Top 10 Best Electric Guitar Shapes

Since 1931, a myriad of electric guitar shapes have evolved.

These are my top ten. Please vote for or add your favorites!

1. Les Paul

   

   Lester William Polsfuss, known professionally as Les Paul, was an American guitarist, songwriter, luthier, and inventor. He is credited with pioneering the solid-body electric guitar, which made the sound of rock and roll possible. His work spanned genres such as jazz, country, and blues.

   I have played so many brands, and once I got my hands on the Les Paul, it was all over. It may not be the most metal looking guitar, but it is the most iconic hard rock guitar known to man. And dammit, if that guitar doesn't make you feel like a rock star just holding it, then it isn't for you.

   No other guitar has become as much of an icon as the Les Paul or covered as many genres, from Blues to Metal. Think Gary Moore, Slash, and Zakk Wylde.

2. Random Star

   Very '80s metal-ish! Chris Holmes of W.A.S.P., Gus G of Ozzy and Firewind, and Syu of Galneryus have all played these. They're much more comfortable to play than a traditional V guitar. It's similar to the ML but with a smaller rear horn.

3. Stratocaster

   What isn't to like about them? Les Pauls and SGs are amazing, but look at how well-known the Stratocaster is and how many brands make this style. Sure, PRS has a Les Paul shape too, but they simply aren't as good.

   Everyone uses this basic shape - from PRS to Mayones to Charvel - and nearly every guitarist started with one of these.

4. Reverse Firebird

5. Moderne

   Admit it, you like it really.

6. Explorer

   Few guitar-guitarist pairings are as iconic as James Hetfield with a white Explorer.

   Rick Nielsen!

7. ML

   Similar to the Random Star, but with two equally sized rear horns. Dime really made these into an icon. It's just a shame this shape is wasted on Dean guitars, in my opinion.

8. King V

   A more modern version of the Flying V - and more pointy!

9. Razorback

   Dean's pointier version of the ML definitely looks very metal - just keep it away from your eyes. Worth noting that Dimebag designed it!

10. ES

    At home with jazz and blues, but guys such as Reignwolf have used these in rock for a really unique sound from the hollow body.

The Newcomers
11. ?

    Fender Jaguar

    
12. ?

    SG

    The Gibson SG design is easily the coolest guitar design.

The Contenders

13. Warlock

    B.C. Rich makes the most underrated and unique guitar shapes.

14. Rhoads V

15. Telecaster

16. Jackson Kelly

    Cool heavy metal feel.

17. RG

18. Jag-Stang

19. Jackson Warrior

    Just looks awesome.