2011 Gibson Firebird V Cardinal Red, (Used, Comm)
The 2011 Gibson Firebird V in Cardinal Red is a bold and distinctive Gibson electric guitar with unmistakable stage presence, classic reverse-body styling and a unique voice within the Gibson family. With its offset Firebird shape, striking Cardinal Red finish and vintage-inspired attitude, this guitar is ideal for players who want something more individual than a Les Paul, SG or ES-style model.
This pre-owned 2011 Gibson Firebird V is listed in Excellent condition, meaning it shows very light signs of previous use while remaining fully functional and ready to play.
A superb choice for rock, blues, alternative, indie, slide, classic rock, studio work and live performance, this Firebird V offers a brilliant blend of Gibson heritage, visual impact and practical player appeal.
At A Glance
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Product | Gibson Firebird V |
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | Firebird V |
| Year | 2011 |
| Finish | Cardinal Red |
| Type | Solid Body Electric Guitar |
| Body Style | Reverse-Body Firebird |
| Condition | Pre-Owned, Excellent Condition |
| Main Appeal | Distinctive Gibson offset design with strong stage presence |
| Best For | Rock, blues, alternative, indie, slide, classic rock, recording and live performance |
| Skill Level | Intermediate to professional, Gibson collectors and serious players |
Condition Overview
Excellent Condition
This 2011 Gibson Firebird V is in Excellent condition. This means it shows very light signs of use while remaining fully functional and ready to play.
Excellent condition is ideal for players and collectors who want a clean pre-owned Gibson with only minimal evidence of previous ownership.
What’s Included?
✔ 2011 Gibson Firebird V Cardinal Red Electric Guitar
✔ Hardcase
✘ No Additional Accessories Included
Condition Notes
This guitar shows very light signs of previous use such as minor surface marks, faint handling wear or small signs of careful previous ownership.
No faults, repairs or modifications have been supplied for this listing. The guitar has been checked for playability and functionality before sale.
Fair Deal Inspection & Assessment
This pre-owned 2011 Gibson Firebird V has been inspected and assessed by the Fair Deal Music team before being offered for sale.
Our checks include:
- Electronics tested
- Pickups checked
- Pickup selector tested
- Volume and tone controls checked
- Output jack tested
- Frets inspected
- Fingerboard checked
- Tuners checked
- Bridge checked
- Tailpiece checked
- Neck relief assessed
- General playability assessed
- Hardcase checked for basic usability
Service / Setup Work
All pre-owned guitars at Fair Deal Music are set up and checked before leaving the shop.
This Gibson Firebird V has been assessed for playability, with the following checked:
- Action checked
- Neck relief checked
- Frets inspected
- Tuning stability checked
- Electronics tested
- Hardware checked
- Bridge setup checked
- Intonation checked
Please note that guitar setup can sometimes shift slightly during delivery due to changes in temperature and humidity. We take this into account during our checks, but wood can naturally move in transit.
Why Choose The 2011 Gibson Firebird V?
Iconic Firebird Design
The Firebird is one of Gibson’s most recognisable designs. Its reverse-body shape, long visual lines and offset silhouette give it a dramatic look that stands apart from more traditional electric guitars.
Cardinal Red Finish
The Cardinal Red finish gives this Firebird V a powerful and eye-catching appearance. It brings out the guitar’s bold body shape beautifully and makes it a standout choice for stage, studio and collection use.
Distinctive Gibson Voice
The Firebird has its own place within the Gibson family. It offers a different feel and tonal character from a Les Paul or SG, making it a great choice for players who want Gibson identity with a more individual edge.
Great For Rock, Blues And Slide
Firebirds are strongly associated with expressive rock and blues playing. Their response works well for riffing, lead lines, slide guitar, edge-of-breakup tones and overdriven amp sounds.
Excellent Alternative To A Les Paul Or SG
If you already own a Les Paul or SG, the Firebird V brings a different playing experience and visual personality to your collection. It keeps the Gibson heritage but adds a more adventurous body shape and stage presence.
Strong Pre-Owned Gibson Appeal
As a 2011 Gibson in Excellent condition, this Firebird V has strong pre-owned appeal for players and collectors looking for a clean, distinctive and usable Gibson electric guitar.
Comparison Against Popular Alternatives
Gibson Firebird V vs Gibson Les Paul Standard
A Les Paul Standard offers a more familiar single-cut feel with a heavier classic-rock identity. The Firebird V offers a more offset body shape, different balance and a more distinctive stage look.
Gibson Firebird V vs Gibson SG Standard
An SG Standard is lighter, thinner and more compact. The Firebird V has a longer, more dramatic body shape and a different visual identity, making it ideal for players who want something more unusual.
Gibson Firebird V vs Gibson Explorer
The Explorer is another bold Gibson shape with aggressive styling. The Firebird V feels more vintage-offset in character, with a sleeker and more elegant visual profile.
Gibson Firebird V vs Fender Offset Guitars
Fender offset guitars such as Jaguars and Jazzmasters offer bright single-coil-style character and a different scale feel. The Firebird V gives players a Gibson-style platform with a more powerful and distinctive voice.
Who Is It For?
Gibson Players Wanting Something Different
This is ideal for players who love Gibson guitars but want something more distinctive than a Les Paul or SG.
