For sale is my stunning 2013 Gibson Bill Kelliher “Golden Axe” Explorer in Go-Gold Burst finish. This is the limited-run signature model from Mastodon guitarist Bill Kelliher – only about 400 were made. It combines classic Explorer aggression with premium upgrades and incredible versatility.

This guitar plays and sounds absolutely amazing. The slim mahogany neck feels fantastic (bound rosewood board with trapezoid inlays), and the solid mahogany body delivers massive sustain and rich low-end warmth. The Lace Nitro Hemi humbuckers are the star – huge, articulate high-gain tones with excellent clarity, but they clean up beautifully too. Coil-splitting via the push/pull volume and tone pots opens up a wide range of sounds from chimey single-coil-like sparkle to full-on metal roar.

Highlights:

•  Pristine Go-Gold Burst nitro finish with beautiful wood grain and cream binding

•  Gold-plated hardware and hot-stamped “Golden Axe” truss rod cover

•  Cream pickguard with Mastodon logo

•  Easy-access toggle switch placement (Bill’s smart mod to the control layout)

•  Excellent setup – frets are in great shape, action is perfect for both rhythm and lead

I’ve taken great care of this guitar in my collection. It has been played but remains in excellent condition with only light player wear (normal for a pro-level instrument)- full details and close-ups in the photos. Ships in the original oversized hardshell case.

A few small age lines starting in the finish, but can only be seen at an angle, and make it look even cooler. You can see them in the pics.