Don't know if this has been mentioned, but there should be a seam on the inside of the shell, similar to this Super 400 shell:

Excellent explanation!

I have the seem, the curl, the weight, the round knob muffler and the slightly different imperial lugs.

I'd say its safe for me to claim that I own a brass one lol

Crimped snare beds and pre serial number would seal the deal,but usually,having all of the characteristics you mentioned,certainly point to a brass shelled drum.You stole that drums ....extra holes or not.

Congrats .Cool1

Steve B

there are crimped snare bed models that are pre serial that are not brass. they also have red felt mufflers. there are quite a few of these out there..

mike

I own a 64 steel shell with a red muffler. I only use the felt color as a dating assistant. Ludwig supposedly quit using the red muffler after 1964, so when its red it seems consistently 1964 or earlier.

But they didn't pick special drums to receive red as far as I am aware.

youre right. there were a few red felts still around in the first few months of 65 during the transition. most were done by the end of 64.

will a magnet stick to the shell itself on that 64?

mike