The Retreads from Muncie, Indiana

I picked up that Grabber around 1998, for about $450. I played it in the Retreads and the Beatnik Termites. I had another one that I bought from Aaron Smith from Brazil (braziltheband.com) in 2000 and the serial number was within 100 from my first one, although this new one was in better shape. This one is now owned by Steve from the Giveups (dayton ohio). I'd been playing Fender P basses and Jazz basses, but the weight of the Fenders got to me. The Grabber looked huge, but was much easier on my back. Also the great tone and classic look matched the other Gibson purists in my band. I think I first wanted a Gibson after seeing Dee Dee Ramone play a black Ripper in the shower scene in Rock n Roll High School. Also, I believe Chris Novoselic of Nirvana played a yellow Ripper in the early 90s. I like the Grabber headstock much better than the Ripper, and the sliding pickup is pretty sweet. I ripped the finish to the bone and have gotten plenty of sweat, beer, and blood on the fucker and it keeps on ticking. Choice axe all around.