In the ‘70’s Slingerland offered sets in six different “Custom Cordova” wraps (and in blue denim, too!). The “P” stamped on the drum interior typically denoted that the drum was to be covered with a Pearl wrap. My understanding is that the exterior ply was not perfect enough to leave uncovered by some type of wrap, but I could have my facts wrong.

I can’t speak to value, except to say that, as a Slingerland owner, the drums sound great and are typically undervalued. Sounds like a pretty good price to me if you like the Cordova covering.

Josh

400 dollars sounds reasonable if in good condition... the bottom hoops will eventually be found as will a muffler. That array of sizes put the kit at being a "Super Rock" kit model 51N.. The original snare would have been a 6.5 10 lug COB Sound King.

The "P" inside the shells indicated that the shell was to be wrapped, the outer veneer being mahogany a more porous grained timber which provides for a better glue adhesion. Cordova was on the menu along with several other rarer wraps.

Alternately an "M" inside the shell would have indicated a Maple outer veneer, more suited to a natural grain or stained finish.

Cheers

John

Thanks guys. I really appreciate the feedback and info. The black Cordova wrap isn't the most attractive, but the sound of the larger drums are fantastic. I assume this was around 1976 because of the S/N's and my research shows the Super Rock kit 51N was made in 1976. I appreciate the info on the proper snare too. There is one on eBay, I may have to get this kit and that drum and start another recondition project!! Merry Christmas to you....

Regards

Can you put up a few pics? I loved Slingerland's imagination in the 1970s. They had the Leatherette as well, right? The blue jeans.. Fun stuff.

Sure will, when I procure them I will. I believe the Cordova and the leatherette were one in the same? Could be wrong. The denim was definitely the 70s haha....!!

Yes Cordova, Pearl called it Naugahyde & used it on their Maxwin kits, a leather look vinyl.

and '76 sounds about right..

Good luck in putting the kit together.. they do sound great.. had mine since new.. that kick & snare are a great combo..

Cheers

John

Here are 3 pics. The naugahyde is all in real nice shape. No scuffs, no rips. Seams are very clean, no ripples whatsoever. All interior wood is pretty good, only minor cracks. They sound fantastic. Very deep, rich sounding drums. I was able to buy the 4 drums for $300.00 US. They are dirty and need cleaning. Need all bottom hoops/heads, and one muffler for the 14". Also in need of the 6.5x14 COS snare that came with these sets in '76. If anyone knows of one, please advise--

Thanks again for all your help-happy drumming, and Merry Christmas !!!!

That looks like "Fine Corinthian Leather."

I think this wrap was Slingerland's answer to Ludwig's Black Panther wrap...