Gibson launched the Firebird design in 1963 with four main models - the Firebird I, II, V, and VII. Each was distinguished by different pickup and hardware configurations, though they all shared a thru-body construction and a unique "reversed" body shape with a large lower horn.
Mid-1965 saw a total redesign of the entire Gibson Firebird series of guitars, switching to a more traditional "non-reverse" body shape, much simpler construction, some pickup and hardware changes, and the introduction of far more custom colours than were available on the original run.
The early Firebirds used a complex neck-through-body design, but the new models went with a more traditional set-neck and were significantly lighter, easier to build, and came in at a lower price than the first Firebird design.
The "Non-Reverse" Firebird III features a trio of P-90 pickups, short vibrola tailpiece, and an unbound neck with dot inlays.
Features –
Mahogany body
Mahogany neck
Brazilian rosewood fingerboard
Three P-90 pickups
24 3/4-inch scale length
Dot inlays
Four control knobs
Kluson tuners
Maestro vibrato tailpiece
This ‘66 NR Firebird features a beautiful one-piece mahogany body with a standard glued-in neck, and it presents in excellent condition. Structurally, it is 100% - there are no cracks, breaks, repairs or physical concerns of any kind.
The three original P-90 pickups sound amazing - hot, gritty, nasty and just plain old mean. Nails Johnny Winter gritty blues, jangly Stones-tones, Stephen Stills woody-tone, and everything in between. The Maestro vibrato actually holds excellent tune (if you don’t dive toooo hard), and the tuners are smooth and tight.
Cosmetically, this one proudly displays some minor wear one would expect of a well loved, well played and well cared for instrument of this age and pedigree. It has some natural ageing of the lacquer which really just adds to the true vintage vibe of this instrument. The pickguard is cracked at the upper most screw hole, but you’d be hard pressed to find any other flaws on this beauty.
This guitar is a monster player. Super fast neck, arrow true, low action and great feel.
This is an original vintage 1966 Gibson "non-reverse" Firebird electric guitar in great condition. No issues with this one, it is 100% ready to rock – just plug it in, light blue touch-paper & stand well back.
Comes in its with its quality hard shell case in good condition.
