Specs:
• Model: Gibson USA Custom Shop Les Paul Custom Stealth
• Series: Widow Series (Dealer / Limited Run)
• Finish: Purple Widow (Sprayed-Over Binding & Inlays)
• Body: Mahogany with Maple Top
• Neck: Mahogany
• Neck Profile: Medium C
• Fingerboard: Ebony (Sprayed Over)
• Scale Length: 24.75"
• Radius: 12"
• Frets: 22 Medium Jumbo
• Inlays: None (Stealth Spec)
• Pickups: EMG 81X (Bridge) / EMG 85X (Neck)
• Controls: 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-Way Toggle
• Bridge: Nashville Tune-O-Matic with Stopbar Tailpiece
• Tuners: Grover
• Hardware: Chrome
• Binding: Full Body & Neck Binding (Sprayed Purple)
• Case: Original Gibson Custom Shop Case
• Country: USA
• Year: 2010
• Condition: Excellent
Personal Thoughts:
This is one of those guitars that makes you stop scrolling.
The Les Paul Custom Stealth sits deep in Gibson Custom Shop folklore and is part of the wider Widow series, a family of sprayed-over Custom Shop guitars that began with the Sam Ash–exclusive Black Widow in 2009. These models are defined by their fully sprayed binding, headstock overlays, and non-traditional aesthetics — a bold move for Gibson at the time.
What makes the Stealth particularly interesting is that it’s a transitional and extremely rare variant. Produced around 2010, it sits just after the Purple Widow prototypes and before the later multi-colour Widow runs. Unlike the animal-themed Widows, the Stealth features a unique decal on the back of the headstock and a much darker, almost oxblood-purple finish — understated, aggressive, and unmistakably different.
Factory EMG-equipped Les Paul Customs do exist, and this is one of them. This example has later EMG X-series 81/85 pickups installed (original EMG spec), offering slightly increased dynamic headroom while retaining the classic active bite these guitars are known for. Tonally, it’s unapologetically focused — tight low end, cutting mids, and a huge output ceiling.
Visually, the finish has sunk into the maple top over time, revealing subtle grain lines and centre seams beneath the dark purple lacquer — a very cool, almost industrial ageing effect that suits the model perfectly.
Production numbers were never officially published, but most credible sources place the Stealth at approximately 25 units worldwide, many of which were shipped overseas. The “Stealth” designation is officially referenced in the COA documentation, confirming its status as a distinct Custom Shop model rather than a modified Widow.
This is not a standard Les Paul Custom — it’s a niche, cult Custom Shop piece that appeals to collectors who appreciate Gibson’s stranger, braver moments.
Condition Report:
Excellent overall condition. Light cosmetic wear consistent with careful use. Some surface scratching and a small area of finish reaction near the headstock consistent with stand contact — common on Widow models due to the sprayed-over lacquer. Frets are in good shape, neck is straight, and electronics function perfectly. Original case included.
Part Exchange Welcome:
Video demos are available via our YouTube channel at Squealing Pig Guitars.
Personal consignment service available via our site at a 10% rate.