This would be Penélope Paul—the guitar, not the cat.
I stumbled across this somewhat overlooked and relatively limited-run model a few months ago. Built around 2012, this isn’t a Gibson Custom Shop instrument, but rather one of Gibson USA’s Les Paul Classic Custom models. At first glance, most players would be hard-pressed to spot the difference. Visually, it checks nearly all the same boxes as a traditional Les Paul Custom: multi-ply binding, ebony-style aesthetics, block inlays, and all the tuxedo-inspired elegance that made the Custom famous.
The biggest giveaway? This particular example lacks the rear body binding found on a true Custom. Otherwise, from across the room, it easily passes the eye test.
The real difference was in the price tag.
When these were new, they sold for roughly half the cost of a Custom Shop Les Paul. Now, before the internet starts sharpening its pitchforks, I’ll say this: Gibson USA and Gibson Custom Shop guitars are not the same thing. I own examples of both, and there is absolutely a difference in craftsmanship, feel, and overall refinement. A great Custom Shop guitar is a great Custom Shop guitar.
That said, this Classic Custom offered an incredible platform for building exactly what I wanted.
As with most of my guitars, I handed it over to Franklin at Linker Guitars for a few of my standard modifications. Franklin’s work is consistently top-notch, and once again he knocked it out of the park.
The upgrades included:
- A Mojotone Magnum bridge pickup rated at a scorching 21k output
- Rolled fretboard edges for that broken-in, decades-of-played feel
- Top-wrapped 10-56 SIT strings, which dramatically softens the tension and makes the guitar feel incredibly slinky despite the heavier gauge
From there, I added a set of Grover locking tuners, replaced all of the chrome hardware with gold, and installed a fresh set of traditional top-hat control knobs to complete the look.
The result is a guitar that feels uniquely mine—equal parts workhorse and hot rod, with plenty of attitude and a surprisingly refined appearance.
A special thanks goes out to my friend Worth Weaver at Mojotone, who helped bring the build together as he always does. His support, knowledge, and willingness to help chase a vision have played a role in more than a few of my favorite guitars.
Hello, my name is Justin Driscoll and I call the wonderful state of North Carolina home. I might have taken your photo at some point or met you at a Rock N Roll show? However, I also have many other facets of my life I am passionate about. I started this site to talk about some of those things.
Whether it be guitars, guitar gear, Harley’s, Jeep stuff, photography, vinyl or travels, I’ll be on here to chat about it.
Stay Weird, Stay Creative!