so we can agree that the outer ply is most "likely" not beech and even more likely not factory original?

That outer layer was covered in vinyl wrap, the layer we see now may be a poplar layer. I don`t even think sapwood beech has that grain, But the inside is heartwood beech for sure !i On the bottom of the BD, run your fingernail for about an inch along the grain, if it goes into the wood, it`s softwood Poplar !i

All of the Sonor shells, I have seen presented themselves as being made from Beech, because the interior ply was so. Most of the edgegrain and endgrain along the bearing edges, also have shown Beech characteristics but there is nothing to stop anyone using mixed woods ,in a shell. The outer ply, is usually thinner and in a wrapped drum( almost all Sonors in the teardrop era , were) , it's principle function is to maintain excellent wrap adherence. I could see the rationale of using a thin Poplar veneer, on the outside of the shell. Adhesives, would sink in to the wood a little more and give the wrap better purchase.

I do have one German 14" floor tom, unmarked but I think it is a Lefima, that has a 5 ply shell , all of European Beech and the beautifull ,olive green ripple/oyster wrap pretty much disadhered voluntarily. The adhesive, had very poor grip on the wood-----it stayed with the wrap. Perhaps, Beech is a problem that way? I have never taken wrap off a Sonor drum. Has anyone, done that and knows for sure what usually comprises the outer layer of wood?

Here's the outside of my 64 teardrop bass drum.

I just stripped this and it is most definitely the original beech ply.

[IMG]http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn241/JimmiHolliwood/Holliwood/Sonor%20Restoration/sonorBDexterior001modified_zps9d67f4c7.jpg[/IMG]

Holliwood,..It most definately didn`t come with three mis-alligned lug holes,..WTF ? If your teardrop lugs use the two outer holes, it`s probably a pre-drop shell !i (Sharktooth)

genius previous owner mounted different lugs. I know...WTF.

That sample also has a pronounced wavy grain, like the outer of the thread, kit. I have to admit , that 90% of the experience I have with European Beech shells, comes from non-Sonor shells. It was the most widely used wood for German drums and probably accounts for 80-90% of the vintage shells produced. Most of the wood is straighter grained. To get such a pronounced wave in the grain, Sonor must have been peeling, quite small logs, or alternatively, logs with a pronounced taper.