Broken neck :: 1996 Gibson Les Paul Studio [8.5 lbs]

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Here's the end result of the most recent Les Paul neck break repair.  It closed up really well and didn't require any sanding of the finish to make it smooth to the touch.  I'm usually reluctant to post the final photos when the customer doesn't have the budget for the finish repairs.  But this could be fairly easily touched up if he ever decides to do so in the future.

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Another broken Gibson neck :: 1996 Gibson Les Paul Studio

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A habitual issue nearly as iconic as the brand itself is a Gibson Les Paul with a broken headstock.  This is the classic hinged break where the headstock is still held to the neck by the face overlay.  These are the easiest of head breaks to repair since the headstock remains aligned during the gluing and clamping process.  Just inspect the joint for anything that will prevent a tight joint, make the necessary adjustments, apply glue (hot hide glue is my preference) and clamp.

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My 2 cents on why you see these breaks most often on Les Pauls versus Gibson acoustics or even SG's is that the Les Paul bodies are so damn heavy (SG's tend to break at the heel).  When the guitar falls with such a huge counterweight it easily leverages against the short grain in the headstock and pops them open like a can of beer.  Again, just my 2 cents.

Headstock glue-up from the vlog.

Another Gibson headstock break :: 1992 Gibson Les Paul

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Another Gibson headstock break :: 1992 Gibson Les Paul

Yet another Gibson in the shop for a broken headstock repair.  Here we go again: strip the tuners, clean / align the joint, dry run test clamp, glue & clamp ...

Some tips to help prevent head breaks:

1. Use a properly fitted hard shell case for storage and transport (extra strategic padding for shipping too)
2. Use a solid stand or wall hanger when not playing - no leaning it against an amp, chair, etc
3. Unplug the cord when you set the guitar down
4. Install strap locks to prevent accidental releases

Gibson's in for repairs recently :: LP Double Cut & SG

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Gibson's in for repairs recently :: LP Double Cut & SG

I've had quite a few back-to-back Gibson repairs in the shop lately.  The  2003 Les Paul Double Cut Faded was in for a broken headstock and the 2001 SG most recently was in for a broken strap button.  Not pictured above was a 2002 ES-333 for an intermittent pickup and broken tuners.  Coincidentally, all three of these guitars had their broken headstocks repaired at some point.