I have purchased a Gretsch RB Snare (6 1/2x14 - later 50's) and i have some doubts, so I need of gretsch expert.

The grey painting not seems to be from factory, as you can see by the images;

the thickness of the shell (three plys?) is almost 1cm, while the other Gretsch RB that I own (5x14) are more subtle: is it possible that this is a not original shell?

There is also another problem: the bottom hoop is slightly larger then the head ring, so it is impossible a correct tuning. Maybe it is possible to overcome the problem using to Aquarian American Vintage head.

I hope the pics are useful.

Many thanks to all those that will help me.