As discussed in my previous guide seriously consider what you want and research the web for answers.

Once you have recieved that vintage relic, what do you do ?

Most drum collectors would agree that tampering or altering a original drum is a NO NO !

It always amazed me that vintage cars were MORE valueable RECONDITIONED than original ?

With drums and antiques ORIGINAL is best. UNTAMPERED , UNALTERED, UNMODIFIED !

IF you ever get that urge to drill or modify a 60 year old drum shell. STOP and THINK. DO NOT DO IT !!!!!!!!

To back track a bit, you search the web for information on a particular drum you want. Gain knowledge of the history, possibly talk to a vintage expert.Always noting condition, vintage age, damages, etc.

You should have a picture to compare (in your mind) of what it was back when it was new and what it can conditioned to be. With minimal conditioning ( light cleaning,polishing, lubricating ) most vintage drum can be brought back to life. Keep in mind once in a blue moon you acquire a beautifully aged drum that is pristine and looks very new ( Most of us are not that lucky ) Cost and need usually make you more ambitious to seek out these finds.

However, most items that are acquired on the web are drums that a older generation bought, used and stored until now try to sell for various reasons. Depending on the years of useage and the condition ( scuffing, scratching,pits,rust,broken or hairline cracks) ( wrap splits, scratches, scuffs, cig burns, yellowing ) will determine your degree of conditioning. Let's face it there are two types of drummers- The ones who play and don't take care or cleaning their instrument and those who play and baby them.

Remember the ULTIMATE GOAL of reconditioning is to make it a PLAYABLE MUSICAL INSTRUMENT.

The rich tone and sound derived from a beautifully aged wood shell is something VERY special. The drum talks to you when your playing it- making BEAUTIFUL MUSIC ! Remember, these historic drums are a very special one of a kind production made from craftsman ( Industrial Age ) years gone by that 60 years later you can experience !

Enjoy vintage and join the tradition of percussion history !

Slingerland Radio King, Gretsch Round Badge, WFLudwig,Leedy,Ludwig and Ludwig,Gretsch Broadkaster.Billy Gladstone,George Lawrence Stone.

Vintage Cleaning Tips-3 coming soon.................