Radio King in progress

[vibeguy56]

This was one of those du-tones, very worn and scratched. I know that some prefer the authentic, but I wanted to refinish it. After sanding it, I foundit was a beautiful piece of birdseye maple! So, I used natural stain and then clearcoated it (7 coats)put on all new lugs, but used the original rims. This was a clamshell strainer model. I do not want to replace it with another Clamshell, so I will wait for a three-pointer and some bridges. This is really a deep snare. I almost thought about making it a tom as I continue to build my new set. i want to make a set out of all solid, steam-bent shells, including the bass drum!

[Jim]

Wow, that's a gorgeous piece of wood... I see why you don't like stripping drums, you've clearly spent some serious time doing it.

[vibeguy56]

It has been a labor of love. I told my wife that, once I finished both RKs, I would sell one. However, once I saw them, I coul dnot bear to part with either. fortunately, when she saw the finished shells, she said - "you can't sell these drums!"

Now I wait for a three point strainer, a couple original bridges (I have two, but one is a newer Slingerland, the other a gretch. they will work - but they are not RK!). I can't wait to hear the depth of this baby!