Gibson Victory, Gibson Explorer

As well as an artist, Dave is known for his publicity work for Gibson, particularly the Gibson Victory adverts of 1981. In fact Dave had three Victory basses from Gibson: a red Victory Artist (that appears in the advertisements), a white single pickup Artist (single pickup like a Standard, but with active circuitry like a Artist) which was stolen, and another identical replacement.

FlyGuitars When did you first hear about the Gibson Victory?

Dave Kiswiney Pat Aldworth, the artist rep, told me they were making a bass, more like a Fender type of thing, and did I have any input. And i'd get with Chuck (Burge - read his interview on the development of the Victory bass) and and we'd talk about it, and he'd say what do I like, you know. The V came from the way the pickup configuration is that's how they named it Victory... because they had a slanted front and straight treble one, and they slanted it like that and got 24 frets out of the first string.. and then they looked at it and it looks like a V, so they just decided that's why they call it the Victory. That's what they told me because it looks like you're holding a letter V.

FlyGuitars Can you remember what input you gave Chuck back then?

Dave Kiswiney A bigger, more massive, more adjustable bridge... the thing they ended up with, that's a Schaller. And active pickups. Lots of boost on the low end, and on the high end I liked a lot more variations. I like active basses, just wanted it to be active. Other than that, balance; some of the Gibsons i've had fall down.

Chuck Burge was the king, and if you went to his shop.. my gosh.. he would make some incredible stuff.. he was an artist, really a genius.. just a way lot of stuff going on in his brain, you know, he was really something. And he made that Victory bass, and he gave it to me and I did the ad with it, and they let me leave the property with it. Chuck said it's yours, get it out of here. That’s prototype number 8. It's a monster.

We did it in a theatre in Kalamazoo, I think it's the State. It was an old movie theatre and they had a proscenium stage, and that's where we did it. I was at the edge of the stage wearing that same jacket; it was the same photo shoot.. I was holding that thing up in the air. It's not a candy apple red either, it's an awful tomato soup red.

FlyGuitars Is the back of the neck red?

Dave Kiswiney No not on that one, the back of the neck is Maple and it's got a stamp on it that says 'Gibson prototype' 08.

Two Gibson Victory basses, both active. The 1983 single pickup Artist, and the original dual pickup Artist, #08

Headstock front view, with 'Dave' truss rod cover

The reverse has Chuck Burge's 'Original Gibson Prototype' stamp, and serial number 08. This is probably one of the 'eight rack' of show instruments built before production started in full see Chuck Burge interview

FlyGuitars How did you lose your first white Victory bass?

Dave Kiswiney I took a flight to Fort Lauderdale to do an album with Pat Travers, (Hot Shot) 1983 - and I had two basses a Fender and Gibson; that white (single pickup) Gibson Artist that he made for me - and it never came off the plane. It just never came from Detroit.. and I had metal cases, hardshell cases. The Fender came off the plane but the Gibson did not.

He (Chuck Burge) started making another for me right away. There was a tour that we did where we all had white Gibsons. It was the Bound and Gagged tour I believe, anyway, at the end of the show we all stood in the middle and held up our guitars in a three-way. Ted had a skull crossbones painted on the back of his. It wasn't a Byrdland, it was a Howard Roberts Fusion maybe, and they painted on the back, it had this big skull and crossbones and he stood in the middle with that holding it by the neck, up in the air, and Derek and I would cross in front of it with our white.. he painted the neck white on that, you know, so that was the reason for that.

FlyGuitars How did your Victorys differ from stock instruments?

Dave Kiswiney Well Chuck carved the heel out on the white one; where the neck joins the body and it's square, he rounded that off so your hand fit on it really nice. The one that got stolen was even more so, and where your hand fits up like on the 21st, 22nd fret on the first string it's indented a little bit more and leaned in, carved in. He did that for me. Chuck was an artist and genius. He didn't talk much, he was a Michigan Guy and an artisan, and he built some really cool stuff. (It's) a single pickup but it's got activate electronics in it. The only other one out there Tim Shaw's got. I said "I've got the only one you made for me", he said "no you don't, I've got two!". Who knows what he walked out of Gibson with. The single pickup artist is beautiful, you should see it.. the patina on it, it's absolutely amazing what's happened to these basses over the years, you know it's 45 years old

FlyGuitars Is that the one in the bass frontiers video?

