Hand-signed by Schenker and replicated using 3D scans of the original, this guitar harnesses the aesthetic character and powerful tone of one of the most influential guitars in hard-rock history
Gibson Custom has launched the Michael Schenker 1971 Flying V™ Collector’s Edition, a detailed recreation of the 1971 Gibson Medallion Flying V that inspired a whole generation of hard-rock guitarists to pick up the instrument, not least Metallica’s Kirk Hammett. The guitar has undergone a number of finish changes under Michael’s care; it was originally Cherry Red and ultimately transformed into the black and white design it has today. This very special signature model is signed by Schenker himself, and only 50 are available worldwide.
Michael Schenker is known for his work with UFO, Scorpions, and the Michael Schenker Group. Used to record UFO’s first three albums, his Flying V now forms part of Kirk Hammett’s storied guitar collection. This new Gibson Custom signature model captures all the quirks of the original thanks to precise 3D scans.
This Collector’s Edition features a mahogany body with a partially painted white pickguard, a three-piece mahogany neck with a slim artist profile and volute, and a one-piece rosewood fretboard with 22 medium jumbo frets and cellulose dot inlays. The Flying V headstock continues its famed split-color motif and is fitted with Schaller M6 tuners and a Corian® nut.
The guitar comes fitted with a pair of uncovered T-Top humbuckers™ with Alnico 5 magnets for clarity and bite, each wired to its own volume control with a shared tone knob using 500k CTS® potentiometers, along with a Switchcraft® three-way toggle and 1⁄4-inch output jack to round out the electronics.
Each guitar is individually numbered, and hand-signed by Michael Schenker on the back of the headstock
Limited to just 50 units, each guitar is hand-signed by Michael Schenker on the back of the headstock and comes housed in a custom replica flight case showcasing Michael Schenker Group graphics. Also included are a commemorative mahogany display block featuring a #56 Medallion, and a Certificate of Authenticity presented in a matching black and white folio.
Find out more about the Gibson Custom Michael Schenker 1971 Flying V Collector’s Edition and shop now. Read an excerpt from The Collection: Kirk Hammett in which Kirk talks about getting his hands on the original.
