The Katana Bass was designed during Fenders more experimental days in the mid-80s with an extremely unusual shape and overall build by their standards, making them both incredibly unique and rare.

Built in Japan by Fujigen for a single year from mid-1985 to mid-1986. It featured an asymmetrical Flying V shape, 32" medium scale, set-neck, passive electronics, a single Precision pickup and a unique Squier Katana logo.

The condition of this one is good. It has its fair share of bumps and scratches particularly along the edges of the body, which is typical for this style and age. But overall it has a very nice look to it, and is one of the cleaner I've come across and is also entirely original.

The playability as expected of a Fujigen made bass, is extremely good. The action is low at around 2.0mm making it easy to play. The neck is straight, and the frets are in good condition. All hardware including the truss rod functions well, and it weighs in at a very comfortable 7.4Ib, with a surprisingly good balance.

The tone is of course similar to a P-bass, yet it has a unique midrange growl to it which may surprise you, and also makes it stand out a bit better in the mix.

I couldn't pass up the opportunity to try one of these when I had the chance to grab it, and it definitely lived up to my expectations. I feel like most odd 80s basses like these don't always stand up to the quality and playability you'd want for the prices they go for, but Japanese made basses never disappoint.