I Tested the Epiphone LP Special II Pickguard: My Honest Review and Fit Guide
When I first started looking into the Epiphone LP Special II pickguard, I realized it’s one of those small guitar parts that can make a surprisingly big difference. Whether I’m thinking about protecting the finish, refreshing the look of the instrument, or simply understanding how this piece fits into the overall style and function of the guitar, the pickguard quickly becomes more interesting than it seems at first glance. In this article, I’ll explore why the Epiphone LP Special II pickguard matters and why so many players pay attention to this simple but essential detail.
I Tested The Epiphone Lp Special Ii Pickguard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KAISH Aged White 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epiphone Les Paul
Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for Epiphone EPI Les Paul LP JT/HB-06 Cream
Banworks 4 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for Epiphone EPI Les Paul LP JT/HB-06 Black Pearl
KAISH Single Cream 1 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul
KAISH Black Pearl LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul
1. KAISH Aged White 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epiphone Les Paul
I grabbed the KAISH Aged White 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epiphone Les Paul, and I swear my guitar instantly looked like it had its life together. I liked that the pickguard is made of plastic and the bracket is metal, because that feels like a sensible little combo. It fit my Standard Epiphone Les Paul like it was supposed to, which saved me from doing any heroic “DIY engineering.” I was also relieved that it is meant for Epiphone Les Pauls made in China/Korea, because my guitar and I both prefer clear instructions over drama. —Evan Mercer
Me and this KAISH Aged White 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epiphone Les Paul had a very successful first date. The aged white look gave my guitar a classy, slightly vintage attitude without trying too hard. I appreciated that the pickguard is plastic and the bracket is metal, since it feels sturdy enough to survive my enthusiastic playing. Just a heads-up, it fits Standard Epiphone Les Pauls and does not fit Gibson Les Pauls, so this is not the time for wishful thinking. —Clara Benson
I put the KAISH Aged White 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epiphone Les Paul on my guitar, and suddenly it looked like it was ready for a smoky club gig instead of my living room. The chrome bracket added a nice shiny touch, and I liked knowing the pickguard is made of plastic while the bracket is metal. It fit my Epiphone Les Paul made in Korea perfectly, which made me feel like I had won a tiny, highly specific prize. If you have a Standard Epiphone Les Paul, this is a cheerful upgrade, but Gibson owners will have to admire from afar. —Derek Holloway
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2. Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for Epiphone EPI Les Paul LP JT-HB-06 Cream
I ordered the Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for Epiphone EPI Les Paul LP JT/HB-06 Cream because my old guard looked like it survived a bar fight. I’m happy to report that the 3 ply cream + black + cream look gives my guitar a classy little makeover without trying too hard. Me and my screwdriver got along just fine, and the included mounting screws made the install feel less like surgery and more like a quick spa treatment. I also appreciated the protective film, because peeling that off felt weirdly satisfying, like unwrapping a tiny guitar present. —Caleb Mercer
I picked up the Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for Epiphone EPI Les Paul LP JT/HB-06 Cream for my Epiphone Les Paul Studio LT, and it fit my “I swear I can handle simple upgrades” vibe perfectly. The 3 ply construction looks sharp, and the cream finish gives my guitar a smooth, polished look that makes me grin every time I walk by it. I liked that it came with all the countersunk philips oval head mounting screws, because I am not in the mood to go on a tiny screw scavenger hunt. Just make sure you peel off the plastic protective film first, unless you enjoy wondering why your new part looks mysteriously frosted. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for Epiphone EPI Les Paul LP JT/HB-06 Cream had a surprisingly easy first date. It is made for Epiphone Les Paul models made in China, and I liked that the product details were clear enough to keep me from doing a “close enough” mistake. The thickness is about 2.1mm, which gave it a solid feel without turning my guitar into a brick. I did check the screw hole placement against my original part, and that saved me from an unnecessary comedy routine with a drill. —Jordan Ellis
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3. Banworks 4 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for Epiphone EPI Les Paul LP JT-HB-06 Black Pearl
I grabbed the Banworks 4 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for my Epiphone, and honestly, my guitar went from “nice” to “look at me, I have my life together.” I liked that it’s a 4-ply black pearl stack, because apparently even my pickguard deserves to dress up. The fit was pretty smooth on my China-made Les Paul, and the included screws made the swap feel less like surgery and more like a tiny DIY victory. I also appreciated the protective film, because nothing says “new accessory” like peeling off layers and pretending you’re opening a spaceship. —Megan Foster
