1933 Kalamazoo (Gibson) KM-11 Flatback Mandolin

Overview: Folks always like these KM-11s when they grace the shop. These Kalamazoos are Gibson-made and this one has a 700s factory order number and tiny sunburst which suggests first or second year of production -- 1933 or 1934. It's a smart-looking mandolin and has a saucy, woody, punchy sound.

Interesting features: The small sunburst and small, triangular pickguard are cool details. I like the simple, squared headstock shape, too. Post-work it now has an adjustable bridge for ease of use.

Repairs included: It's had a neck reset, wedge to level the fretboard extension, new adjustable bridge fitted, a level/dress of the frets, side dots fit, and setup work. Tim did it all and it's now playing spot-on and is ready to serve.

• Weight: 1 lb 11 oz
• Scale length: 13 7/8"
• Nut width: 1 1/8"
• Neck shape: medium/deep V
• Board radius: flat
• Depth at first fret: 29/32"
• Depth at seventh fret: 1 1/8"
• Body width: 10"
• Body depth: 2"
• Top wood: solid spruce
• Back & sides wood: solid mahogany
• Bracing type: ladder/x
• Bridge: adjustable rosewood
• Fretboard: rosewood
• Neck wood: mahogany
• Action height at 12th fret: 1/16" overall (fast, spot-on)
• String gauges: 36w-10 lights
• Neck relief: straight
• Fret style: narrow/low

Condition notes: There's pickwear at the soundhole It has a small repaired crack on the center of the back. There's scuffs, scratches, and small nicks here and there throughout the finish. The tuners, side dots, and bridge are unoriginal. The strap button at the tailpiece is unoriginal.

It comes with: It has a chip case.

Consignor tag: MDOM