Kentucky KM380

[Sheephead Shawn]

What is this comparable to in their present offering in their line of products?
Thanks

[Folkmusician.com]

These were made at a different location from different plans/spec/materials. There is nothing similar made now.

Many of these models were similar up until 2007, at that point the KM-250 production was moved and the KM-505 was introduced. The KM-380 had a few changed but remained similar to the past versions. The KM-350/380 were phased out before the move to the new production facility. All the models are from this new facility are complete redesigns.

The 380 is a nice mandolin, just nothing like the current versions.

[Sheephead Shawn]

Thanks Mr Fear From Reno, is it all solid wood Sir? Appreciate your expertise and response.

[Folkmusician.com]

Shawn,

Yeah, these were all solid. Depending on the year, they were called KM-380 or KM-380S. Either way these were all solid mandolins. The later ones have the abbreviated fingerboard extension. Chinese versions would have been available from 2001 - 2014. The last one I ordered seems to be mid 2014, so that was around the time they were discontinued.

This one pictured here it is likely circa 2010-2012, don't recall exactly when we took the pics:

[fatt-dad]

I think the KM-380 from Japan was, "Hand carved" and the KM-250 was solid - i.e., maybe not hand carved?

Moving to Korea and then China makes it all complicated and Robert knows about that. Is your KM-380 from Japan?

f-d

[allenhopkins]

See what happens when you put "Kentucky KM-380" in the thread title?

You get a bunch of prompt, informed responses; unlike this thread..

Lots of friendly, helpful people here.

[Folkmusician.com]

See what happens when you put "Kentucky KM-380" in the thread title?

So true, I quickly glance through titles and read a small portion of threads. Weber black ice, caught my eye on the first thread, but then I read the full title and passed it by.

[Sheephead Shawn]

Right on point Allen, thanks. To you, Robert, and all I appreciate the insight man.