1966 Epiphone Caballero FT30 Mahogany

Epiphone Caballero FT30 1966 | $975 | (v2407) Epiphone has a long and storied history of fine guitars, but the company was bought by Gibson in 1957. The Caballero FT30 was a sibling to the Gibson LG0, with both guitars aimed at the 'student'. Manufactured in Kalamazoo, the build quality and materials were on par with Gibsons. As a student model, the FT30 featured a narrow neck for smaller hands and a price point attractive to burgeoning musicians. Even though the build and materials are identical, the Gibson LG0 seems to command higher market value than the similar Caballero, making the FT30 great value for the money.

The body is made from mahogany. The ladder-braced top is bound in simple faux-tortoise binding. The pickguard is attached with three flat-head screws. The original bridge was the oft-maligned plastic version, where replacing the original bridge is actually an upgrade for the guitar. The neck is mahogany and carved in the typical 'C' shape of the era. The fingerboard is Brazilian rosewood and features inlaid pearl dots at six positions. The neck has an adjustable truss rod that functions well, and its cover sports the Epsilon 'E'. The tuners are original. The headstock is painted black with a gold-foil Epiphone label. There is a blue label inside the sound hole which contains the model and serial number.

The guitar came to us in excellent ++ original condition with the afore mentioned plastic bridge. We fashioned a replacement from Brazilian rosewood. The frets were leveled and dressed. Action is set at ~ 5-7/64". A few small sections of the binding appear to be off-gassing and were stabilized with glue.

The guitar plays well and has a surprisingly ringing, open tone. The guitar appears to have been little used and well cared for since the original finish still sparkles, and there are scant nicks or dings .. plus its original soft case is also in good condition! Overall, a nice vintage package.

Check out the sound clip!