Jackson
Since 1980
Jackson Guitars, founded by Grover Jackson in collaboration with legendary guitarist Randy Rhoads, has been at the forefront of high-performance electric guitar design since 1980. Known for their aggressive aesthetics, lightning-fast necks, and powerful tones, Jackson guitars have become the weapon of choice for metal and hard rock guitarists worldwide. Now a subsidiary of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, Jackson continues to push the boundaries of guitar design from their facilities in Corona, California, and Ensenada, Mexico.
46
Years in Business
2M+
Guitars Sold
$150M+
Annual Revenue
Complete Jackson Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about Jackson guitars.
Jackson Price Overview
Jackson 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
$780
+5% vs last year
eBay Listings
2,800
Active listings
Sold This Month
1,650
+8% vs last month
Price Range
$200-$8,000
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
Jackson Timeline
Charvel Acquisition
Grover Jackson acquired Charvel's Guitar Repair from Wayne Charvel, transforming it from a repair shop into a guitar manufacturing operation.
Jackson Brand Founded
The first Jackson guitar was created in collaboration with Randy Rhoads. The innovative 'Concorde' design marked the birth of the Jackson brand.
Randy Rhoads Model
The iconic Randy Rhoads signature model was officially introduced, establishing Jackson's reputation for aggressive, performance-oriented designs.
Soloist Introduction
Jackson introduced the Soloist, featuring neck-through construction and 24 frets, becoming the go-to instrument for shred guitarists.
King V & Kelly Launch
The iconic King V and Kelly models were introduced, expanding Jackson's lineup with more aggressive body shapes.
Dinky Series Debut
The Dinky series was launched, offering a more compact superstrat design that became one of Jackson's best-selling models.
Japan Production
Production of some models shifted to Japan through the Chushin Gakki factory to meet growing demand.
IMC Acquisition
Grover Jackson sold his interest in the company to International Music Corporation (IMC), leading to expanded production.
AKAI Ownership
AKAI Musical Instrument Corporation acquired Jackson/Charvel, continuing the brand's legacy.
Fender Acquisition
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation acquired Jackson Guitars, integrating production into Fender's Corona and Ensenada facilities.
GJ² Guitars
Grover Jackson co-founded GJ² Guitars with Jon Gold, returning to independent guitar building.
Pro Series Expansion
Major expansion of the Pro Series lineup with new models and signature guitars, bringing professional features to more accessible price points.
American Series Rhoads
Reintroduction of the iconic Rhoads RR24 in the American Series, bringing the legendary design back to USA production.
Complete Jackson Product Lineup
Jackson delivers uncompromising performance from entry-level shredders to USA Custom Shop masterpieces
Electric Guitars
High-performance guitars for metal and hard rock
Neck-through superstrat with 24 frets for ultimate shred performance
Compact double-cutaway for versatile playing styles
Symmetrical V-shape with aggressive aesthetics
Asymmetric V-shape, the original Jackson design
Sharp-edged design with excellent upper fret access
Extreme pointed design for maximum stage presence
Single-cutaway design with modern metal features
Classic Flying V inspired offset design
Electric Basses
High-output basses for aggressive tone
Versatile bass for modern metal and rock
Sleek design with powerful electronics
Kelly-shaped bass for aggressive players
Product Series
Complete range from entry-level to USA Custom Shop
Entry-level series with professional features at $200-$500
Mid-range series with neck-through construction at $700-$1,200
Professional features and premium woods at $800-$1,500
Made in Japan with exceptional craftsmanship at $1,200-$2,000
USA-made flagship instruments at $2,100-$2,900
Premium USA Custom Shop quality at $3,000-$5,000
Ultimate custom builds starting at $5,000+
Artist collaboration models across all price tiers
"Jackson delivers uncompromising performance from entry-level shredders to USA Custom Shop masterpieces"
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.
Soloist Buying Guide
Neck Construction
Neck-through vs. bolt-on: Neck-through offers superior sustain and stability; bolt-on provides snappier attack and easier maintenance
Pickup Configuration
H-H for maximum metal aggression; H-S-S for versatility; Active (EMG) vs. Passive (Seymour Duncan) for different tonal characteristics
Bridge Options
Floyd Rose for dive bombs and vibrato tricks; Hardtail for tuning stability and direct tone transfer
Dinky Buying Guide
Body Size
7/8 scale body offers lighter weight and better comfort for extended playing; ideal for players who find full-size superstrats too bulky
Fingerboard Radius
12"-16" compound radius: Flatter for fast shredding on high frets, rounder for comfortable chording lower down
Fret Size
Jumbo frets for easier bending and legato; extra-jumbo for maximum speed; consider stainless steel for durability
King V & Rhoads Buying Guide
Body Shape Selection
King V: Symmetrical V for balanced standing/sitting; Rhoads: Asymmetric with longer lower wing, designed for standing performance
Weight Distribution
V-shapes can neck-dive; look for lightweight tuners and strap button placement that counteracts imbalance
Tremolo Systems
Original Floyd Rose on USA models; Licensed Floyd Rose on import models; consider recessed vs. surface-mounted for playing style