New Snare Drums

Choosing a New Snare Drum

Browse new snare drums at Graham Russell Drums, with options for first upgrades, professional touring and recording setups, or adding a contrasting second snare to your kit. Our range covers different shell materials, sizes and price points from many of the world’s leading drum manufacturers.

Start with the shell material. This gives you a useful indication of the drum’s general character, although shell construction, depth, hoops, heads and tuning all help determine the finished sound.

• Wood snare drums generally offer a rounded, natural response with plenty of body.
• Metal snare drums often provide greater brightness, sensitivity and projection. Steel, brass, aluminium, bronze and copper each have their own character.
• Acrylic snare drums tend to sound immediate and powerful, making them a distinctive option for players wanting a strong attack.

A 14" snare between 5" and 6.5" deep is the most versatile starting point. Shallower drums usually feel quicker and more articulate, while deeper shells add weight and low-mid body. Smaller 12" and 13" snares can offer a tighter, higher-pitched voice or work well as a secondary snare.