Thin Stave Drum Shells
When you order a shell (or finished drum, we start by finding the right wood breed that will deliver the tone and performance to compliment your playing style. Then, we help you select the diameter and height of each drum. Most players comment that our drums sound a full size bigger than they measure.
- Generally snares sound best at a one-half-to-one height-to-diameter proportion, (such as: 6.5×13 and 7×14).
- In larger kits, the consistency and cohesiveness of the kit’s sound is especially noticeable when all the toms are in a three-to-four (3/4) height to diameter ratio, (such as: 7.5×10, 9×12 and 10.5 x 14).
- Basses sound best in shorter ratios, such as two-thirds to one height-to-diameter, because a shorter column of air helps to reduce the “sustain” of the drum.
Once you’ve selected a wood, and size(s), we construct the shell (or shells). Our shells are 1/4 inch in thickness to maximize the dynamic range and sensitivity of the drum. Then the shells are sanded. While the exterior drum is sanded until it is smooth as glass, we sand the interior of the drums to a slightly rough finished surface, to reduce ringing. Bands are applied to the interior of both ends of the drum shell, to increase the strength of the shell. These reinforcement bands are very slim (5/64ths of an inch thick) and do not affect the natural tone and responsiveness of our shells. We then form our bearing edges using a 45 degree inside bevel, and an outside “round over.” Our shells are then sealed inside and out with natural shellac. The shellac minimizes moisture changes to the wood over the life of the instrument.
Features You Can Choose
Staining
While the woods we select for drum shells have naturally striking color and grain, some drummers prefer a stain, for a little added color or to achieve a more dramatic appearance. We will consult with you and provide test strips of stains and color dyes where requested.
Finish
We seal all shells with shellac sanding sealer, inside and out. Shellac provides the best moisture barrier of all known finishes. Shellac puts the thinnest protective layer on the drum, and has the least impact on tone and resonance.
Shellac is also compatible with most known finishing systems. So, gloss lacquer, satin lacquer or catalyzed polyester can be applied over the sealer to provide the glossy look that enhances many of the exotic wood grains we select. These finishes also add extra protection to the shell, since they can take bumps and scratches without damage to the wood itself.
Head Drum final finishes are your choice of satin or gloss lacquer, shellac or wax.
Bearing Edge Options
Our preferred bearing edge is the vintage “round over.” This bearing edge produces the widest tuning range and makes breaking-in new heads a snap.
If you prefer, we happily provide “45/45” bearings edges, on request.
If you’re a builder, and are interested in our special shell packs, please contact us for O.E.M. pricing.