Overview
This Benge 165F large bore tenor trombone, serial number 5-643179, comes from a single adult owner who purchased the instrument new and played it only occasionally. It remains in excellent condition with no history of damage or structural repair.
Here at The Brass Exchange we completed a full professional shop service including chemical cleaning, rotor service, slide optimization, pad replacement, and water-key service. The lacquer presents beautifully with minimal wear, and the instrument feels fresh and responsive throughout.
The 165F features an 8.5″ bell and .547 large-bore handslide, accepting standard large-shank trombone mouthpieces (one included). It is a dependable American-made large-bore tenor with comfortable ergonomics and consistent response.
Player Perspective
During the 1970s and 1980s, Benge brass instruments were built during a strong period of U.S. manufacturing. After the King Musical Instruments acquisition, many Benge trombones shared design features and components with contemporary King models — visible in the fittings, crooks, bell construction, tubing, and lacquer work.
Bach, Conn, Yamaha, and King instruments each have their own characteristic feel and sound concept, and players usually recognize those brand personalities quickly. Because of its design and materials, the Benge 165F is more closely related to King-style construction. The result is a reliable professional instrument with a solid, consistent sound and mechanics that will not hold an advancing player back.
This horn makes an excellent first professional-level F-attachment trombone for middle school through college players, comeback players, or anyone seeking a dependable symphonic tenor.
Condition Summary
• Single adult owner
• Excellent structural condition
• No damage history
• Full shop service completed at TBE
• Slide aligned and optimized
• Rotor serviced and quiet
• Lacquer nearly like new
• Includes large-shank mouthpiece
Ready to play immediately.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
Is the Benge 165F a good first F-attachment trombone?
Yes. The slide positions are comfortable, the rotor is easy to operate, and the sound concept fits school, community, and advancing ensemble playing very well.
Where were these Benge trombones made?
Most later-era Benge trombones were produced after the King acquisition in Anaheim and later Eastlake. Many share construction details with King instruments of the same period, contributing to their durability and consistent build quality.
Interested in seeing more Benge trombones from over the years? 🔎 Visit our Historical Benge Collector Archive to explore past instruments and learn more about this classic American maker.
Why Players Trust The Brass Exchange
Every instrument we sell goes through hands-on preparation in our St. Louis shop, including cleaning, inspection, and mechanical setup. We work with professional players, teachers, collectors, and advancing students every day and are happy to discuss fit, sound concept, and trade-in options.
This Benge 165F Large Bore Tenor Trombone is available now — considering a trade-in (full or partial) to upgrade your setup? 🔄 Complete our Trade-In Form ✍️ or browse our current trombone listings 🔎.
