Jaghog--Thanks for all the helpful advice, and for being patient with my questions..

I'm starting to think that as much as i'd love to paint that snare drum, it just seems like too much work, and i'm realizing now that it would be a shame to strip the finish i worked really hard to achieve..In short, i had no idea it would be such an arduous process..

With that being said, i will keep my snare drum the way it is now, and if in the future i find another vintage Ludwig wood shell that needs work, then i'll be glad to oblige..

cheers

Bob

I'm glad to hear you decided to keep the drum as is. I just wanted to add that stripping the shell down to bare wood is always the best, you never know how these different finishes/chemicals will get along. Plus it just makes a better job in the long run.

Totally agree Jeff, and i'm glad i decided not to do it either..

I recorded with the drum already and it's real nice, warm, and fat, so this one is going to be "leave it as is"..

cheers !