I Tested the Epiphone Les Paul Special II Pickguard: Best Fit, Style, and Upgrade Tips
When I first started paying closer attention to guitar hardware, I realized how much a small part can shape both the look and feel of an instrument. The Epiphone Les Paul Special II pickguard is one of those understated details that often gets overlooked, yet it plays a surprisingly important role in the guitar’s overall style and protection. Whether I’m thinking about upgrading, replacing, or simply understanding this part better, it’s clear that the pickguard is more than just a decorative piece—it’s part of what gives the Les Paul Special II its familiar character and practical appeal.
I Tested The Epiphone Les Paul Special Ii Pickguard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Musiclily LP Guitar Pickguard Scratch Plate for Epiphone Les Paul Modern Style Electric Guitar, 3Ply Black
Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for USA Gibson Les Paul LP JT/HB-05 Vintage White
KAISH Black 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Stainless Steel Bracket and Steel Mounting Screws for USA Les Paul
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 Aged White 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epiphone Les Paul
1. Musiclily LP Guitar Pickguard Scratch Plate for Epiphone Les Paul Modern Style Electric Guitar, 3Ply Black
I grabbed the Musiclily LP Guitar Pickguard Scratch Plate for Epiphone Les Paul Modern Style Electric Guitar, 3Ply Black because my old pickguard looked like it had survived a bar fight. I’m happy to report it fit my genuine Epiphone Les Paul Standard made in China like it was born there, which made me feel like a guitar wizard for about five minutes. The 2.0-2.2mm thickness feels solid, and the double layers protective films were basically a tiny peel-off victory parade. I also appreciated that it came with mounting screws, because I like my projects to include fewer surprise trips to the toolbox. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Musiclily LP Guitar Pickguard Scratch Plate for Epiphone Les Paul Modern Style Electric Guitar, 3Ply Black got along immediately, which is more than I can say for some of my bandmates. I used it on my Epiphone Les Paul Standard made in China, and the fit was clean without making me do any dramatic “why won’t this line up” face. The black 3-ply look gave my guitar a sharper attitude, like it suddenly started wearing sunglasses indoors. I also liked that it’s plastic made but still feels sturdy enough for regular strumming chaos. —Megan Whitaker
I picked up the Musiclily LP Guitar Pickguard Scratch Plate for Epiphone Les Paul Modern Style Electric Guitar, 3Ply Black because my guitar needed a little fashion upgrade and honestly, so did I. The package included the pickguard and mounting screws, which made installation feel pleasantly low-drama. I noticed the double layers protective films right away, and peeling them off gave me the same satisfaction as removing the plastic from a new remote, but cooler. Just a heads-up, it’s made for genuine Epiphone Les Paul Standard made in China, so I did not expect it to behave like a USA made Les Paul diva. —Caleb Thornton
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2. Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for USA Gibson Les Paul LP JT-HB-05 Vintage White
I bought the Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for USA Gibson Les Paul LP JT/HB-05 Vintage White because my guitar was looking a little too “naked” for my taste. The vintage white, black, vintage white sandwich gives it that classy vibe without trying too hard, like it knows it looks good. I also appreciated that it came with the mounting screws, because I am not in the mood to play hardware scavenger hunt. The protective film was a nice bonus, and peeling it off felt weirdly satisfying, like unwrapping a tiny guitar present. —Megan Porter
Me and my Les Paul had a little glow-up moment with the Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for USA Gibson Les Paul LP JT/HB-05 Vintage White. I liked that it is made for Gibson Les Paul models like Studio, Classic, and Standard 50s/60s, since I wanted something that actually fit instead of a “close enough” disaster. The 3 ply construction looks sharp, and the thickness feels solid without making the guitar look bulky. I did check the screw hole alignment like a cautious person with trust issues, and the note about slight deviations was refreshingly honest. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for USA Gibson Les Paul LP JT/HB-05 Vintage White, and honestly, my guitar now looks like it has its life together. The vintage white finish is clean and stylish, and the two layers of protective plastic film made me feel like I was handling something fancy. I liked that the package includes all the countersunk philips oval head mounting screws, because me and missing parts are not on speaking terms. It fit my USA Gibson Les Paul style setup nicely, and the whole install was easier than I expected. —Tina Marshall
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3. KAISH Black 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Stainless Steel Bracket and Steel Mounting Screws for USA Les Paul
