Gibson SG ’61 Reissue Oversized Headstock Cherry Electric Guitar, (Used, Comm)
The Gibson SG ’61 Reissue Oversized Headstock in Cherry is a vintage-inspired Gibson electric guitar built for players who want classic SG tone, fast upper-fret access and unmistakable rock-ready style. With its rosewood fingerboard, Cherry finish and distinctive oversized headstock, this SG delivers the bold look, lightweight feel and direct response that make the SG one of Gibson’s most recognisable designs.
This pre-owned Gibson SG ’61 Reissue is listed in Very Good condition, making it a strong choice for players who want a clean, reliable Gibson with vintage-inspired character and everyday stage or studio usability.
With its slim double-cut body, familiar Gibson control layout and expressive humbucker voice, this guitar is ideal for rock, blues, classic rock, punk, indie, alternative, hard rock and lead-focused playing.
At A Glance
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Product | Gibson SG ’61 Reissue Oversized Headstock |
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | SG ’61 Reissue |
| Finish | Cherry |
| Type | Solid Body Electric Guitar |
| Condition | Pre-Owned, Very Good Condition |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Headstock | Oversized Headstock |
| Main Appeal | Classic SG tone, fast upper-fret access and bold vintage-inspired styling |
| Best For | Rock, blues, classic rock, punk, indie, alternative and hard rock |
| Skill Level | Intermediate to professional, also suitable for committed beginners |
Condition Overview
Very Good Condition
This Gibson SG ’61 Reissue is in Very Good condition. This means it shows some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership, but remains fully functional and ready to play.
Very Good condition is ideal for players who want a clean, reliable pre-owned Gibson that has been looked after and is ready for regular use.
What’s Included?
✔ Gibson SG ’61 Reissue Oversized Headstock Cherry Electric Guitar
✔ Hardcase
✘ No Additional Accessories Included
Condition Notes
This guitar shows light signs of previous use such as small marks, light surface scratches or minor handling wear.
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 Gibson SG ’61 Reissue 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
- 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 SG ’61 Reissue 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 Gibson SG ’61 Reissue?
Classic SG ’61 Reissue Character
The SG ’61 Reissue is designed to capture the sharp, lightweight and highly playable feel associated with early SG models. It offers the unmistakable double-cut body shape, strong Gibson identity and fast access that make the SG such a favourite among rock and blues players.
Oversized Headstock Styling
The oversized headstock gives this SG a distinctive look with strong vintage-inspired attitude. It adds visual personality and makes this model stand out from more standard SG designs.
Rosewood Fingerboard Feel
The rosewood fingerboard gives the guitar a familiar Gibson playing feel with a smooth response under the fingers. It suits expressive bends, chord work, lead lines and dynamic rhythm playing.
Fast Upper-Fret Access
One of the SG’s greatest strengths is how easy it is to reach the higher frets. The double-cut body shape makes lead playing feel open and comfortable, making this guitar ideal for solos, higher-register riffs and expressive melodic work.
Powerful Gibson Humbucker Tone
The SG format is known for its direct, mid-forward voice. It can produce warm clean tones, gritty blues sounds, classic rock crunch and aggressive driven tones with ease.
Lightweight Gibson Performance
The thinner SG body gives players a more comfortable Gibson experience than many heavier single-cut guitars. It is ideal for long rehearsals, live sets and studio sessions where comfort matters.
Comparison Against Popular Alternatives
Gibson SG ’61 Reissue vs Gibson SG Standard
The SG ’61 Reissue leans more heavily into early 1960s-inspired styling and feel. The regular SG Standard has a broader modern SG identity. Choose the ’61 Reissue if you want a more vintage-inspired SG experience.
Gibson SG ’61 Reissue vs Gibson Les Paul Standard
A Les Paul Standard has a thicker body, more weight and a denser single-cut feel. The SG ’61 Reissue is lighter, more immediate and offers easier upper-fret access. Choose the SG if comfort, speed and direct attack are priorities.
Gibson SG ’61 Reissue vs Gibson SG Special
The SG Special is typically more stripped-back, while the SG ’61 Reissue offers a more traditional Standard-style SG presentation. Choose the ’61 Reissue if you want a more classic Gibson SG look and feel.
Gibson SG ’61 Reissue vs Epiphone SG Models
Epiphone SG models are a more affordable route into the SG shape. The Gibson SG ’61 Reissue gives players the USA-made Gibson experience, stronger long-term desirability and a more premium pre-owned instrument feel.