Dave Kiswiney Yes that's it, yep that's it

FlyGuitars I noticed that, unusually, it's got the black hardware, the black bridge. Is that something you asked for?

Dave Kiswiney No. I may have, but I don't think I did, I think they just did it for me that way. And it's beautiful, it's got a brass nut, it's an absolutely gorgeous bass, and not only that, they gave me a fretless neck for it. For both the guitars I have a fretless neck. just bolts on perfectly. how about that?

But I mean I love the bass.. they're the heaviest things i've ever owned but you get used to it after a while you don't even realize; they play so good. The Victory's not light, but it's lighter than the RD I think. It's 12/4 lbs, the red one. That's pretty heavy. But I can stand with it. I actually perform better standing, my parts I might learn them sitting down but, I like to stand up when I play.

FlyGuitars The red Victory had serial number #08. What about the white one?

Dave Kiswiney No serial number. It just says Gibson custom shop original, but no serial number. How about that? And this is the replacement. This one (the accompanying fretless neck) has a serial number, it's very faded 82741573 that's what it looks like. It was stamped and then it was heavily lacquered.

Gibson Explorer

Single pickup active Explorer bass. The bass appears to have a 1986 serial number (80566525) which doesn't quite make sense! See text.

Dave Kiswiney I've got an Explorer bass here, that's medium scale. I told Tim (Shaw) I said "can you make it active?" and he said "well, yeah, we don't have anything that would fit in there, but..." so they took the circuit board out of a Chet Atkins acoustic gut string. He took the circuit board from that and plopped it in this Explorer bass; cut it out and put it in the back. And it's ungodly. Like something from another planet. I played it in 1984, it was just the coolest bass, it plays so good and it's louder than bejesus. I mean it's just a monster. It's absolutely a monster. The paint job on it is a cherry red.. everything but the neck has rolled up, the body rolled up on the back and the front, and the paint, if you're not careful with it, will fall off it.. it's absolutely beautiful but the neck didn't do that, just the body

This Is what kills me about that Explorer. I got it for the '84 tour because Dave Amato was in the band, he now plays with REO Speedwagon, and he had Gibsons, and all kinds of weird shape things, Flying Vs and stuff like that, and it just seems like '84 was the year for that to come back with Ted. He didn't tour in '83, and going back out there with Brian Howe, who was the singer who went on to Bad Company. But I had that red guitar; they built it for me. Tim Shaw put the electronics in it from a Chet Atkins acoustic electric. I said wanted it active, and they didn't have anything, so Tim Shaw figured out how to wire it into that bass. I've got extra boards for it; he said I don't know what will happen but if this gets screwed up you've got a couple extra circuit boards. And they're still here some place, i've got them even to this day. When you plug that thing in it takes a second for it to fire up, you can strike a note it doesn't come out it goes...... (makes noise). And it's goes through batteries you know, I take the batteries out of it when it's on display. I don't want anything to go wrong with it, any ones that are active I go and check the batteries on them, you know like those Victorys, because I don't want this stuff to rot especially that Explorer. But I got it in 84, I swear to God I don't know why it's got a number on it like that. I got that in Kalamazoo. They gave it to me in '84. I'd moved back from Maui in '83. My father had passed away I moved back, and moved all my stuff back and had an apartment in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and that's where Nugent headquarters were, so we rehearsed for the tour in like January, February, and I was going to Gibson I was driving to Kalamazoo and they made that bass for me.. and yeah there was no talk of Heritage or any of that, so I went out on the road with the Ripper, the Explorer, and a Fender. The Fender had an 8 string conversion bridge called 'Octopus' - I cannot find another like it. I always took the Ripper out, but it was not my primary. In '84 the Explorer was the primary. I had those three basses. it's all I had and I played it for the whole tour.

