Image sourced for Reddit

A well-maintained snare drum is the basic requirement of a drummer who aims to produce quality sounds. 

Even if you are skillful as a drummer, you need equipment that is efficient enough. This is the main reason why the maintenance of this drum is equally important.

It includes regular cleaning and upkeep to make it last longer and sound its best. It raises the quality of the performance, every time you play. 

This blog covers every important detail regarding the maintenance of the snare drum. It features every single step from cleaning, and tuning, to drumstick maintenance. Let’s get started.

Frequent Cleaning

Cleaning the Drum Shell

The surface of your snare drum often absorbs dust, grime, and fingerprints with the passage of time. The drum's tone and appearance may suffer as a result of the treatment. To guarantee that the drum shell is clean, the following actions can be taken:

Here is how you start with your cleaning process, you'll need warm water, a mild detergent, and a soft towel. To easily reach the shell, the drumhead needs to be removed in the following step. 

Next, dampen the cloth with a tiny amount of detergent and warm water. Wipe the shell gently, being careful not to leave any watermarks or spill any water on the wood.

Cleaning the Hardware

Your hardware is vulnerable to corrosion. To avoid rust and preserve smooth operation, the hardware, which includes hoops, tension rods, and lugs, also has to be cleaned regularly to keep a fresh look.

The materials needed to clean the hardware should be hard enough. These include tiny brushes, soft cloth, and metal cleaners. 

Start with using a dry towel to wipe out any dust from the hardware. Then, use a tiny amount of metal cleanser on the cloth and gently rub the tarnished or rusty parts. Finally, clean the difficult-to-reach places surrounding the tension rods and lugs with the brush.

Cleaning the DrumHead

The drumhead can only function properly and sound at its best, it should be kept clean. 

The materials that are useful for cleaning the drumhead are Mild soap, warm water, and soft cloth. The first step is to wet the towel slightly with soapy water. 

Once you are done with it, try to get rid of dirt and stick marks, and wipe the drumhead in a circular motion.

Use a fresh cloth, and thoroughly dry the drumhead.

Regular Tuning

Getting the most sound out of your snare drum requires proper tuning. Here's a detailed analysis of how this can be done:

Tuning the Drumhead

The first step in the process is to evenly loosen each tension rod. To provide uniform tension, finger-tighten each rod in a star pattern (across from one another). After this, apply a quarter turn in the same star design to each rod using a drum key. Continue until the required pitch is achieved. For uniform tension, lightly press on the drumhead close to each rod. Adjust according to your requirements.

The Resonant Head's Tuning

The sound of your drum is also greatly influenced by the resonant head or bottom head.

Loosen each rod uniformly. Each rod should be finger-tightened in a star pattern.

Apply the same star design to each rod and tighten it in quarter turns using a drum key. Compared to the batter head, the resonant head is usually tuned more closely.

Adjustment of the Wires

The distinctive nature of snare sound heavily depends on the snare wires. They require proper upkeep and adjustment. It can be done in a series of steps. Firstly, check the snare wires for warping or damage on a regular basis. 

If you notice anything, replace the wires immediately. Adjust the tension by using the strainer mechanism to tighten or loosen the mesh. 

For a clear, responsive tone, tighten the wires; for a rattling, more laid-back sound, loosen the wires. Make sure that there is equal contact between the wires and the resonant head. Uneven reaction or buzzing can be caused by uneven contact as well.

Maintenance of the Drumsticks

Because they are an extension of the drummer, drumsticks need upkeep to be long-lasting and functional.

Examine Frequently

Check for Damage

 Make sure your sticks are free of splinters, chips, and cracks regularly. Don't let broken sticks ruin your drumheads; replace them instead.

Even Wear

To guarantee even wear, rotate your sticks during rehearsal and performance.

Storage

To avoid warping and damage, keep your sticks stored in a cold, dry place. To keep your sticks safe and organized while in transit, use a stick bag.

Regular Maintenance

Regular Inspection

Look for wear, dents, warping, or any damage. Your sound might be greatly affected by a worn-out drumhead.

Replace When Necessary

 If you play frequently or forcefully, replace the drumheads on a regular basis. Replacing the drumhead once a year and the batter head every six months to ensure maximum maintenance. 

Hardware Inspection

Examine the hoops, tension rods, and lugs frequently for wear or damage. Any components that are rusted, deformed, or otherwise damaged should be replaced.

Lubricant Moving Components

To guarantee smooth functioning, lubricate tension rods and other moving parts with a tiny amount of lubricant.

Environmental Concerns

Temperature and Humidity

The hardware and wood of your snare drum might be harmed by extremely high or low temperatures. To avoid warping and rusting, keep your drum stored in a stable environment.

Transportation

 To shield your drum from physical harm and environmental fluctuations, transport it in padded cases.

Professional Checkups

Even while routine maintenance can be completed at home, getting regular professional examinations is very important. 

Annual Check-Up

 Have a professional inspect and tune up your drum once a year.

