1) Take a look at the bearing edge profiles. They can be nearly flat and when they are only a re-cut will make them tunable. DOH

2) Check for how tight/loose the heads fit on the drums. Many shells are over sized and it can leave you with an extremely limited choice for heads. Violin

This right here is probably the most important. I've been lucky that bearing edges on my drums have been good. I would check the wrap seams they are almost always loose. Not a difficult fix, just be aware. I'd also say the Microsensitive strainer should be checked to make sure it holds the snares in position. The new replacemnt strainer is very nice and actually works.

You might also have to pack the lugs with felt and tweak the mufflers since my drums rattle when played. When set up, you'll love them (if that is the sound you are looking for).

> How to tell if the drums have been recovered?

Easy, check the grommets and badges. If the backs of the grommets look all dinged up or damaged, it means the badges have been removed and replaced. That kind of operation is generally only done to rewrap a drum.

BTW, no extra holes is the best way to go. Any extra holes, whether it's only one or several, will greatly diminish the resale value of any kit. Holes can be repaired, but they also need to be reported when reselling and the asking price needs to be adjusted accordingly.

Good luck. Hope it's a good kit.

John

Thanks all. Unfortunately (and frustratingly) the kit was sold out from under me a couple hours before I was to see it! Here's hoping for better luck next time.