updated – 6th August 2026
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Buying a guitar is as much about finding your voice as it is about owning an instrument. For many players, the smartest path isn’t to buy new — it’s to explore the second hand guitar market in the UK. From affordable starter models to vintage collectibles worth more than a small car, pre-owned guitars offer incredible choice, value, and character.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the world’s most famous brands — Gibson, Fender, Epiphone, Squier, Takamine, Ovation, Ibanez, Tanglewood, Cort, Rickenbacker, Gretsch, Martin, and PRS — and highlight their history, their most popular models, insider facts that many buyers miss, and what to look for when buying used. Whether you’re chasing a Fender Stratocaster like Hendrix, a Martin acoustic like Ed Sheeran, or a vintage Rickenbacker like The Beatles, this is your one-stop guide to buying a second hand guitar in the UK.
Gibson Guitars
Background
Founded in 1902 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Gibson has been at the heart of guitar innovation for over a century. Orville Gibson originally made mandolins, and the company didn’t release its first electric guitar until the 1930s. By the 1950s, Gibson had created designs that would forever change music — most notably the Les Paul.
A little-known fact: in the late 1960s, Gibson actually discontinued the Les Paul because sales were poor. It was only thanks to players like Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page (who used them to huge effect in Cream and Led Zeppelin) that Gibson reissued the model, saving it from obscurity.
Another unique feature of Gibson’s history is their pioneering use of solid mahogany and carved maple tops, giving their guitars warmth and sustain unmatched by most competitors. Unlike Fender, who favoured bolt-on necks, Gibson used set neck construction, which added resonance and strength — something collectors still prize today.
Popular Gibson Models
- Les Paul Standard – First launched in 1952, the Les Paul is one of the world’s most recognisable guitars. Look out for ‘burst’ models made between 1958–1960 — they’re the Holy Grail for collectors.
- SG Standard – Introduced in 1961 as the “new” Les Paul, the SG (solid guitar) became a legend in its own right, favoured by Angus Young of AC/DC for its light weight and devilish double-cut design.
- ES-335 – Released in 1958, the world’s first commercially successful semi-hollow body guitar. The 335 blends electric power with woody acoustic overtones.
- J-45 Acoustic – Nicknamed “The Workhorse,” the J-45 has been Gibson’s most popular acoustic since 1942, prized for its warm tone and rounded shoulders.
Famous Gibson Players
Jimmy Page, Slash, B.B. King, Bob Dylan, Duane Allman, and Gary Moore — the list of Gibson users is practically a history of modern music.
Why Buy a Gibson?
Second hand Gibsons aren’t just instruments; they’re investments. Some vintage Les Pauls fetch six-figure sums, but even more modest models like a used Les Paul Studio offer incredible value. When buying used, check the headstock carefully — Gibson’s angled neck design means they’re prone to breaks. A repaired headstock isn’t always a dealbreaker, but it will reduce resale value.
Another insider tip: Gibson quality has varied across the decades. Collectors often recommend 1970s Gibsons with caution, but the 1990s “Good Wood Era” is considered a high point for craftsmanship.
Gibson Guitars Gallery
All the Gibson guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Gibson Guitars for sale
Ready to own a piece of guitar history? Click the button below for a wide range of second hand Gibson Les Pauls, SGs, ES-335s, and acoustics in the UK — all waiting to bring that legendary Gibson sound into your life.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Fender Guitars
Background
Founded in 1946 by Leo Fender in Fullerton, California, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation revolutionised modern music. Unlike Gibson’s carved, ornate guitars, Fender built instruments that were modular, affordable, and easy to repair. This innovation changed the world of guitar manufacturing forever.
The Telecaster (1950) was the first mass-produced solid body electric guitar, and the Stratocaster (1954) followed with its sleek contours, triple pickups, and tremolo bridge — innovations that cemented Fender as the sound of rock ’n’ roll. Lesser-known fact: Leo Fender wasn’t a guitarist himself; he was an engineer. His pragmatic approach to design (bolt-on necks, slab bodies, interchangeable parts) made Fender guitars the “people’s instruments” in a way that Gibson’s more luxurious builds never quite were.
Popular Fender Models
- Stratocaster – Beloved for its versatility. The “Black Strat” used by David Gilmour is one of the most famous guitars in history.
- Telecaster – Bright and twangy, yet powerful. From country to punk, it’s one of the most adaptable guitars ever made.
