Maple and Birch are notoriously hard to tell apart, especially when the veneer is smooth, without knots and is a fine grade like the Camco/Tama shells. I just took a real close look at my clear finish Keller shell Maple snare alongside the Camco/Tama. The two veneers are almost identical in texture. So, maybe the advertising is right. Are these Keller shells?

Good idea to check with a cabinet maker for verification. I do know the Camco/Tamas exhibit nice warm tones like Maple should :)

kellyj

You're welcome,...

Without seeing them in the flesh, it would be hard to tell the exact wood type.

I took a shot from the inside of the 13" LA Camco from the same angle. Maybe a true wood grain nut can tell the difference from the pictures.

Stedi - Nice idea.

It almost looks like the re ring is slightly different. See how close mine comes to the washer and screw (Philips) and yours seems a hair narrower?

What year are those you have pictured here? You are correct - without looking at them side by side - its hard to tell about the grain. My rehearsal studio is in a complex with a ton of wood working shops. Im going to see if one of the guys can answer!

Thanks again everybody - this is super interesting. I guess Im now a drum dork. LOL!!!

Stu

Stu,

It's difficult to determine an exact date. All shells on my Alice Cooper Blue kit have the number 780 written in them. This would indicate they're manufactured somewhere in the middle of the Los Angeles period. Best guess is 1975-1976.