Anyway, back to the original purpose of this thread. I used the tool last night and it worked well, but I tightened too tight, and now the edges of my B/O badges are not flush. Grrrr. I have 2 more drums to do, so I'll take it easy this time.

on your other badges just bend the badge a little in the middle shaping the badge a little to the contour of the shell that way when you reinstall it it will be flush to the shell, you can also apply a little two side tape to the back of the badge edges then reinstall it to the shell If you follow my explanation?

Thanks, that's what I'll do.

I'm one of those people who believes in "the right tool for the job"! I've tried inexpensive methods/tools for installing grommets, all with satisfactory results. The BEST tool is the one offered by Kentucky Drums. However, I did find the same one for $10 less from another seller.

Just finished installing a grommet on a new "vintage-style" build this morning. Check out the pictures! The grommet I used was just barely long enough for the 8-ply Keller shell (with Burgundy Sparkle wrap), but the tool flared the end perfectly!

I have always thought that one would be the best because of the rounded "flared" shape machined into the inside nut.

Nice job!

Where did you find it for $10 cheaper?

Thanks for the compliment! I also agree that the "flared" shape of the nut has much to do with this.

I purchased the tool from "detroitdrumexchange". Here's the link for an ended auction. Looks like the price has gone up, too! http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-NEW-BADGE-GROMMET-COMPRESSION-INSTALLATION-TOOL-FOR-LUDWIG-ETC-DRUM-SHELLS-/120961464677?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c29dd7965&nma=true&si=r%2F%2F1ctwLh0nz57vt2ran2GBRB2o%3D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557