Vintage Bach 36LT Lightweight Handslide – Late 1970s

Overview

This Bach 36LT handslide dates to the late 1970s and retains its original parts and lacquer. The LT designation identifies Bach’s lightweight slide design, which offers a quicker response and a more lively, centered feel than the standard-weight Bach 36 handslide.

Designed for the .525-inch bore Bach 36, this slide would be especially well suited to orchestral, solo, chamber, and commercial players who want the characteristic Bach 36 sound with a more immediate articulation and lighter response.

Construction and Playing Characteristics

This lightweight model is constructed with nickel-silver outer tubes and yellow-brass inner-slide components. The reduced weight gives the slide a quick, responsive character while retaining the centered sound and stability associated with the Bach 36.

It pairs especially well with gold-brass Bach 36 bells, creating a balanced tonal blend with clear articulation and plenty of color. Players who find a standard Bach 36 slide slightly heavy may prefer the more immediate response and maneuverability of the LT design.

Condition and Service

The slide was professionally aligned and set up for optimal playability before being offered. A previous repair had been made to the inner and outer tubes between second and third position. That area was corrected and substantially improved during service.

Following alignment and setup, the slide played smoothly and reliably with no remaining functional issues. The original lacquer and components were retained, preserving the character of this late-1970s Bach assembly.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Vincent Bach
• Model: 36LT lightweight handslide
• Era: Late 1970s
• Bore: .525 inch
• Outer tubes: Nickel silver
• Construction: Lightweight LT design
• Parts: Original components
• Finish: Original lacquer
• Service: Professionally aligned and set up
• Repair history: Prior inner- and outer-tube repair between second and third position

About the Bach 36LT Handslide

The Bach 36 occupies an important place between small-bore jazz trombones and full-size .547-bore symphonic tenors. The lightweight 36LT slide makes that medium-bore platform even more responsive, giving players a clear attack and flexible feel without losing the core and tonal depth expected from a professional Bach trombone.

This example has been preserved as a historical reference for players researching vintage Bach components, lightweight slide construction, and compatible setups for the Bach 36.