B.C. Rich
Since 1969
B.C. Rich was founded by Bernardo Chavez Rico in Los Angeles, California. Starting as a classical guitar maker alongside his father, Rico transitioned to electrics in the late 1960s, becoming one of the first boutique electric guitar builders in America. The brand exploded in the 1980s heavy metal scene with radical body shapes—the Mockingbird, Warlock, and Beast became icons of aggressive music. After Bernie Rico Sr.'s death in 1999, the brand changed hands multiple times before a 2019 revival under new management refocused on quality craftsmanship, neck-through construction, and USA-made components.
57
Years in Business
2M+
Guitars Sold
$20M+
Annual Revenue
Complete B.C. Rich Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about B.C. Rich guitars.
B.C. Rich Price Overview
B.C. Rich covers a wide range of instruments from entry-level to professional models. Typical used prices vary by condition, series and year. Higher-end USA models and limited editions retain value better than mass-market lines, while rare or vintage pieces often command significant premiums.
When evaluating value, consider originality (pickups, hardware), structural condition (neck, frets, finish) and documentation (serials, receipts, setup reports). Price dispersion across platforms is common; local stores offer service and inspection, whereas online marketplaces provide broader selection and price transparency.
For detailed buying advice, model comparisons and condition-based pricing, read the full guide linked above.
Market Overview
Average Price
$620
+5% vs last year
eBay Listings
2,800
Active listings
Sold This Month
480
+6% vs last month
Price Range
$150-$8,000
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
B.C. Rich Timeline
B.C. Rich Founded
Bernardo Chavez Rico began building electric guitars in Los Angeles, transitioning from his family's acoustic guitar workshop.
First Production Models
Released the Seagull and Eagle models—the first B.C. Rich production guitars, establishing the brand's bold aesthetic.
Mockingbird Designed
Introduced the Mockingbird, one of the most iconic guitar shapes in rock history, featuring neck-through construction.
Warlock Unveiled
Released the Warlock, which became synonymous with 1980s heavy metal and remains the brand's most recognizable silhouette.
Heavy Metal Explosion
B.C. Rich became the go-to brand for thrash and metal guitarists, with the Beast and IronBird expanding the radical design lineup.
Overseas Production Begins
Began licensing production to overseas manufacturers, expanding market reach with affordable import models.
Bernie Rico Sr. Passes
Founder Bernardo Chavez Rico passed away, beginning a period of ownership transitions for the company.
Hanser Music Group Era
Acquired by Hanser Music Group, which expanded distribution but shifted focus toward budget import models.
Brand Revival
New management under Bill Xavier relaunched B.C. Rich with neck-through construction, USA-made pickups, and the new Shredzilla design.
Modern Premium Focus
Continued expanding premium offerings with improved build quality, modern electronics, and deep-cut heel access across all models.
Complete B.C. Rich Product Lineup
B.C. Rich: Radical designs for radical players since 1969
USA Handcrafted
American-made premium instruments
Neck-through USA build at ~$2,500-$4,000
Premium Warlock at ~$2,500-$3,500
Modern shred platform at ~$2,000-$3,500
Extreme Series
Professional-grade with premium features
Neck-through at ~$800-$1,200
Premium Warlock at ~$800-$1,100
Modern shred at ~$800-$1,200
Standard Series
Core lineup with quality construction
Bolt-on at ~$400-$600
Accessible Warlock at ~$350-$550
Aggressive shape at ~$400-$600
Classic Shapes
Iconic B.C. Rich body designs
Extreme body design for metal
Angular thrash metal icon
Ten-string capable double-cutaway
Original production model classic
Bass Guitars
Matching bass versions of iconic shapes
Metal bass icon
Classic shape in bass form
Extreme bass design
"B.C. Rich: Radical designs for radical players since 1969"
Model-Specific Buying Guide
Each model has unique characteristics that affect both tone and value. Here's what to look for when buying specific models.
Mockingbird & Warlock Guide
Shape Defines the Brand
Mockingbird (1975) and Warlock (1981) are the most iconic B.C. Rich shapes. Mockingbird offers better seated playability; Warlock is the visual statement piece
Construction Matters Most
Neck-through models (USA, Extreme) deliver superior sustain and resonance. Bolt-on Standards are more affordable but tonally different—know what you're buying
Era Dating Is Critical
Pre-1986 USA models are highly collectible. Post-2019 revival models represent the best modern quality. Mid-era imports (2002-2018) vary significantly in build quality
Vintage B.C. Rich Guide
Pre-1986 Goldmine
Original USA-made B.C. Rich guitars (1969-1986) are the most valuable—hand-built by Bernie Rico and his team. Neck-through construction, premium woods
Verify Authenticity
Many replicas and imports exist. Check serial numbers, neck-through construction details, and hardware specifications against known production records
Condition Over Cosmetics
Radical shapes mean more potential ding points. Focus on neck stability, electronics function, and structural integrity over minor cosmetic flaws
Modern (Post-2019) Guide
Quality Renaissance
Post-2019 B.C. Rich guitars feature improved construction across the board—neck-through builds, USA-designed pickups, and deep-cut heel access
Shredzilla Innovation
The Shredzilla is B.C. Rich's modern flagship—designed for high-speed playing with ergonomic deep cutaway and Floyd Rose tremolo options
Value Proposition
Modern Extreme series ($800-$1,200) offers neck-through construction that competitors charge $1,500+ for. Strong value in today's market