The reverse body Gibson Thunderbird
The Gibson Thunderbird bass was launched in 1963 as a response to the long-scale solid-bodied Fender basses that were doing so well at the time (Fender Jazz and Precision). This was a high end instrument, and retailed at slightly more than Fenders offerings. There were two versions, the single pickup Gibson Thunderbird II and the dual pickup Gibson Thunderbird IV. In the July 1963 pricelist, the Thunderbird II was $260 and the IV was $335; compared to $229.50 for a Fender Precision and $279.50 for the Fender Jazz.
New features
Aswell as being Gibson's first long scale bass, it had their first fully-adjustable bass bridge, and was the first Gibson bass to utilize neck-through construction. This idea had first been used on an electric bass six years earlier by Rickenbacker (the 4000 bass), and consisted of one central piece (or laminate) of wood spanning the entire length of the instrument, and 'wings' glued to the sides to make the body. This contrasted the separate neck and body approach of most guitar makers who normally glued (Gibson) or bolted (Fender) the neck to the body.
The central wood was raised slightly and accommodated tuners, pickups, bridge and the tailpiece. Having the entire length of the strings vibrating on one piece of wood increases sustain, and has added strength for long necks. It is a technique still widely used today on higher end guitars and basses; most notably Rickenbacker and B.C. Rich (and many more besides). The mahogany wings were glued on using a V-shaped notch and groove arrangement. This construction method is unchanged in today's Thunderbird IVs.
Early Thunderbird publicity
The following publicity sheets were printed in 1963, alongside similar sheets for the full Gibson Firebird range
Gibson Thunderbird shipping totals (1963-1965)
1964 was the peak year, with just 1040 basses produced in this time. The shipping totals by year are as follows:
| 1963 | 1964 | 1965 | total | |
| Thunderbird II | 2 | 501 | 215 | 718 |
| Thunderbird IV | 235 | 87 | 322 |
Sales were not good and Fender complained about similarities to their guitars. Production only lasted from Autumn 1963 until May 1965
Gibson Thunderbird specifications:
- Honduras mahogany body, sunburst finish
- Mahogany through neck, with rosewood fretboard
- 34 1/2 inch scale (actually three eighths of an inch)
- Nickel plated pickup covers, bridge cover and finger rest
- Laminated pickguard with finger grip
- Thunderbird II $260, Thunderbird IV $335, custom Duco colours $15 extra, faultless case (plush) $56.50
Gibson Thunderbird bass for sale
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Bass guitar string mute From 1966 Gibson Thunderbird
Cumming, Georgia, 300**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$400
This bass guitar string mute is a must-have for any Gibson Thunderbird owner. Made in 1966, this mute is a rare find for collectors and musicians alike. It is designed to fit perfectly on your bass guitar and provides a unique sound that is sure to impress
Crafted with precision and care, this mute is made to last. It is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar ... more
Crafted with precision and care, this mute is made to last. It is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar ... more
Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird Bass - Vintage Cherry
El Paso, Texas, 799**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1250
Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird, Vintage Cherry
Needs strings and is missing a single bridge saddle ?? but can??t bother myself to get the part
I??m more of a Rickie backer guy anyways .
Used for a few weeks, but it does has it road knicks as pictured
Original case included.... more
Needs strings and is missing a single bridge saddle ?? but can??t bother myself to get the part
I??m more of a Rickie backer guy anyways .
Used for a few weeks, but it does has it road knicks as pictured
Original case included.... more
1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial Rare Vintage Electric Bass
New York, 100**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
€1300
1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial Bass ?? All Original - Near Mint Condition
This rare 1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial bass is in exceptionally well-preserved, near mint condition. Everything on the instrument is 100% original, including the electronics ?? with potentiometers dated to 1976. Importantly, the neck is completely intact, with no breaks or repairs, which is uncommon for this model. It comes with the original Gibson hardshell case
? Historical Background:In 1976, to... more
This rare 1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial bass is in exceptionally well-preserved, near mint condition. Everything on the instrument is 100% original, including the electronics ?? with potentiometers dated to 1976. Importantly, the neck is completely intact, with no breaks or repairs, which is uncommon for this model. It comes with the original Gibson hardshell case
? Historical Background:In 1976, to... more
02 Gibson Thunderbird Bass Guitar Right Handed W / Hrd Shell Case LOCAL P / U OHIO
Dublin, Ohio, 430**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1450
This bass sounds amazing. It has neck through the body for incredible tone.
