gibson Explorer in a recording session, black knobs, black headstock

See how Rickey Medlocke uses Gibson Explorer 2018

Rickey Medlocke

Singer, Guitarist

Lynyrd Skynyrd

...
Verified via Photo

In the performance of "Free Bird," Rickey Medlocke can be seen using the Gibson Explorer 2018 Antique Natural, as evidenced by the image available on Equipboard.

Genre Usage

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

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