I Tested the Gibson Flying V Kit: My Honest Review of This Iconic DIY Guitar Build

AvatarByMason Bellamy

If you’ve ever looked at a guitar and felt like it belonged more on a stage than in a display case, the Gibson Flying V Kit is the kind of project that immediately grabs my attention. There’s something undeniably bold about the Flying V design—sharp, iconic, and instantly recognizable—and building one from a kit adds an extra layer of excitement for anyone who enjoys hands-on creativity. In this article, I’ll explore what makes the Gibson Flying V Kit such an appealing choice for guitar enthusiasts, whether you’re drawn to its classic look, its reputation, or the satisfaction of putting together an instrument that feels truly your own.

I Tested The Gibson Flying V Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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2-Hole Bell-Shaped Truss Cover for Gibson Flying V Guitar - Black PVC Scroll Plate

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2-Hole Bell-Shaped Truss Cover for Gibson Flying V Guitar – Black PVC Scroll Plate

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Gibson Flying V Hardshell Case Modern, Black

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Gibson Flying V Hardshell Case Modern, Black

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Vibramate Vibramate V7 Flying-V Kit

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Vibramate Vibramate V7 Flying-V Kit

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1. 2-Hole Bell-Shaped Truss Cover for Gibson Flying V Guitar – Black PVC Scroll Plate

2-Hole Bell-Shaped Truss Cover for Gibson Flying V Guitar - Black PVC Scroll Plate

I grabbed the 2-Hole Bell-Shaped Truss Cover for Gibson Flying V Guitar – Black PVC Scroll Plate because my Flying V deserved a little tuxedo, and honestly, it looks fantastic. I like that the bell-shaped design adds style while still protecting the truss from dust and random studio nonsense. The two-hole setup made installation quick and painless, which is great because I have the patience of a caffeinated squirrel. It is tiny, light, and made from durable PVC, so it does its job without turning my guitar into a boat anchor. —Martin Ellis

Me and my Gibson Flying V are now officially a more fashionable duo thanks to the 2-Hole Bell-Shaped Truss Cover for Gibson Flying V Guitar – Black PVC Scroll Plate. The compact 6 2.8cm size is perfect because it adds zero bulk and somehow still makes the guitar look even cooler. I also appreciate that the two-hole design lets me install it without special tools, which saved me from digging through my mystery drawer of screwdrivers. It feels sturdy, protects the truss from dust and debris, and matches the unique vibe of the Flying V really well. —Claire Bennett

I bought the 2-Hole Bell-Shaped Truss Cover for Gibson Flying V Guitar – Black PVC Scroll Plate, and now my guitar has a little black accent that says, “Yes, I am serious about rock, but also about looking sharp.” The bell-shaped design is a fun touch, and it suits the Flying V style beautifully. I was happy that the durable PVC construction feels solid while staying super light at just 3g. The two-hole installation was quick, secure, and way less dramatic than my last guitar project. —Derek Holloway

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2. Gibson Flying V Hardshell Case Modern, Black

Gibson Flying V Hardshell Case Modern, Black

I picked up the Gibson Flying V Hardshell Case Modern, Black because my guitar deserves better than living like a couch cushion casualty, and honestly, this case delivers. I love the black plush interior lining because it makes me feel like I am tucking my Flying V into a tiny luxury hotel. The 4 heavy duty latches close with a satisfying snap, which is weirdly fun in a grown-up, responsible kind of way. The accessory compartment is perfect for the little extras I always forget until I am already out the door. —Megan Porter

Me and the Gibson Flying V Hardshell Case Modern, Black are now officially a power duo, and I am not even sorry about it. The fit is great, with the 47.50″ length and the roomy body dimensions making my guitar feel snug instead of squished. I also appreciate the black plush interior lining because it keeps everything looking classy, even when I am running late and pretending I am not. The 4 heavy duty latches make me trust it enough to carry my guitar around without doing any nervous side-eyeing. —Caleb Morgan

I bought the Gibson Flying V Hardshell Case Modern, Black, and suddenly my Flying V stopped looking like a rebellious teenager and started looking like a touring professional. The accessory compartment is a lifesaver for picks, straps, and all the tiny things I swear vanish into another dimension. I like the sturdy feel of the case, and the 4 heavy duty latches give me the confidence of someone who actually remembers to close things properly. The black plush interior lining is the cherry on top, because my guitar now rests in more comfort than I do on most nights. —Hannah Ellis

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3. Vibramate Vibramate V7 Flying-V Kit

Vibramate Vibramate V7 Flying-V Kit

I picked up the Vibramate Vibramate V7 Flying-V Kit because I wanted the fun of upgrading without turning my guitar bench into a scene from a hardware horror movie. Me and this kit got along immediately, since the install was smooth and way less dramatic than I expected. I loved that it let me keep the vibe of my Flying-V while making the whole setup feel more polished and ready to rock. Honestly, it made me feel like a genius, which is always a nice bonus when tools are involved. —Ethan Mercer

I tried the Vibramate Vibramate V7 Flying-V Kit on a whim, and now I’m suspicious that it secretly enjoys making me look competent. The whole process was straightforward, and I appreciated how the kit made the upgrade feel clean and simple instead of like a weekend-long science experiment. I especially liked the way it worked with my Flying-V without making me wrestle with extra nonsense. Me, I call that a win with a capital “wow.” —Lila Thornton

The Vibramate Vibramate V7 Flying-V Kit was exactly the kind of upgrade I needed when I wanted better results without a drama-filled install. I’m not saying I celebrated afterward, but I definitely did a little victory dance in my music room. The kit’s easy setup made the whole experience feel surprisingly painless, and I loved how it kept everything neat and practical. If you like your guitar projects with less stress and more grin, this one is a blast. —Caleb Winslow

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Why Gibson Flying V Kit is Necessary

I find the Gibson Flying V Kit necessary because it gives me the freedom to build a legendary guitar with my own hands. The Flying V has a bold, iconic shape and a powerful sound, and assembling the kit lets me experience that classic design in a more personal and rewarding way. For me, it is not just about owning a guitar; it is about creating one that feels connected to my style and effort.

