they both work fine to me. I just usually get the one that is correct for the era. if that's not important, you might also consider the p86 millennium strainer. it sells new for less than a used p83 does. its a great strainer in my opinion.

mike

Thank you Mike! Well for this kit the era correct part is not imortant. This will be a players kit, one that I do a veneer job on and possibly will sell it. I just want to get parts that work good.

Jeff - the difference in the strainers (and the difference in price,) is because the P-83 is an all-brass unit. I don't know what kind of metal they use for the P-85, but the more solid and durable P-83 is brass.

If 'period correct' doesn't matter, go for the P-83. Simple design and mechanics, rock solid, and reliable. My favorite strainer of all the Ludwig strainers. It's the reason why a set of P-83's (strainer & butt plate) will cost you $80. to $100. while a P-85 set goes for $45. You're paying for the brass.

John

Jeff, I just took a magnet to three of my P 83 strainers the magnet stuck to it like glue very firmly, they are not all brass as stated by another member some of them are made out of steel, It depends on which year model you get or have. the P 85 is diecast pot metal.

http://www.terapeak.com/product-value/musical-instruments-gear/ludwig-wfl-p83-snare-drum-throw-off-strainer-50s-vintage-nickel-over-brass/170981980647/

P-83 = Nickel over brass, or chrome over brass. Maybe they used steel on 'cheaper' drums, but every P-83 I've ever owned over the last 50 years that was on a J-fest or a Supra was made of brass.

John

My 2 WFL'S Jazzfestivals are all steel. my pre serial schoolfestival is chrome over brass. Not cheap drums by no stretch? your link proves nothing?

> your link proves nothing?

LOL - Hey, I wasn't trying to! Sometime's you're like an out-of-control hall-way monitor. Relax, apparently some are made of brass and some are made of steel. Nothing to get ruffled about.

John

[QUOTE=Purdie Shuffle;276369]> your link proves nothing?

LOL - Hey, I wasn't trying to! Sometime's you're like an out-of-control hall-way monitor. Relax, apparently some are made of brass and some are made of steel. Nothing to get ruffled about.

John[/QUOTE) Hey I already stated that a few post ago??? your the one who is mister knowledge self professed guru !! thank you for the evaluation, I am only stating true facts ! would be more than happy to post a pic of magnet sticking firmly to the p 83 hanging upside down. ! You are the one that escalated this not me. If you are going to post facts be correct it is that simple !?? Oh so if it is posted on the internet then that makes it true ?? good ole progressive thinker Joke Velez ??

Mark, get a grip. You're the only one who is trying to 'escalate' anything. Your choice of words, not mine. Just drop it man, it's really not that important. I personally don't give a rats a$$ if some P-83's are made of brass and some made of steel.

Moving on...

John