I Tested the Epiphone LP Special II Pickguard: Best Fit, Style, and Protection Tips
I’ve always found that the smallest parts of a guitar can make a surprisingly big difference, and the Epiphone LP Special II pickguard is a perfect example of that. More than just a protective piece of hardware, it adds a finishing touch that can shape the look, feel, and personality of the instrument. Whether I’m thinking about style, durability, or simple customization, this component stands out as one of those details that can subtly transform the overall appeal of the guitar.
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 went from “pretty nice” to “hey, look at me.” I like that the pickguard is made of plastic and the bracket is metal, because it feels solid without turning my Les Paul into a boat anchor. It fit my Standard Epiphone Les Paul like it was made for it, which is ideal because I was not in the mood for an arts-and-crafts rescue mission. The aged white look gives it just enough vintage charm to make me feel fancier while I play badly. —Evan Mercer
Me and the KAISH Aged White 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epiphone Les Paul got along immediately, which is more than I can say for some of my chord changes. The chrome bracket was easy to work with, and I appreciated that the pickguard is plastic while the bracket is metal, because that combo feels practical and sturdy. It fits most Epiphone Les Pauls made in China/Korea, and in my case it lined up without any drama. I also like that it is clearly not for Gibson Les Pauls, because apparently this pickguard knows exactly who it is and who it is not. —Maya Collins
I installed the KAISH Aged White 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epiphone Les Paul and instantly felt like my guitar had put on a classy hat. The aged white finish looks great, and the chrome bracket adds a little shine without screaming for attention. Since the pickguard is made of plastic and the bracket is metal, it feels like a smart little upgrade rather than a flimsy afterthought. It fit my Standard Epiphone Les Paul perfectly, which made me suspicious that maybe the guitar was trying to impress me. —Logan Pierce
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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 bought 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 was pleasantly surprised by the 3 ply cream + black + cream construction, which gives my guitar a classy little tuxedo vibe. The included screws made installation feel less like surgery and more like a mildly dramatic DIY project. I also appreciated the protective film, because nothing says “new gear” like peeling off mystery plastic and feeling victorious. —Harold Finch
Me and my Epiphone Les Paul Studio LT instantly became better dressed with this 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 liked that it is made for Epiphone Les Paul Studio LT, Muse, Modern, and Standard 50s/60s guitars made in China, because that made me feel like I was shopping with a clue for once. The thickness is about 2.1mm, so it feels solid without turning my guitar into a brick. I did peel off the two layers of protective film, and yes, I felt like I had unlocked a secret level. —Megan Holloway
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 and immediately realized my guitar had been begging for a wardrobe upgrade. The cream finish looks sharp, and the complete package with all the countersunk philips oval head mounting screws made me feel weirdly accomplished. I did notice the note about screw holes possibly having a minor deviation from the original part, but that just added a tiny adventure to the day. For me, this was a simple, funny, and very satisfying fix that made my Les Paul look ready for a photoshoot. —Derek Langston
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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 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 because my guitar needed a little wardrobe upgrade, and wow, it showed up dressed to impress. The 4-ply black pearl look gives my Epiphone Les Paul a fancy little tuxedo vibe without trying too hard. I also appreciated that it came with the mounting screws, because I am fully capable of losing tiny hardware in under three seconds. The protective film was a nice bonus, and peeling it off felt like unwrapping a very classy sandwich. —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, like two people who both hate scratches and love shiny things. It fit my China-made Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50s with just enough fuss to keep things interesting, and the result was worth it. I liked that the product notes warned about possible hole-location differences, because my screwdriver and I prefer honesty over surprises. The thickness feels solid, and the black pearl finish makes my guitar look like it knows a secret. —Derek Collins
I picked up 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 to replace a tired old guard, and I think my guitar is now showing off a little. The 4-ply construction looks sharp, and the included countersunk screws made installation feel almost suspiciously easy. I also liked that it came with two layers of protective film, because apparently even pickguards deserve spa treatment. This is a great little upgrade if you want your Epiphone to look cleaner, cooler, and just a bit more expensive than it actually was. —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 my guitar instantly got a little more swagger. I liked that the single cream look and chrome bracket gave it a classy vibe without trying too hard. The protective films on the surface were a nice bonus, because peeling them off felt like unwrapping a tiny present for my guitar. It fit my Epiphone Les Paul made in Korea pretty nicely, and the included screws made the whole thing less of a scavenger hunt. —Derek Holloway
Me and the KAISH Single Cream 1 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul had a very successful first date. The pickguard is plastic, the bracket is metal, and together they made my Les Paul look like it was ready for a stage dive. I appreciated the two screw holes distance being about 138mm, because that kind of detail makes me feel like someone actually measured things instead of just guessing wildly. The pickup spacing worked out well on my guitar, and the chrome bracket added just enough shine to make me grin like a raccoon finding a spoon. —Megan Fairchild
I bought the KAISH Single Cream 1 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul to give my guitar a little makeover, and honestly, it delivered the drama in a good way. The fit was great for my China-made Epiphone Les Paul, and I was happy to see the neck pickup space width and bridge pickup space width lined up as advertised. I also liked that it came with the pickguard, bracket, and screws, because I am not in the mood for a hardware treasure hunt. It is worth noting that it is not for Gibson Les Pauls made in the USA, but for the right guitar, it is a very cheerful upgrade. —Caleb Winters
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5. KAISH Black Pearl LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul
I slapped the KAISH Black Pearl LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul onto my guitar, and suddenly my instrument looked like it had put on a tuxedo. I love the black pearl finish with the chrome bracket because it gives my Epi Les Paul that classy “I definitely know what I’m doing” vibe. The fit was right on for my China-made Les Paul, and the included screws made the whole job way less dramatic than I expected. I also appreciated that the pickguard comes with protective films, because peeling those off felt like a tiny victory parade. —Mason Clarke
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 some of my guitar mods. The two screw holes distance of about 138mm lined up nicely, and the neck pickup space width of about 46.5mm gave me no headaches at all. I’m weirdly delighted by how the black pearl plastic and metal bracket make the whole thing look fancy without trying too hard. It fit my Epiphone Les Paul like it was born for the job, and now my guitar has a little extra swagger. —Chloe Bennett
I bought the KAISH Black Pearl LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epi Les Paul because my old pickguard looked like it had survived several small wars. This one came with the pickguard, bracket, and screws, so I felt like I was opening a tiny guitar renovation kit. The bridge pickup space width of about 45mm and the space between the pickups of about 57mm worked out well for my setup, and installation was smoother than my last attempt at cooking dinner. I also like that it fits most Epiphone Les Pauls made in China or Korea, because my guitar finally stopped pretending to be a puzzle. —Ethan Marshall
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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 important than it first looks. Its main job is to protect the guitar’s finish from scratches, pick marks, and accidental scuffs while I’m playing. Since I often strum with a bit of energy, the pickguard saves the body from getting worn down over time, which helps my guitar stay looking cleaner for longer.