Gibson bass guitars for sale

Flyguitars.com is funded by its visitors. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. For more info see terms and conditions.

Vintage 1913 Gibson Mando Bass Style J -Natural- For Repair & Restoration 1920's

Brooklyn, New York, 112**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4950

This listing is for a rare and amazing Vintage Gibson Style J Mando Bass. To the best of my knowledge this bass was made in 1913 and these Style J Mando Basses were made in small quantities between 1912 throughout throughout the 1920's and 1930's. This one is not in great shape and will require some professional restoration but these are so rare it would be a great project for the right player or luthier to restore
The Mando Bass serial number is 15722 as best I can make out but the label ... more

Epiphone Grabber Bass Natural w / Humbucker Inspired by Gibson

Las Vegas, Nevada, 891**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$969

This bass is brand new (used like new) and has been kept in its Premium Epiphone Gig Bag with original paperwork since I bought it. I have never played this outside of my home and it still has the plastic on the pick guard. I??ve only plugged this in and played it 2 times and for a very short period of time. If you??d like additional photos, please feel free to ask Serial number # 25021521291A reissue of the legendary 70s bass with modern appointments Epiphone revives a legend with the Grabber ... more

1963 Gibson EB-0 Cherry Vintage Short Scale SG Bass With Gigbag

Lincoln, Nebraska, 685**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1600

The 1963 Gibson EB-0 Cherry Vintage Short Scale SG Bass is a highly sought-after electric bass guitar known for its classic design and superior craftsmanship. Made in the United States with a solid mahogany body, this vintage Gibson bass instrument exudes a timeless charm with its rich cherry color and vintage appeal. As a part of Gibson's renowned series of electric bass guitars, the EB-0 model delivers exceptional sound quality and playability, making it a versatile and reliable choice ... 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

1967 / 68 / 69 Gibson USA EB Bass Husk - Routed

Garland, Texas, 750**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$795

1967 / 68 or 69 GIBSON USA EB bass husk. No parts included. Routed and extra holes for pots and switches as you can see in the pictures. Truss rod turns both ways. Could make a cool project bass. No case. Please review pictures carefully.
Buyer pays $60 shipping and insurance.
Thanks for looking.
... more

GIBSON VICTORY STANDARD BASS GUITAR - RARE

Saint Petersburg, Florida, 337**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1550

GIBSON VICTORY STANDARD BASS GUITAR - Serial # 81831614 - 1981 - Monday July 2nd - Nashville TN - Production # 614, beautiful guitar, professional players guitar, the case was made by Quest

... more

Used Gibson SG Standard Bass - Ebony

Brookfield, Wisconsin, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1599

Used Gibson SG Standard Bass - Ebony
A used Gibson SG Standard Bass. This is a showroom model that has seen almost no use and is in fantastic condition. The bass will ship with all original factory documentation and packaging. Additionally, before shipment our luthiers will provide a professional inspection and full setup, so it arrives ready to play. If you have any questions about this instrument or any of our great gear, please send us a message!
Please note--these may not be ... more

1969 Gibson EB-3 Cherry

Antioch, Tennessee, 370**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3199

Very good condition 1969 Gibson EB-3 bass in cherry. No breaks. All original outside of the changed tuners, replaced tone pot (original included), and a recent refret. This example has some honest play wear throughout from touring, but is lucky to come out with no breaks to report. Bridge mute assembly functions. Truss rod works well, neck is straight, and it has been recently restrung. 8 3 pounds. Gibson logo is a bit faded, but this is purely cosmetic of course. This example sounds very boomy,... more

Gibson Ripper Bass Natural, modified to fretless 1975-6

New York, 100**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2450

This Ripper is in great condition, feels and sounds great. It was modified by the original owner to fretless
I haven't changed the strings in a while because I haven't been using it. Other than that, it doesn't need anything
... more

Gibson Bass Guitar

Califon, New Jersey, 078**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1375

The Gibson Bass Guitar is a 4-string electric bass guitar in a striking red color. It is part of the SG model series, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and iconic design. Perfect for musicians looking for a reliable and stylish bass guitar to enhance their playing experience. Includes original hard case.... more

