Decision Guitars
Handcrafted Excellence from the Black Forest
Music is a pursuit of passion, precision and obsession. Every musician has a vision of their perfect instrument - a guitar that feels like an extension of themselves: from vision to decision.
A guitar like no other.
At Decision Guitars, this vision becomes reality. Nothing off the peg!
Every instrument is crafted from start to finish in my Black Forest workshop, so no two guitars are the same. Whether you're looking for a bold new sound or a perfectly balanced playing experience, your guitar will be designed and built with unparalleled craftsmanship to inspire every note you play.
Bold, distinctive and personal - this is a guitar built just for you.
Your first step: our guitar design session !
In my free, no-obligation 30-minute consultation, we will work together to develop the vision of your perfect guitar - tailored to your style, your sound and your specific requirements.
What you get:
- Individual consultation: You tell me how you want your guitar to sound and look - I'll show you suitable tonewoods, shapes and techniques.
- Inspiration included: Let me surprise you with my ideas for personalization - completely new approaches emerge during the conversation that you would never have thought of on your own.
- Concrete result: You leave the meeting with a clear plan, material suggestions and a realistic price range.
Let's turn your vision into a decision.
Book your appointment now and take the first step towards your signature guitar !
The Luthier
Jens Barkholz
Some people build guitars. I build instruments that tell a story - your story.
With a background in precision engineering and a lifelong passion for music, I bring a unique blend of technical expertise and artistic creativity to every build. Every line, every carving, every detail is intentional. The wood, the electronics, the finish - everything is carefully selected and shaped to ensure that your instrument is not only perfectly playable, but truly exceptional and unique.
Guitar making is not about replication. It's about transformation. The transformation of your ideas into your instrument. Every Decision Guitar is tailored to its player - built to match your feel, your style and your sound.
More Than a Guitar—An Experience
Each Decision Guitar is a unique creation that combines craftsmanship with technical excellence. From concept to finishing touches, each instrument is crafted in my workshop. You won't find mass production or shortcuts here - just dedication to precision and individuality. To this end, I blend traditional craftsmanship with modern capabilities to get the best of both worlds.
Even within the same model range, no two guitars are the same. Every piece of wood has its own character, every contour is perfectly shaped, and every component is chosen to enhance your connection with the instrument. Your Decision guitar is yours in every way - according to your ideas, your sound and your playing style.
Experience how your instrument comes to life. I will provide you with the latest updates !
Experience and Recognition
Over the years, Decision Guitars has been featured in various publications, reflecting our commitment to quality and innovation:
grand gtrs 6/2024
Test telow-SC-HB
“The telow is certainly not a face in the crowd, but a great instrument with soul and character that is able to cover a considerable stylistic range.”
Made in Germany III 2022
“Away from the mainstream, Jens Barkholz transforms his customers' wishes into resonant woods true to his motto “From Vision to Decision””
grand gtrs 1/2017
“The consistency and meticulousness with which decision guitars devotes itself to these little things is remarkable”
“You can guess how much passion, time and experience he puts into guitar building”
Meet Me in Person – Upcoming Events
NAMM 2025
NAMM 2025
Booth 1533
23.-25.1.2025
Anaheim Convention Center
MIGS Montreux 2025
4th Montreux International Guitar Show
May 2 - 4, 2025
Casino Barrière Montreux
NAMM 2026
NAMM 2026
Anaheim Convention Center
Los Angeles
What Players Say
"I own two Decision Guitars, and each one is a masterpiece. The craftsmanship, attention to detail, and playability are unmatched. My Hrafnas baritone blew me away, and when I wanted something unique, Jens made my vision a reality with the Mjolnir. These guitars don’t just look stunning—they perform at the highest level. If you’re serious about your instrument, the Decision is easy."
- Karl J., Canada
Your guitar, your way of playing-Order your guitar today
Every Decision Guitar is custom-built to match your playing style and vision. Whether you’re looking for a signature sound, a specific pickup configuration, or a completely one-of-a-kind creation, I’ll work with you to bring your ideal instrument to life.
How it works:
- Tell me what you want – Whether it's a standard model with custom tweaks or a fully original build, we’ll start with your vision.
- I craft your guitar – Every piece is handmade, tailored to your specs, ensuring a perfect fit and feel.
- You play something truly unique – No two Decision Guitars are alike. Your instrument is a reflection of you.
Send me your request, and I’ll provide a free quote. Let’s create your perfect guitar.
Experience and Recognition
Over the years, Decision Guitars has been featured in various publications, reflecting our commitment to quality and innovation:
Made in Germany IV 2023
“The guitars of the trained precision mechanic shine with daring designs and precise craftsmanship.”
Made in Germany II 2021
“With decision guitars, Jens Barkholz literally makes the decision with the customer from instrument to instrument”
Made in Germany I 2019
“The trained precision mechanic builds electric guitars with filigree ornamentation in his workshop in Baden Württemberg”