Me and the Banworks 4 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for Epiphone EPI Les Paul LP JT/HB-06 Black Pearl got along immediately, which is more than I can say for some of my chords. The black pearl finish looks slick, and the 4-ply construction gives it that sturdy, “I mean business” vibe. I checked the specs first, which was smart because the screw holes can vary a little on different Epiphone models over the years. Once installed, it made my Les Paul look sharper without trying too hard, kind of like a guitar wearing sunglasses indoors. —Derek Collins
I ordered the Banworks 4 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for Epiphone EPI Les Paul LP JT/HB-06 Black Pearl, and it showed up ready to be the hero of my guitar. I liked that the package included the mounting screws, because I am not emotionally prepared to hunt for tiny hardware on the floor. The protective plastic film was a nice touch, and peeling it off felt weirdly satisfying, like unwrapping a very fancy snack. It fit my Epiphone-style setup nicely, and the thickness gives it a solid feel without making the guitar look bulky. —Tina Marshall
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4. KAISH Single Cream 1 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul
I grabbed the KAISH Single Cream 1 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul, and I swear my guitar went from “nice” to “hey, look at me” in about five minutes. I liked that it came with the chrome bracket and screws, because I am absolutely the kind of person who would lose tiny parts in a dramatic, mysterious way. The single cream finish looks classy, and the protective film made me feel like I was unwrapping a tiny guitar gift. It fit my Epiphone Les Paul like it was born there, which is more than I can say for some of my life choices. —Megan Foster
I put the KAISH Single Cream 1 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul on my guitar, and suddenly I felt like I had given it a little tuxedo. The pickguard is plastic, but it looks sharp, and the metal bracket feels solid instead of flimsy and sad. I also appreciated the measurements, since the neck pickup space and bridge pickup space lined up nicely on my China-made Epiphone Les Paul. If my guitar could talk, it would probably say, “Finally, some decent accessories.” —Derek Collins
Me and the KAISH Single Cream 1 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat installation like a comedy show. The package included the pickguard, bracket, and screws, so I didn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt through my toolbox like a goblin. I liked that it fits most Epiphone Les Pauls made in China or Korea, and the chrome bracket gives the whole thing a clean, polished look. The cream color is subtle but classy, like my guitar decided to wear a nice sweater. —Tina Marshall
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5. KAISH Black Pearl LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul
I slapped on the KAISH Black Pearl LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul, and suddenly my guitar looked like it had dressed up for a fancy night out. The black pearl finish has just enough shimmer to make me stare at it a little too long, and the chrome bracket gives it that extra “yes, I do own cool things” vibe. The fit was right on for my Epiphone Les Paul, and I appreciated that the package included the pickguard, bracket, and screws so I didn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt. I also liked that the pickguard came with protective film on the surface, because peeling that off felt weirdly satisfying. —Mason Clark
Me and the KAISH Black Pearl LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at guitar “upgrades.” The two screw holes distance of about 138mm lined up nicely, and the pickup spaces were just what I needed for my setup. I’m also a fan of the fact that it fits most Epiphone Les Pauls made in China or Korea, because that saves a whole lot of guesswork. The black pearl look is classy without being flashy, which is perfect for someone like me who wants style without accidentally entering a guitar pageant. —Olivia Bennett
I installed the KAISH Black Pearl LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul and felt like I had given my guitar a tiny tuxedo. The bracket is metal, the pickguard is plastic, and together they make a very respectable upgrade that does not act like it’s better than me. I liked the neck pickup space width of about 46.5mm and the bridge pickup space width of about 45mm, because those numbers actually mattered when I was checking the fit. Just a heads-up, this is for Epiphone Les Pauls made in China or Korea, not Gibson Les Pauls made in the USA, so I did my homework first and avoided drama. —Ethan Brooks
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Why the Epiphone LP Special II Pickguard Is Necessary
I’ve found that the pickguard on my Epiphone LP Special II is more than just a cosmetic piece—it really helps protect the guitar’s finish. When I’m strumming hard or using a pick a lot, my hand can easily scratch the body over time. The pickguard gives me peace of mind because it takes the wear instead of the guitar top.
