Benge Freelance Model 170 Small Bore Jazz Trombone
🕰️ This Benge Freelance Model 170 has been sold and is now preserved as part of The Brass Exchange Historical Archive.
If you're researching jazz trombones or hunting for a similar small-bore model, this page is maintained to support collectors, students, and vintage-horn enthusiasts.
📸 Photography Note: These photos were taken in the early years of The Brass Exchange, before we upgraded to our current pro-level lighting and camera system. We keep them online as part of our historical archive—a snapshot of how our photography standards have evolved. Even with the older style, each image remains true to the instrument, offering reliable reference material for collectors and researchers.
✦ Historical Perspective
The Benge Freelance Model 170 occupies a special corner of American small-bore trombone history. Built during a period when manufacturers competed to develop lightweight, responsive jazz horns, the 170 offered a distinctive feel that players often compared to the King 2B and 3B of the 1970s–80s.
Its 7.75" yellow brass bell and .500 bore lightweight slide made it a strong contender for lead and commercial players wanting nimble response and a crisp, projecting sound. Benge’s craftsmanship—better known in the trumpet world—translated surprisingly well to trombones, giving these models a clarity and bell resonance that set them apart from other small-bore options.
This particular instrument arrived in excellent playing condition. The slide was straight, smooth, and properly aligned—responsive enough that it would have satisfied even demanding small-bore players. The bell section was free of damage, showing only natural lacquer patina from age. Its original factory case completed the package (no mouthpiece included).
Today, Benge trombones remain far less common than their trumpet counterparts, but their scarcity, craftsmanship, and studio lineage continue to attract collectors and players exploring non-King, non-Conn, and non-Bach small-bore alternatives.
✦ Further Reading
If you’d like to explore more Benge history or compare eras:
👉 Browse all archived Benge instruments
Common Questions
Who founded the Benge company and why is it significant?
The Benge brand was founded by Elden Eugene Benge, principal trumpet of the Chicago Symphony. After an injury ended his performance career, he began handcrafting instruments known for precision, artistry, and acoustic consistency—laying the foundation for the Benge legacy.
What makes Burbank-era Benge instruments notable?
Production moved to Burbank, California in 1953, where Benge became famous for hand-built horns favored by studio musicians for reliability and balanced tone. These early-California horns remain highly collectible.
What happened to Benge after the 1970s?
Benge was acquired by King Musical Instruments in 1970, shifting production to Eastlake, Ohio. While horns continued for years, collectors overwhelmingly prefer the character of the Burbank era. Production ended in the early 2000s.
This Benge Freelance Model 170 has been sold and is preserved here for historical research and small-bore jazz trombone comparison.
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