For Sale: 1975 Gibson Grabber G3 Bass – Natural | Original Case | Vintage 70s Classic

Up for sale is a 1975 Gibson Grabber G3 Bass in Natural, complete with its original Gibson hard-shell case.

This is a very cool mid-’70s Gibson bass featuring the distinctive Bill Lawrence-designed electronics and the bold tone and style that have made the Grabber series increasingly collectible among vintage players and collectors. With its maple body and neck construction, unique 3-pickup “buck-and-a-half” switching system, and classic Natural finish, this bass delivers the unmistakable punch, clarity, and attitude that made these vintage Gibson basses so special.

The original Gibson hard-shell case is included and remains fully functional, though it does show cosmetic wear from age and use. Please review all photos carefully for condition details.

Condition

Very Good – 8/10

This bass shows honest vintage wear consistent with its age and normal use, including:

• Scratches and dings throughout
• Wear on the back of the body
• General cosmetic wear typical of a well-maintained vintage instrument

The nut has been professionally replaced, and the original bridge saddle height adjustment screws have been upgraded to modern Allen-style screws rather than the original flathead style. This is a very worthwhile upgrade, as the original screws are known to be fragile and uncomfortable to the hand.

The original bridge cover is missing.

Otherwise, the bass is all original.

There are no cracks, repairs, or structural issues. The neck is straight and stable, the frets are in excellent playing condition, and the bass has recently been professionally inspected and set up. It plays cleanly up and down the neck with no buzzing or dead spots.

Specifications

• Year: 1975
• Serial Number: 402939
• Finish: Natural
• Body: Maple
• Neck: Bolt-On Maple
• Fingerboard: Maple
• Scale Length: 34.5"
• Nut Width: 1.63"
• Neck Depth: .85" at the 1st fret, 1.00" at the 12th fret
• Pickups: Three Original Bill Lawrence Single-Coils
• Controls: Volume, Tone, 3-Way “Buck-and-a-Half” Selector
• Bridge: Original Grabber Adjustable Bridge with Through-Body Stringing
• Weight: 7 lbs 14 oz
• Case: Original Gibson Hard-Shell Case

Electronics & Features

One of the most interesting aspects of the Grabber G3 is its unique Bill Lawrence-designed pickup system. The three single-coil pickups combined with the “buck-and-a-half” switching create a surprisingly wide tonal range, capable of everything from bright, cutting attack to thick vintage low-end punch.

These basses also have a feel all their own thanks to the maple construction and longer 34.5" scale length, which gives them excellent clarity, sustain, and articulation.

The lightweight body is another big plus on this example, especially for a vintage Gibson bass.

Tone & Feel

This bass has the punchy, aggressive response players love from vintage Grabbers and G3s, while still retaining warmth and fullness. The maple neck and fingerboard add snap and definition, helping the bass cut through a mix beautifully.

It works especially well for classic rock, punk, alternative, indie, and funk-oriented playing, but it is versatile enough to handle a wide range of styles.

At only 7 lbs 14 oz, it is also notably lightweight and very comfortable in hand.

Transparency & Photos

As with all Guitar Chimp listings, detailed photos are provided of the actual instrument. At the end of the photo set, you’ll find close-up images taken under direct lighting to clearly highlight any scratches, dings, and wear.

We believe in not only describing the condition, but showing it in detail so there are no surprises. Many customers tell us their instruments arrive in better condition than expected.

Why Buy From Guitar Chimp?

With over 18 years of experience, Guitar Chimp is trusted by players and collectors worldwide.

• Every instrument is thoroughly inspected and professionally set up by our in-house luthier
• Honest, accurate condition descriptions
• Detailed photos of the actual instrument — never stock images
• We’ve shipped thousands of guitars and basses all over the world
• All shipments are professionally packed, fully insured, and require signature confirmation for your protection

Buy with confidence knowing your instrument will arrive safely and exactly as described.

📞 Call/Text: (801) 317-9013
💬 Message anytime — happy to help with any questions.

This 1975 Gibson Grabber G3 Bass is a fantastic vintage Gibson with classic Bill Lawrence electronics, lightweight feel, and the unmistakable vibe that makes these mid-’70s basses so desirable.

🎸 Jerald – Guitar Chimp
Providing The Finest Guitars, Basses & Amps Since 2006