Mapex Snare Drums - Innovation, Character, and Precision
Mapex produce some of the most innovative and diverse snare drums available - a range that spans accessible steel and maple options through to the acclaimed Black Panther and Black Panther Design Lab series, with an exceptional roster of artist signature models. Used by Craig Blundell, Russ Miller, Jeff Hamilton, and Chris Adler, Mapex snare drums are a favourite of professional drummers who demand character, precision, and exceptional build quality. Into Music Store is an authorised Mapex dealer in Horncastle, Lincolnshire, stocking the full Mapex snare drum range with expert advice and UK next day delivery available.
Mapex Snare Drums - The Range
Mapex MPX - An accessible and versatile range covering steel and maple/poplar hybrid shells across multiple sizes from 10" to 14"x8". An ideal choice for drummers looking for a reliable, great-value snare
Mapex Tomahawk - A solid mid-range steel snare at 14"x5.5"
Mapex Black Panther - The flagship Mapex snare drum series. An exceptional range covering maple, birch, walnut, brass, aluminium, copper, and steel shells across a wide variety of sizes and depths - each model with its own distinct name and tonal character
Mapex Black Panther Design Lab - Limited production snare drums with distinctive designs and premium specifications, including the Cherry Bomb and Equinox models
The Mapex MPX Steel Snare Drum is a balance between performance and value for money. With an attractive chrome finish and a steel design for maximum durability and support, the snare features a 10 x 5.5 inch Remo drumhead for a smooth and accurate response, ideal for a range of drumming styles and genres. A well balanced sound makes the Mapex MPX Snare a great drum for beginner and developing drummers and musicians.
The Mapex MPX 13" x 3.5" Steel Snare Drum is a versatile snare drum that is ideal for the beginner or developing drummer. It is also a great side snare for a prominent pop to add tonal variety. Producing a cutting tone, it can be heard through any mix and lends itself to a wide range of applications and setups - ranging from Ska and Reggae to Rock or Funk. Made from steel, it is highly durable. Remo UV heads provide a responsive tone straight out of the box and offer a confident starting point to explore tones. Finished in chrome, it looks clean and professional. A great drum for any beginner kit.
Features
Steel shell is ideal for a wide range of genres, cutting through the mix easily
Chrome finish adds a modern and clean look to your setup
Remo UX drum heads for an accurate response straight away
Versatile sound makes this a great drum for developing drummers or a side snare
Specifications
Shell Thickness:1.2mm Stainless Steel
Shell Finish:Chrome
Hardware Finish:Chrome
Snare Wire:20-Strand
Heads:Remo Heads
Additional:Fully adjustable throw-off, Off-the-shell ITS Mount
New Hybrid Maple/Poplar Shell Construction (Wood Shell Models) Inheriting the Mapex “Concept Hybrid” design, the new 7.2mm Maple/Poplar hybrid shell delivers a warm and vintage sound. Smaller 10” and 12” ‘popcorn’ models are fitted with tom mounts, for easy side-snare and f/x set ups. • Mapex Armory Piston Strainer The Piston Strainer with vertical throw-off enables a quick, comfortable, and smooth operation and prevents snare wire tension changes while playing. The same strainer is also used on the Armory “Tomahawk” Snare. • New W-Lug New Low Mass Lug Design.
• Armory Series Throw off • 1.3mm triple flanged hoops • Transparent Midnight Black finish
New Hybrid Maple/Poplar Shell Construction (Wood Shell Models) Inheriting the Mapex “Concept Hybrid” design, the new 7.2mm Maple/Poplar hybrid shell delivers a warm and vintage sound. Smaller 10” and 12” ‘popcorn’ models are fitted with tom mounts, for easy side-snare and f/x set ups. • Mapex Armory Piston Strainer The Piston Strainer with vertical throw-off enables a quick, comfortable, and smooth operation and prevents snare wire tension changes while playing. The same strainer is also used on the Armory “Tomahawk” Snare. • New W-Lug New Low Mass Lug Design.