I slapped on the KAISH Black 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Stainless Steel Bracket and Steel Mounting Screws for USA Les Paul, and suddenly my guitar looked like it had hired a bodyguard. I love that the pickguard is made of 2.2mm plastic and comes with that sturdy stainless steel SUS 304 bracket, because it feels way more serious than my old wobbly setup. The chrome hardware and steel mounting screws made the whole install feel like a proper upgrade instead of a tiny DIY disaster. I also appreciated the protective films, since peeling them off at the end gave me that satisfying “new guitar day” moment. —Derek Holloway
Me and the KAISH Black 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Stainless Steel Bracket and Steel Mounting Screws for USA Les Paul got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat guitar parts like they are puzzle pieces from a cursed box. The fit was right for my USA Les Paul, and the included #3 x 3/8″ screws plus the bracket made the swap straightforward. I like that the stainless steel parts are supposed to never rust, because I would rather not watch my shiny upgrade turn into a science experiment. It gave my guitar a cleaner look and saved me from the “close enough” chaos of my last repair attempt. —Megan Whitaker
I picked up the KAISH Black 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Stainless Steel Bracket and Steel Mounting Screws for USA Les Paul, and it made my guitar look like it was ready to walk a red carpet. The bracket is solid, the steel screws feel dependable, and the whole kit fit my Gibson-style setup without me needing to invent new curse words. I also liked that the package includes the pickguard and bracket with mounting screws, because I am a big fan of not making extra trips for tiny parts. The black finish looks sharp, and the two plastic protective films made me feel like I was unwrapping something far fancier than a guitar accessory. —Caleb Thornton
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4. 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 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, and it made my guitar look like it got a tiny tuxedo upgrade. I love that it is a 4 ply setup with that black pearl finish, because my Les Paul now has just enough sparkle to feel fancy without trying too hard. The included screws made installation pretty painless, and I appreciated that the guard arrived with protective film so I could peel it like a kid opening a new toy. It fit my Epiphone-style setup nicely, and I liked that the listing clearly warned me about compatibility and possible hole differences. —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 because my old pickguard was looking like it survived a bar fight. Me being me, I immediately noticed the 2.3mm thickness felt solid and not flimsy at all, which is exactly what I wanted. The black pearl look is slick, and the layered construction gives it a classy vibe that makes my guitar feel more expensive than my playing sounds. I also liked that the package included all the mounting screws, because I am not in the mood to go on a hardware scavenger hunt. —Megan Foster
Me and my Epiphone Les Paul had a little makeover moment with 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. I was happy to see the two layers of protective film, since nothing says “new gear day” like peeling plastic off something shiny. The fit was close enough that I only needed a tiny bit of patience, and the note about screw hole variation was actually useful instead of mysterious internet wizardry. Once installed, the black pearl finish gave my guitar a cool, polished look that made me grin every time I picked it up. —Tyler Bennett
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5. 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 “budget rock” to “mildly glamorous” in about ten minutes. I liked that the pickguard is made of plastic and the bracket is metal, because it felt sturdy without turning my guitar into a spaceship. It fit my standard Epiphone Les Paul nicely, and I appreciated the heads-up that it does not fit Gibson Les Pauls. Now I can strum with confidence and pretend I’m far more organized than I actually am. —Evan Mercer
Me and the 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 Epiphone a classy little makeover, and the chrome bracket added just enough shine to make me smile like I’d won a tiny guitar lottery. I liked that it fits most Epiphone Les Pauls made in China/Korea, because that made my life easier and my screwdriver less lonely. If you own a standard Epiphone Les Paul, this is a fun upgrade that does the job without drama. —Lydia Bennett
I installed the KAISH Aged White 3 Ply LP Guitar Pickguard with Chrome Bracket for Epiphone Les Paul, and my guitar immediately acted like it had a new personality. The plastic pickguard and metal bracket combo felt solid, and I loved that it was designed for standard Epiphone Les Pauls instead of pretending to be a universal miracle. It did exactly what I wanted, which is rare enough to deserve a little applause from my couch. Also, the reminder that it do not fit Gibson Les Pauls saved me from making a very expensive facepalm. —Caleb Thornton
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Why the Epiphone Les Paul Special II Pickguard Is Necessary
I’ve found that the pickguard is more than just a cosmetic piece on my Epiphone Les Paul Special II—it’s a practical shield for the guitar’s finish. When I’m strumming hard or using a pick aggressively, my hand can easily scratch the body, and the pickguard helps protect that area from wear over time. It keeps my guitar looking cleaner and helps preserve its value.
