Gigging drummers have a very different relationship with their hardware to players who set up once and leave their kit in place. When you're loading in and out of venues every week, hardware weight, pack size, setup speed, and durability all matter enormously. This guide covers everything you need to consider when choosing drum hardware for gigging - and recommends specific options available at Into Music Store.
1. Weight - The Most Important Factor for Gigging
Hardware is the heaviest part of a drum kit to carry. A full set of double-braced stands, a hi-hat stand, and a bass drum pedal can easily weigh 15-20kg before you've added a hardware bag. Over the course of a year of regular gigging, that weight adds up significantly.
If you gig frequently, prioritise lightweight hardware. The Yamaha HW3 Crosstown Lightweight Hardware Set is one of the best options available - engineered specifically for touring and gigging drummers who need to minimise weight without compromising on quality or stability. The Sonor 2000 Series Lightweight Flat Base Hardware Set is another excellent choice, using flat-base leg design to reduce weight while maintaining a stable footprint.
2. Stability - Don't Sacrifice It for Weight
Lightweight hardware has improved dramatically in recent years, but there's still a balance to strike. A cymbal stand that tips over mid-gig is worse than a heavy one that stays put. Look for stands with wide leg spread, rubber feet, and solid locking mechanisms.
For drummers who play at higher volumes and need maximum stability, the Mapex Armory Series Hardware Pack is a strong choice - double-braced throughout with Mapex's proven locking system. The Mapex Falcon Series Hardware Pack steps up further with Mapex's premium hardware specification.
3. Quick-Release Fittings - Save Time at Every Gig
Quick-release wing nuts and memory locks are small details that make a big difference when you're setting up and breaking down multiple times a week. Memory locks let you mark the exact position of every stand so setup is fast and consistent every time. Look for these features when comparing hardware - they're increasingly common on mid-range and professional hardware.
4. Hardware Packs vs Individual Stands
For most gigging drummers, buying a hardware pack is better value than buying individual stands. Packs give you a matched set of stands with consistent quality and finish, usually at a lower combined price than buying separately. Good options include:
- Mapex Mars Series Hardware Pack - a solid mid-range double-braced pack covering boom stand, hi-hat stand, snare stand, and bass drum pedal
- Mapex Armory Series Hardware Pack - a step up in quality and specification, ideal for regular gigging at higher volumes
- Mapex Falcon Series Hardware Pack - Mapex's premium hardware pack for professional gigging drummers
- Sonor 1000 Series Hardware Set - a reliable and well-built entry-level pack from one of Germany's finest drum manufacturers
- Sonor 2000 Series Lightweight Flat Base Hardware Set - the best lightweight pack option for gigging drummers who prioritise portability
- Yamaha HW3 Crosstown Lightweight Hardware Set - Yamaha's touring-grade lightweight hardware, used by professional drummers worldwide
5. Individual Stands Worth Knowing About
If you already have some hardware and just need to replace or upgrade specific pieces, these are worth considering:
- Boom cymbal stands: Mapex Armory B800 (double-braced, heavy duty) or Mapex Mars B600 (mid-range, reliable)
- Snare stands: Mapex Armory S800 (double-braced, stable) or Yamaha SS3 Crosstown (lightweight, compact)
- Hi-hat stands: Mapex Mars H600 (solid mid-range) or Sonor 600 Series Hi-Hat Stand (German engineering, excellent feel)
- Ludwig: The Ludwig Atlas Classic Cymbal Boom Stand is a premium option with a classic aesthetic to match Ludwig kits
6. Don't Forget the Bass Drum Pedal
Your bass drum pedal is arguably the most important piece of hardware you own - it directly affects your playing feel and consistency. The Natal Pro Series Single Bass Drum Pedal is a reliable mid-range option, while the Sonor DP4000S Double Bass Drum Pedal is an excellent choice for drummers who need a double pedal.
Shop Drum Hardware at Into Music Store
Into Music Store is one of the UK's leading independent drum shops, based in Horncastle, Lincolnshire. We stock a comprehensive range of drum hardware from Mapex, Sonor, Yamaha, Natal, Ludwig, British Drum Company, and more - both online and in our showroom where you're welcome to come in and compare hardware in person before you buy.
If you're not sure which hardware is right for your gigging setup, our team of experienced drummers are on hand to help. UK next day delivery is available on all drum hardware.