Introduced in 1958, it’s safe to say the Gibson Explorer was far ahead of its time. It was a poor seller initially, with roughly 19 examples built that year. Since then, it has become an iconic design and an intrinsic part of the sound of players like James Hetfield and Bill Kelliher, both of whom even have their own signature models. It’s easy to imagine being a teenager, spotting one hanging on the wall of your local music shop, and begging your parents to let you take it home for that once-controversial rock and roll music.Today, the Explorer has been fully embraced as a no-holds-barred rock machine, delivering its all-mahogany punch through a duo of Burstbucker II and III pickups. The classic vintage Explorer features have been carefully recreated in this 2019 reissue. It’s in excellent condition, showing only minor signs of previous playwear. The switch tip has been changed, and the stock knobs are included the original red-lined hardshell case.