The Gretsch drum company produced a number of iconic snare drum models throughout their history of production. Some of the most recognized models are the Gretsch Broadkaster, the Rocket, the Max Roach, the Renown, the Progressive Jazz, the Name Band and the Professional snare drum, just to name a few.
In the 1930s, Gretsch was in the early stages of developing their metal brass shell snare. These models started off with a center beaded shell that was one piece, seamless in design and plated nickel over brass. The very first models came equipped with six tubular lugs, single flanged hoops and an outsourced strainers from a major drum competitor. It is important to note that catalogs referencing these early 30s model snare drums are very rare and hard to come by. Most early Gretsch catalogs that are accessible are mainly beginning with the 1940s and following years in time line. Therefore, there are very few catalogs that provide detailed information that are available for historical research. As a vintage drum collector and enthusiast, I have been fortunate enough to own, examine and play some of these early Gretsch metal shell models. I took the opportunity to investigate, own and locate a few of these models in my travels as well as research other collections for construction and progression of information.
These brass metal shell snare drums soon developed into top of the line models. The center beaded brass shell was utilized and upgraded to a heavy brass shell. This metal snare drum progressed into an eight lug design and was now equipped with the latest innovative parts.
Gretsch now had developed their first generation “die cast” hoops. These hoops were a major innovation and contribution adding power to the modern snare drum. This design added to the sound character and dynamics. These die cast hoops were very ridged and strong. They incorporated these hoops into this new model. Now, a drummer could really use their chops to lay into the hoops, playing rim shots and rapid fire staccato rhythms without distorting or bending a softer brass hoop. And one of the most interesting aspects was outsourcing and adding the Slingerland Drum Companies early 3-point strainer system. At this time, drum companies such as Gretsch and Rogers were outsourcing strainer systems and new part designs. These particular parts were added to their latest metal shell snare drum line.
Also, the plating options changed from nickel to chrome over brass. Chrome plating was more expensive and exclusive to add to an order by the potential drum consumer. The Gretsch plating process was performed with great care and excellent craftsmanship.
A trade mark design that denoted identification for these Gretsch metal shell models was installing a chrome grommet over the vent hole in the shell. This was a nice way for the factory craftsman to add the finishing touches. No other badge or markings of any kind was installed by Gretsch for identity at this early time.
Gretsch had developed and produced this new Professional model to compete with all the major drum manufactures of this era. This new metal snare drum was built to challenge and take on all the competition. A potential drum consumer now had a Gretsch snare model that could stand up to the big drum companies and add new elements to their playing skills.
Here is an excellent example of a 1930s Gretsch chrome over heavy brass shell, eight lug, Professional Model. Specifications and details:
~Shell Design:
The construction of this 5 x14” shell is a heavy brass, one piece shell. The shell is plated with a highly polished chrome over the brass body. The shell has a specially crafted design unique to Gretsch. This design is a carry over from the early 6-lug 30s heavy brass shell. This shell was constructed with a fairly large center bead which has a similar center bead to a 30s Ludwig and a Slingerland metal shell Radio King. Gretsch designed the bearing edges at a forty five degree angle that have a flanged lip that extends inward. This design gives this snare much strength and stability for a powerful attack and quick response. Most importantly, this snare drum really has an ultra dynamic range and sensitivity. The snare beds are specially crimped, allowing for great snare response to capture staccato articulation and sensitivity.
~Lugs:
The lug design of this metal shell is very complimentary, utilizing eight tubular center lugs with the crafted “art deco" design which certainly adds to the aesthetic beauty of this snare drum. The lugs are machined very similar to Slingerland’s 20s and 30s tube lugs. They do compliment the center bead design. These tube lugs have a standard pitch, threaded inside. They accommodate the 12/24 special designed, tension rods.
~Hoops:
The top and bottom hoop on this snare is constructed of Gretsch’s innovative, first generation die cast hoop with chrome plating. The bottom hoop design is unique, as it has the narrow flanged snare gate. The opening is approximately one and a half inches with a rectangular channel design. The snare gate is a first generation Gretsch design that would later transition using a circular cut out to replace this flange.
~Throw-off/strainer:
The 3-point throw off design was used for the strainer system. This was Gretsch’s popular choice and one of the most efficient strainers of its time. This is one of the first generation 3 point throws which has a male thread attached. There is a knurled knob nut to allow for a drummer to adjust or break down the collapsible throw handle. The butt plate is a simple design very similar to, if not a Slingerland design.
~Tension Rods:
The sixteen tension rods are a very unique square head variety unique only to Gretsch. They do resemble early square head Duplex design. These tension rods are 1-3/4" long and tapped threads approximately 1-1/2” in length to tapper to the neck of the tension rod. Sixteen Gretsch factory washers complete this set up.
~Snare Wires:
This model is equipped with original 12-strand, metal round/cable wound individual snares..
~No muffler is installed.
~A chrome grommet, trade mark was installed by Gretsch over the vent hole in the metal shell. This is unique to identify unmarked Gretsch metal shell snare drums.
This rare Gretsch 5x14 Heavy Brass Shell snare drum is a unique innovative design that Gretsch had offered in their 1930s catalog. This was an alternative and competitive choice to the popular Slingerland, Ludwig & Ludwig or Leedy metal brass shell snare drums. The drum consumer that preferred a metal shell snare now had an option to equip their snare with the innovative die cast hoops, play and experience the new power and dynamics thus drum had to offer.
These Gretsch metal snare drums are fairly rare, collectible and awesome to play. Very few of these heavy brass shell drums have come to light and still exist. The next time you are searching for the ultimate vintage snare drum, you may be fortunate to stumble upon this dynamic Gretsch drum.
Once you play this snare you will experience “That Great Gretsch Sound”.