- Jazzmaster & Jaguar – Initially marketed to jazz players but adopted by surf rockers, then later embraced by alternative and indie bands.
- Precision Bass – The world’s first successful electric bass, still the industry standard.
Famous Fender Players
Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Buddy Holly, Kurt Cobain, John Mayer — nearly every great guitarist has played a Fender at some point.
Why Buy a Fender?
Fender’s genius lies in its range of instruments for every budget. From Mexican-made Fenders (excellent workhorses) to rare Japanese reissues (highly collectible), there’s something for everyone. Insider tip: 1980s “Made in Japan” Fenders are now sought after for their craftsmanship, sometimes rivaling American models of the same era.
When buying second hand, check the tremolo system and ensure the electronics are quiet and functional — Fenders are often modded, which can either add value or reduce it depending on the quality.
Fender Guitars Gallery
All the Fender guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Fender Guitars for sale
Looking for a second hand Fender in the UK? Browse the best selection by clicking the button below – from budget Mexican Strats to rare Japanese and American models, all ready to deliver that legendary Fender tone.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Epiphone Guitars
Background
Epiphone has an older history than Gibson — founded in 1873 in Smyrna (modern-day Turkey) by Anastasios Stathopoulos, who emigrated to New York in 1903. The company originally built mandolins and banjos before moving into guitars. By the 1930s, Epiphone was Gibson’s fiercest rival in archtops.
In 1957, Gibson acquired Epiphone, eventually transforming it into its affordable sibling brand. Today, Epiphone produces versions of Gibson’s most iconic models at a fraction of the cost. But don’t be fooled: Epiphone guitars aren’t just “cheap Gibsons” — they have their own proud heritage and have been used by countless legendary musicians.
Popular Epiphone Models
- Les Paul Standard – Delivers the look and feel of a Gibson Les Paul without the price tag.
- Epiphone Casino – A fully hollow thinline model, famously used by The Beatles.
- SG Special – Affordable take on the Gibson SG, perfect for rock.
- Epiphone Dot – Inspired by the Gibson ES-335, great for blues and jazz.
Famous Epiphone Players
John Lennon and George Harrison (Epiphone Casino), Noel Gallagher (Supernova Epiphone Sheraton), Paul Weller, and Gary Clark Jr.
Why Buy an Epiphone?
Epiphones are perfect for players who want iconic shapes without breaking the bank. On the second hand market, they’re especially appealing because depreciation is steep — meaning you can often pick up a near-mint guitar for 40–50% of its new price.
Insider tip: 1990s Korean-made Epiphones are especially well regarded for their quality, often more consistent than some later Chinese models.
Epiphone Guitars Gallery
All the second hand Epiphone guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Epiphone Guitars for sale
Searching for a second hand Epiphone Casino in the UK? Click the green button to explore an excellent range of Epiphones — from affordable Les Pauls to rare vintage Casinos.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Squier Guitars
Background
Squier began as a string manufacturer in the late 19th century, acquired by Fender in 1965. By the 1980s, Fender needed a way to combat the flood of cheap copycat guitars from Japan, Korea, and elsewhere. Enter Squier: a Fender-owned budget brand making official Stratocasters and Telecasters at accessible prices.
Interestingly, the very first Squier guitars were built in Japan in 1982, and these early “JV Series” (Japanese Vintage) Squiers are now highly collectible — sometimes selling for more than mid-range Fenders.
Popular Squier Models
- Squier Stratocaster – Entry-level version of the iconic Strat.
- Squier Telecaster – Simple, reliable, and perfect for beginners.
- Classic Vibe Series – Higher quality Squiers with vintage styling.
- Affinity Series – Fender’s most affordable line, ideal for first-timers.
Famous Squier Players
Although marketed as beginner guitars, notable musicians like Mike Rutherford (Genesis), Jack Pearson (Allman Brothers), and even Simon Neil (Biffy Clyro) have gigged with Squiers — especially modded ones.
Why Buy a Squier?
Second hand, Squiers are some of the best bargains around. For under £150, you can often find a playable Strat or Tele. Insider tip: look for the 1980s Japanese models or the more recent Classic Vibe series — both deliver far more than their price suggests.
When buying used, check the frets and nut carefully, as budget guitars sometimes show heavy wear. The good news? Squiers are popular mod platforms, so you might find one that’s already upgraded with Fender pickups or hardware.
