Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (12)
$999.00
Guitar Center
$999.00 $849.99 $149.01 · All time low
Amazon
4.2 (8)
$849.99
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$599.00 New
$599.00 Used

Average Price: $779

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Washburn M3SWK". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Washburn M3SWK is a mandolin that celebrates traditional craftsmanship while offering versatility for modern musicians. This F-style mandolin is crafted from an exquisite combination of tonewoods that ensures superior sound quality. The solid carved European spruce top paired with solid carved Canadian maple back and sides provides a rich, bright tone with excellent projection. Whether you are delving into bluegrass, exploring Celtic tunes, or adding a new color to your rock ensemble, the M3SWK is designed to complement your musical journey.

For players who appreciate the finer details, the M3SWK features a maple neck topped with an ebony fingerboard, offering smooth playability and a touch of elegance. The mandolin is equipped with gold die-cast tuners with pearloid buttons, adding a vintage aesthetic that nods to Washburn's storied history in mandolin crafting since the late 1800s. With a gloss finish that enhances its visual appeal, this mandolin is as stunning to behold as it is to play.

Every Washburn M3SWK comes with a hardshell case, ensuring your instrument stays protected on the road or at home. This mandolin is not just an instrument; it's a bridge to a world of musical possibilities, crafted by a brand with over a century of experience in producing quality fretted instruments.

Key Features:

  • F-style mandolin with classic F-holes
  • Solid carved European spruce top for bright, punchy tones
  • Solid carved Canadian maple back and sides for enhanced projection
  • Maple neck with an ebony fingerboard for smooth playability
  • Gold die-cast tuners with pearloid buttons for vintage aesthetics
  • Includes a hardshell case for protection

Product specs

Type Acoustic
Body Shape F Style
Finish Stain/Buffed Gloss
Top Material Carved Solid Spruce
Body Material Book-matched solid maple
Neck Material Maple
Fingerboard Inlay Snowflake
Number of Frets 22 full + 2 partial
Scale Length 13.75"
Nut Width 1.10"
Hardware Gold
Strings D'Addario Light Gauge, .011-.036
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the construction of the Washburn M3SWK mandolin?

The Washburn M3SWK mandolin features a carved solid spruce top and book-matched solid maple body, offering a bright and resonant tone.

Is the Washburn M3SWK mandolin suitable for bluegrass music?

Yes, the Washburn M3SWK's F-style body and solid wood construction make it well-suited for bluegrass, providing the punchy and clear sound typical of the genre.

Does the Washburn M3SWK mandolin come with a case?

Yes, the Washburn M3SWK mandolin includes a hardshell case, offering protection and easy transport for the instrument.

What is the scale length of the Washburn M3SWK mandolin?

The Washburn M3SWK mandolin has a scale length of 13.75 inches, which is standard for mandolins and contributes to its playability and sound.

How many frets does the Washburn M3SWK mandolin have?

The Washburn M3SWK mandolin features 22 full frets plus 2 partial frets, providing a wide range for playing various musical styles.

JFMusicOnline

JFMusicOnline

Washburn Mandolin M3SWK Bluegrass Old Time Folk Music Lessons

Video thumbnail for Washburn Mandolin M3SWK Bluegrass Old Time Folk Music Lessons by JFMusicOnline

Washburn Mandolin M3SWK Bluegrass Old Time Folk Music Lessons

JFMusicOnline

JFMusicOnline

Video thumbnail for Washburn Mandolin M3SWK Review by Zachary Graft

Washburn Mandolin M3SWK Review

Zachary Graft

Zachary Graft

Video thumbnail for NEW Washburn M3SWK F Style Mandolin ~ WW2 Gibson Mandolin ~ Rocktownmusic.net by Rocktown music net

NEW Washburn M3SWK F Style Mandolin ~ WW2 Gibson Mandolin ~ Rocktownmusic.net

Rocktown music net

Rocktown music net

Reviews

PROS

  • Solid wood construction offers great tone at an affordable price

  • Beautiful sunburst finish with a rich hue

  • Excellent quality hardshell case included

  • Clear, resonant sound when properly set up

  • Comparable to more expensive mandolins with minor adjustments

  • High-quality pick guard and tailpiece

  • Strong projection and sustain

  • Elegant design with noticeable craftsmanship

  • Good volume and warm tone over time

CONS

  • Requires professional setup out of the box for optimal sound

  • Factory strings may need replacing for better playability

  • Potential for cosmetic blemishes and finish imperfections

  • Initial fret issues, including dead frets and sharp edges

  • Bridge saddle and nut may require adjustments or replacement

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Washburn M3SWK.

Comparisons

  • Several users suggest Eastman mandolins (models MD 505, 605, 315) as better alternatives in terms of sound and playability compared to the Washburn M3SWK.

    Source
  • The Washburn M3SW is noted to have a lower-end feel, particularly when compared to Eastman models, and may not provide the best value for its price range.

    Source
  • The Loar mandolins may offer higher resale value compared to Washburn, influencing long-term investment decisions for buyers.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner mentioned the Washburn M3SW as "indestructible" and suitable for extensive use, having upgraded its tailpiece and bridge over time.

    Source
  • It's been reported that the Washburn M3SW's playability might be challenging for beginners, despite holding up well against more expensive mandolins in sound.

    Source
  • Some players find the neck shape of Washburn mandolins less comfortable, suggesting it may not suit all hand sizes or playing styles.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A Washburn guitar initially priced at $500 struggled to sell for $150, highlighting potential depreciation concerns for similar mandolin models.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
allisondelucas

Amazing

It's a awesome instrument for the price. Body made out of solid wood, with spruce top and maple back and sides according to washburn themselves. Really nice sound, both acoustic or plugged on. The only bad things I have to say about it, its no resistent to falls at all, mine felt from a 2 inch high and broke a pice off, also the fact that it comes with a passive pickup system, so you need power to feed it. Even though, small thing comparing to the really nice instrument for a very inexpensive price. Really happy with my own.

Artist usage

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See how Lil Nas X uses Washburn M3SWK

Lil Nas X

Singer, Rapper

...
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at 0:32 you can get a good look at the Washburn M3SWK

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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