I must confess: I’m a big fan of PRS Guitars. Back in 1987, I dreamed of owning one of these luxurious instruments, and the bird inlays became, for me, a powerful symbol of high-end craftsmanship. Those intricate designs represented something special—a perfect blend of artistry and quality. I’ve always admired them, but over the years, I’ve noticed they spark some debate. While some players love the bird inlays, others can’t stand them. This divisive topic made me want to take a closer look at this iconic design and what makes it so fascinating.
Few things in the guitar world marry art and function as gracefully as PRS Guitars’ iconic bird inlays. First introduced in 1985, these fretboard designs are more than just decorative—they’re a celebration of nature, elegance, and meticulous craftsmanship. Inspired by Paul Reed Smith’s passion for ornithology, the inlays reflect a deep appreciation for the beauty of birds, transforming each PRS guitar into a work of playable art. But what do these birds represent, and why were they chosen? Let’s dive into the rich history of PRS’s bird inlays and uncover the story behind the species that grace their fretboards.
The Origins of PRS Bird Inlays
The story of the PRS bird inlays begins with Paul Reed Smith’s mother, who was an avid bird watcher and artist. She taught him to appreciate the beauty of birds, which later became a profound influence on his designs. When Smith created his first custom guitars, he decided to honor his mother and their shared love of nature by including bird designs on the fretboards.
Back in April 1976, a 20-year-old Paul Reed Smith, an emerging luthier, crafted a custom guitar for renowned musician Peter Frampton. This instrument was notable for featuring the first iteration of what would become PRS’s iconic bird inlays.
Frampton’s use of this unique guitar on stage drew significant attention from both musicians and audiences. The striking bird inlays sparked curiosity and admiration, leading many to inquire about the instrument’s origins and how they could acquire a similar guitar. This growing interest contributed to the early recognition and success of PRS Guitars, with the bird inlays becoming a hallmark of the brand’s commitment to artistry and craftsmanship.
“I never thought people would order the bird inlays in any quantity […] In 1985 we offered birds and moons, and I thought only 25% of orders would be birds. That’s not what happened, and I never really understood it until I realized why they caught on, birds are in everybody’s backyard. There’s something about them that works – they are animals that fly and have real grace. I’m grateful that the world accepted them.”
– Paul Reed Smith
The inlays played a pivotal role in PRS’s first production guitars in 1985, instantly distinguishing the instruments with their unique blend of artistry and craftsmanship. Over time, they’ve come to embody PRS’s dedication to beauty, individuality, and meticulous attention to detail.
Meet the Birds of PRS Guitars
Each bird featured on the fretboard is carefully chosen for its grace, symbolism, or flight characteristics. Let’s meet these avian icons:
1. Peregrine Falcon
The peregrine falcon is the fastest bird in the world, capable of diving at speeds of over 240 mph. This powerful raptor is known for its wide distribution, found on every continent except Antarctica.
Meaning: Speed, power, and focus.
2. Marsh Hawk (Northern Harrier)
The marsh hawk, more commonly known as the Northern harrier, is a medium-sized bird of prey that flies low over fields and marshes to hunt. It has an unmistakable white rump patch and a distinctive owl-like face.
Meaning: Patience and accuracy.
3. Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
This small, vibrant hummingbird is native to North America and is known for its rapid wingbeats and iridescent ruby-colored throat. It migrates long distances, sometimes flying nonstop across the Gulf of Mexico.
Meaning: Energy, delicacy, and beauty.
4. Common Tern
The common tern is a migratory seabird known for its long-distance flights. Breeding in coastal regions and inland waterways, it travels between the Arctic and the Southern Hemisphere during migration.
Meaning: Endurance and adaptability.
5. Cooper’s Hawk
A medium-sized hawk native to North America, Cooper’s hawk is an agile predator often seen in forests and suburban areas. It preys primarily on smaller birds and is recognizable by its long tail and rounded wings.
Meaning: Precision and expertise.
6. Kite
Kites are a group of birds known for their graceful flight. Species like the Mississippi kite and black kite are noted for their ability to glide for extended periods with minimal effort, often seen soaring in open skies.
Meaning: Grace and flow.
7. Sparrow Landing
The sparrow is a small, adaptable bird found worldwide. Many species, like the house sparrow, thrive in urban and rural environments. They are easily recognized by their compact size and social nature.
Meaning: Simplicity and grounding.
8. Storm Petrel
Storm petrels are small seabirds that spend most of their lives at sea, often spotted gliding low over the waves. These birds are known for their unique ability to “dance” on the water’s surface while feeding.
Meaning: Strength through adversity.
9. Hawk Landing
While several hawks appear on PRS inlays, the term often refers to a broad group of birds of prey. Hawks are characterized by sharp talons, keen eyesight, and strong flight capabilities.
Meaning: Control and finesse.
10. Screech Owl
Owls are nocturnal birds of prey with excellent hearing and silent flight. The species featured on PRS guitars likely includes general representations of these enigmatic birds, known for their large eyes and swiveling heads.
Meaning: Wisdom and creativity.
Over the years, the original design has evolved into various versions and adaptations:
Inked with passion
The iconic bird inlays on PRS guitars have inspired such deep admiration among fans that some have gone as far as tattooing the designs on their bodies. These tattoos often replicate the exact birds found on the fretboards, symbolizing not only a love for PRS guitars but also a personal connection to music and artistry. For many, the tattoos serve as a tribute to the brand’s unique blend of craftsmanship and innovation. This phenomenon highlights the cultural impact of the PRS bird inlays, transcending their original purpose and becoming an emblem of musical passion and identity.
The Birds Debate
But the bird inlays on PRS guitars have sparked considerable debate among musicians and enthusiasts. While many appreciate the distinctive and artistic touch they add to the instruments, others find them overly ornate or distracting. Interestingly, Paul Reed Smith himself did not initially anticipate the significant impact these inlays would have. He recalled, “I never thought people would order the bird inlays in any quantity.” In fact, early design considerations included moon inlays as an alternative and today are still found in models such as the PRS SE DGT goldtop.
But some people dislike the bird inlay design on PRS guitars due to personal aesthetic preferences, with some finding it too ornate or not to their taste. Others criticize the quality or alignment of the inlays and question the direction of the birds.
Despite the mixed reactions, the bird inlays have become a hallmark of PRS guitars, symbolizing the brand’s unique blend of craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal.
When Simplification Sparks Confusion
Some confusion followed, particularly with the simplified designs of the Hawk and Sparrow landing. These changes have puzzled the public, especially regarding the classic inlay design.
Conclusion
PRS bird inlays are more than just decorative elements; they’re a reflection of the brand’s philosophy. Each bird symbolizes traits like precision, agility, endurance, and wisdom—qualities every guitarist strives for. Whether you’re playing a SE series model or a Private Stock masterpiece, the birds on your fretboard connect you to a deeper story of craftsmanship, heritage, and the natural world.
PRS bird inlays are a perfect marriage of art and functionality, celebrating both nature and the joy of guitar playing. Every time your fingers glide across the fretboard, you’re not just making music—you’re taking flight.
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