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Average Price: $4,595

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$1001+

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Description

Unleash the raw power and precision of Mastodon's riff maestro with the Gibson Signature Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer Electric Guitar. A true embodiment of Bill Kelliher's sonic footprint, this guitar is not just an instrument but a partner in your musical journey. It's equipped with split-coil LACE Nitro Hemi humbucking pickups, delivering the versatility and punch required to stand out in any mix. Whether you're shredding through a solo or laying down rhythm tracks, the Golden Axe Explorer offers unparalleled clarity and sustain. Dive into the realm of professional-grade guitars and let your creativity soar with this masterpiece.

Key Features:

  • Signature model of Bill Kelliher of Mastodon, reflecting his unique sound and playing style.
  • Equipped with split-coil LACE Nitro Hemi humbucking pickups for a wide range of tones.
  • Years of Production: 2013 - present, ensuring a modern design with a touch of classic appeal.

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Bill Kelliher "Golden Axe" Explorer
Finish Gold Burst
Year 2013
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Artist Bill Kelliher
Body Shape X-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Gold
Finish Pattern Sunburst
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 Artist Collection

FAQs

What type of pickups are used in the Gibson Signature Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer?

This guitar features a pair of Gibson LACE Nitro Hemi humbucker pickups, designed to deliver powerful and articulate tones suitable for heavy rock and metal genres.

How does the neck profile of the Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer feel for playing?

The neck features a rounded profile, providing a comfortable grip that is well-suited for both rhythm and lead playing, making it ideal for musicians who enjoy a fast and smooth playing experience.

Is the Gibson Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer suitable for metal music?

Yes, the Golden Axe Explorer is designed with metal in mind, featuring high-output pickups and a solid mahogany body that delivers the aggressive tones and sustain preferred by metal guitarists.

What is the body shape of the Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer?

The body shape is an X-style, characteristic of the Gibson Explorer series, offering a distinctive and bold appearance that matches its powerful sound.

Does the Gibson Signature Bill Kelliher Explorer come with a case?

Yes, the guitar typically includes a hardshell case, providing protection and ease of transport for gigs and rehearsals.

zZounds

zZounds

zZounds.com: Interview with Bill Kelliher of Mastodon

Video thumbnail for zZounds.com: Interview with Bill Kelliher of Mastodon by zZounds

zZounds.com: Interview with Bill Kelliher of Mastodon

zZounds

zZounds

Video thumbnail for Musikmesse '13 - Gibson Chris Cornell ES-335 & Bill Kelliher "Golden Axe" Explorer Demos by Premier Guitar

Musikmesse '13 - Gibson Chris Cornell ES-335 & Bill Kelliher "Golden Axe" Explorer Demos

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Thank You, Bill Kelliher! | 2013 Gibson Explorer Golden Axe Signature Goldburst | Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

Thank You, Bill Kelliher! | 2013 Gibson Explorer Golden Axe Signature Goldburst | Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Gibson Bill Kelliher "Golden Axe" Explorer Review and sound test by Getaways and Guitars

Gibson Bill Kelliher "Golden Axe" Explorer Review and sound test

Getaways and Guitars

Getaways and Guitars

Video thumbnail for Bill Kelliher and his signature Gibson USA 'Golden Axe' Explorer by Gibson Guitar NYC

Bill Kelliher and his signature Gibson USA 'Golden Axe' Explorer

Gibson Guitar NYC

Gibson Guitar NYC

Video thumbnail for Gibson Bill Kelliher "Golden Axe" Explorer Gold Burst 2013 USA by Loud Lemon Demo

Gibson Bill Kelliher "Golden Axe" Explorer Gold Burst 2013 USA

Loud Lemon Demo

Loud Lemon Demo

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Signature Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer Electric Guitar.

Features and functionality

  • The guitar has a master volume, master tone, and a 3-way switch, with the ability to tap the bridge or neck pickups.

    Source
  • Lace Nitro Hemi pickups are described as some of the hottest passive options, offering great sustain and cutting through full band mixes effectively.

    Source
  • Some users suggest relocating the pickup switch to the first knob position for frequent switching convenience.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • It's noted that the guitar may require a setup to handle heavier gauge strings effectively.

    Source
  • Wiring changes for coil-splitting pickups can be confusing, especially if retaining this feature.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Nitro Hemi pickups are considered superior to the Dissonant Aggressors but slightly less favored than the Divinators.

    Source
  • The Nitro Hemi pickups are hotter than the 498r and t set in a Les Paul, with a wide-open sound and good sustain.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Bill Kelliher's transition from Lace Sensor to Seymour Duncan pickups on his current models reflects a significant tonal preference change.

    Source
  • Owners often swap out the neck pickup due to muddiness; some recommend Dissonant Aggressors for a clearer tone.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report excellent balance with no significant neck drop, enhancing playability compared to similar designs.

    Source
  • Limited production with approximately 400 units, making it a sought-after collectible among Explorer enthusiasts.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar excels at producing intense rock tones, similar to Mastodon's "Seabeast" intro, even at low volumes.

    Source

Build quality

  • The wood grain of the gold top is often described as more beautiful in person than photographs can capture.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Brent Hinds uses Gibson Signature Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer Electric Guitar

Brent Hinds

Singer, Guitarist

Mastodon

...
Verified

This guitar was sold on Brent Hinds’ official Reverb.com shop.

See how Bill Kelliher uses Gibson Signature Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer Electric Guitar

Bill Kelliher

Singer, Guitarist

Mastodon

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video for Gibson, they spotlight Bill Kelliher and his signature "Golden Axe" Explorer:

"I've always been a fan of Explorers. It's almost like you're wielding an ax or something. But this one is a blingy ax."

In another interview by Gibson, when asked about his Golden Axe and how it was doing on the road, Kelliher says, "I love it! I can't say enough good things about it. It's a great guitar. It's very pretty. Very bling-y. I brought it with me. I just put some new strings on it. It holds up great. It's been on every tour since I had it made, and I love it."

Genre Usage

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

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