Gibson began manufacturing the Flying V in 1958. These "futuristic" guitars were originally made of korina (spelled korena at the time) which is a trademark name for limba. The guitar is named after it's shape; it has a large cut out in the body of the instrument and is thought to look like a flying letter V. Initially, these modern looking guitars, designed by Ten McCartny, didn't sell well and were discontinued the following year. Years later, in 1967, they made some critical changes to get the it back on the map. The designers at Gibson, and Ted McCartny, needed to make changes to reduce the weight and give the guitar a better sound.
Blue/rock guitarists Albert King and Lonnie Mack began using thus guitar immediately. But, it was made famous in the sixty's when world famous musician Jimi Hendrix started using it. He said the Gibson Flying V had distinct and powerful sound.
When the guitar was reissued in 1967, Gibson gave it a sleeker more stylish finish. The body was bigger (yet lighter) than the original, had a more stylish pick guard and an updated bridge. This style, known as the "V Factor", is the style Gibson still uses today. The body and neck at made of mahogany wood, the fret board is made of rosewood or ebony, and it features a "set-in" neck.
The Gibson Flying V will add a new level of rock to your collection.
