Ludwig 6-Lug 1920s NOB Nickel Over Brass Snare Drum – Universal / Pioneer

For sale is a beautiful and authentic 1920s Ludwig Nickel Over Brass (NOB) 5" x 14" snare drum in very good vintage condition.

This is a classic 6-lug brass shell with original nickel hardware, delivering the warm, fat, and open tone that made these early Ludwig snares legendary for studio and orchestral work. These drums are becoming increasingly hard to find in honest, unmodified condition.

🔹 Condition

• All original nickel hardware
• Shell is solid and true
• Bearing edges are clean and intact
• Hardware functions properly
• Original nickel shows natural, even patina and light surface oxidation consistent with age
• No structural corrosion, no flaking, no deep pitting
• Light cosmetic discoloration on hoops and hardware from age, and handling over the last ~100 years (purely cosmetic)

This drum has not been over-polished or restored, preserving its originality and vintage character.

🔹 Specs

• Size: 5" x 14"
• Shell: Brass with nickel plating (NOB)
• Lugs: 6
• Era: 1920s
• Made in USA

🔹 Sound

Warm, woody, fat, and extremely musical. These early NOB Ludwigs are famous for:

• Solid body
• Fast response
• Beautiful low and midrange presence
• Perfect for studio, orchestral, roots, jazz, and vintage recordings

🔹 From a Professional Studio

This drum comes from my personal collection at Vose Street Sound, a professional recording studio in Los Angeles. It has been well cared for, stored properly, and used in a smoke-free environment.