Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $5,334

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Gibson Explorer Custom 2017". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Gibson Explorer Custom 2017 is a striking fusion of classic style and modern performance that beckons both collectors and performers alike. Born from Gibson's revered Custom Shop, this limited-edition guitar marries the iconic Explorer silhouette with a touch of luxury. With only 200 units ever made, it’s a rare gem that promises both exclusivity and exceptional sound quality.

At the heart of this Explorer are the 490R and 498T humbucking pickups, which deliver the legendary Gibson warmth with an added dash of modern edge. These pickups ensure your sound can cut through any mix, making them ideal for both stage and studio settings. The guitar's sleek, bound body and headstock are adorned with elegant block pearl inlays, and the gold hardware adds a touch of refinement that’s sure to turn heads.

Every detail, from the rolled fingerboard binding to the hand-wired electronics, speaks to the meticulous craftsmanship for which Gibson is renowned. Whether you're seeking to expand your collection or find a reliable workhorse for your performances, the Gibson Explorer Custom 2017 is a guitar that doesn't just play the part—it owns it.

Key Features:

  • Limited Edition Explorer — only 200 produced
  • Custom Shop appointments with rolled fingerboard binding and block pearl inlays
  • 490R/498T humbucking pickups for classic tone with a modern edge
  • Hand-wired electronics for superior sound quality
  • Hardshell Custom Shop case included

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Explorer Custom
Finish Ebony
Year 2017 - 2018
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 Ebony
Model Family Gibson Explorer
Model Sub-Family Gibson Explorer Custom
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 is the neck profile of the Gibson Explorer Custom 2017?

The Gibson Explorer Custom 2017 features a '50s profile maple neck, providing a robust and comfortable grip suitable for various playing styles.

What type of pickups does the Gibson Explorer Custom 2017 have, and what tones can they produce?

This model is equipped with Gibson 490R and 498T humbuckers, offering a versatile range of tones from warm, smooth sounds to powerful, high-output rock tones.

Is the Gibson Explorer Custom 2017 suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its solid mahogany body and set-neck construction, the Explorer Custom 2017 delivers excellent sustain and stability, making it ideal for live performances.

How does the Gibson Explorer Custom 2017's body shape affect playability?

The asymmetrical X-style body with an extended upper horn and deep belly cut provides balance and comfort, enhancing playability for both standing and seated positions.

What is the fretboard material on the Gibson Explorer Custom 2017?

The fretboard of the Gibson Explorer Custom 2017 is made of ebony, which offers a smooth playing surface and a bright tonal character.

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Now I Think of These Differently… | 2022 Gibson Explorer Custom MOD Collection Flip Flop Green Red

Video thumbnail for Now I Think of These Differently… | 2022 Gibson Explorer Custom MOD Collection Flip Flop Green Red by The Trogly's Guitar Show

Now I Think of These Differently… | 2022 Gibson Explorer Custom MOD Collection Flip Flop Green Red

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Explorer Custom 2017.

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest replacing the 490R/498T pickups with 57 Classics or Alnico 2 magnet pickups for improved tonal versatility.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users report difficulty closing the case snugly due to the guitar's size, requiring a careful and firm latching technique.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The toggle switch and overall body size can hinder the case from closing properly, as noted by multiple owners.

    Source
  • The black 2017 Custom is identified by its distinctive black knobs, differentiating it from other versions.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 2017 Custom Explorer shares aesthetic similarities with the Lizzy Hale model, but differs as it's a Custom Shop edition.

    Source
  • A user compares the 2017 model with later versions, noting the main differences are cosmetic, such as knob and switch colors.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners use the guitar primarily for high-gain music styles, noting the pickups excel in this setting but deliver less clean tones.

    Source

Build quality

  • The 2017 Custom Explorer features a Richlite fretboard instead of ebony, which some players prefer for its consistency and durability.

    Source

User experience

  • A collector notes that owning multiple Explorers in different colors enhances their collection's visual appeal, with unique finishes like white and blue being particularly striking.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matthew Tuck uses Gibson Explorer Custom 2017

Matthew Tuck

Singer, Guitarist

Bullet for My Valentine

...
Verified via Photo

In this Facebook post [https://m.facebook.com/BulletForMyValentine/photos/a.431675250504/10158787662615505/?type=3&source=48] in the studio, this Instagram post [https://www.instagram.com/p/CQdJzYcByPH/], and this YouTube video [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=212EggmHYVk], Matt can be seen using a Gibson Explorer Custom w/ Ebony Fingerboard Gloss - Ebony live at the Download Pilot 2021. The exact model can be found on GIbson's website [https://www.gibson.com/Guitar/CUST9M301/Explorer-Custom-w-Ebony-Fingerboard-Gloss/Ebony]. The pickups are stock pickups, which is unusual since Matt has been using EMG's on all his guitars ever since he was endorsed by Jackson.

See how Richie Faulkner uses Gibson Explorer Custom 2017

Richie Faulkner

Guitarist

Judas Priest

...
Verified via Photo

In this post you can see Richie playing on his Gibson Explorer Custom.

Genre Usage

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

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