Squier Guitars Gallery
All the used Squier guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Squier Guitars for sale
Looking for a second hand Squier Guitar in the UK? See the latest deals by clicking the green button below – from affordable starter guitars to surprisingly high-quality Classic Vibe models.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Takamine Guitars
Background
Founded in 1959 at the foot of Mount Takamine in Japan, Takamine built its reputation on acoustic excellence. While many brands stuck with traditional approaches, Takamine were pioneers: in the 1970s they became one of the first companies to fit under-saddle piezo pickups, effectively inventing the modern acoustic-electric guitar.
A lesser-known fact: Takamine was once embroiled in controversy when their early dreadnoughts looked very similar to Martin designs. But rather than simply being a copycat brand, Takamine innovated and evolved, developing their own identity with slim necks, stage-ready electronics, and bulletproof reliability.
Popular Takamine Models
- GD30CE – An affordable dreadnought with built-in electronics, great for working musicians.
- EF341SC – The Bruce Springsteen model; a black-finished workhorse seen on stadium stages worldwide.
- GN93CE – A stylish NEX-body acoustic-electric with rich overtones.
- Pro Series P3DC – Known for its warm cedar top and excellent live sound.
Famous Takamine Players
Bruce Springsteen has used Takamines almost exclusively on stage since the 1970s. Other fans include Jon Bon Jovi, Glenn Frey (The Eagles), and Garth Brooks.
Why Buy a Takamine?
If your focus is plugged-in acoustic performance, Takamine is hard to beat. Their preamp systems are some of the best in the business, and used models often come with upgraded electronics already fitted. Insider tip: Japanese-made Takamines (Pro Series) are particularly prized for their craftsmanship, so always check the label for country of origin.
Takamine Guitars Gallery
All the used Takamine guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Takamine Guitars for sale
Looking for a used Takamine in the UK? Click the button below to find pre-owned models – from budget-friendly dreadnoughts to stage-ready professional acoustics.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Ovation Guitars
Background
Founded in Connecticut in 1965, Ovation stands out for one simple reason: they didn’t come from traditional guitar making — they came from aerospace engineering. Charles Kaman, an aeronautical engineer, applied his knowledge of composite materials to guitar design, resulting in the now-famous rounded Lyrachord back.
Fun fact: the first Ovation prototypes were actually tested in wind tunnels used for helicopters! While traditionalists mocked them at first, Ovation became a favourite for live performers because of their feedback resistance and comfortable design.
Popular Ovation Models
- Balladeer – Their classic round-back acoustic-electric.
- Celebrity Series – Affordable entry-level Ovations.
- Adamas – High-end models with carbon fibre tops, offering cutting-edge design.
Famous Ovation Players
Glen Campbell was Ovation’s first big-name endorsee, followed by Paul Simon, Melissa Etheridge, Al Di Meola, and The Edge (U2).
Why Buy an Ovation?
Second hand Ovations offer unique stage performance value. They’re durable, resistant to humidity and feedback, and have a distinct sound that cuts through in a live mix. Insider tip: older USA-made Ovations are particularly desirable; many of the cheaper new models are made overseas, so buying vintage is often the smarter move.
Ovation Guitars Gallery
All the used Ovation guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Ovation Guitars for sale
Searching for a second hand Ovation in the UK? Find one by clicking the button below – the perfect mix of aerospace innovation and acoustic tradition.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Ibanez Guitars
Background
Ibanez, founded in Nagoya, Japan in the early 1900s, started by importing Spanish guitars before producing their own. By the 1970s, Ibanez became famous (and notorious) for making “lawsuit guitars” — near-identical copies of Gibson and Fender models. Rather than fade away, Ibanez used that reputation to reinvent itself, introducing radical, original designs that became staples of rock and metal.
By the 1980s, Ibanez was the go-to brand for shredders, thanks to fast, thin necks and high-output pickups. Their partnership with virtuosos like Steve Vai and Joe Satriani cemented their place in guitar history.
Popular Ibanez Models
- RG Series – The quintessential shred guitar, with thin necks and double-locking tremolos.
- JEM – Steve Vai’s signature guitar, instantly recognisable with its “monkey grip” handle.
- Artcore Series – Affordable semi-hollows for jazz and blues.
- SR Bass Series – Sleek, lightweight basses used by players in every genre.
Famous Ibanez Players
Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Paul Gilbert, George Benson (jazz), and Korn’s James “Munky” Shaffer and Brian “Head” Welch.
Why Buy an Ibanez?
