Gibson Les Paul Custom Zakk Wylde

The Legend's Signature Sound

The Gibson Custom Shop Zakk Wylde Les Paul Custom is not just a guitar—it's a heavy metal icon that has defined the sound of aggressive rock for decades. This is the exact instrument that Zakk Wylde has wielded through thousands of performances with Ozzy Osbourne, Black Label Society, and beyond, creating some of the most recognizable riffs and solos in modern rock history.

The Iconic Bullseye Design

Instantly recognizable from any stage or screen, the striking black and white bullseye pattern is one of the most famous guitar finishes in rock history. Hand-painted at the Gibson Custom Shop, each bullseye is unique, making every guitar a one-of-a-kind piece of art. This isn't just aesthetic—it's a statement of power and rebellion that has become synonymous with Zakk Wylde's larger-than-life persona.

Built for Heavy Metal Domination

At its core, this is a Les Paul Custom built to Gibson's highest standards, but with modifications specifically requested by Zakk Wylde for maximum performance in the most demanding situations:

Powerhouse Pickups: Loaded with EMG 81/85 active pickup set (or Zakk Wylde signature pickups depending on spec), delivering the crushing high-output tone that cuts through the heaviest mix. The EMG 81 in the bridge provides razor-sharp clarity for pinch harmonics and aggressive leads, while the EMG 85 in the neck offers thick, warm tones for massive rhythm work.

Premium Tonewood Construction: Solid mahogany body with figured maple top provides the classic Les Paul sustain and resonance, with the weight and density needed for heavy, aggressive playing. The set mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard offers smooth, fast playability across all 22 frets.

Custom Shop Craftsmanship: Every detail is executed to Custom Shop standards—from the multi-ply binding to the mother-of-pearl block inlays, gold hardware (or chrome depending on spec), and meticulous setup. This is Gibson's finest work, built by master luthiers who understand what professional touring musicians demand.

Built to Survive the Road

Zakk Wylde is known for his aggressive playing style and relentless touring schedule. This guitar is built to match that intensity:

• Heavy-duty Grover tuners for rock-solid tuning stability
• Tonepros bridge and stopbar tailpiece for maximum sustain and intonation
• Durable finish that can handle stage abuse
• Professional setup optimized for low action and heavy strings
• Graph Tech nut for improved string stability

Neck Profile and Playability

The neck features the late '50s rounded profile that Les Paul Custom is famous for, offering substantial feel without being too chunky. The bound ebony fingerboard with 22 frets and block inlays provides the smooth, fast playing surface needed for Zakk's lightning-fast alternate picking and expressive vibrato. The 24.75" Gibson scale length offers that characteristic Les Paul feel with slightly looser string tension that's perfect for aggressive bending.

Tone That Cuts and Crushes

This guitar is designed to do one thing exceptionally well: deliver massive, articulate tone at any volume. Whether you're playing palm-muted chugging riffs, soaring pentatonic leads, or Zakk's signature pinch harmonic squeals, this Les Paul has the output and clarity to make every note count. The active pickups mean consistent performance regardless of volume level, and the mahogany/maple combination provides the resonance and sustain that make every note bloom.

Who Is This Guitar For?

This is the ultimate guitar for:

• Players who demand maximum output and aggressive tone
• Zakk Wylde fans who want the authentic experience
• Heavy metal, hard rock, and southern rock guitarists
• Collectors seeking an iconic piece of rock history
• Professional musicians who need road-ready reliability

Certificate of Authenticity

As a Gibson Custom Shop instrument, this guitar comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and is housed in a premium Gibson hardshell case with purple plush interior.

Specifications:

• Body: Solid mahogany with figured maple top
• Neck: Mahogany, set-neck construction
• Neck Profile: Late '50s rounded
• Fingerboard: Ebony with mother-of-pearl block inlays
• Frets: 22, medium jumbo
• Scale Length: 24.75"
• Nut Width: 1.695"
• Nut: Graph Tech
• Pickups: EMG 81/85 active pickups (or Zakk Wylde signature set)
• Controls: 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-way toggle
• Bridge: Tonepros Tune-O-Matic with stopbar tailpiece
• Tuners: Grover
• Hardware: Gold (or Chrome)
• Finish: Hand-painted Bullseye (Black & White)
• Case: Gibson Custom Shop hardshell case included
• Weight: Approximately 9-10 lbs