offer a 1988 Gibson Flying V, made in the USA, finished in classic Ebony (black). This is an original late-’80s example from the period when Gibson re-established the Flying V as a purpose-built stage instrument – aggressive in shape, straightforward in construction, and focused entirely on tone and playability.

The guitar features a mahogany Flying V body and a set-neck mahogany neck with the Slim Taper profile typical of the era. It has a rosewood fingerboard, 24.75" scale length, and 22 frets. The construction is fully intact and original – no structural cracks, no headstock or neck repairs, and no hidden issues.

The instrument has been professionally modified with a Japanese Shift 2001 tremolo system (also known as the Washburn Wonderbar). This is a retrofit tremolo design that requires no routing of the body, using a torsion-bar spring system. It was developed in the 1980s as an alternative to the Floyd Rose and allows smooth tremolo operation while maintaining tuning stability and sustain. The installation is clean and correctly executed, with no damage to the body.

Pickups:

• Neck: original Gibson USA humbucker from the period
• Bridge: DiMarzio high-output pickup with a ceramic magnet, delivering strong attack and clarity under gain

Electronics are laid out in the classic configuration: 2 x volume, 1 x tone, 3-way toggle switch. Everything works properly – no noise, no loose components.

Condition

I rate the guitar as good and fully honest for a 38-year-old instrument.

Visible on the body:

• normal scratches and wear consistent with age
• natural patina of the black finish
• clear marks from a previously installed pickguard – visible differences in gloss and faint outlines where the pickguard was mounted
  This is a common and expected cosmetic trace on guitars where the pickguard has been removed after years of use. It is not damage and does not affect structure or playability

The headstock shows typical finish wear and scratches, consistent with late-’80s Gibsons.
Frets are even and playable, with no need for a refret. The fingerboard is in good condition. The neck is straight, the truss rod functions correctly, and the guitar holds tuning well, including with tremolo use.

Background & context

This is a genuine late-1980s Flying V from Gibson USA – a period known for raw, no-nonsense rock and metal instruments. The Shift 2001 tremolo was a popular aftermarket option at the time, used both on Washburn guitars and as a retrofit on Gibsons and Les Paul–style instruments. Today, it’s a rare and interesting period-correct modification that reflects the era.

This is not a case-queen museum piece, but an authentic vintage Gibson with real history, preserved in solid technical condition and fully ready to play.

Included:

• original Gibson hard case with red interior (externally worn, consistent with age)

No trades.

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