Ibanez guitars are built for playability and innovation. Second hand, you’ll find everything from affordable beginner guitars to pro-level Japanese Prestige models. Insider tip: the Japanese-made Prestige line holds value exceptionally well, while older “lawsuit era” Ibanezes are now collectible in their own right.
When buying used, check the tremolo system — Ibanez’s floating bridges are excellent but can be tricky to set up.
Ibanez Guitars Gallery
All the used Ibanez guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Ibanez Guitars for sale
After a second hand Ibanez in the UK? Click the button below to browse 100’s of guitars – from budget-friendly shredders to pro-level Japanese Prestige guitars.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Tanglewood Guitars
Background
Founded in London in the late 1980s, Tanglewood has become one of the UK’s most successful acoustic brands. Their mission: to offer affordable, well-built guitars that punch above their price. Unlike many competitors, Tanglewood designs are very much influenced by British folk traditions, making them popular with singer-songwriters.
Lesser-known fact: Tanglewood has consistently won UK industry awards for “Best Acoustic Brand” over the past two decades — a rarity for a non-American company.
Popular Tanglewood Models
- TWCR O Crossroads – A compact, bluesy acoustic with a vintage finish.
- TW40 O – Folk-inspired, with solid spruce tops and classic styling.
- TW15 Dreadnought – A bigger-bodied workhorse acoustic.
- Discovery Series – Affordable entry-level guitars.
Famous Tanglewood Players
While Tanglewood doesn’t have the superstar roster of Gibson or Fender, it’s often seen in the hands of UK folk and grassroots musicians. It’s a “musician’s choice” rather than a celebrity brand.
Why Buy a Tanglewood?
Tanglewood guitars are excellent value second hand because their new prices are already competitive. Insider tip: Look for all-solid models (rather than laminated) — they age beautifully and can sound much more expensive than they are.
Tanglewood Guitars Gallery
All the used Tanglewood guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Tanglewood Guitars for sale
Looking for a used Tanglewood guitar in the UK? Find excellent deals here by clicking the button below – from compact Crossroads models to dreadnought workhorses.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Cort Guitars
Background
Founded in South Korea in 1960, Cort is one of the world’s biggest guitar manufacturers — though many players don’t realise it. For decades, Cort has produced instruments not only under its own name but also for brands like Ibanez, PRS SE, G&L, and even Fender’s Squier line. This means that Cort’s factories have built millions of guitars played by musicians worldwide, even if the headstock didn’t say “Cort.”
Less well known: Cort was one of the first Asian brands to push for serious innovation, with models like the Cort Headless and multi-scale fanned-fret guitars appearing long before they were fashionable in the mainstream.
Popular Cort Models
- Cort Earth Series – Traditional dreadnought acoustics, often compared favourably to much pricier brands.
- Cort X Series – Fast, shred-ready electrics with modern features.
- Cort Artisan Bass – Well-respected, professional-level basses.
- Cort Gold Series – Premium acoustics with torrefied (aged) tops.
Famous Cort Players
Matthew Bellamy (Muse) has collaborated with Cort on signature models, while Jeff Berlin has long endorsed Cort basses.
Why Buy a Cort?
Cort is often underrated, which makes them a fantastic second hand buy. Insider tip: Many older Cort models rival entry-level Ibanez or PRS SE instruments but sell for far less on the used market. Look for Korean-built Cort guitars (pre-2000s) — they’re often particularly good value.
Cort Guitars Gallery
All the used Cort guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Cort Guitars for sale
Find your second hand Cort guitar in the UK by clicking the green button below – from affordable Earth acoustics to pro-level Artisan basses.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Rickenbacker Guitars
Background
Founded in 1931 in California, Rickenbacker holds a very special place in guitar history: they produced the first commercially available electric guitar — the “Frying Pan” lap steel in 1932. By the 1950s and ’60s, Rickenbacker became famous for its chiming semi-hollow electrics.
A lesser-known fact: Rickenbacker has always kept production relatively small, focusing on craftsmanship rather than mass output. As a result, demand often outstrips supply — even second hand, prices remain high because they simply don’t flood the market.
Popular Rickenbacker Models
- 330 – Classic semi-hollow, bright and jangly.
- 360 – Deluxe semi-hollow with bound body and neck.
- 4001 Bass – Iconic rock bass with piano-like clarity.
- 325 – The short-scale model famously played by John Lennon.
Famous Rickenbacker Players
The Beatles, The Byrds, Tom Petty, Peter Buck (R.E.M.), and Lemmy (Motörhead).
