Gibson Flying V

Launched beside the Explorer in 1958, the Flying V used Korina, radical angles, and a string-through bridge that blues innovators like Albert King embraced before hard rock icons claimed it. After a short original run, Gibson revived the design in the late 1960s and it became a symbol of stage presence for players chasing sustain and fearless looks.

• Introduced: 1958 limited run; reissued from 1967 onward
• Signature traits: Korina or mahogany V-body, dual humbuckers, string-through tail
• Notable players: Albert King, Jimi Hendrix, K.K. Downing