I`d like to know how long trombones last. If I buy a new bone, will it last 20, 40, or 60 years? Thanks.

I have a bach mercedes 2 that is 70 years old plays great. (it devloped a hole in the end of the slide just next to the spit valve, from the enzymes in my spit, i just replaced that part no problem)

If you take care of a horn it will last a really long time. Also I have seen brand new horns last only a few months due to poor care so just dont leave it outside in the northwest for 2 weeks, or somthing as dumb and your good for a long time.

Trombones will eventually wear out, but can be rebuilt when they do. If they are treated well, the can last forever without having anything done to seriously change them. Over the years, the slides wear, and valves wear. These pieces can be replated to bring them to new like new condition. The metal itself in the horn will slowly decompose over time, but this too can be fixed with plating of new metal on. This is likely to change the characteristics of a horn, but it can keep a horn playing forever. This is why it is important to buy a trombone you truly like. If your music store only has one Bach, it might be tempting to buy it, but eventually, you will find that the horn is not as good as you thought. If you get a great horn from the beginning, you can play it forever.