Slingerland Radio King Artist Snare Drum - 14 x 5.5 in. Black Diamond Pearl

The Radio King Artist snare drum revives a classic Slingerland design with the warmth, feel and visual character that have long defined the Radio King name. Handcrafted in Oxnard, California, this U.S.A.-made snare features a three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shell with 100% maple re-rings and a 30-degree bearing edge, giving players a full, controlled response rooted in period-correct construction. Nickel-plated hardware, Stick Saver hoops, Streamline lugs and the retooled Zoomatic throw-off reinforce its vintage-inspired design while supporting dependable modern performance. Available in 14x5.5" and 14x6.5" sizes with multiple finish options, the Radio King Artist snare carries forward an iconic Slingerland voice in a format built for today’s drummers.

Three-Ply Shell Design With Warm, Focused Response

At the center of the drum is Slingerland’s three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shell, the construction formula that gives the Radio King Artist its familiar warmth and rounded musicality. This shell design produces a full-bodied voice with pleasing depth while maintaining enough articulation for a wide range of playing styles. Internal 100% maple re-rings help reinforce the shell and contribute to a more focused, stable response. Together, these elements create a snare drum that feels balanced and expressive under the stick, whether you are playing lighter notes with nuance or leaning into a stronger backbeat.

30-Degree Bearing Edge Shapes Feel and Control

The 30-degree bearing edge is an important part of the Radio King Artist’s playing feel and tonal behavior. By increasing head-to-shell contact, this design supports a slightly softer, more controlled response while helping the drum retain its warmth and body. It also promotes a focused note and more manageable sustain, allowing the snare to remain musical and composed across different tuning approaches. For drummers who want a traditional feel without sacrificing clarity, the bearing-edge design helps the drum respond with consistency in both studio and live settings.

Period-Correct Hardware With Modern Reliability

The hardware package completes the Radio King Artist with a blend of vintage Slingerland styling and practical performance features. Nickel-plated hardware, Stick Saver hoops and Streamline lugs preserve the look and character of the original-era design, while the retooled Zoomatic throw-off brings smooth, dependable snare adjustment to a classic lever-and-knob format. This combination supports stable performance without distracting from the shell’s natural voice. For drummers seeking handcrafted U.S.A. construction, traditional Radio King-inspired design and a warm, responsive playing experience, the Slingerland Radio King Artist snare is a refined modern expression of a historic snare formula.