Now that I recall you mntioned that overtightening harms that throw.

The one I had was my fathers. Metal shell. ANd he always has his snares really tight. That must be the reason my throw had problems?

The snare drum in your pics may have that high price because it looks like "smokey sparkling pearl"; a very rare finish. See the Slingerland section on this site for more details.

Generally, a solid shell Radio King from the sound king lug era (late '50s / early '60s) with the clam shell strainer WITH the original arm, in a common color will usually get around $350-450.

$800 will buy an earlier version with beavertails and a 3 pt. throw off.

There are some "modern" re-issue radio kings from the '90s that have solid maple shells, but I don't think they have the same sound or vibe that your dad is looking for.

If you want to get a nice radio king as a present:

1. Does your dad's set have a color that he would like the matching snare for?

2. If you just want a real nice radio king, get one that's all original, no modifications whatsoever, all parts in tact. Even if you have to pay dealer price. In the long run it will be worth it. You may want to check with Maxwell Vintage drums, Classic Vintage drums, or Cooper's Vintage drums...they're all honest and reputable.

There are some "modern" re-issue radio kings from the '90s that have solid maple shells, but I don't think they have the same sound or vibe that your dad is looking for.

Or, post the ones you like here and we can chime in. I saw two nice blue sparkle Slingerlands on ebay. One had the clamshell and had a solid shell.

The other had the preferred 3 pt. throw off, but it was dated 1965, and usually the dated '60s shells were 3 ply (even though the catalog said they were solid.)

I think it's really cool that you're getting your dad a drum. 19 years ago, my wive (and daughter) gave me a vintage drum for my first father's day, and I'll always treasure it.

Was the solid shell a option on the Artist Model? Most of the Artist models I've seen for sale have been listed as 3 ply. Or were there variations of this model? Thanks.