cool, your right about the bass drum head. Good luck please post pics of the ole girl !!

I've had a few wood finish 20's bass drums that wouldn't take new heads. They were usually around 27 5/8".

I'd measure the drum's diameter before purchasing.

I've got the same drum - no wrap - and it's 27.5" or so. FYI, Remo used to keep some odd sized replacement heads in their warehouse, maybe they still do?

I left the calf heads on mine, recorded with it a few times as well. A nice, round, thumpy, and rich sound.

Bermuda

Remo will custom make anything you want, through an authorized dealer. I had to have heads made for an oddball sized snare once and sent in the flesh hoops. They weren't inexpensive, though.

Dave Z

Thanks for your responses all! I did the deal and took her home last night.

Both heads are in super shape and it's great to hear that Remo makes custom heads, I thought that was the case. I'd like to put a modern batter head on it in case I want to lay into it a little bit. I haven't had the chance to measure it yet (rehearsal last night and work today) but am wondering if in the short term I can get away with making a stock head fit.

If it is 27 and 5/8, I wonder how a 28 would fit? Would it be so oversize that it wouldn't tune properly? I'm guessing that might be the problem. And I guess cutting the hoop on a 26 wouldn't work either because the size variance is too great?

I've never had a calfskin drum, if I do replace it, how do I need to store the calfskin head so it doesn't warp, or do I need to be concerned about that?

Lastly, if I do want to use it for louder (and heavier footed) applications, how strong is that calf head? Do I want to apply something like a Danmar pad? I don't really want to in case it leaves brutal residue on the skin.... Can I just pick up a soft and furry kick beater?

Lud made those drums a odd size,so that you HAD to buy a Lud head if you broke it! Smart on their part,wouldn't you say?

DO NOT put a Danmar patch on there!...

If anything..get some Dr. Schols (sp?) moleskin,and put that on...thats what they used "back in the day"....

And yes,buy a soft furry beater...they are out there....

Please do not repaint it...should be fine,once you get that JUNK off there....

Just my:2Cents:

If you need to replace the calfskin contact me.

Thanks for all your thoughtful replies on this. I got a Vater Vintage Bomber beater and played the drum at a rehearsal the other night. Big, warm and round with beautiful bottom end and the calfskins on both sides are in such amazing shape, what a great sensation. Had a lovely time. Got what I think was a nice deal on this drum, just over $100 Canadian.

Lots of food for thought here and I think all I'm going to do is keep her clean and warm and dry, and play her once in a while. I get a great feeling from this drum and I'm glad she chose me.