Rock And Blues Players
The Firebird V is a natural fit for rock, blues, slide, classic rock and expressive lead work.
Stage Performers
The Cardinal Red finish and reverse-body shape make this guitar a strong choice for players who want visual impact on stage.
Studio Musicians
Recording players may appreciate the Firebird V for adding a different Gibson texture to guitar parts and layered tracks.
Collectors
Collectors of Gibson models, Firebirds and standout finishes will appreciate the 2011 year, Cardinal Red finish and Excellent condition.
Suitable Genres And Uses
This 2011 Gibson Firebird V is well suited to:
- Rock
- Blues
- Classic rock
- Alternative
- Indie
- Slide guitar
- Garage rock
- Punk
- Roots rock
- Studio recording
- Home recording
- Live performance
- Rehearsals
- Rhythm guitar
- Lead guitar
- Players wanting a distinctive Gibson electric guitar
Educational Section: Why Choose A Gibson Firebird?
A Gibson Firebird is a great choice for players who want Gibson heritage in a more unusual and visually striking format. Its reverse-body design gives it a unique identity, while its place in rock and blues history makes it a favourite among players who value attitude and individuality.
Compared with more common Gibson designs, the Firebird feels more distinctive on stage and in the hands. It is especially appealing to players who want a guitar that inspires different parts, different tones and a stronger visual presence.
For guitarists who want something bold, characterful and unmistakably Gibson, the Firebird V remains one of the most exciting choices.
Looking for advice on choosing the right Gibson Firebird, pre-owned Gibson or alternative to a Les Paul? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.
Story & Context: Gibson Firebird V
The Gibson Firebird was introduced as one of Gibson’s most forward-thinking electric guitar designs. Its offset reverse-body shape gave it a dramatic look that stood apart from the more traditional designs of the era.
Over time, the Firebird became closely associated with rock, blues and slide players who wanted a guitar with a unique look and a strong, expressive voice. Its combination of Gibson heritage and offset styling has made it a favourite among players who want something with real personality.
This 2011 Firebird V in Cardinal Red captures that spirit beautifully, offering a clean, stage-ready and highly distinctive pre-owned Gibson.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Product Type | Solid Body Electric Guitar |
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | Firebird V |
| Year | 2011 |
| Finish | Cardinal Red |
| Body Style | Reverse-Body Firebird |
| Pickup Configuration | Dual Pickup |
| Controls | Volume and Tone Controls |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic-Style Bridge |
| Tailpiece | Stopbar-Style Tailpiece |
| String Configuration | 6-String |
| Condition | Pre-Owned, Excellent Condition |
Power Requirements
No power supply or battery is required. This is a passive electric guitar and only needs a standard 1/4" instrument cable and a suitable guitar amplifier, pedalboard or audio interface.
Fair Deal Music Verdict
★★★★★ 5/5
A striking and highly desirable Gibson Firebird with serious stage presence and classic offset character. The 2011 Gibson Firebird V in Cardinal Red is ideal for players who want Gibson heritage with a more distinctive look than a Les Paul or SG.
This Excellent condition example is a superb choice for rock, blues, alternative, slide, recording and live performance, offering standout looks, practical playability and strong pre-owned Gibson appeal.
Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?
Choosing Fair Deal Music means buying from a passionate team of musicians who genuinely understand the products we sell. Whether you're purchasing your first instrument, upgrading your current setup or searching for something special, we're here to help you make the right choice with friendly advice and expert support.
When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:
Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians
Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment
Competitive prices on leading music brands
Secure UK-wide delivery
Flexible finance options available (subject to status)
Friendly support before and after your purchase
A trusted independent UK music retailer with decades of experience
Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.
Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.
We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.
Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.
It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.
FAQ
Is this a 2011 Gibson Firebird V?
Yes. This listing is for a 2011 Gibson Firebird V in Cardinal Red.
What styles does the Gibson Firebird V suit?
It suits rock, blues, classic rock, alternative, indie, slide guitar, garage rock, punk, roots rock, recording and live performance.
How does a Firebird compare with a Les Paul?
A Les Paul has a more traditional single-cut body and familiar Gibson feel. A Firebird offers a more offset shape, stronger visual identity and a different playing experience.
Is the Firebird V suitable for slide guitar?
Yes. Firebirds are popular with slide players thanks to their expressive response and strong rock/blues character.
Is this guitar suitable for live performance?
Yes. The Firebird V has excellent stage presence, and the Cardinal Red finish makes this example especially eye-catching.
Is this a good studio guitar?
Yes. It can add a distinctive Gibson texture to recordings and works well for layered rhythm parts, lead lines and slide parts.
What does Excellent condition mean?
Excellent condition means the guitar shows very light signs of previous use while remaining fully functional and ready to play.
Does it work well with pedals?
Yes. It works well with overdrive, fuzz, boost, delay, reverb, modulation, compression and amp-modelling setups.
Does this guitar need a battery?
No. This is a passive electric guitar and does not require a battery.
Can I try this guitar in-store?
Fair Deal Music has a large Birmingham showroom, and our team can offer advice on Gibson Firebirds, pre-owned Gibson guitars and alternative body shapes.