Own a true piece of American military history.
This 1945 Grumman TBM-3 Avenger, Bureau Number 85838, has real WWII combat history and one of the most compelling stories of any warbird on the market.
TBM-3E #85838 was accepted into military service on March 29, 1945. Assigned to VT-86, this aircraft—coded “308”—entered combat shortly after arrival.
📌 Combat History Summary
• Flown by Lt. Harry Badgerow during attacks on Japanese naval vessels near Kure Harbor, Hiroshima.
• Scored direct hits damaging surface targets.
• Helped sink the destroyer Nashi.
• Played a role in forcing the surrender of the cruiser Oyodo.
• Flew over USS Missouri during Japan’s official surrender on September 2, 1945.
• Later flew relief missions delivering supplies to POWs at Nagoya Castle.
This Avenger is a true collector-grade warbird, with a meticulous restoration and stunning appearance.
• 3,898 hrs TT
• Professional restoration by Airpower Unlimited (John Lane and crew)
• Restoration quality described as “absolutely stunning”
• Full military interior and placards as delivered in 1945
• Museum-grade condition
• Period-correct military interior
• Restored cockpit consoles and instrument panel with traditional round gauges
• Military finishes throughout
• Looks exactly as it would have from the factory in 1945
• Wright R-2600-20
• 796 hrs Engine Time
• 1,750 HP
• 242 hrs SMOH
• F-102 wheels and brakes (Sanders Aeronautics)
• Smoke system
• Hydraulic wing fold
• Tailhook
• Operational cannon barrels
• Pilot and passenger oxygen
• Skyonics alternator with shutoff valve
• Starter interlock & warning light
• Shadin fuel flow
• Fuel torque pressure meter
• Aux hydraulic pump
• Water spray bar oil cooling system with new 20-gal aluminum tank
(Manufacturer-provided specs)
• Max Range: 1,130 nm
• Cruise: 267 mph
• Top Speed: classified as very high performance for the type
• Service Ceiling: 23,480 ft
• Rate of Climb: 2,600 fpm
• Wingspan: 54.2 ft
• Length: 40.1 ft
• Gross Weight: 18,250 lbs
“Call or text for pictures. This is one that’s truly shocking — the restoration quality is second to none.”
Asking price: $1,500,000
Contact Jared Segebartt — 208-301-0683
