Turned out really nice. Great job on that. Might be able to use that disappearing cymbal mount for a small splash.

Mike

I'm glad you left them as is. I think they look great. I would even consider putting more clear coat on them and bring out the gloss. I would perform on those anywhere !

I've been waiting to see these, great job Mitch. I like the finish and keeping it original was sure the way to go. So nice. I like the cowbell too. Good idea using the consolette for that. I have one that was on my bass and was thinking of trying to somehow attach a small cymbal arm for a splash. Anyway hope you enjoy these for many many years!

Great looking kit.

Mitch they look damn good!!!

Curtis

Right on! Are you liking them?

Thanks a million for all the good words guys! Yes I am liking them very much, just the sound I was anticipating, these Ludwigs don't disappoint!

I'll take credit for removing the black paint but it's the natural beauty of the shells that we're all grokking on eh? Okay I'll take credit for leaving the natural beauty of the shells haha! It was after the sanding, when I did the first damp-wipe of the shells, they went temporarily dark from the water and I knew this was the look I wanted.

These center-lug shells are half the work to remove hardware so over time I may indeed add more gloss or satin. Also rubbing deep brown and or dark red oil paint into the shells is a possibility, to darken them to a real antique vibe. "Rustic" is a great word....maybe "rustic mahogany" instead of "scarred".

For now I will just play them as it's been a while. The cowbell on the rail was a plan from the start as I don't want to stress this old kick shell with the weight of the tom. Minus the wrap and glue, some structural integrity is lost. Plus I just like the idea. Definitely looking for a way to get my splash on that cymbal arm, need a stand-alone tilter to mount on the arm. Anyone have one of those?

Again, thanks for the support and encouragement! I think technically I overpaid for these at $350, but in the end I have some Club Dates and probably wouldn't have been able to swing it any other way. Plus there is the Pioneer with all parts present and nickel hardware, and the other 8X12" tom. Very pleased indeed...

Mitch