What’s the optimum weight for a Les Paul? And is there such a thing as too heavy?

[Greazygeo]

Amen—willing to bet none of the “heavier the better”guys are doing this. Some people sit and play a couple hours a week, others stand and play 10 or more hours a week. Big, big difference.

I just missed out on the days when bands played Wed-Sun gigs at the same place. We had some Thursday-Saturday gigs but most were Fri-Sat. Tried to switch up and play a lighter guitar every other set, but I would get to used to the LP and just stay with it…ugh. Shoulder is much happier with the lighter guitars. The 14# is back with my friend I got it from many years ago. He loves it.

 

[Greazygeo]

I wouldnt no thanks
I have BC Rich Beast 7 string thats annoying enough

Yikes! I can only imagine.

 

[JackBootedThug]

In college I played a lot. Blue metal flake Les Paul deluxe routed for humbuckers. It was heavy. Poleaxed a mofo with it one night and split his wig with the button. Knock out. Bled all over the place. Never heard a dude complain about his dick being to big so I don’t get all the my Les Paul is to heavy talk…..jk…. No way I could gig with one now…

 

[psychodave]

The red one?
That thing is massive

The orange one.

 

[psychodave]

I like them light.

 

[SonVolt]

1997' Gibson CS 68' RI LPC, 10.5-ish, fat azz neck / long tenon. Until this guitar i was a 9lb 60's neck guy.
Big tone in big lumber. Take a walk on the wild side.

If you ever decide to sell it remember my name.

 

[NowYou'rePlayingWithPower]

Lester Polfuss was 5'11", apparently. So, maybe somewhere around 160-180lbs?

 

[Jdub]

My experience has consistently led me to prefer lighter LP. The wood is drier and resonates better. I have had Norlin's Custom at over 12lbs and currently have a 68 Reissue that is unicorn light at 7pounds 13 ounces. It is the best Les Paul I have owned. (about 30 over the past 4 decades) I think the heavier the better is total bullshit, but I am sure there are exceptions to the rule. I will not buy a CS Les Paul over 9 pounds anymore unless it is a Custom, and even then just barely over 9lbs is the limit for me. Not because of comfort, but because of tone and resonance. Heavier Lester's tend to sound dead from my experience.