As Gibson transitioned away from mandolin family instruments in its main brand, they did try to keep the tradition alive through their “discount” brand Kalamazoo and produced the KJ model between 1930 and 1939.

The KJ was in large part identical to the Gibson Style J but for three major changes. Most notably, the KJ featured a top with F-holes rather than the round hole of the Gibson. Secondly, the top itself was pressed using the “Arco-Arch” process instead of being carved. Finally, the headstock shape was redone to be in line with their other mandolin family instruments.

There are 8 recorded FONs in Spann’s guide between 1933-1937.

General Appointments include

• 24″ wide, 33.5″ long and 5.5″ deep
• 42″ scale
• Spruce Top
• Northern maple rims and back
• Mahogany neck
• Dark brown shaded finish (all known instruments are black topped)
• Bound with ivoroid
• Both side and end pins

KJ Mandobasses have come with both rosewood and ebonized fingerboards.