One of Gibson's best kept secrets, early 80s "The Paul" (sometimes also cross-branded as "Firebrand" models - this one happens to carry BOTH monikers), is the ultimate player's guitar! I bought this as a project and brought it back to life with new and old parts.

Typically these are made with walnut bodies and natural finishes, this special Custom Shop Edition is one of about 12 produced in late 1982 with candy apple red finish over silver basecoat (known internally at Gibson as Special 112). A similar guitar was featured on Trogly's Guitar Show (that one was damaged in shipping), but he contacted Randy Leonard and he verified these in his ledger. In the last photo, you'll see a screenshot showing this serial number, which is last on the list.

This guitar is fantastically resonant, even unplugged, and has been loved over the last 40+ years. The playwear through the finish between the pickups is a testament to how great this guitar plays and shows off the silver basecoat as well as the wood. Includes a genuine Gibson pickguard that has not been installed yet (includes screws if you choose to install it yourself).

I believe the body and neck are mahogany and the fretboard is ebony. Super smooth and feels incredible. Slim C shape. The first few frets show divoting but still have plenty of life left before a recrown will be necessary. No buzzing and the truss rod looks like it's never been moved.

Tuners have been upgraded to locking Guykers - I installed them at an angle to keep the same screw holes as the original M6 tuners that were stock. They function great as is, but you could straighten them out and redrill with new holes if you want the classic look. I chose not to so the buyer can do as they please.

Pickups have been replaced with no-name import humbuckers that sound great. They have a mellow sound and no scratchiness.

Bridge, tailpiece, pots, and output jack are original. The bridge has flattened out, but this hasn't really affected the action or introduced any buzzing. Knobs have been replaced. Strap buttons are a faux Posi-lok style that are not original to the guitar.

Overall condition of the body is fair, with playwear, wear through the finish on several edges, dings, and scratches especially on the back. If you're a guitarist that cares about playability first, looks second, and condition third, this is definitely the one for you.

Includes an Epiphone case with Gibson stickers on it. Ships fully insured to the lower 48 states via UPS. No returns, no international shipping.