1970 or 1971 Gibson EB-0 Electric Bass Guitar With Epiphone Case

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 731**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1700

The 1970 or 1971 Gibson EB-0 Electric Bass Guitar is a vintage musical instrument that exudes classic style and timeless appeal. With its solid body and right-handed design, this 4-string bass guitar is perfect for musicians looking to add a touch of vintage flair to their collection. The Gibson brand ensures high quality craftsmanship and exceptional sound, making it a sought-after choice for bass players looking to rock out on a classic instrument. Complete with an Epiphone case, this vintage ... more

Epiphone by Gibson Rock Bass Black 80s? (Used)

Sedalia, Missouri, 653**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$400

This Epiphone by Gibson Rock bass is the only one I've ever seen with "Epiphone by Gibson" actually inlaid on the headstock in this specific font. Most of them may be inlaid "Epiphone" but they are not inlaid "by Gibson" and if they are, they do not have this same style of font. Not sure what year it was made but it has to be in the 80s since all of the 90s models I've seen have the different headstock inlay. We even took off the neck to see if there was any dating on the neck pocket or back of ... 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

Gibson SG 4 String Made In USA Electric Bass Guitar (Blemished)

Greenwood, Mississippi, 389**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3000

Gibson SG 4 String Made In USA Electric Bass Guitar (Blemished). Condition is Used. Shipped with USPS Ground Advantage.... more

Epiphone / Gibson Embassy Bass Guitar

Beach City, Ohio, 446**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$430

Plays excellent very good condition a couple of slight scratches nothing major new strings setup to make thunder these are the thunderbird pickups and these pickups are very good in this particular bass comes with gig bag and new strap
... more

Gibson 1965 EB-0 SG 1965 Electric Bass Guitar

Smithville, Tennessee, 371**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2800

Gibson 1965 SG Electric Bass Guitar For Sale. I bought this bass guitar from Earnest Tubb Record & Pawn Shop on Broadway, Nashville, TN in June, 1978. I have played it professionally & personally for 47 years. The bass amplifier was purchased many years later. Both were used on stage in many different types of venues. I am no longer performing due to health issues, but I hate to see these items sit without being enjoyed
The bass guitar is in excellent condition. It has a small belt buckle ... more

Gibson RD Artist Bass w / Bag! -LL

Mesquite, Texas, 751**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3000

Item: Gibson RD Artist Bass w / Bag!
Description: You are purchasing a Gibson RD Artist Bass w / Bag!Neck had a break but has been repaired. See PhotoIT has some wear and tear from normal usage Beautiful flamed wood finish Plays and sounds Please ask any questions before buying if you have any Shipping: $100 00 shipping to the Lower 48 States! We ship overseas. Overseas shipping prices will vary. Overseas buyers pay their own import taxes Payment: We accept Paypal for your ... more

1976 RD Standard Gibson Jazz Bass Guitar

Mission Hills, California, 913**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3000

The 1976 RD Standard Gibson Jazz Bass Guitar is a classic electric bass guitar by Gibson, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and iconic design. With a sleek black body color, this guitar is sure to make a stylish statement in any musician's collection. Featuring the renowned Standard series, this bass guitar is known for its versatile sound and exceptional playability, making it a popular choice among bass players in various genres of music
PICK UP ONLY Mission Hills, CA (LA ... more

Vintage Gibson RD Standard Bass Natural 1977

Brookfield, Wisconsin, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2499

Vintage Gibson RD Standard Bass Natural 1977
PLEASE CONTACT US WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR FOR AN IN-HAND DESCRIPTION
Made for only a brief moment in the late '70s, this lovely RD Standard bass offers excellent tone & feel with passive electronics. Professionally set up with fresh strings & low action so it's ready to play straight out of the case
Cosmetic Condition: Various nicks, chips, dents & dings; scratches & some finish wear
Neck: Semi-chunky maple neck with... 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

Find more vintage guitars for sale at vintageguitarsforsale.co