This Japanese-made Tokai PB-40 Hard Puncher is an early-1980s P-style bass. Its serial number, 110050, is unusually early, and both the neck heel and body cavity carry matching 1=1 production codes. The body also retains its BB (Black) finish code. Taken together, these markings strongly support a January 1983 build and the original pairing of the neck and body, although the month remains a likely date rather than a certainty.
Tokai’s model specification lists an alder body, maple neck and rosewood fingerboard. This example has a passive split-coil Precision-style pickup with simple Volume and Tone controls, and the nut measures 42 mm. It weighs 4.2 kg. Its voice is focused and punchy, with a clear midrange; a period-style gig bag is included.
For its age, the bass is in very good condition. The black finish has honest wear from use but remains structurally intact, with no structural repairs evident. The frets show typical wear for the period while retaining good playability. The truss rod functions as intended, though adjustments should be made carefully. The bass has been cleaned and set up; a small setup adjustment may be useful after transport and climate adaptation.
Inspection & research notes
Inspection notes record that the truss rod functions as intended and the bass has been cleaned and set up. Adjustments should be made with care; minor setup changes may be needed after shipping and climate adaptation.
