I got my start, re-start, whatever is was, in vintage drums right here in the westernish part of North Carolina..... met a new, and now, great friend right around the corner from my house and purchased my first Radio King snare from him.

I have some items in your price range that I think you might enjoy.

Send me a PM, I'm certain we are within driving distance of each other!!

I travel often into the Asheville/Hendersonville/Brevard area on business and pleasure.....give me a shout!!

Kev

Buuuuuckyyyyyy!!!!

:)

Hi, Guys,

Just wanted to say thanks to all who gave great advise. I want to explain the comment, as stated in the first of the thread....Which sparked some concern. The ad that I put into CL, was for damaged, salvaged drums or sets, for salvaged prices. Now, I know some or all of us have at times run across some drums that were beyond repair,( I ran across one last week that was so water logged that the shell was like paper, it fell apart in my hands, so sorry ), that is the type of drums that I was looking for, not collectable and not for nothing. I am new to this collecting thing, I am a novice at collecting vintage drums, and unlike some, have limited funds to spend. I wanted the salvaged type drums to learn construction, refinishing, rewrapping, etc.. ,NOT TO MAKE A FORTUNE. There maybe schools, and or books on the subject, as DrCJW, Rob Cook books, and I have gained great knowledge from you guys from this forum, and I am learning what to look for, the styles, models, colors, technical characteristics, and cost. I was under the impression that this is a hobby, should be fun and enjoyable and this forum was put here to share interest, advise, knowledge.

" I was under the impression that this is a hobby, should be fun and enjoyable and this forum was put here to share interest, advise, knowledge."

It is a hobby and you are in the best place to be as far as a forum goes. There are many great guys here that will go out of there way to help each other, there are a few bad eggs, just ignore them. But I think its clear that you are welcome here by the response to this thread. Like Glen says, stay around for a while you will get to know the regulars and find they are really nice/cool guys.

I was like you, I had a add on CL wanting old drums. I stopped running it because I got tiered of the people calling with cheep (newer) junk. Just keep looking at CL and keep your eyes open for garage sales, you will find kits. But snare drums are a nice thing to collect also, it just depends on what makes you happy. I have several snare drums that are worth 100.00 or less but they make me happy. They dont have to be thousands of dollars and rare as hell to satisfy me. Besides, once in a while you meet a kid that needs a drum and it feels good to hand him one, so its nice to have some cheepies around just for that reason.

Good luck with you search, stick around and please show us what you find out there.

Thank you Jeff,

I understand that if you have unlimited funds to spend, that's great buy whatever, I'm in it to learn the history, technical aspects, and beauty that some of these instruments have. I like you, would love to help out inspiring kids that may not be able to afford sets, and to teach them what I have learned. Yes, I do like a good deal, but I have to educate myself on what I like and don't like before dishing out monies " because "..Thanks again for the comment.

Here is a fairly good deal on a acrolite with case. in your area. Offer $75.00 http://asheville.craigslist.org/msg/5006356358.html

In my opinion, starting with snares would be a great way to learn about the different brands of drums. Keep watching CL, visit thrift shops, flea markets and keep your eyes peeled when passing garage/yard sales. You'll eventually build up a collection. I (and my son) have created a nice collection of snares over the last 3 to 4 years.

Read the past threads and the content on the Vintage Drum Guide page listed under the Partner Web Sites at the top right. You'll eventually be able to spot and identify specific drums from pictures and even 25 feet away. It'll get to the point where you might be able to estimate how much money it would take to refurbish a kit within 5 - 10 minutes of inspection.

Be aware that, aside from the cost of purchasing a vintage kit and replacing any missing parts, your going to spend $100-$150 on new heads. That's just a fact. For example, I just picked up a matching 1967 Rogers kit (12x8 tom, 20x14 bass and 14' snare) and miscellaneous pieces parts for a very good price. But, I need to buy about $250 worth of parts that were missing and about $140 for heads and snare wires. The great thing is, there are a lot of wonderful members on this forum that have period correct parts for sale.

Good luck with your vintage drum search.

-Tim

Being in the right place at the right time has more to do with successful buying/collecting than even budget limitations. How serious are you? If you're willing to spend some time each day hunting on the Internet, networking with other drummers in forums like this one and then being real attentive to sales and threads and you can do a lot of damage with $500/$600 bucks! It just takes the effort.

Example:

Just by paying attention to the For Sale section right here at VDF I acquired the following:

Ludwig 1962 Pre-serial number Hollywood Kit in Sky Blue Pearl 12", 12", 16", 22" with a Ludwig Super COB (Chrome Over Brass) snare drum in absolutely cherry condition for $600. The kit is worth in the neighborhood of $2000.

1935 Walburg & Auge kit. (One-of-a-kind) in Marine Blue Pearl, 11", 13", 14", 16", 28" w/matching 5"x14" snare, plus a ton of rare vintage hardware for $600. The kit is a museum piece, nothing else to compare it to, I can't put a price on it.

1959 George Way Kit. 13", 16", 20" w/matching snare for $350. + cost of re-wrap. Under $600 total investment. The kit, even as a rewrap would bring in well over $1500.

That's just a few of the deals I've been able to do right here at VDF.

Yes, you can afford to collect even the most sought after brands of drums - if you're diligent, patient, and ready to pounce when opportunity knocks. In the meantime, learn. Absorb as much knowledge of vintage drums as you can. The more you know, the more prepared you'll be to spot the bargains and know when to pull the trigger on an instrument.

Then you'll be just like the rest of us...

Welcome to VDF...

John

Welcome to VDF.

All great replies. The only thoughts I can add are:

Buy drums with only minor bits missing unless it is such a steal that it is worth the time and expense to chase parts. Matters not the cost of the drum. Just as big of grin when you figure out the best way to mend issues on a $60 snare as anything north of $500. I'm having a grand time fixing drums collectors wouldn't touch. Great satisfaction in saving the stuff most people had. It is a fun hobby for me.

I really enjoy the photos of the rare and special drums but out of this working mans budget :-)

Creighton

+ 1 on John`s advice... Iamdrummer-the love of collecting, the challenge to find that special piece and the pride that comes with it when you do are well worth the wait.So be patient with yourself and enjoy the hunt as that`s what makes collecting enjoyable.I collect old toys and the thrill is all in the hunt and patience is a huge virtue.They didn`t build Rome in a day,so take your time and this wonderful forum and trusted members will help you wherever we can.We love to share and help when we can.

Wayne