Used Folk & Traditional Instruments

Why Buy Used Folk & Traditional Instruments?

Save Big on Unique and Handcrafted Instruments

Used folk instruments often feature quality craftsmanship and solid wood construction at prices far lower than new models, allowing you to own premium instruments without overspending.

Access Rare and Authentic Vintage Sounds

From vintage mandolins and lap steel guitars to handcrafted dulcimers and accordions, used gear gives you access to character-rich instruments with years of tone and history behind them.

Ideal for Collectors & Enthusiasts

Many folk and traditional pieces are limited, making the used market the best place to find collectible and culturally significant instruments.

Why Choose Guitar Center for Used Folk Instruments?

Professionally Inspected

Each used instrument is thoroughly inspected and expertly tested for structural integrity, tone quality, and playability.

Nationwide Selection, Easy Online Shopping

With used folk gear available from stores across the country, you can shop online or visit a Guitar Center store to try it before you buy it.

Sell or Trade Your Folk Instruments

Ready to move on from an instrument? Trade in your used folk gear and get store credit or cash up to $1000.

45-Day Satisfaction Guarantee

We stand behind our used inventory. If you’re not satisfied, return it within 45 days for an exchange or refund. Limitations apply on Vintage models.

Popular Used Folk & Traditional Instruments

Used Banjos

The used market offers a variety of banjos from respected brands like Deering, Gold Tone, and Recording King, known for their craftsmanship and authentic sound. Whether you're drawn to the punchy tone of a resonator banjo for bluegrass or the open, woody sound of an open-back for clawhammer playing, you'll find great value and tonal variety in our used selection.

Used Mandolins

Mandolins are a staple in folk, country, and Celtic music, and brands such as Kentucky, The Loar, and Washburn are often found in our used inventory. These instruments deliver exceptional tone and responsiveness, whether you're seeking a warm, mellow A-style or a bright, articulate F-style mandolin.

Used Ukuleles

Perfect for beginners and experienced players alike, used ukuleles from trusted brands like Kala, Cordoba, and Lanikai provide a compact, affordable, and musically expressive option. Soprano, concert, and tenor size ukuleles are frequently available, offering a range of tones and playability to suit your style.

Used Lap Steel Guitars

For musicians seeking expressive slides and sustained melodies, used lap steel guitars are an excellent choice. Commonly used in Hawaiian, country, and Americana music, these instruments offer unique tonal character and are often found from brands like Gretsch, Rickenbacker, and Fender. Lap steels are ideal for adding atmosphere, depth, and vintage flavor to any folk or traditional setup.

Used Accordions

Accordions remain a unique and expressive option in folk, polka, latin and regional acoustic music. The used market often includes instruments from reliable brands such as Hohner and SofiaMari, with rich tones and distinctive character that can add flair to any acoustic performance.

Explore more instruments in our Folk & Traditional Collection.