Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
4.5 (4)
$6,499.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$6,499.00
Reverb
5.0 (16)
$1,960.90 25 available Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (5)
$6,499.00
Thomann
4.0 (1)
$5,599.00 $5,222.00 $377.00 · All time low

Average Price: $5,336

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

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

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Description

Introducing the Gibson Firebird V, a masterful blend of timeless design and legendary sound. Channeling the innovative spirit of 1963, this guitar features an aggressively modern look, conceived by renowned automotive designer, Ray Dietrich. The Firebird V's unique offset body and reversed headstock not only made history but also captured the hearts of countless rock and roll enthusiasts.

The Gibson Firebird V isn't just about looks; it's a powerhouse of sound. The guitar’s custom-wound AlNiCo V mini-humbuckers deliver scorching tones that truly set the Firebird apart, making it a go-to for fans of classic rock and blues. The multi-piece, mahogany-and-walnut neck-through design guarantees long-lasting resonance and a warm, rich tone.

This is not just a guitar; it's a statement. From its deluxe banjo tuners to the hot-stamped 3-ply pickguard, the Gibson Firebird V is a clear nod to classic design, exuding an unmatched vibe that’s hard to resist.

Key Features:

  • Authentically designed by renowned automotive designer, Ray Dietrich
  • Unique offset body and reversed headstock
  • Multi-piece, mahogany-and-walnut neck-through design
  • Custom-wound AlNiCo V mini-humbuckers
  • Deluxe banjo tuners and hot-stamped 3-ply pickguard
  • Mahogany construction with detailed tone and long sustain
  • "Authentic '63 Medium C" neck shape for that vintage feel
  • Includes deluxe hardshell case and Certificate of Authenticity
  • Made in the USA
Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

1964 Gibson Firebird V played by Julian Lage

Video thumbnail for 1964 Gibson Firebird V played by Julian Lage by Carter Vintage Guitars

1964 Gibson Firebird V played by Julian Lage

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Firebird V, Studio Non-Reverse & Studio '70s Tribute by MusicRadar

Gibson Firebird V, Studio Non-Reverse & Studio '70s Tribute

MusicRadar

MusicRadar

Video thumbnail for 1964 Gibson Firebird V Sunburst | CME Vintage Demo | Joel Bauman by Chicago Music Exchange

1964 Gibson Firebird V Sunburst | CME Vintage Demo | Joel Bauman

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for Joe Bonamassa on the 1964 Gibson Firebird V by Guitar World

Joe Bonamassa on the 1964 Gibson Firebird V

Guitar World

Guitar World

Video thumbnail for 2012 Gibson Firebird V Part1 by GregsGuitars

2012 Gibson Firebird V Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for 1964 Gibson Firebird V | The Music Emporium by The Music Emporium

1964 Gibson Firebird V | The Music Emporium

The Music Emporium

The Music Emporium

Video thumbnail for Gibson Firebird V 120th Anniversary presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Gibson Firebird V 120th Anniversary presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Video thumbnail for GIBSON 2013 FIREBIRD V CLASSIC WHITE USA by Bastian Guitars

GIBSON 2013 FIREBIRD V CLASSIC WHITE USA

Bastian Guitars

Bastian Guitars

Video thumbnail for 2007 Gibson Firebird Zebrawood by TheDWCoverProject

2007 Gibson Firebird Zebrawood

TheDWCoverProject

TheDWCoverProject

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • Firebird V models with Grover tuners have a slightly different headstock shape and may not be labeled as "Firebird V."

    Source
  • The Firebird's design encourages players to rest their picking hand closer to the bridge compared to Les Pauls.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Lollar Firebird pickups are a popular replacement choice for those seeking improved tone from original stock pickups.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The massive original hard case is essential for secure transport and storage due to the guitar's unique shape and size.

    Source

User experience

  • The paint on the pickguard's emblem may bleed, causing a faded appearance over time, despite the guitar remaining structurally sound.

    Source
  • Some players find the necks on non-custom shop reverse models too thin, similar to Jackson necks.

    Source
  • Firebirds can feel awkward when sitting, requiring players to adjust hand positions toward the bridge for comfort.

    Source
  • Playing Firebirds standing up is reportedly more comfortable than sitting, due to the guitar's unique shape and reach.

    Source

Build quality

  • 1998-2000 custom shop reissues feature a distinct fat neck carve that differentiates them from other models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners compare Firebird necks to Jackson guitars, noting their thinness as a similar feature.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gibson Firebird V 2010 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Gibson Firebird V is a striking, lightweight electric guitar that's as much about aesthetics as it is about sound. Praised for its gorgeous looks and resonant tone, it appeals to a wide range of players from blues hounds to rockers. The Firebird V's mini humbuckers offer a bright, versatile sound that Fender fans might appreciate. However, the guitar isn't without its flaws, such as minor binding shrinkage and imperfect finishing. Despite these minor issues, it remains a desirable instrument, noted for its playability and unique charm, making it a worthwhile investment.

positive
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 7 Reviews and 51 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
andris_gabor

One of the best Gibson has ever made

One of my favourite axes. Sounds somewhere in between an SG and a tele. Took my a while to get a second hand one in nice condition as thee babies are pretty rare in Europe. My has the Kluson tuners (instead of the modern Steinbergs) so it is pretty heavy on the head, prone to dive. The Firebird is like a wild horse, you have to learn how to ride it.

daryl_skinner

Best and most versatile guitar ever made by Gibson, period.

