Gary, the wrap is toast, I would remove the wrap and maybe just stain it with a nice stain, I would use the three point the clamshells are a joke. it is as stated a player so the value is as a great usable road player. but if you have a kit you want to match it with then re wrap it.

I vote re-wrap in vintage WMP (to freshen the wrap and hide the extra holes) and use the 3-point strainer. Much more reliable than a clamshell. You can replace the nickel mini's with these: (scroll to bottom of page)

http://stores.intuitwebsites.com/drumsandsome/-strse-Drum-Lugs/Categories.bok

:2Cents:

John

As much as I favor saving orginal wraps I have to say that one is pretty bad, and a new wrap will cover the holes. But then I understand its a pretty rare drum being 7" so keeping it original should be considered. If it were just a wrap issue I might keep it the way it is but with the extra holes and missing clam shell strainer I think the others are right, re-wrap and use the strainer you have.

Jeff C

VM2K, John & Jeff C,

Thanks so much for the great feedback, guys. It is a rare drum and out of respect, I've been thinking carefully about this for a few months. But while rare, it's pretty nasty looking and as a result, not all that collectible - especially with those extra holes. I hold the opinions of you three in high regard and with your input, feel better about removing that old wrap. As for the final finish, I think I'll see what condition the shell is underneath and go from there and keep you posted.

Thanks again for the advise. A real example of what makes this forum the best!

Gary

Rewrap it and run the 3 point. I have a 59 era GK Slingerland snare with the original clamshell and after a year of trying every tuning, different heads and every trick in the book I decided to display it instead of play it. I keep it only because it is original to the kit and I don't want to break up the set. Many times it nearly took a flight accross the room out of frustration though......clamshells just suck, but they are pretty. I finally got it to at least be playable by cranking the batter, snare side and wires, it sounds very choked. At any other tuning it had the wierd overtone I just couldn't shake, sounded like a donkey going "herrraw" for lack of a better descriptor. You're lucky somebody already took the plunge and converted yours! I bet that thing will sound KILLER!

I'm feeling better by the minute! Thanks!

Do it! They're drums, made to be played. Mine are player's, and yes they go out most weekends!

GWM, man killer snare!! Very cool project.

I believe I would re-wrap as well, if the hardware could be polished up to the level of looking good with a brand new wrap.

I'd run the 3-point as well.... one of the previous owners replaced the clamshell strainer for a reason, they are extremely finicky, and just plain good luck to have one that functions well without some or a lot of non-factory adjustments.

I do believe I would not polish the badge, though.

I have a couple of deep-dish RKs, nothing compares, really, plus Space Monkey approves.....that's verrry important, lol !!