Expert Repairs

To prevent causing more harm, get expert assistance if you discover any severe concerns that you are unable to resolve on your own.

Techniques Involved in Playing

Technique

Play with the correct technique to prevent overuse of your sticks and drum. Avert striking the drum at strange angles or with excessive force.

Rest Periods

To avoid undue wear and tear, take breaks throughout extended practice sessions for your sticks and drum.

Focused Practice

Aim for shorter, more focused practice sessions as opposed to extended, unfocused ones. Not only is this easier on your equipment, but it also works better for skill development.

Drummers should warm up before and after training in the same manner that athletes do. Warm up your hands and wrists with easy exercises first, then cool down with some light music at the end.

Extra Advice on Care

Maintain a consistent temperature and humidity in your practice space. The wood in your drum and sticks may warp or shatter as a result of drastic changes.

Place your sticks in a stick bag and your drum in a padded case when not in use. They are shielded from physical harm and environmental damage by this.

Well enough of the maintenance here is a quick youtube video to learn Paradiddle-diddles 

 

List of Top Snare Drums 

Here is a list of 8 top snare drums

Yamaha Stage Custom Birch Snare Drum 14x5.5

Image sourced from Reddit

The Yamaha Stage Custom Birch Snare Drum 14x5.5 is a solid snare drum that is visually appealing due to the availability of different color options for its finish.  

Specifications

• This snare drum has various color options ranging from matte surf green, pure white, and cranberry red to Deep Blue Sunburst Raven Black and classic white.
• The snare drum has triple-flanged hoops
• The snare drum shell has a shell made up of birch wood

Pros

• The sound projection of the birch shell is quite good
• The different color options help in providing a wide variety for the users to choose from
• The birch material used to make the snared rum enhances the durability of the snare drum.

Cons

• The price of the snare drum is a bit of an issue for some
• There is no option available in terms of the size

Oak Wood Snare Drum 

Image sourced from Reddit

The Oak Wood Snare Drum contains eight tuning lugs that provide additional stability. At the same time, the snare drum has the same sound quality as the other drums with 6 tuning lugs.

Specifications

• The size of the snare drum is 14 by 5.5 inches
• The shell is made up of oak wood
• The weight of the drum is 6 pounds 
• 12-strand snare wire is used in the snare drum 
• The finish is of flat hickory wrap.

Pros

• The oak wood shell provides a warm tone to the whole music
• This snare drum comes at an affordable price

Cons

• The sound projection is not as much birch or maple wood drums
• There are no such color options available 

Here is a customer review from our client, Jiya Tailor

Too Cool For A Subtle Sound

I am currently in a folk blues backyard sounding band. They only wanted me to play a snare drum using nothing but brushes. It is very light in weight (only 3 ply wood construction) and yet it performs very well. Using this drum has given the band a cool unique sound as we play old country, folk, oldies, and you name it. I do not think it is a good drum for banging drum playing; it does not have a loud sound. This drum would be a fine instrument for someone to practice snare work in the home; it is not obnoxious. I can make it bang if I need to, but I attribute that to me a pro drummer for 45 years. For the money it is a very good drum. I have yet to change the factory head. This drum is a tough little thing. I recommend for what I have described its capabilities to do.

ZebraWood Snare Drum 

 

 Image sourced from Reddit

The ZebraWood Snare Drum is a snare drum that delivers a high-quality punchy sound with the help of the eight tuning lags to achieve perfect sound.

Specifications

• The hardware finishing used is chrome finishing
• The shell is made up of zebra wood.
• The snare wires used are 12-stranded
• The thickness of the shell is 7.5mm
• The weight of the drum is 6 pounds

Pros

• The zebra wood used helps enhance the appeal of the snare drum
• The snare drum is quite affordable
• Compared to the price, the snare drum's sound quality is quite decent.

Cons

• The built quality makes it less durable 
• Not for people looking for a simple design snare drum

Here is what our client, Logan Kelly, has to say about the product

Too Cool For A Subtle Sound

I am currently in a folk blues backyard sounding band. They only wanted me to play a snare drum using nothing but brushes. It is very light in weight (only 3 ply wood construction) and yet it performs very well. Using this drum has given the band a cool unique sound as we play old country, folk, oldies, and you name it. I do not think it is a good drum for banging drum playing; it does not have a loud sound. This drum would be a fine instrument for someone to practice snare work in the home; it is not obnoxious. I can make it bang if I need to, but I attribute that to me a pro drummer for 45 years. For the money it is a very good drum. I have yet to change the factory head. This drum is a tough little thing. I recommend for what I have described its capabilities to do.

Tama Woodworks Snare Drum 14x5.5

The Tama Woodworks Snare Drum 14x5.5 is an eight-ply poplar wood-made snare drum stand that delivers warm tones.

Specifications

• The size of the snare drum is 14 by 5.5 inches
• This snare drum comes in black Oak Wrap and natural zebrawood wrap.
• The snare drum has 45-degree bearing edges

Pros

• The price is affordable, considering the quality it provides 
• The snare drum provides top-notch sound quality
• The snare drum has different wrap options that increase its appeal. 