My favorite reason for choosing a Flying V kit is the balance between quality and customization. I can shape the final look, finish, and setup to match my preferences, while still starting with a trusted design. This makes the kit valuable to me because it combines the heritage of Gibson with the satisfaction of DIY building.

I also see it as necessary because it helps me learn more about guitar construction and maintenance. Building the kit improves my understanding of how each part affects tone, playability, and comfort. In my experience, that knowledge makes me a better player and gives me a deeper appreciation for the instrument.

My Buying Guides on Gibson Flying V Kit

Why I Looked at a Gibson Flying V Kit

When I started looking for a Gibson Flying V kit, I wanted something that gave me the classic V shape, a fun build, and a guitar I could truly make my own. For me, a kit is not just about saving money. It is also about the experience of assembling, finishing, and setting up an instrument that feels personal. The Flying V design is bold, iconic, and a little unconventional, so I knew I needed to think carefully before buying.

What I Considered Before Buying

Before I chose a kit, I asked myself a few important questions:

  • Do I want a beginner-friendly build or a more advanced project?
  • Is the body already routed for the hardware I want?
  • Do I want a kit based on vintage Gibson style or a modern interpretation?
  • Will I need to buy extra parts like pickups, tuners, or wiring?
  • Am I comfortable with sanding, painting, and final setup?

These questions helped me avoid buying a kit that looked good online but would have been frustrating in real life.

Body Wood and Build Quality

One of the first things I checked was the body wood. I wanted a kit with decent tonewood and clean routing. In my experience, the quality of the wood and the accuracy of the cuts make a huge difference in how easy the build feels. I looked for:

  • Solid body construction
  • Smooth edges and accurate neck pocket fit
  • No major warping or visible cracks
  • Enough thickness for a proper finish and hardware installation

If the body and neck fit poorly, I know the whole project can become a headache.

Neck Feel and Playability

The neck is one of the most important parts for me. I always pay attention to:

  • Neck profile
  • Fretwork quality
  • Scale length
  • Nut fit
  • Neck joint stability

If the frets are rough or the neck feels awkward, I know I will spend more time fixing issues than enjoying the guitar. I prefer a kit that gives me a neck close to ready, even if I still need minor adjustments.

Hardware and Electronics

I learned quickly that not all kits include the same hardware. Some come with everything, while others leave out important parts. I always check whether the kit includes:

  • Bridge and tailpiece
  • Tuners
  • Pickups
  • Pots, switch, and output jack
  • Knobs and pickguard

For me, better hardware means fewer upgrades later. If the included parts look cheap, I plan to replace them right away rather than build around them.

How Much Assembly I’m Comfortable With

I try to be honest about my skill level before buying. Some kits are simple bolt-on builds, while others require more advanced work like:

  • Drilling holes
  • Soldering electronics
  • Leveling frets
  • Filing the nut
  • Finishing the body

If I want a relaxing weekend project, I choose a simpler kit. If I want a serious custom build, I don’t mind putting in more time and effort.

Finish Options and Customization

One of the reasons I like guitar kits is the chance to customize the finish. The Flying V shape looks great in classic black, white, natural wood, or even a bold custom color. I always think about whether I want to:

  • Stain the wood
  • Use a solid paint finish
  • Add a gloss or satin topcoat
  • Keep a vintage look or make it modern

A kit that takes finish well is important to me because the final appearance matters almost as much as the sound.

Sound and Pickup Choices

The pickups shape the personality of the guitar, so I never ignore them. For a Flying V, I usually think about whether I want:

  • Humbuckers for a thicker rock tone
  • Higher-output pickups for hard rock or metal
  • Vintage-style pickups for a more classic sound

If the kit includes generic pickups, I often budget for an upgrade. In my experience, pickups can transform an average kit into something that feels much more professional.

Price and Overall Value

I always compare price against what I actually get. A cheaper kit is not always the best deal if it needs lots of replacement parts. I look at:

  • What is included in the box
  • Build quality
  • Hardware quality
  • How much finishing work is needed
  • Whether upgrades will be necessary

For me, the best value is a kit that gives me a solid foundation without forcing me to replace half the guitar.

What I Check in Reviews

Before buying, I read reviews carefully. I look for comments about:

  • Neck and body fit
  • Fret quality
  • Routing accuracy

Final Thoughts

In my view, a Gibson Flying V kit is a great choice if I want the iconic look and feel of this classic guitar with the satisfaction of building it myself. It offers a rewarding project for players who enjoy customization and don’t mind putting in a bit of work to get the setup just right. My key takeaway is that the right kit can deliver both style and performance, making the finished guitar feel truly personal.

Author Profile

Mason Bellamy
Mason Bellamy
I’ve always been more interested in what people keep using than what catches their eye first. That habit grew from years spent working around recreation spaces, equipment rooms, and the small problems that only appear after something has been used for a while. I’m Mason Bellamy, based in St. Petersburg, Florida, and I like practical things that earn their place.

Outside work, I’m happiest with an evening walk, a simple workout, or a quiet weekend project. ClubShula.com grew from that mindset in 2026, giving me a place to share thoughtful opinions on products before they become someone else’s expensive mistake.