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Sunday, July 26, 2009

The History Of The Gibson Flying V

By Aaron Shanty

If you imagine a rock guitarist, the V shaped guitars made by Gibson immediately spring to mind. The image of a heavy metal guitarist, thrashing away at his axe is an emotive image shared across the whole world.

The Gibson Flying V is definitely one of the guitars that will be written about in history as one of the most amazing and unique guitar designs ever made. Launched in 1958 and then again is 1967, the Flying V began to take the rock work in it's grasp.

The classic and original designs from around 1967 are considered to be the most collectible of these guitars. The older model, now referred to as the V Factor is collected by enthusiasts, but it is the slightly newer, more famous model that draws the people to the auctions. The Flying V is still made today, although Gibson call it the Tribal V instead.

You might find modern artists and bands like The Foo Fighters using a Flying V these days, but in it's time, the V has seen greats like Marc Bolan and Jimi Hendrix too. Jimi was notorious for using these guitars on stage and even has his own signature model that he chose to cover in a paisley pattern.

If you were to go out and buy a brand new model today, the Tribal V would be the one to look for. Gibson have only manufactured this as a limited edition run of 350 units, so finding one may be difficult. Not impossible though if you check out good local shops and places like eBay. If you want the real deal, you will be looking for the older models from the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the V was at the height of its popularity.

The Gibson Tribal V is a newer, more up to date version of the older model with all new components and electronics. The modern, youth tribal tattoo markings and graphics make it stand out from the crowd too.

There have been other makers of the V style guitar through the years. Ibanez for one copied the look and design when they released their own version. Rumor has it that Gibson had to step in with their lawyers to prevent these guitars from being made and sold, such was the strength and quality of the copiers design.

The impact of the flying V will still be felt in hundreds of years from now. The design, build quality and kudos surrounding the most popular guitar of the 60's will never die. Those who have played a V will tell you - it changes lives. - 18762

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