Gibson Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer, USED

The Gibson Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer is a signature model crafted to meet the high-performance needs of Mastodon’s rhythm guitarist, Bill Kelliher. Combining aggressive aesthetics with top-tier construction, this guitar captures the heavy tone and playability required for modern rock and metal. Its bold appearance and tonal versatility make it a standout in the Explorer lineup, with a design that pays homage to Kelliher's influential style.

This Golden Axe Explorer features a mahogany body finished in a unique Lichen Gold Burst, giving it a striking, slightly relic-ed appearance. The slim-taper mahogany neck, paired with a rosewood fingerboard, ensures smooth playability and comfort during long sessions. The 22 medium jumbo frets and a 12" fingerboard radius cater to both rhythm-heavy riffs and intricate solos, delivering a versatile playing experience.

At the heart of the Golden Axe Explorer are Kelliher’s signature Lace Sensor pickups. These humbuckers are designed to provide a tight, focused sound with plenty of clarity and punch, perfectly suited for heavy, drop-tuned riffs. The pickups are versatile enough to handle clean tones with warmth and sustain while retaining the articulation needed for dynamic playing. The guitar's simplified controls include a three-way toggle switch and master volume and tone knobs, offering intuitive sound-shaping options.

Hardware appointments like Grover Mini Rotomatic tuners and a Tune-O-Matic bridge ensure rock-solid tuning stability and intonation. The overall design and build quality reflect Gibson’s commitment to crafting a professional-grade instrument capable of handling the demands of both studio and stage. Whether you’re chasing heavy tones or need a unique addition to your collection, the Bill Kelliher Golden Axe Explorer delivers power, style, and performance.