Why Buy a Rickenbacker?
Rickenbackers have a distinctive sound that no other guitar can replicate. They’re also highly collectible. Insider tip: be wary of counterfeits — Rickenbacker is very strict about fakes and their instruments are never licensed out, so if the price looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Rickenbacker Guitars Gallery
All the pre-owned Rickenbacker guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Rickenbacker Guitars for sale
Shop for used Rickenbacker Guitars in the UK – click the button below for a selection of rare finds that hold their value like few other guitars.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Gretsch Guitars
Background
Gretsch began in Brooklyn, New York, in 1883, making banjos before moving into guitars in the 1930s. Their golden era came in the 1950s and ’60s with large hollow-body electrics that defined the look and sound of rockabilly and early rock.
A quirky fact: Gretsch’s partnership with Chet Atkins in the 1950s produced some of their most famous guitars, including the Country Gentleman and Tennessean. George Harrison’s early use of Gretsch also boosted the brand’s global appeal.
Popular Gretsch Models
- White Falcon – The flashy, gold-trimmed icon of the Gretsch line.
- Duo Jet – A chambered solid body, somewhere between a Les Paul and a hollow body.
- Electromatic Series – Affordable modern Gretsch guitars.
- 6120 Chet Atkins – Classic hollow-body beloved by rockabilly players.
Famous Gretsch Players
George Harrison, Brian Setzer, Chet Atkins, Billy Duffy (The Cult), and Malcolm Young (AC/DC).
Why Buy a Gretsch?
Gretsch guitars have a unique look and sound — bright, twangy, and perfect for vintage tones. Insider tip: Japanese-made Gretsch guitars (Fender-era, post-2003) are widely regarded as some of the best Gretsches ever made.
Gretsch Guitars Gallery
All the used Gretsch guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Gretsch Guitars for sale
Looking for a second hand Gretsch Duo Jet in the UK? Click the button below to explore classic hollow-bodies and modern Electromatic models.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Martin Guitars
Background
Founded in 1833 by Christian Frederick Martin, Martin & Co. is the oldest surviving guitar maker in the United States and the gold standard in acoustic guitars. They invented the dreadnought body shape (in 1916, originally built for the Oliver Ditson company), which is now the most popular acoustic style worldwide.
One insider fact: Martin serial numbers are carefully tracked — every guitar can be dated by year, making them particularly collectible. Some wartime Martins with Adirondack spruce tops and scalloped bracing are among the most coveted acoustics ever built.
Popular Martin Models
- D-28 – The flagship dreadnought, famed for its balance and projection.
- D-18 – Mahogany-bodied dreadnought, warm and woody.
- 000-28 – Smaller-bodied, ideal for fingerstyle.
- OM Series – Orchestra models, popular with modern acoustic players.
Famous Martin Players
Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Ed Sheeran, and Eric Clapton.
Why Buy a Martin?
A Martin is more than a guitar — it’s a lifetime instrument. Second hand, they’re excellent value, since well-kept Martins improve with age. Insider tip: watch for cracks around the bridge and neck joints on older models, but don’t fear cosmetic wear — many vintage Martins sound better the more they’ve been played.
Martin Guitars Gallery
All the second hand Martin guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned Martin Guitars for sale
Looking for a second hand Martin guitar in the UK? Click the button below to browse a selection of Martin Dreadnoughts, OMs, and more from the world’s most respected acoustic maker.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
PRS (Paul Reed Smith) Guitars
Background
PRS Guitars was founded in 1985 by Paul Reed Smith in Maryland, USA. In just a few decades, PRS has become a serious competitor to Gibson and Fender, known for their blend of craftsmanship, playability, and modern design.
A unique fact: PRS guitars are instantly recognisable by their bird inlays and highly figured maple tops. Their “Custom 24” became the brand’s flagship and remains a benchmark in versatility.
Popular PRS Models
- Custom 24 – PRS’s flagship, combining power and versatility.
- PRS McCarty 594 – Inspired by vintage Gibsons but with modern refinements.
- SE Series – Affordable models built overseas, fantastic value second hand.
- PRS Santana – The Carlos Santana signature model, one of PRS’s first artist endorsements.
Famous PRS Players
Carlos Santana, Mark Tremonti, John Mayer (with his Silver Sky model), and Dave Navarro.
Why Buy a PRS?