Who Is It For?
Beginner Players
This can suit a committed beginner who wants a high-quality Gibson from the start. Its comfortable body, simple control layout and strong tone give plenty of long-term potential.
Intermediate Players
Intermediate players will appreciate the SG ’61 Reissue as a serious upgrade. It offers classic Gibson tone, excellent fret access and a responsive playing feel for developing stage and studio confidence.
Professional Players
Professional players can use this guitar as a dependable live, studio or backup instrument. Its direct sound, comfortable handling and strong Gibson identity make it useful across many musical settings.
Suitable Genres And Uses
This Gibson SG ’61 Reissue is well suited to:
- Rock
- Blues
- Classic rock
- Punk
- Indie
- Alternative
- Hard rock
- Garage rock
- Worship music
- Studio recording
- Live performance
- Rhythm guitar
- Lead guitar
- Players wanting a vintage-inspired Gibson SG
Educational Section: Why Choose An SG?
An SG is one of Gibson’s most practical and expressive electric guitar designs. It offers a thinner body than a Les Paul, excellent access to the higher frets and a bold tone that works beautifully for both rhythm and lead playing.
The SG has a direct, lively response that makes it feel connected to the player. It reacts well to picking dynamics, volume control changes and different gain levels, making it a versatile choice for players who want expression without overcomplication.
For guitarists who want Gibson sound in a more comfortable, fast-playing body, the SG remains one of the strongest choices available.
Looking for advice on choosing the right Gibson SG, Les Paul alternative or pre-owned electric guitar? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.
Story & Context: Gibson SG ’61 Reissue
The SG design emerged in the early 1960s and quickly became one of Gibson’s most iconic electric guitars. Its thinner body, sharp double cutaways and strong amplified tone made it a favourite with players who wanted easier fret access and a more aggressive stage presence.
The SG ’61 Reissue celebrates that early design spirit, offering the look and feel associated with one of Gibson’s most important guitar eras. It remains popular because it balances vintage style with practical modern playability.
For players who want a Gibson with unmistakable identity, powerful tone and comfortable handling, the SG ’61 Reissue is a highly appealing pre-owned choice.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Product Type | Solid Body Electric Guitar |
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | SG ’61 Reissue |
| Finish | Cherry |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Headstock | Oversized Headstock |
| Body Style | SG Double-Cut Solid Body |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Pickup Selector | 3-Way Selector |
| Controls | 2 Volume, 2 Tone |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic Style Bridge |
| Tailpiece | Stopbar Tailpiece |
| String Configuration | 6-String |
| Condition | Pre-Owned, Very Good 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 superb choice for players who want classic Gibson SG tone, fast upper-fret access and bold vintage-inspired styling. The oversized headstock, Cherry finish and rosewood fingerboard give this SG ’61 Reissue extra character while keeping the familiar lightweight feel and direct response that make the SG such a favourite.
This example offers strong pre-owned appeal in Very Good condition, with the right balance of Gibson heritage, practical playability and stage-ready attitude.
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 the Gibson SG ’61 Reissue suitable for live performance?
Yes. Its comfortable body, strong Gibson tone and excellent upper-fret access make it a strong choice for live use.
What styles does the SG ’61 Reissue suit?
It suits rock, blues, classic rock, punk, indie, alternative, hard rock, garage rock and studio work.
How does an SG compare with a Les Paul?
An SG is thinner and lighter, with easier upper-fret access. A Les Paul usually feels heavier and has a thicker single-cut character.
Is this guitar good for lead playing?
Yes. The SG body shape gives excellent access to the higher frets, making it ideal for lead work.
What does the oversized headstock add?
The oversized headstock gives the guitar a more distinctive visual identity and stronger vintage-inspired character.
Can it handle overdrive and fuzz?
Yes. The SG ’61 Reissue works very well with overdrive, fuzz, boost and distortion pedals.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes. It can suit committed beginners who want a high-quality Gibson guitar with long-term potential.
Is this a good recording guitar?
Yes. Its direct response and strong midrange character make it useful for recording rhythm parts, lead lines and layered guitar tracks.
Does it work well with pedals?
Yes. It works well with overdrive, fuzz, delay, reverb, tremolo, boost, compression and amp-modelling setups.
Can I try this guitar in-store?
Fair Deal Music has a large Birmingham showroom, and our team can offer advice on Gibson SG models, pre-owned Gibson guitars and suitable amplifiers.