If I need to describe the Firebird in one word it will be perfection. It hands down best and most versatile guitar ever made by Gibson. I use Mojotone Johnny Winter Signature Firebird pickups in my Firebird. Through my Vox AC100 CPH the Firebird can pull off anything starting from the The Beach Boys to Diamond Head.

cedric_lejeune

It's a wonderful guitar

Mine is a 90 cardinal red, I've added a Bigsby on it with a Vibramate, played with 11-48. Ringing, beautiful crunch tones with tons of harmonics, great for slide. It's a bit heavy but you get used to it, better with a large strap. Well, it's a Firebird :)

jimmarchi1

good year, cool color!

peasinafookinpod420

awesome firebird

Pat uses this as his go-to grunge guitar. his looks just like this one, but with an added in/out of phase mini toggle switch and tortishell pickguard. recommend I do if you can afford it. best heard on our cover of Nirvana's "Lithium".

nicksummers1

Love this guitar!

This is a serious block of furniture! Replaced the banjo tuners with gearless stienbergers and the Gibson stock pickups with Joe Bardens. Now it's even better. Great chunky rhythm and fat leads.

joerocco

Gibson Firebird V White

One of my best sounding guitars. Needed some work right from factory. Strings Ernie Ball 11-52 no mods

jimmarchi1

I am envious, I want a white firebird for the guitarsenal this year

chewy_studio

Awesome.

My First guitar and the best guitar in my home.It was awesome because I didn't expect it to be so good when I first bought it on Amazon this guitar is Amazing.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kevin McKeown uses Gibson Firebird V

Kevin McKeown

Guitarist

Black Pistol Fire

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video we can see that Kevin is using a gibson firebird pelham blue.

See how Brant Bjork uses Gibson Firebird V

Brant Bjork

Guitarist, Bassist

Kyuss

...
Verified via Photo

He's playing this one in the photo

See how Mikko Lindström uses Gibson Firebird V

Mikko Lindström

Guitarist

HIM

...
Verified via Photo

This is the only image of him with this guitar, whether he owns and/or played it live is unknown.

See how Ian Thornley uses Gibson Firebird V

Ian Thornley

Singer, Guitarist

Big Wreck

...
Verified via YouTube

Ian plays a red firebird throughout the video

See how Stefan Olsdal uses Gibson Firebird V

Stefan Olsdal

Guitarist, Bassist

Placebo

...
Verified via Flickr

In this 2013 Clinton concert in USA, Olsdal is seen playing Gibson Firebird V in polaris white, although no Gibson logo is visible on the headstock.

See how Laura Cox uses Gibson Firebird V

Laura Cox

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Laura Cox said she played Gibson Firebird on the stage.

From this article:

I used my Bacchus. I use that a lot on stage but also in the studio. I mostly use the same gear as I do onstage; my Bacchus Duke, my Gibson Les Paul Classic. I used a Firebird Standard for two or three songs, a Fender [American Vintage] ’52 Telecaster for two songs, the southern-sounding songs.

In this photo, which was posted by Cox on her Facebook photo, the Firebird Standard Cox mentions is actually a white Firebird V.

See how Jacob Slater uses Gibson Firebird V

Jacob Slater

Singer, Guitarist

Wunderhorse

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Jacob slater can be seen using a Black Gibson Firebird V whilst performing at Latitude Festival with his previous band; The Dead Pretties.

See how Paul Reynolds uses Gibson Firebird V

Paul Reynolds

Guitarist, Composer

A Flock of Seagulls

...
Verified via YouTube

Paul Reynolds is seen playing a Gibson Firebird V during live performances, including in the video "A Flock of Seagulls - DNA (Live)" on YouTube.

See how Aaron Lewis uses Gibson Firebird V

Aaron Lewis

Guitarist, Singer

Staind

...
Verified via Photo

In this interview, while talking about the various guitars in his collection, Aaron says, "It’s a good Firebird. Those ’76 limited editions were good Firebirds. The Explorers that came out in ’76 with the black wax pickups on the back are quite good, too, and one of the few I haven't picked up yet. "

See how Jorma Kaukonen uses Gibson Firebird V

Jorma Kaukonen

Singer, Guitarist

Jefferson Airplane

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Kaukonen can be seen playing a Gibson Firebird V. Kaukonen's gear website also mentions a "1993 Gibson Firebird", which has Fralin pickups, and RS Guitar Works caps and pots. This could be the guitar in this photo. The guitar was used for Hot Tuna's Last Waltz tour in 2023, according to 2023 Guitar World interview.

Photos: Boulder, CA, 29th February 2020.

See how Terry Kath uses Gibson Firebird V

Terry Kath

Singer, Guitarist

Chicago

...
Verified via Photo

In 1969, Terry Kath was photographed playing a Gibson Firebird III, not a Firebird V, as shown in the image.

See how Tom Ogden uses Gibson Firebird V

Tom Ogden

Singer, Composer

Blossoms

...
Verified via YouTube

Around 28:00 minutes during between the eyes he plays this firebird

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 Firebird V, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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thespann

thespann

Gear IQ 121

gabrielfa

gabrielfa

Gear IQ 334

1 alternative for Gibson Firebird V, curated by the Equipboard community.

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