Slingerland Radio King Solid Ply Snare Drums

Slingerland Radio King Snare Drums at Drum Center of Portsmouth

Long Live the Radio King!

The iconic Slingerland Radio King is back, reintroducing one of the most legendary names in drum history. The Radio King Limited Edition Snare Drum is a meticulous recreation of the iconic snare from the late 1930s and early 1940s, built to the same high standards that made the original a favorite among drummers worldwide. This limited edition celebrates craftsmanship, heritage, and sound, while staying true to its vintage roots.

Crafted from a hand-selected North American maple plank, the snare features a steam-bent solid shell, cut with a 30-degree rounded bearing edge just like the original. This design enhances head-to-shell contact, resulting in a thick, buttery feel, rich tonal warmth, punchy projection, and deep resonance with a wide dynamic range.

Period-correct, nickel-plated hardware gives the drum a striking vintage look and adds retro vibes to its onstage presence. A standout feature is the classic 3-Point Strainer with Adjustable Snare Gates, allowing precise control over snare wire tension—from wide open and airy to tight and responsive. Another highlight is the Nickel over Brass Stick Chopper hoops, offering crisp rimshots and controlled overtones. These fully brass hoops, exclusive to the limited model, make this snare a powerhouse both live and in the studio.

Slingerland’s origins in Chicago gave the brand access to calfskin heads, which became part of their signature sound. Staying true to that legacy, this Radio King Limited Snare comes with a genuine calfskin batter head, providing warmth, sensitivity, and a unique tonal character. The drum is finished with the iconic Slingerland cloud badge, a favorite among collectors and players alike. It also comes with a heavy-duty, Radio King-branded case for transport and storage.