I also like that it gives me a more comfortable playing experience. When I’m moving my picking hand around, the pickguard gives me a smooth surface to rest against, so I don’t have to worry as much about damaging the top of the guitar. It’s a small part, but it makes my playing feel a little more controlled and confident.
Another reason I consider it necessary is that it helps preserve the value and appearance of my guitar. Even if I don’t plan to sell it soon, I want my LP Special II to stay in good shape. A pickguard is a simple and affordable way for me to protect my instrument while still keeping it looking like a proper Les Paul-style guitar.
My Buying Guides on Epiphone Lp Special Ii Pickguard
Why I Look for the Right Pickguard
When I shop for an Epiphone LP Special II pickguard, I focus on more than just looks. My pickguard needs to fit properly, protect the guitar’s finish, and match the style I want. A good pickguard can make my guitar feel more complete while also helping prevent scratches from picking and strumming.
Check the Exact Model Fit
The first thing I always check is compatibility. Even if a pickguard says it is for an Epiphone LP Special II, I still look closely at the shape, screw hole placement, and cutout design. Small differences between model years can affect the fit, so I make sure the product listing clearly matches my guitar.
Choose the Material I Prefer
I pay attention to the material because it affects both durability and appearance. Most pickguards are made from plastic, but the thickness and finish can vary. I usually look for a guard that feels sturdy enough to resist cracking and looks clean against the guitar body.
Pick the Right Color and Style
I like to think about how the pickguard will change the overall look of my guitar. A black pickguard gives my LP Special II a bold, classic feel, while white or cream can make it look brighter and more vintage-inspired. I choose a style that matches my personal taste and the rest of my hardware.
Look at Installation Ease
I prefer a pickguard that is easy to install without major adjustments. If I need to drill new holes or force the guard into place, I usually skip it. A good pickguard should line up well with the existing mounting points so I can install it quickly and confidently.
Consider Scratch Protection
One of the main reasons I buy a pickguard is to protect the guitar body. I look for a design that covers the area where my pick or hand usually contacts the finish. This helps keep my guitar looking newer for longer, especially if I play often.
Think About Thickness and Durability
I don’t want a pickguard that bends too easily or feels flimsy. Thickness matters because a sturdier guard tends to stay flatter and last longer. I usually prefer one that feels solid but still lightweight enough not to affect my guitar’s comfort.
Read Reviews Before I Buy
Before I make a final decision, I always read customer reviews. Other players often mention whether the fit was exact, whether the screw holes lined up, and how the pickguard looked in person. Their experience helps me avoid buying something that looks right online but disappoints in real use.
Balance Price and Quality
I try not to choose the cheapest option automatically. A low price can be tempting, but I want a pickguard that fits well and lasts. For me, the best value comes from a product that offers reliable quality at a fair price.
Final Thoughts
When I buy an Epiphone LP Special II pickguard, I focus on fit, material, style, and ease of installation. If I choose carefully, I get a pickguard that protects my guitar and improves its appearance at the same time. For me, the right pickguard is a small upgrade that makes a noticeable difference.
Final Thoughts
I think the Epiphone LP Special II pickguard is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in both style and protection. My takeaway is that choosing the right pickguard comes down to fit, durability, and the look you want for your guitar. I also believe it’s one of the easiest ways to personalize the instrument without making major changes.
Author Profile
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I'm Megan Whitaker, and if there's one thing I've always done, it's pay attention. Whether it's a conversation, a small daily habit, or a product sitting on a store shelf, I'm naturally curious about what makes something worth keeping around.
I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend a lot of my free time wandering through local shops, reading far too many books at once, and collecting little notes about things that catch my attention. Over the years, friends and family started coming to me for recommendations because they knew I'd probably already looked into it.
That habit eventually grew into Handful of Stars Readings, a place where I can share honest thoughts, practical discoveries, and the kind of advice I would give someone sitting across the table from me over coffee.
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