Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $8,866

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Gibson Explorer Korina". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your inner rock legend with the Gibson Explorer Korina, a masterful reissue of an iconic instrument that revolutionized the music scene in 1958. This electric guitar is a tribute to Gibson's bold design, featuring an angular, futuristic shape that still captivates musicians today. Crafted with a lightweight korina body, this guitar offers a rich, balanced tone reminiscent of premium mahogany, making it perfect for genres from rock to jazz.

The Explorer's korina body not only provides a unique tonal quality but also ensures exceptional playability with its comfortable, asymmetrical design. The CustomBucker pickups are the heart of this instrument, delivering the classic P.A.F.-style tones that defined an era. Whether you're strumming warm rhythm chords or ripping through searing lead lines, these pickups will keep you in the sonic sweet spot.

The slim taper neck allows for fast, effortless playing across an Indian rosewood fingerboard, offering a vintage feel that's both nostalgic and inspiring. Coupled with a nitrocellulose lacquer finish, this guitar embodies the look and feel of a cherished classic, promising tonal enhancements that mature beautifully over time.

For those who appreciate historical accuracy, every detail has been meticulously crafted, from the celluloid-tipped Kluson tuners to the ABR-1 bridge. The Gibson Explorer Korina is not just an instrument; it's a piece of musical history reimagined for today's discerning guitarist.

Key Features:

  • Solid korina body with a resonant, balanced tone
  • Slim taper neck for fast, effortless playability
  • CustomBucker humbucking pickups for authentic P.A.F. tones
  • Indian rosewood fingerboard with vintage-style inlays
  • Nitrocellulose lacquer finish for enhanced tonal qualities
  • Vintage-style hardware including an ABR-1 bridge and Kluson tuners
  • Comes with a period-correct hardshell case for secure transport

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Explorer Korina
Finish Natural
Year 1982 - 1984
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape X-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Tan
Fretboard Material Rosewood
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
Series Gibson Norlin Era

FAQs

What is the tonewood used in the Gibson Explorer Korina, and how does it affect the sound?

The Gibson Explorer Korina features a Korina wood body, which is known for its warm, resonant sound similar to mahogany, with a rich low end. This wood contributes to the guitar's distinctive tone and sustain.

What kind of pickups does the Gibson Explorer Korina have, and what tones can they produce?

The Gibson Explorer Korina is equipped with dual Custombucker humbucking pickups, which deliver a powerful and versatile sound suitable for a wide range of musical styles, from rock to blues.

Is the Gibson Explorer Korina suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Gibson Explorer Korina is well-suited for advanced players due to its high-quality construction, unique Korina tonewood, and versatile Custombucker pickups, offering a professional-grade playing experience.

What is the neck profile of the Gibson Explorer Korina?

The Gibson Explorer Korina features a Korina neck with a 1958 Explorer profile, providing a vintage feel and comfortable playability for those familiar with classic guitar neck shapes.

How many frets does the Gibson Explorer Korina have, and what is the fretboard material?

The Gibson Explorer Korina has 22 frets and features an Indian rosewood fingerboard, offering smooth playability and a warm tonal character.

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | Gibson Custom Shop 1958 Korina Explorer VOS Historic Collection

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | Gibson Custom Shop 1958 Korina Explorer VOS Historic Collection by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | Gibson Custom Shop 1958 Korina Explorer VOS Historic Collection

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Custom Shop 1958 Korina Explorer  •  SN: 821390 by Wildwood Guitars

Gibson Custom Shop 1958 Korina Explorer • SN: 821390

Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Custom Shop 1958 Korina Explorer  •  SN: 821407 by Wildwood Guitars

Gibson Custom Shop 1958 Korina Explorer • SN: 821407

Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The Explorer's weight can be substantial, with some models reaching up to 12 pounds, which is appreciated by fans of heavy guitars.

    Source
  • The '58 Korina Explorer features a seamlessly matched 2-piece body where the seam is only visible by the end grain at the bottom.

    Source
  • Owners admire the dark, deep color of the fretboard, enhancing the guitar's aesthetic appeal.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Despite initial awkwardness, the Explorer shape is noted for its comfort and versatility, with the design acting as a natural armrest.

    Source
  • The guitar boasts crisp tones with pronounced mids and highs, distinguishing it from other humbucker-equipped guitars.

    Source
  • The combination of blue finish with gold hardware offers a striking visual contrast, praised for its unique aesthetic appeal among guitar enthusiasts.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Explorer's price is high, but resale value is promising, as owners report potential profits despite market fluctuations.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar is favored for its aesthetic appeal and is considered "playable artwork," with a focus on wood grain beauty.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some owners prefer the darker Tobacco Burst finish over traditional Sunburst, appreciating its subtlety compared to bright orange hues.