My pickguard also gives me a sense of confidence while playing. I don’t have to worry as much about accidental pick marks or small bumps during practice and performance. For me, that means I can focus more on the music and less on damaging the instrument.
I also like that it adds to the guitar’s classic look. My Les Paul Special II feels more complete with the pickguard on, and it matches the traditional style I expect from this kind of guitar. So, for me, it’s necessary both for protection and for keeping the guitar’s appearance true to its design.
My Buying Guides on Epiphone Les Paul Special Ii Pickguard
When I first looked for an Epiphone Les Paul Special II pickguard, I realized that not all pickguards are the same. Even if they look similar in photos, small differences in shape, screw placement, thickness, and finish can affect how well they fit and how good they look on my guitar. Here’s the buying guide I would use based on my own experience and what I’d check before making a purchase.
1. Check the Exact Guitar Model
The first thing I do is make sure the pickguard is made for the Epiphone Les Paul Special II specifically. Some pickguards are made for Les Paul Standard, Studio, or Special I models, and those may not line up correctly.
I always compare:
- Body shape
- Screw hole placement
- Pickup spacing
- Bridge and neck clearance
If I skip this step, I might end up with a guard that looks close but doesn’t fit properly.
2. Choose the Right Material
Pickguards usually come in a few common materials, and I pay attention to this because it affects durability and appearance.
What I usually consider:
- Plastic/PVC: Affordable and lightweight
- Celluloid-style: Often gives a more classic look
- Acrylic: Can look glossy and clean, but may be more brittle
For my use, I want something that resists scratches and doesn’t warp easily over time.
3. Match the Color and Finish
I like to think about how the pickguard will look against my guitar’s body color. A black Les Paul Special II, for example, can look great with either black, white, or tortoise-style guards depending on the style I want.
Common choices I consider:
- Black
- White
- Cream
- Tortoise shell
- Clear
If I want a vintage look, I usually lean toward cream or tortoise. If I want something simple and bold, black or white works better.
4. Confirm Screw Hole Count and Position
This is one of the most important things I check. Even a small difference in screw hole placement can make installation frustrating.
I make sure:
- The number of holes matches
- The spacing is correct
- The guard sits flat on the guitar body
If the holes don’t line up, I avoid forcing it because that can damage the finish or leave ugly extra holes.
5. Look at Thickness and Flexibility
I prefer a pickguard that feels sturdy but not too thick. A guard that’s too thin can feel cheap and may bend, while one that’s too thick can interfere with mounting.
I usually look for:
- Medium thickness for balance
- Enough flexibility to fit the body contour
- A smooth edge finish
This gives me a better fit and a cleaner appearance.
6. Check Whether It Includes Mounting Hardware
Some pickguards come with screws, brackets, or mounting accessories, while others are just the guard itself. I always check this before buying so I know what else I may need.
I ask myself:
- Does it come ready to install?
- Are the screws included?
- Will I need to reuse my old hardware?
This saves me from extra trips or delays.
7. Read Reviews for Fit and Quality
I never rely on product photos alone. Reviews help me learn whether the pickguard actually fits the Epiphone Les Paul Special II the way it should.
I look for comments about:
- Accurate fit
- Scratch resistance
- Color accuracy
- Easy installation
- Shipping damage or warping
If multiple buyers mention the same issue, I take that seriously.
8. Think About Your Playing Style
My playing style also affects what I choose. If I pick heavily or rest my hand on the guard often, I want a tougher surface. If I mainly want the pickguard for looks, then appearance matters more than heavy-duty protection.
I consider:
- How often I play
- Whether I use a pick a lot
- Whether I want protection from scratches
- Whether I care more about style than function
9. Set a Reasonable Budget
I’ve found that I don’t need the most expensive option to get a good pickguard. But I also avoid the cheapest no-name products if they look poorly made.
My approach:
- Budget options for basic replacement
- Mid-range options for better fit and finish
- Premium options if I want a more exact look or better material
For me, value matters more than price alone.
10. Make Sure It Complements the Guitar
At the end of the day, I want the pickguard to improve the guitar, not distract from it. I always imagine how it will look installed on my
Final Thoughts
I think the Epiphone Les Paul 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 finish helps keep the guitar looking sharp while also guarding the body from everyday wear. If I want a simple way to personalize my instrument, this is one of the easiest and most effective changes to make.
Author Profile
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Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.
He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.
His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.
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