Gibson Explorer, black, made in USA 2005. What a perfect rock machine, right? The Explorer disappeared for a few years after 1960, it reappeared in this form in 1976 to rattle some cages. This one dates to 2005; it's got a few marks to prove it's played some riffs but is largely in good shape. The pickups are hot: this espouses a thick, angry, angular tone with heaps of natural bass that'll push your amp to the limit of it's patience. It balances remarkably well, seated or standing, and the neck is a slim and quick little number that's a lot of fun. This includes a hefty, handy SKB hard case that'll mean it only gets damaged while you're clowning about on stage and not while it's in the car. You'll need some black eyeliner to match, please!

Model: Gibson '76 Explorer
Made: USA, 2005 (serial 00145446)
Finish: black, white guard
Body: mahogany
Neck: mahogany, rosewood board, 12" radius, 24.75" scale
Weight: 3.820kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Gibson ceramic humbuckers (496R and 500T)
Case: SKB Deluxe ABS hard case

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. Headstock has some minor marks on the end and a lengthways scratch in the finish only around the join with the neck. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor scuffs on the back only. The back has some widespread light scuffs and surface scratches, as well as some dimples on the top horn. The sides have some light scuffs on the pointy shoulder and near the input jack and on the bottom edge round from the knobs. The front is pretty clean, just some dimples behind the bridge and some light play scratches on the guard and top horn. Overall: good condition (7/10)

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, intonation is good, action is low, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have some minor wear, 8/10 for fret life left. Setup with fresh 11/49 Moonshiners strings.