Cons

• The projection of the sound of the drum is less than some other types
• There is no other size option than 14 by 5.5 inches

The Best Large Vent Snare Drum

 

The Best Large Vent Snare Drum is a snare drum with two oversized 2.5-inch vent holes to make the sound louder. The drum's shell uses birch wood, which gives high and low-end frequencies and a mid-out rounded range of music.

Specifications

• The size of the snare drum is 14 by 6.5 inches
• The birch wood is used in the making of the shell of the drum
• The drum hardware has a red powder coating
• 8mm Birch Wood Shell is used in the snare drum
• The weight of the snare drum is 7 pounds
• The snare drum has eight lug counts
• The 12-stranded snare drum wire is used

Pros

• The sound project of the snare drum is excellent 
• The large vent holes in the snare drum help increase the sensitivity of the drums.

Cons

• The snare drum is a bit expensive
• The large vent holes might affect the durability of the snare drum

Snare Drum Kit

 

   Image sourced from Reddit

The snare drum kit contains a snare drum with a snare stand, two drumsticks, and a drum key. It is a packaged product that provides a one-stop solution for drummers.

Specifications

• The drumsticks are made up of Maplewood.
• The weight of the kit is 11.5 pounds
• The lug count of the drum is 8
• The wire used is 12 stranded wire
• The size of the drum is 14 by 5.5 inches

Pros

• This kit provides a complete set of equipment for a snare drummer.
• The materials are durable due to their construction material

Cons

• The price might be a bit high
• The kit is not for those who are looking to buy only snare drum

Pearl Export Lacquer 14x5.5 Snare Drum Natural Cherry

The Pearl Export Lacquer 14x5.5 Snare Drum Natural Cherry is a snare drum made of a heavy-duty shell to produce excellent sound.

Specifications

• The snare drum is made up of mahogany or poplar wood
• The color of the drum is natural cherry
• The drum has 45-degree bearing edges
• The drum has a standard 14 by 5.5 inches size

Pros

• The snare drum's finish is lacquer, which gives it an attractive appeal.
• The poplar and mahogany wood shell tones are rich and warm, making the sound quality more pleasant. 

Cons

• There is only one size option, which is 14 by 5.5 inches
• The price range might be an issue for some users

Pearl Sensitone Heritage Alloy Snare Drum 14x5 Steel

The Pearl Sensitone Heritage Alloy Snare Drum 14x5 Steel is a snare drum with a 1mm beaded chrome shell.

Specifications

• The size of the snare drum is 14 by 5 inches
• The material for the snare drum shell is steel
• The drum has 45-degree bearing edges
• The color of the snare drum is chrome

Pros

• The steel shell helps provide a bright tone that enhances the music feel.
• The steel used in the drum helps in making the drum more durable

Cons

• With the use of steel in the snare drum, the weight of the snare drum becomes a bit heavier than the others.
• Not for you if you want a wooden shell snare drum

Here is a comparison table for the products

Product	Best For	Highlighting Feature	Pros	Cons
Yamaha Stage Custom Birch Snare Drum	Versatile Use	Multiple Color Options	High-quality birch, durable, easy tuning, multiple colors	Mid-range price, standard size
OakWood Snare Drum	Budget-Friendly	Affordable	Rich tone from oak, die-cast hoops, affordable	Less projection, limited color options
ZebraWood Snare Drum	Entry-Level Drummers	Very Affordable	Unique appearance, decent sound quality	less durable
Tama Woodworks Snare Drum	Versatile Use	Attractive Wraps	Affordable, good sound quality, attractive options	Less projection, limited size options
The Best Large Vent Snare Drum	Professional Use	Large Vent Holes	Excellent projection, crisp tone, increased sensitivity	Expensive, vent holes may affect durability
Compare Snare Drum Kit	Variety of Tones	Comprehensive Kit	durable, comprehensive kit	Higher price, not for buyer opting for only snare drum
Pearl Export Lacquer Snare Drum	Classic Tone	Attractive Lacquer Finish	Classic Pearl quality, rich tone, attractive finish	Price issue, limited size options
Pearl Sensitone Heritage Alloy Snare Drum	Bright Tone	Steel Shell	Bright tone, durable construction, classic hardware	Heavier,no wooden shell sound

Why You Should Choose GeekStands for Snare Drums

We at GeekStands provide our clients with snare drums made of high-quality material, various sizes, and unique finishes, all at an affordable price. This makes us a go-to choice and the prime reason why you should choose us!

At Geekstand, our drums are made of heavy-duty material, which makes them durable and long-lasting and also enhances the stability of our snare drums.

At Geekstands, we offer snare drums of various sizes so users can have the snare drum they want in the right size. Apart from the sizes, the finishing element of our snare drums makes them even more appealing to clients. These finishings add a nice visual touch to the whole drum kit.

The best part is that you can get a snare drum with all these features at an affordable price.So what are you waiting for? Go grab your snare drum now!