April 1981 Boss BF-2 Flanger Black Label – Made in Japan – Early Transitional Example

Up for sale is a vintage Boss BF-2 Flanger from April 1981, as indicated by the original serial number sticker inside the battery compartment. This early Made in Japan example features the desirable black label and black screw construction and has been fully tested to ensure everything functions exactly as it should.

One interesting detail is that this pedal appears to have transitional features. While the bottom label still instructs the user to “Use a coin to open battery compartment lid when replacing battery,” this example is fitted with a factory-style black thumb screw rather than the earlier coin screw. Whether this represents an early factory transition or a period changeover feature, I’ll leave that determination to the experts, but it makes for an interesting detail on this very early BF-2.

Sonically, the BF-2 is one of Boss’s most iconic modulation pedals, capable of everything from subtle chorus-like movement to dramatic jet-plane sweeps and metallic resonance. Its warm analog circuitry has made it a staple on pedalboards for decades and a favorite among players seeking classic new wave, post-punk, and ambient textures.

Cosmetically, the pedal shows honest wear from use over the years, with scattered paint chips and signs of age throughout, but remains very presentable overall. The original knobs, battery compartment serial sticker, and black bottom label are all intact. It was designed for use with the original Boss ACA power adapter and also runs on a standard 9V battery.

Please review all photos carefully for the condition of the instrument. Feel free to reach out with any questions or requests for additional photos—I’m happy to help! This item is sold as described and will be professionally packed and shipped using Reverb Safe Shipping for your peace of mind. This item is cross-posted locally and on other websites, so the listing may end at any time. Thank you for considering this listing!