slingerfan! And that is exactly what separates those who don't do their homework with the details! I have to believe that the Japanese didn't design their hardware to deceive, but to emulate the American drums. This is very evident in lug design and even with the design of many cymbal and hi hat stands.

I have a 1961 Star snare drum that looks so much like a Slingerland Radio King, down to the 3-pt strainer, extended butt, Stick-Saver type hoops and even the dual-pad muffler. Slingerland found out about this and by the next year, the drum was completely re-designed...but with the same catalog number!

-Mark

It’s not a rip-off!

It’s a tribute!

(Packaging makes all the difference)

The wrap looks like the typical wrap on Asian imports and some European imports. That wrap develops a sandpaper texture.

Hey jm!

Are you referring to my snare drum? If so, you are correct! It's definitely a tribute...but Slingerland didn't take it that way! I really like my "Radio King Clone", as I don't think I could afford a real RK!

-Mark

While it is true that "imitation is the sincerest form of flattery" let's not forget the business practices employed by these stencil companies; to make money selling an inferior product that 'looked like' another companies quality product. The stencil drums definitely had a negative impact on American drum companies.

Mark, your stencil 'Radio King' is very cool and a piece of history in its own right.

slingerfan! Exactly!

For my first drum set, back in 1967, I wanted a Ludwig Super Classic. My grandmother, who was in the music industry, felt it was too expensive and purchased a Lyra 4pc gold sparkle kit for me. The lugs looked like Slingerland, so I was happy! After playing the kit a few years, I realized how inferior they were! But, I hung onto them until 1972, when I purchased my Rogers Celebrity outfit.

-Mark

Thank you! It's a 1961 "one year wonder"! Really too bad about the very faded wrap, but it's still a cool snare drum!

-Mark