Artist Metal Shell Snare Drums

The Artist Metal Shell Snare Drum range has been reimagined with an expanded choice of shell materials and sizes, giving you more ways to find the sound that suits your playing.

From crisp, responsive snares to deep, resonant powerhouses, each combination of shell material and size brings its own tonal character, feel and response. Whether you’re looking for warmth and depth, bright projection or a tight, articulate crack, the Artist Metal Shell Snare Drum range gives you the freedom to shape your sound.

Chrome Over Steel: With a striking chrome finish over a steel shell, these Artist shells are bold and resonant, delivering a a powerful, articulate sound with sharp rimshots, clear attack, and long sustain. With a consistent tone and exceptional clarity, they thrive in high-volume settings, giving you unmatched presence and definition.

Brushed Aluminium: Offering a crisp, dry, and vintage-inspired tone, the brushed aluminium shell provides a sharp, articulate attack combined with a warm, open character. With quick decay and minimal overtones, the characteristics of aluminium deliver the classic “crack” and tight response favoured in studio work or where dynamic sensitivity is required.

Brushed Brass: Combining warmth and projection, the brushed brass shell delivers a rich, full-bodied tone with a bright, articulate attack. Its lively response and controlled overtones bring depth and character to every hit, making it a versatile choice for everything from expressive studio playing to powerful live performances.

Brushed Copper: Warm, dark and distinctly musical, the brushed copper shell produces a rich, rounded tone with a smooth attack and complex overtones. Its naturally resonant character adds depth and body, while retaining the sensitivity and definition needed for nuanced playing across a wide range of styles.

Stainless Steel: Bright, powerful and highly articulate, the stainless steel shell delivers a focused attack with excellent projection and a crisp, cutting response. Its strong resonance and clear definition help every stroke stand out, making it ideal for energetic playing and high-volume performances where presence is essential.

Specifically Paired Steel Snare Wires with Copper End-Plates: Each Artist snare is fitted with steel snare wires carefully matched to the drum’s tonal characteristics. 20-strand wires provide a balance of crisp response and natural tone for versatile performance, while 24-strand wires offer increased resonant-head contact for a brighter, snappier attack and fuller response. On selected models, 42-strand wires deliver greater body and a richer buzz, particularly at lower tunings, for a deep yet controlled snare sound.

45-Degree Bearing Edge: Premier’s signature 45-degree bearing edge provides precise head-to-shell contact, helping maximise resonance, response, and tonal clarity across a wide tuning range.

1.5mm Triple-Flange Steel Hoops: Lightweight and responsive, the 1.5mm triple-flange steel hoops allow greater shell vibration for a more open, resonant sound, with a bright and natural tonal character.

Mounting Bracket (10" Model): A fitted mounting bracket allows quick, secure positioning and flexible placement within your setup. Compatible with a standard 10.5mm L-arm (mounting L-arm not included).

Click here to listen to the full Artist snare range.