The Gibson Flying V is one of the most striking and legendary guitars in rock history. Originally introduced in 1958, the Flying V was a radical departure from traditional guitar designs, with its futuristic “V” shape that looked decades ahead of its time. Though it was initially a commercial failure, the Flying V later became a favorite among blues, hard rock, and metal guitarists, eventually earning its place as one of Gibson’s most iconic models.
From blues legends like Albert King to metal pioneers like James Hetfield and Randy Rhoads, the Gibson Flying V has shaped some of the most powerful and influential guitar tones in history. Its sleek, angular design, high-output humbuckers, and resonant sustain make it a force to be reckoned with on any stage.
1. Origins and Early Struggles (1958-1963)
The Birth of the Flying V
In the late 1950s, Gibson faced increasing competition from Fender, whose Stratocaster and Jazzmaster models were attracting a younger audience. In response, Gibson president Ted McCarty sought to create a line of modernist guitars that would stand out visually and push boundaries.
- The Flying V was introduced in 1958, alongside the Gibson Explorer as part of this “Modernistic” series.
- It featured a solid Korina body, chosen for its lightweight, bright tone, and resonance.
- Equipped with dual PAF humbuckers, the Flying V delivered a warm, powerful tone that complemented its futuristic looks.
- The V-shaped body was designed for better upper-fret access and a unique aesthetic appeal.
Early Commercial Failure
Despite its bold and innovative design, the Flying V was not well received at first.
- Many guitarists found the shape awkward and impractical, especially when played sitting down.
- Less than 100 units were sold in 1958, making original Korina Flying Vs extremely rare and valuable today.
- Due to poor sales, Gibson discontinued the model in 1959, making it a short-lived experiment at the time.
2. The Flying V’s Revival (1967-Present)
1967 Reissue and Blues Popularity
By the mid-1960s, interest in the Flying V began to resurface, thanks to blues legend Albert King, who made the guitar his signature instrument.
- In 1967, Gibson reissued the Flying V, but this time with a mahogany body instead of Korina.
- The new version also had a Tune-O-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece, improving tuning stability and sustain.
- The Flying V gained traction with blues-rock guitarists like Jimi Hendrix, who famously played a custom left-handed Flying V.
1970s-1980s: Hard Rock and Metal Domination
During the 1970s and 1980s, the Flying V became one of the most iconic guitars in hard rock and heavy metal.
- Guitarists like Michael Schenker (UFO, Scorpions) and K.K. Downing (Judas Priest) helped popularize the Flying V in heavy rock music.
- The 1980s metal scene, led by bands like Metallica, Megadeth, and Ozzy Osbourne, fully embraced the Flying V’s aggressive look and powerful tone.
- Players like James Hetfield (Metallica) and Randy Rhoads (Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot) made the Flying V a symbol of metal intensity and speed.
3. Design and Construction Features
Unique Body Shape
- The Flying V’s sharp, angular design makes it instantly recognizable.
- The V-shaped body allows for easy upper-fret access, making it great for lead guitarists.
- Though it can be awkward to play sitting down, some players rest the V shape on their leg like a classical guitar.
Tonewoods
- The original 1958 models were built from Korina (African Limba), offering a bright, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Most later models are made from mahogany, which provides warmth, depth, and strong mids.
- Some modern versions feature maple tops for extra brightness and attack.
Powerful Pickups
- The Flying V has traditionally used humbucking pickups, delivering a thick, powerful sound.
- Classic models feature PAF-style pickups (Burstbuckers, 490R/498T) for a vintage blues/rock sound.
- Modern versions may include active EMG pickups, favored by metal players for their high output and clarity.
Hardware and Bridge
- Most Flying Vs use a Tune-O-Matic bridge with a stopbar tailpiece, ensuring excellent sustain and tuning stability.
- Some models have a string-through-body design, enhancing resonance and sustain.
- Modern versions include locking tuners and upgraded bridges for better tuning reliability.
4. The Flying V’s Tonal Characteristics
Clean Tones
- The neck pickup provides a smooth, warm clean tone with a rounded low end.
- The bridge pickup delivers bright, articulate cleans with excellent note separation.
Overdrive and Distortion
- With overdrive, the Flying V produces thick, harmonically rich tones that are perfect for classic rock and hard rock.
- Its strong midrange and sustain help it cut through the mix in a band setting.
High-Gain and Metal Tones
- In high-gain settings, the Flying V excels at chunky rhythm playing and screaming lead tones.
- Ideal for heavy metal and thrash, thanks to its tight low end and aggressive attack.
5. Famous Gibson Flying V Players
Albert King
- One of the first famous Flying V players, known for his powerful blues phrasing and thick tone.
- Songs: “Born Under a Bad Sign,” “Crosscut Saw.”
Jimi Hendrix
- Used a left-handed Gibson Flying V, often decorated with psychedelic artwork.
- Songs: “Red House,” “Voodoo Child (Slight Return).”
Michael Schenker (UFO, Scorpions)
- Famous for playing black-and-white Flying Vs with soaring, melodic solos.
- Songs: “Rock Bottom,” “Doctor Doctor.”
K.K. Downing (Judas Priest)
- Helped define metal’s twin-guitar attack, often using a Flying V.
- Songs: “Breaking the Law,” “Hell Bent for Leather.”
James Hetfield (Metallica)
- Used Flying Vs extensively in Metallica’s early years, before switching to ESP models.
- Songs: “Seek & Destroy,” “The Four Horsemen.”
6. Notable Variants and Reissues
1958 Korina Flying V Reissue
- Faithful recreation of the original 1958 model, featuring Korina wood and vintage-spec PAF pickups.
Gibson Custom Flying V
- A high-end, hand-crafted version with premium tonewoods and hardware.
Gibson Flying V B-2
- A modern blacked-out version with EMG pickups for heavy metal tones.
Epiphone Flying V
- A more affordable version, great for players who want the Flying V experience on a budget.