I have to call it used but it is like new without a scratch that I can see. It has Grover tuners and comes with an authentic Gibson hard shell case
LOCAL PICKUP IN THE CENTRAL OHIO AREA ONLY!!!... more
I have to call it used but it is like new without a scratch that I can see. It has Grover tuners and comes with an authentic Gibson hard shell case
LOCAL PICKUP IN THE CENTRAL OHIO AREA ONLY!!!... more
Gibson Non Reverse Thunderbird Bass Guitar
Beach City, Ohio, 446**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1599
Beautiful red sparkle non-reverse Thunderbird bass guitar professional set up excellent condition some very light scratches. Nothing to mention. Looks just like the pictures Babicz replacement bridge Bartolini Thunderbird pick ups Plays and sounds fantastic. New strings case has some scratches nothing major
... more
... more
Gibson Gene Simmons Signature G2 Thunderbird Electric Bass Guitar USA
Georgetown, Ohio, 451**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1710
This is a fantastic made in USA bass! Sounds and plays so good! Straight neck. Fully functional. Slight cosmetic blemishes, nothing major. This can take your joy of playing to new heights and also is a very collectible item, being a Gene Simmons USA Bass! Comes with case!
Don't miss your chance to own!
Items only come with case or accessories if pictured or listed in the listing
Items only come with accessories / parts pictured and ... more
2024 Gibson Rex Brown Signature Thunderbird Ebony 4 String Bass Guitar With Case
Lewiston, Maine, 042**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1826
This guitar plays very nice and comes with the original strap and hard shell case!!! There are some dings and dents as you can see in the photos of this listing.
Stock # J78010770-NK / 10 13XZ
A New Signature Bass Model From Rex Brown
Multi-instrumentalist Rex Brown is well-known for his work with legendary metal bands Pantera and Down, and his hard-rocking solo album, Smoke on This?? His new Gibson Rex Brown Signature ... more
Stock # J78010770-NK / 10 13XZ
A New Signature Bass Model From Rex Brown
Multi-instrumentalist Rex Brown is well-known for his work with legendary metal bands Pantera and Down, and his hard-rocking solo album, Smoke on This?? His new Gibson Rex Brown Signature ... more
Gibson Thunderbird IV 4 String Rex Brown Pantera Bass Ebony Black w / VIDEO
San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$1895
Scroll down to see 44 HD Images of this bass
Here's a 2022 Gibson Rex Brown Thunderbird 4 string bass guitar in a factory original Ebony finish
She's in very good condition and has light playwear
The top back and sides are glossy and clean with some very light indents and a few superficial scratches
The back has some clear coat micro scratches
The serial number is 226530207 and she made in the Nashville Gibson plant in 2022
She has a fresh set up with d'addario 45 / ... more
Here's a 2022 Gibson Rex Brown Thunderbird 4 string bass guitar in a factory original Ebony finish
She's in very good condition and has light playwear
The top back and sides are glossy and clean with some very light indents and a few superficial scratches
The back has some clear coat micro scratches
The serial number is 226530207 and she made in the Nashville Gibson plant in 2022
She has a fresh set up with d'addario 45 / ... more
Used 2022 Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass, Ebony
Tampa, Florida, 336**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$2380
A rock 'n' roll legend, Gene Simmons has inspired countless metal-heads to bring groovy, rockin' sound to the world. The 2022-model Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass carries that essence in the purest form. Built in America, this striking bass has a Reverse Thunderbird body made from mahogany, with a Mirror Plex pickguard for an awesome look. The rounded mahogany neck hosts an ebony fingerboard, and it's powered by a set of T-Bird pickups, each with individual volumes and a master tone ... more
1965 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass in Pelham Blue oh-so rare & cool you need it !
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$13495
These 2nd issue ??Non-Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. Most all T??bird??s were available in a Sunburst finish. But some were ordered in their select Custom Colors. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most luv??d optional color of Pelham Blue all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing but she??s has plenty of playtime wear. These tend to get funky from playing in ... more
