Chapman Stick – 10-String, 34" Scale | A Rare Find in Excellent Condition

Up for sale is a Chapman Stick 10-string (34" scale) in very good condition, complete with a hard-shell case, some spare strings, and strap—everything you need to unlock the full range of this unique and expressive instrument.

Designed for two-handed tapping, the Chapman Stick allows you to explore bass, chords, and melody simultaneously, opening a world of musical possibilities that few other instruments can match. Whether you're a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, this Stick is ready to inspire your next sonic adventure.

It’s more than just an instrument—it's a “taptastic” portal into a whole new musical language.

This example has some light marks and signs of use, fully tested and ready for a new home.

Specifications:

Model: Chapman Stick (10-string)
Scale Length: 34 inches
Tuning: Standard 5+5 tuning (can be customized)
Fretboard: Usually hardwood with inlaid markers (material may vary by model/year)
Pickups: Typically active stereo/mono Stick pickups (please inquire for specific model details)
Construction: Neck-through, with adjustable truss and bridge system
Included: Hard-shell case, spare strings, strap

A Brief History of the Chapman Stick

Invented in the early 1970s by jazz guitarist and innovator Emmett Chapman, the Chapman Stick was designed to revolutionize the way we approach stringed instruments. Unlike traditional guitars or basses, the Stick is played by tapping the strings directly onto the fretboard with both hands—a technique Emmett pioneered himself, known as Free Hands.

Chapman Enterprises, based in California, has been handcrafting these instruments for over five decades. Each Stick is a meticulously engineered piece of musical art, built for tone, durability, and creative freedom.

Notable Chapman Stick Players

Over the years, the Chapman Stick has been embraced by a diverse array of visionary musicians, including:

Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel)
Trey Gunn (King Crimson, solo)
Nick Beggs (Kajagoogoo, Steven Wilson)
Alain Caron
Don Schiff

Whether used for ambient textures, progressive rock, jazz fusion, or solo compositions, the Stick has carved out a unique place in the musical world.

This 10-string Stick is a rare opportunity to own a professionally crafted instrument with deep musical heritage and endless expressive potential.

Stick Enterprises "Chapman" Stick 34" Scale Black With Case