Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $3,500

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Gibson Explorer Blackout is a powerhouse of electric energy wrapped in an iconic design that's been turning heads since the late '50s. Crafted for the modern shredder, this axe boasts a pair of Gibson Dirty Fingers Plus humbuckers, delivering an explosive sound that cuts through any mix with ease. Whether you're diving into molten metal riffs or soaring through high-octane solos, this guitar is your ultimate companion.

Its solid mahogany body is the backbone of its resonant tone and sustain, while the set mahogany neck topped with a composite fingerboard offers a silky smooth playing experience. The SlimTaper neck is engineered for speed and precision, ensuring that your fingers fly effortlessly across the frets. Black acrylic split diamond inlays add a touch of understated elegance to its aggressive demeanor, while the black chrome hardware accentuates its bold aesthetic.

Designed for musicians who demand versatility without compromising style, the Gibson Explorer Blackout is as visually striking as it is sonically commanding. Experience the lightning-fast playability and formidable sound that have made the Explorer a staple in the arsenals of rock legends worldwide.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany body for rich tones and great sustain
  • Gibson Dirty Fingers Plus humbuckers for aggressive, high-output sound
  • SlimTaper neck profile for fast and comfortable playability
  • Composite fingerboard with black acrylic split diamond inlays
  • Black chrome Tune-o-Matic bridge and hardware
  • Includes a vintage brown hardshell case for added protection

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Explorer Blackout
Finish Ebony
Year 2014
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape X-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black
Fretboard Material Composite
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 Right Handed

FAQs

What kind of pickups does the Gibson Explorer Blackout use?

The Gibson Explorer Blackout features a dual humbucker (HH) pickup configuration, providing a powerful and versatile tone suitable for rock and metal genres.

Is the Gibson Explorer Blackout suitable for heavy music styles?

Yes, the Gibson Explorer Blackout's humbucker pickups and solid body construction make it ideal for heavy music styles, offering strong sustain and a thick, aggressive tone.

What is the neck profile of the Gibson Explorer Blackout like?

The Gibson Explorer Blackout features a set-neck construction which provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience, suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

How does the Gibson Explorer Blackout's body shape affect playability?

The X-style body shape of the Gibson Explorer Blackout offers a unique aesthetic and provides a balanced feel, making it comfortable to play while standing or sitting.

Does the Gibson Explorer Blackout come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson Explorer Blackout typically comes with a hardshell case, offering protection and convenience for transport and storage.

Metal Turtle

Metal Turtle

Nigel1990 - Gibson Explorer *Blackout* Jam

Video thumbnail for Nigel1990 - Gibson Explorer *Blackout*  Jam by Metal Turtle

Nigel1990 - Gibson Explorer *Blackout* Jam

Metal Turtle

Metal Turtle

Video thumbnail for Gibson USA Explorer Blackout by BUZZBEE TV

Gibson USA Explorer Blackout

BUZZBEE TV

BUZZBEE TV

Video thumbnail for Gibson Explorer Blackout Review Dirty Fingers Pickups by ClanOfHouseCats

Gibson Explorer Blackout Review Dirty Fingers Pickups

ClanOfHouseCats

ClanOfHouseCats

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Mods and upgrades

  • Consider swapping all chrome hardware for black to achieve a full blackout aesthetic, as seen in similar customizations on Reverb.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Gibson Goth Explorer offers a similar all-black design with a unique dark fretboard and minimal inlays, potentially reducing the need for multiple mods.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • High output pickups and locking tuners are popular enhancements for the Gibson Explorer, enhancing both performance and tuning stability.

    Source

User experience

  • Some players prefer the look of the Explorer without pickguards, noting it enhances the sleek, minimalist aesthetic.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
andre_scott

Wasn't so sure at first...

I think Gibson tried to market this toward the metal crowd. I don't do any dropped tune stuff, but the Dirty Fingers+ pickups are articulate and have a character that really suits the feel of the guitar. I get many tone compliments playing this one, and the feel is great. Richlite board is a vast improvement over the streaky ebony I've seen hanging on the walls of some instruments that cost 4x more than this. The Richlite has a silky feel and uniform colour. It was quite expensive for an Explorer, but has proven to be worth every penny. Came with a photograph in the case taken during final assembly of the guitar. This one gets a few shows a month from me.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Sully Erna uses Gibson Explorer Blackout

Sully Erna

Singer, Guitarist

Godsmack

...
Verified via YouTube

Sully can be seen playing a Gibson Explorer Blackout Limited.

See how Matt Bigland uses Gibson Explorer Blackout

Matt Bigland

Guitarist

Dinosaur Pile-Up

...
Verified via YouTube

This is the guitar he has used since he started Dinosaur Pile-Up

O

Olavi Mikkonen

Guitarist

Amon Amarth

...
Verified via MusicRadar

Olavi Mikkonen of Amon Amarth uses the Gibson Explorer Blackout, as discussed in an interview with MusicRadar.

See how Remi Tjon Ajong uses Gibson Explorer Blackout

Remi Tjon Ajong

Singer, Guitarist

Green Lizard

...
Verified via Photo

In this user-uploaded photo, Remi Tjon Ajong is seen with a Gibson Explorer Blackout, highlighting his preference for this solid-body electric guitar.

See how Lil Tay uses Gibson Explorer Blackout

Lil Tay

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Twitter

Lil Tay is seen playing ‘Master of Puppets’ by Metallica on Instagram Live with the Gibson Explorer Blackout

Album Usage

The Gibson Explorer Blackout 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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