Image: Sangandongo, CC BY-SA 3.0 — via Wikimedia Commons
Gibson Les Paul Doublecut
| Category | Strings (electric guitar) |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | USA |
| Classification | electric guitar |
| Wikipedia | en.wikipedia.org |
| Wikidata | Q5559371 |
Overview
The Gibson Les Paul Doublecut is a variant of the Les Paul featuring a body with two cutaways instead of the single cutaway of the original 1952 design. The double-cutaway shape gives the player easier access to the highest frets and reduces the instrument’s overall weight, while keeping the mahogany construction, set neck, and humbucker (or P-90) electronics that define the Les Paul voice.
Origin & History
The double-cutaway Les Paul body is not new — Gibson restyled the Les Paul Special and Junior with a double cutaway in 1958. The dedicated “Les Paul Doublecut” badging that Gibson has used in modern catalogues refers to several reissues and new builds since the late 1990s, with both Standard-tier and Studio-tier specifications and a range of pickup configurations including humbuckers and P-90s.
How It’s Played
Played like any Les Paul. The double-cutaway design opens up the upper register for soloing, particularly above the 17th fret, while the lighter body weight relieves a common ergonomic complaint about classic Les Paul models. Tonally the Doublecut sits in the same family as other Les Pauls, with mahogany warmth and humbucker (or P-90) bite.
Cultural Significance
The Doublecut Les Paul reflects Gibson’s recurring engagement with player feedback about the original Les Paul’s weight and upper-fret access. It has carved a steady niche for players who want the Les Paul tone in a more ergonomic package.
Related Instruments
- – the parent single-cutaway model
- Gibson Les Paul Special – the historical double-cutaway sibling
- – the simpler double-cutaway model
- – Gibson’s other double-cutaway solid-body
- Gibson 335-S – another double-cutaway solid-body Gibson
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Doublecut lighter than a regular Les Paul?
Generally yes — the additional cutaway removes mass from the upper bout.
Does it sound the same as a single-cut Les Paul?
Very close, with subtle differences in resonance from the smaller body mass.
Image: 1960 Les Paul Special Doublecut, photo by Sangandongo, CC BY-SA 3.0 (Wikimedia Commons).