1964 Gibson Thunderbird II Bass an outstanding example its 1 of a kind & Minty !
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$17495
These early production Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most popular color of a Dark 2-tone Sunburst finish all over its pretty mahogany neck & body. Very little yellowing appears yet she has slight playtime all over. These tend to get funky from playing in bars & clubs & get nicotine stained. Its rosewood fingerboard is ... more
1964 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass 1 of the best originals it's 1 of a kind & Minty
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
$27495
These early production Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most popular color of a Dark 2-tone Sunburst finish all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing appears yet she has slight playtime all over. These tend to get funky from playing in bars & clubs & get nicotine stained. Its rosewood fingerboard is straight as an arrow ... more
1987 GIBSON BASS IV - Made in USA - THUNDERBIRD PICKUPS
COLOGNE, GERMANY
£1090
1987 GIBSON BASS IV - made in USA :
* the black painted part of the body was cut off before by some moron and replaced with 2 pieces of ash=
check pic 5
* pearl white finish is very worn
* Thunderbird pickups
* black Schaller hardware
* ebony fingerboard, frets are fine
... more
* the black painted part of the body was cut off before by some moron and replaced with 2 pieces of ash=
check pic 5
* pearl white finish is very worn
* Thunderbird pickups
* black Schaller hardware
* ebony fingerboard, frets are fine
... more
Gibson Thunderbird E Bass rot
Meppen, 49***, GERMANY
€1250
Gibson Thunderbird, ca. 2 jahre alt ,mit Zertifikat, original Koffer Der Bass ist in einem guten Zustand, und ja, er wurde natürlich gespielt Kleine Kratzer, aber nix wildes
Privatverkauf, keine GrantieAbholung nur bei vorheriger bezahlung !!!... more
Privatverkauf, keine GrantieAbholung nur bei vorheriger bezahlung !!!... more
Gibson Thunderbird Bass Guitar, Sunburst with Hard Case (Pre-Owned)
Bournemouth, BH11***, UNITED KINGDOM
£1485
Gibson Thunderbird Bass Guitar, Sunburst with Hard Case (Pre-Owned)
The Low End Legend, with Scars to Prove It
Few basses wear their attitude as proudly as the Gibson Thunderbird and this 2013 model has all the swagger you??d expect. With its neck-through mahogany construction and twin TB+ humbuckers, it delivers that unmistakable growl; rich, punchy and unapologetically ... more
The Low End Legend, with Scars to Prove It
Few basses wear their attitude as proudly as the Gibson Thunderbird and this 2013 model has all the swagger you??d expect. With its neck-through mahogany construction and twin TB+ humbuckers, it delivers that unmistakable growl; rich, punchy and unapologetically ... more
Gibson Gene Simmons Thunderbird Bass Ebony 2023 Electric Bass
Ashton-under-Lyne, OL7***, UNITED KINGDOM
£1650
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Gibson Gene Simmons Thunderbird Bass Ebony 2023 Electric Bass
Here for sale we have a Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Electric Bass Guitar in Ebony finish. Made in the USA in 2023, this bass consists of a Mahogany body, a Mahogany neck, and a 20-fret Ebony ... more
On this platform we are unable to arrange part exchange, viewings or direct prices
We advise finding our website where you can find direct prices and discuss all of the above!
Gibson Gene Simmons Thunderbird Bass Ebony 2023 Electric Bass
Here for sale we have a Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Electric Bass Guitar in Ebony finish. Made in the USA in 2023, this bass consists of a Mahogany body, a Mahogany neck, and a 20-fret Ebony ... more
Gibson Thunderbird Bass Guitar, Sunburst with Hard Case 120yr Anniversary
Hexham, NE47***, UNITED KINGDOM
£1750
2014 Gibson 120th Anniversary Thunderbird IV Bass in classic burst finish.
Cosmetically it is in good overall shape, but there is some wear that comes with regular use. Specifically some buckle rash, flaking of the finish on the back of the body and a bump on the corner ( see pic).
Sold with the original Gibson hardshell case.
Specs:
- Body: Mahogany
- Truss Rod Cover: Hot Stamp Gold "Gibson "
- Pickups: Bass T-Bird Plus (Ceramic)
- Tuners: Grover
- Controls: 2 ... more
Cosmetically it is in good overall shape, but there is some wear that comes with regular use. Specifically some buckle rash, flaking of the finish on the back of the body and a bump on the corner ( see pic).
Sold with the original Gibson hardshell case.
Specs:
- Body: Mahogany
- Truss Rod Cover: Hot Stamp Gold "Gibson "
- Pickups: Bass T-Bird Plus (Ceramic)
- Tuners: Grover
- Controls: 2 ... more
60's EPIPHONE by GIBSON EMBASSY DELUXE BASS - made in USA - THUNDERBIRD SOUND
COLOGNE, GERMANY
£2850
60's Epiphone by Gibson Embassy Deluxe Bass - made in USA:
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more
60's EPIPHONE by GIBSON EMBASSY DELUXE BASS - made in USA - THUNDERBIRD SOUND
COLOGNE, GERMANY
£2850
60's Epiphone by Gibson Embassy Deluxe Bass - made in USA:
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more
60's EPIPHONE by GIBSON EMBASSY BASS USA - THUNDERBIRD SOUND - LONG SCALE
COLOGNE, GERMANY
€3250
60's Epiphone by Gibson Embassy Deluxe Bass - made in USA:
+ mahogany body finished in wine red, has lots of weather checking and wear, several extra screw holes on back
+ mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, LONG SCALE, has 4 minor SURFACE stress cracks below tuners=check last 3 pics
* skinny neck profile on back around first 5 frets
+ new Fender Reissue tuners
+ 1 original THUNDERBIRD pickup & 1 newer Fender Jazz bass single coil
+ new pickguard
+ new pots and ... more