The Gibson Explorer along with the slightly earlier Flying V were the culimination of Les Paul's attempts to change the shape of the guitar. The Explorer's odd squared lines suggest a cubist's rendition of an hourglass.

The guitar has the signature Gibson tone, and its been beloved by rock guitarists for decades.

Some consider it the first spank plank, though personally with its emphasis on quality, tone, and its great weight I hardly think this is fair.