Overview
Just when you thought you'd see every variety of Phosphor Bronze, along comes this curve-ball, courtesy of long time contributer Zack Cruz.
Apparently this is an early Brazil-only hammered bronze model. Unfortunately, Zack doesn't own it himself, so I have no further information, although I am actively trying to track some down. Trust me - actively!
Firstly, note the Die-Cast Hoops instead of the standard 2.3mm Powerhoops supplied with this model. Then when you get over that, look at the badge. What the actual HE Double Hockey Sticks?! If you have seen that badge on any other Mapex snare/kit, please do get in touch, as it's a new one on me. I've added it to the Unique category just now, as I've honestly never seen one like it.
See - every day is a school day! (Especially if, like me, you work in one!)
Update - April 2023
Found the source of the photos! They were posted in September 2022 on the Brazilian site Nando Batera Shop by owner Fernando Piccinini. I tracked them down after he listed another Brazilian exclusive on Facebook, and after managing to stop hyperventilating long enough to send him a message, he was kind enough to let me use his shots. He also said that its original owner was a good friend of his that had bought it new in Brazil. If I get any more information on its backstory or that of its Hammered Brass sibling, I'll update this listing.
Given that the closest match to the badge is the post 2004 Orion/Saturn badges, and the early "Hammered by Mapex" badge, I'm guessing the production date is close to 2004, as the latter badge changed soon afterwards. That's just an educated guess though.
Since I have no idea if this was a production model, and I've only ever seen one, I'm calling it a unique until I get evidence to the contrary.
Photos courtesy of Fernando Piccinini of Nando Batera Shop. Muito obrigado Fernando!
Specifications
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Shell Size:14"x6.5"
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Shell Construction:Phosphor Bronze
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Shell Thickness:1.2mm
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Shell Finish:Hammered Polished Bronze
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Bearing Edge:45˚
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Hardware Finish:Chrome
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Lug Casings:Low-mass oval
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Number of Lugs:10
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Hoops:Die Cast Hoops
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Air Vents:1
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Snare Wires:20-strand
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Snare Throw Off:Mapex Orion Standard Strainer
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Shell Size:14"x6.5"
-
Shell Construction:Phosphor Bronze
-
Shell Thickness:1.2mm
-
Shell Finish:Hammered Polished Bronze
-
Bearing Edge:45˚
-
Hardware Finish:Chrome
-
Lug Casings:Low-mass oval
-
Number of Lugs:10
-
Hoops:Die Cast Hoops
-
Air Vents:1
-
Snare Wires:20-strand
-
Snare Throw Off:Mapex Orion Standard Strainer