Gibson Flying V Guitars -  A brief history and popular models

The Gibson Flying V was a solid body electric that first appeared in the 1958 however it was not a popular design.  In the 1960's the hardware was changed, control knobs locations were changed and and the guitar was re launched in the mid 60's. Jimi Hendrix often favored the Gibson V.  The distinctive flying V and Explorer models were Gibson's first guitars using straight body lines and have a distinctly modern look to them.  The initial response from players and retailer was very negative however Gibson was proven to be ahead of their time as these guitars later became quite popular with players and collectors.

Despite an awkward look, Flying Vs are very easy to play. The bottom of the V rests against the player’s leg holding the guitar in a very playable position.  Variations of the Flying V are still in production by Gibson.

A 1971 Flying V

In 1971 Gibson made several changes. Notice the medallion on the body. Gibson added a stop tail-piece. The fingerboard was also raised above the body by 3/8". Gibson also made changes to the manufacturing process which allowed it to bond multiple pieces of Mahogany together as large pieces of Mahogany were getting scarce.

1979 Gibson V2

The 1979 V2 featured a heavily sculpted body which was actually laminated. The 79 V2 also featured a new humbucking pickup design. 

1979 Flying V

The Gibson 1981 Flying V

A maple top sunburst V. Note the unusual switch, knob jack layout which are unique to this model and the V 83.

1981 V

Another nice Gibson 1981 V

This Gibson Flying V has a bound fingerboard which is unusual.