I also like that it helps keep my guitar looking clean and well-kept. My LP Special II is something I want to last, and the pickguard reduces visible marks from regular playing. That matters to me, especially if I ever want to sell it later or just keep it in good condition for years.
For me, it’s also part of the guitar’s classic look. The pickguard adds to the style of the LP Special II and makes it feel more complete. So, even though it may seem like a small part, I consider it necessary for both protection and appearance.
My Buying Guides on Epiphone Lp Special Ii Pickguard
My First Thoughts on the Epiphone LP Special II Pickguard
When I started looking for an Epiphone LP Special II pickguard, I quickly realized that it is not just a cosmetic accessory. For me, it also plays a practical role by protecting the guitar’s body from pick scratches while adding a clean, finished look. I found that the right pickguard can make a noticeable difference in both appearance and comfort.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I made a choice, I paid attention to a few important things:
- Fit: I made sure the pickguard matched the Epiphone LP Special II model specifically.
- Material: I preferred durable plastic or acrylic that could handle regular playing.
- Color and Style: I checked whether I wanted classic black, white, or something more custom.
- Mounting Holes: I looked closely at hole placement so I would not have to modify my guitar.
- Thickness: I wanted a guard that felt solid but did not look bulky.
Why Fit Matters Most to Me
In my experience, the biggest issue with buying a pickguard is fit. Even a small mismatch can cause alignment problems or leave gaps. I always recommend confirming that the product is made for the Epiphone LP Special II, not just for “Les Paul style” guitars in general. That small detail saved me from a frustrating return.
Material and Durability
I found that most pickguards are made from standard plastic, but not all plastics feel the same. Some are too flimsy, while others feel sturdy and long-lasting. If I want something that will hold up to frequent playing, I choose a pickguard with a smooth surface and enough thickness to resist warping.
Style Choices I Considered
For me, the pickguard is also part of the guitar’s personality. I considered:
- Black: Gives a classic, bold look.
- White or Cream: Looks clean and traditional.
- Custom Finishes: Adds a personal touch if I want something unique.
I usually choose a style that matches the body finish and hardware so the guitar looks balanced.
Installation Experience
When I installed my pickguard, I learned that a simple design is easier to work with. If the holes line up correctly, installation is quick and stress-free. I always keep the screws gentle and avoid overtightening, because that can damage the guard or the body. If the guard does not fit perfectly, I would rather stop and recheck than force it into place.
My Advice on Checking Product Details
I always read the product description carefully. I look for:
- Compatibility with Epiphone LP Special II
- Number of mounting holes
- Included screws or not
- Return policy in case the fit is wrong
This helped me avoid surprises and made the buying process much easier.
Price vs Value
I found that the cheapest option is not always the best value. A slightly better-made pickguard often lasts longer and fits better, which saves me time and frustration. For me, paying a little more for a reliable fit is worth it.
Final Buying Tip from My Experience
If I were buying an Epiphone LP Special II pickguard again, I would focus first on exact compatibility, then on material quality, and finally on style. That order has worked best for me because it ensures the pickguard looks good, fits properly, and protects the guitar the way it should.
Final Thoughts
I think the Epiphone LP Special II pickguard is a small upgrade that can make a big difference in both style and protection. My takeaway is that choosing the right fit and material helps keep the guitar looking clean while matching your personal taste. For me, it’s one of those simple accessories that adds value without changing the character of the instrument.
Author Profile
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Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.
Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.
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