PRS guitars are prized for their consistency and build quality. Even the SE series are well-made, while USA-built PRS Customs rival the best Gibsons for less money. Insider tip: early 1990s PRS “pre-factory” models are particularly collectible, while SE models hold value better than most in their price bracket.
PRS Guitars Gallery
All the used PRS guitars shown below have been sold on eBay.
*all photos courtesy of eBay EPN permissions
Pre-owned PRS Guitars for sale
Want a second hand PRS Custom 24 in the UK? Click the button below for a selection of PRS SE bargains and USA-built masterpieces alike.
*TristanHaskins.co.uk is affiliated to the EPN (eBay Partners Network). The website owner may earn commission on resulting sales
Buying a Second Hand Guitar in the UK – Final Thoughts
Whether you dream of owning a Gibson Les Paul, a Fender Stratocaster, a Martin D-28, or even a quirky Rickenbacker 330, the UK’s second hand guitar market is thriving. Buying used isn’t just about saving money — it’s about getting access to instruments with history, character, and tone that only improve with age.
From budget-friendly Squiers for beginners to rare, collectible PRS and Gretsch models, there’s something for everyone. The trick is knowing what to look for before you part with your money.
Buyer’s Checklist: How to Shop Smart for Second Hand Guitars
Here are some practical steps to make sure you buy with confidence:
1. Check the Serial Number
- Most big brands (Gibson, Fender, Martin, PRS) have online serial number lookup tools.
- Verify the year and country of manufacture — it helps confirm authenticity and value.
2. Look for Structural Issues
- Neck: Sight down the neck for warping or twisting.
- Headstock: On Gibsons especially, check for breaks or repairs.
- Body: Look for cracks around the bridge or neck joint, particularly on acoustics.
3. Inspect Frets and Fingerboard
- Heavy fret wear can mean extra cost for a refret.
- Dry, cracked fingerboards can be revived, but extreme wear may indicate neglect.
4. Test Electronics (for electrics)
- Plug in and check for crackling, buzzing, or dead spots on the pickups and pots.
- A little scratchiness can be fixed with cleaner, but major wiring issues may require professional work.
5. Consider Country of Manufacture
- Made in Japan Fenders (’80s), Korean Epiphones (’90s), and Japanese Takamines often have standout reputations.
- Knowing these “sweet spot” years can help you find hidden gems.
6. Spotting Fakes
- High-end Gibsons, PRS, and Fenders are often copied.
- Look at details: logo quality, headstock shape, binding, and hardware.
- If the price seems too good to be true — it probably is.
7. Play Before You Pay (if possible)
- Every guitar feels different, even among the same model.
- If you can’t try before buying, stick to trusted sellers with clear photos and return policies.
Ready to Find Your Guitar?
The UK’s second hand guitar scene is one of the best in the world. Whether you’re hunting a bargain Squier Strat, a road-ready Takamine acoustic, or a once-in-a-lifetime vintage Gibson, the perfect guitar is waiting for you. Start your search today and join the millions of players who know that sometimes, the best guitars aren’t new — they’re the ones with a story to tell.
References & Further Reading
For those who want to dig deeper into the stories, craftsmanship, and collectability of the world’s most famous guitar brands, here are some trusted resources:
1. Gibson Guitars – Official History
Explore Gibson’s journey from mandolin maker in 1902 to global rock icon.
👉 https://www.gibson.com/History
2. Fender – The Story of an Icon
Official Fender guide covering the birth of the Telecaster, Stratocaster, and Precision Bass.
👉 https://www.fender.com/articles/gear/the-history-of-fender
3. Epiphone – Company History
From archtop rival to Gibson’s sister brand, learn Epiphone’s fascinating story.
👉 https://www.epiphone.com/History
4. Takamine – Acoustic Innovation
How Takamine pioneered acoustic-electric guitars and won the trust of stage performers.
👉 https://www.takamine.com/history
5. Reverb – Buying Guides & Articles
Independent articles on vintage guitars, second hand values, and collector insights.
👉 https://reverb.com/news
6. Premier Guitar – Gear Features & Reviews
Deep dives into guitar history, artist rigs, and model comparisons.
👉 https://www.premierguitar.com/
7. Vintage Guitar Magazine
A leading independent source on collectible guitars, with expert market insight.
👉 https://www.vintageguitar.com/
8. Andertons Music Co. Blog (UK)
UK-based retailer offering comparisons, buyer’s guides, and tone-focused advice.
👉 https://www.andertons.co.uk/blog