Gibson Flying V 2002 - 2012 - Faded Cherry

There is something incredibly cool about the early 2000s faded Gibson guitars. They have a raw, resonant, player-focused feel that is very different from the heavily glossed production models, and this 2002 Gibson Flying V in Faded Cherry captures that perfectly. It has the classic V attitude, the lightweight feel, the stripped-down satin finish, and the kind of direct, punchy response that makes these guitars so addictive to play.

This era of Gibson’s faded series has developed a strong following because the guitars were built to be simple, honest, and stage-ready. Instead of a thick high-gloss finish, the satin faded cherry lets the mahogany feel more open and natural in the hands. You can see the grain through the finish, and the whole guitar has that worn-in, no-nonsense rock machine vibe that only gets cooler with age.

The look on this one is excellent. The cherry finish has aged beautifully into a deep, warm red that still shows the natural mahogany grain underneath. It has the classic white Flying V pickguard, black speed knobs, cream switch tip, chrome hardware, and the unmistakable Gibson split headstock with the raised center logo plate. It is simple, bold, and instantly recognizable.

The big thing that stood out to me is the feel. At only 6.31 lbs on my scale, this V is extremely comfortable and lively. It has that lightweight mahogany snap where the whole guitar feels responsive as soon as you dig in. The neck feels comfortable, the frets are in excellent shape, and it plays cleanly up and down the board.

Tonally, this is exactly what I want from a Flying V. It has a strong, focused midrange, plenty of bite, and that open Gibson humbucker sound that works beautifully for classic rock, hard rock, punk, blues, and heavier styles. It is punchy without feeling harsh, and it has that immediate attack that makes riffs feel huge.

The electronics have been tested and are working properly, and the original pickups are still intact. The setup is solid, the intonation is spot on, and the guitar feels ready to play as soon as it comes out of the bag.

Condition is very good overall. The satin body shows small light markings throughout, which is typical for these faded finishes and part of the natural character of the guitar. There are some small marks and light wear around the body and tips, as shown in the photos, but nothing that takes away from the overall presentation or playability. The neck is also very good, the fretboard is clean, and the frets are excellent.

Included with the guitar is the factory Gibson USA gig bag and inspection sheet.

What stood out to me

• 2002 Gibson Flying V
• Faded Cherry finish
• Early 2000s Gibson faded-series feel
• Lightweight mahogany body
• 6.31 lbs on my scale
• Classic Flying V body shape
• Satin finish with visible mahogany grain
• Original pickups
• Dual humbucker layout
• 3-way toggle switch
• Two volume controls and master tone
• Chrome hardware
• White full-face Flying V pickguard
• Rosewood fingerboard
• Dot inlays
• Excellent fret condition
• Spot-on intonation
• Comfortable setup
• Factory Gibson USA gig bag included
• Inspection sheet included

Like all my guitars, this one has been carefully inspected, tested, and set up to ensure it plays exactly the way a great instrument should. I personally go through every guitar before it ships so there are no surprises when it arrives.

⏳ Quick note

These guitars don’t usually sit. Most are purchased within 1–5 days, and I regularly hear from watchers after the listing has already sold. If this one’s on your radar, now’s the window.