Overview
Available in three depths, this 14"x5.5" is the baby of the special edition trio, which were on the market in the early 2010s. The maple shell features a particularly handsome "Ash Burl Coffee Burst" finish and a Saturn standard strainer, not uncommon in such special editions.
This model was brought to my attention by Dirk Forsdyke in January 2022. He got in contact and said he had a Black Panther that he had bought from Sound Attak in 2012 and now wanted to sell, but had no idea what it was. My (and his) first thought was the Heritage Limited Edition, but the finish on that is too flat and the batter hoop didn't match. Lots of headscratching and emails to the lads at the shop. In the meantime, Tim Gillespie on the BSTDUK(2) Facebook Forum answered Dirk's question, as it turns out that he has the 6.5" version!
Bonus - two new Black Panther's captured.
In fairness, it's quite difficult with these special editions. They rarely show up in any catalogue (The "Memphis" being one notable exception), have a tendancy to be sold through exclusive distrubution, and they don't tend to hang about on the market very long. That's my excuse and I would like it taken into consideration m'lord!
Mapex's description:
A NEW BREED: After a decade of success, Mapex ushers in a new era of Black Panther by introducing a new lineup of fourteen snare drum models, each with its own distinctive personality. Working closely with our drum design team, a panel of international Mapex Artists shared its advice and expertise on everything from shell materials and functionality, to sizes to aesthetics.The result is a collection of unique Black Panther Snare Drums that look fantastic and sound even better. Each drum features hand built and hand finished Black Panther shells and completely redesigned hardware.
Specifications: 100% Maple 7.1mm Shell Made from 4.1mm maple plus 3mm Exotic maple Hand-lacquered Coffee Burl Burst finish on outer exotic shell
Photos courtesy of Dirk Forsdyke, and Levi Lateralus of The Drum Exchange - thanks a million guys!
