Gibson TRI-4 bass bridge patent

The TRI-4, or wedge, bridge, was designed by the Gibson R&D department in Kalamazoo, by Tim Shaw and Chuck Burge - initially appearing on the first bass that they designed together, the Gibson Victory, and later the Explorer. The TRI-4 was a real step forward from the three point tune-o-matic fitted to the majority of Gibson basses prior to this time, with each saddle being separately adjustable in all three axes, without any need to raise posts (and hence the bridge base unit itself). A very similar bridge is still used by Gibson to date.

The patent, no. 4,385,543, entitled 'Adjustable Bridge for a Stringed Musical Instrument' was filed in June 1981, and granted in May 1983. At the same time, a separate design patent (no. 269,524) was filed for the design of the Victory bass itself, also granted in 1983.

The bridge units themselves, although designed in the US, were manufactured for Gibson by Schaller in West Germany.

For more information and images (both unmounted and in situ) of this bridge unit, see the FlyGuitars page dedicated to this bridge here, and the original description in the 1981 Gibson Victory bass owners manual.

Gibson Victory bass for sale

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Gibson Victory Artist Active 4- string Bass -1981

Fernandina Beach, Florida, 320**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3800

Gibson Victory Artist Active 4- string Bass -1981 . Condition is Used. Local pickup only.... more

1981 Gibson Victory Bass Red

New York, 100**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1595

Vintage 1981 Gibson Victory Bass in original red finish
A killer bass with a nice fat tone and superb playability
This baby is a RED BEAST!
Bass plays and sounds fantastic.
Some honest signs of age and wear throughout
Completely original
Comes with nice brown hardshell case
Guitar is exactly as pictured.
Buyer pays $125 shipping in the USA, $150 to Hawaii or Alaska, $400 International, $450 to Australia
Pay Pal Accepted
International Buyers ? Please Note: ... more

Gibson Victory Artist Active 4- string Bass -1981 Candy Apple Red w / Non OHSC

Huntington Station, New York, 117**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1499

Here we have a vintage Gibson Victory Artist Active 4- String bass. Made in the USA in 1981. The Victory Artist bass features a 34" scale bolt- on body design. Candy Apple Red finish. Maple body with a Maple neck and a 24- fret Rosewood fingerboard. Brass nut and Schaller tuning machines. The Victory bass has 2-Active VIIIB humbucker pickups and an Active preamp. The electronics allow you to choose Active or Passive operation. The preamp allows for a wide range of tones. From deep and ... more

Vintage 1981 Gibson Victory Bass in original red finish

O'Fallon, Illinois, 622**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1550

This vintage 1981 Gibson Victory Bass is a true gem for any musician. With its classic red finish, this bass is sure to make a statement in any band. The brand is well-known for its high-quality instruments, and this one is no exception.

The body color is a vibrant red that is sure to catch the eye of any collector or player. This bass is part of the Vintage series, which adds to its appeal. Whether you're a seasoned player or a collector, this Gibson Victory Bass is a must-have... more

Gibson Victory Artist Bass 81'

Blackfoot, Idaho, 832**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3800

This a killer bass and a total P bass killer. Gibson released these to compete with the p bass and they are far, far, better quality. Mahogany body, Mable neck, brass nut, active and passive humbuckers with MOOG electronics! All original with the original case. The original case is pretty beat up with a buckle replaced but still road Worthy. Original paperwork still with it. The guitar is set up to play easy with a low action and great sound. One bridge saddle is missing the riser but works ... more

Gibson Victory Standard Candy Apple Red Classic Bass Guitar USA 1981

Arnside, Cumbria, LA5***, UNITED KINGDOM

£1100

Gibson Victory Candy Apple Red Classic Bass Guitar USA 1981
When I bought this some years ago, it was advertised as being manufactured in 1981 and with a special paintjob. The special paint job is a refinish, and I'm pretty sure they painted the back of the neck as I've never seen another like it. Looks quite nice but has some chips and knocks but overall, it's a very cool 43 year old bass. Plays great. sound great but I'll only be selling it to somebody that comes and plays it in person ... more

1981 Gibson Victory bass guitar

Brighton, UNITED KINGDOM

£2200

Very rare 1981 Gibson Victory bass in gorgeous cherry red. Had a recent service in May 24. Comes with leather strap and a generic case to carry it in. Plays excellently, just some obvious cosmetic damage to paint as it was made over 40 years ago. Please inspect all photos and message for any questions
... more

VINTAGE 1982 USA GIBSON VICTORY BASS GUITAR TUNER

Monza, 20***, ITALY

€50

Early eighties Gotoh tuners part number 14102.
Gibson used these on the Victory Standard and Victory Artist basses from 1981, and occasionally the Victory Custom later in 1982
Hard to find, very rare and no longer produced
Very good condition, see pictures
Price for one tuner, available 4 tuners
Private auction, non guarantee
European bidders please email me for postage costs
... more

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