    Source

User experience

  • The neck profile is unexpectedly smaller, avoiding neck dive, while unplugged playing reveals a resonant and loud tone.

    Source
  • The Translucent Blueberry finish from the Mod Collection is noted to look more stunning in natural settings compared to website photos, enhancing its appeal.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users appreciate vibrant colored stains on Korina wood, suggesting potential for more colorful finishes in future models.

    Source

Other

  • The distinct blue finish is considered a refreshing change from traditional Explorer color schemes, indicating a demand for more diverse color options.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how James Hetfield uses Gibson Explorer Korina

James Hetfield

Guitarist, Singer

Metallica

...
Verified via YouTube

During Metallica's performance at Lyon Halle Tony Garnier on September 12, 2017, James Hetfield was seen playing a Gibson Explorer Korina, as captured in the concert footage on YouTube.

See how Kirk Hammett uses Gibson Explorer Korina

Kirk Hammett

Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via YouTube

Kirk shows of his 1963 Korina Explorer at 1:02:26

See how Chris Shiflett uses Gibson Explorer Korina

Chris Shiflett

Guitarist

Foo Fighters

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Foo Fighters' Chris Shiflett Rig Rundown Guitar Gear Tour 2024" by Premier Guitar, Chris Shiflett is shown with the Gibson Explorer Korina reissue guitar at the 17:34 mark.

See how Matt Pike uses Gibson Explorer Korina

Matt Pike

Guitarist

Sleep

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Matt can be seen playing a Korina Explorer. Unsure of model year.

See how John Entwistle uses Gibson Explorer Korina

John Entwistle

Singer, Bassist

The Who

...
Verified via Photo

In a user-uploaded photo, John Entwistle is shown with a Gibson Explorer Korina to his left. It's unclear whether this guitar is a reissue or an original model.

See how Bill Kelliher uses Gibson Explorer Korina

Bill Kelliher

Singer, Guitarist

Mastodon

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, we can see Bill playing a Gibson Explorer Korina (can't tell, if it's the original 1958 Korina, or just a reissue, but it's a Korina nonetheless).

See how Allen Collins uses Gibson Explorer Korina

Allen Collins

Guitarist

Lynyrd Skynyrd

...
Verified via Photo

This photo shows Allen Collins using the Gibson Explorer Korina.

See how Kevin Jonas uses Gibson Explorer Korina

Kevin Jonas

Guitarist

Jonas Brothers

...
Verified via Instagram
Color/Finish: Korina

In this reel of the Jonas Brothers in the studio, Kevin can be seen using a korina or natural wood Explorer.

See how Nick Stewart Power Trip uses Gibson Explorer Korina

Nick Stewart Power Trip

Guitarist

Power Trip

...
Verified via YouTube

at 27:26, he talks about this guitar

T

Tony Scalzo

Bassist

Young Heart Attack

...
Verified via Photo

this picture shows a side by side of Miles Zuniga and tony on stage at the same show, which Tony is using this Gibson Explorer.

Album Usage

The Gibson Explorer Korina 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.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson Explorer Korina, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
1959burst

1959burst

Gear IQ 141

2 alternative and related items for Gibson Explorer Korina, curated by the Equipboard community.

Epiphone 1958 Korina Explorer

$802.93 - $1,299.00

newer similar sound cheaper alternative

The Korina Explorer was light years ahead of its time when it was first introduced in 1958. With its angular, asymmetrical body and pointed headstock, the Explorer was unlike any guitar available. In fact, the Explorer was such a radical departure that only around 100 of the famed instruments were produced at the legendary Kalamazoo factory. What few have survived are now highly prized collectibles that sell for half a million dollars or more. Now, Epiphone brings back the one-of-a-kind legend in all its original glory made from beautiful Korina.

Gibson Custom Shop '58 Korina Explorer

$8,333.00 - $9,999.00

newer similar sound

Back in 1958, Gibson shipped 19 Explorers — space-age, futuristic solidbody electric guitars that were well ahead of their time. The Gibson Custom 1958 Korina Explorer is a meticulous re-creation of this coveted axe, crafted using three-dimensional scans of museum specimens and rare collector's items. Every dimension and contour of this instrument reflects its predecessor; its 1-piece korina body, its solid korina neck, and its Indian rosewood fingerboard are spot-on reproductions of the originals. And when you plug in, Gibson's acclaimed CustomBucker pickups churn out vintage-accurate tones that are downright addictive. Light-aged gold hardware rounds out this head-turning axe's enviable aesthetics. The 1958 Korina Explorer comes with a '50s-style brown-and-pink case.

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