SONIClear Bearing Edges • Armory Series Throwoff • 1.3mm triple flanged hoops • Transparent Midnight Black finish
New Hybrid Maple/Poplar Shell Construction (Wood Shell Models) Inheriting the Mapex “Concept Hybrid” design, the new 7.2mm Maple/Poplar hybrid shell delivers a warm and vintage sound. Smaller 10” and 12” ‘popcorn’ models are fitted with tom mounts, for easy side-snare and f/x set ups. • Mapex Armory Piston Strainer The Piston Strainer with vertical throw-off enables a quick, comfortable, and smooth operation and prevents snare wire tension changes while playing. The same strainer is also used on the Armory “Tomahawk” Snare. • New W-Lug New Low Mass Lug Design.
SONIClear Bearing Edges • Armory Series Throwoff • 1.3mm triple flanged hoops • Transparent Midnight Black finish
New Hybrid Maple/Poplar Shell Construction (Wood Shell Models) Inheriting the Mapex “Concept Hybrid” design, the new 7.2mm Maple/Poplar hybrid shell delivers a warm and vintage sound. Smaller 10” and 12” ‘popcorn’ models are fitted with tom mounts, for easy side-snare and f/x set ups. • Mapex Armory Piston Strainer The Piston Strainer with vertical throw-off enables a quick, comfortable, and smooth operation and prevents snare wire tension changes while playing. The same strainer is also used on the Armory “Tomahawk” Snare. • New W-Lug New Low Mass Lug Design.
SONIClear Bearing Edges • Armory Series Throwoff • 1.3mm triple flanged hoops • Transparent Midnight Black finish
New Hybrid Maple/Poplar Shell Construction (Wood Shell Models) Inheriting the Mapex “Concept Hybrid” design, the new 7.2mm Maple/Poplar hybrid shell delivers a warm and vintage sound. Smaller 10” and 12” ‘popcorn’ models are fitted with tom mounts, for easy side-snare and f/x set ups. • Mapex Armory Piston Strainer The Piston Strainer with vertical throw-off enables a quick, comfortable, and smooth operation and prevents snare wire tension changes while playing. The same strainer is also used on the Armory “Tomahawk” Snare. • New W-Lug New Low Mass Lug Design.
SONIClear Bearing Edges • Armory Series Throwoff • 1.3mm triple flanged hoops • Transparent Midnight Black finish
New Hybrid Maple/Poplar Shell Construction (Wood Shell Models) Inheriting the Mapex “Concept Hybrid” design, the new 7.2mm Maple/Poplar hybrid shell delivers a warm and vintage sound. Smaller 10” and 12” ‘popcorn’ models are fitted with tom mounts, for easy side-snare and f/x set ups. • Mapex Armory Piston Strainer The Piston Strainer with vertical throw-off enables a quick, comfortable, and smooth operation and prevents snare wire tension changes while playing. The same strainer is also used on the Armory “Tomahawk” Snare. • New W-Lug New Low Mass Lug Design.
New Hybrid Maple/Poplar Shell Construction (Wood Shell Models) Inheriting the Mapex “Concept Hybrid” design, the new 7.2mm Maple/Poplar hybrid shell delivers a warm and vintage sound. Smaller 10” and 12” ‘popcorn’ models are fitted with tom mounts, for easy side-snare and f/x set ups. • Mapex Armory Piston Strainer The Piston Strainer with vertical throw-off enables a quick, comfortable, and smooth operation and prevents snare wire tension changes while playing. The same strainer is also used on the Armory “Tomahawk” Snare. • New W-Lug New Low Mass Lug Design.
The Mapex Black Panther Design Lab Cherry Bomb Snare Drum is inspired by Mapex’s acclaimed Black Panther drum series. Mapex have taken everything they've learnt about making great sounding, cutting edge snare drums. Then, using modern technology, innovative features, and good old fashioned drum craft - they add just that little bit of extra modern flair.
With an 8mm, 8-ply cherry wood shell, the Mapex Black Panther Design Lab snare drum offers a powerful, deep tone with excellent projection – perfect for any stage. The 2.7mm deep, 5.5'' snare bed graduation offers a dry, articulate, and controlled snare tone. This snare drum provides extreme power due to its 6'' depth – perfect for heavier drumming styles.
The Mapex Black Panther 'Atomizer' 14" x 6.5'' Aluminium Snare Drum is an aluminium snare that offers aggressive attack and excellent projection. These lively snare sounds are perfect for any genre that requires hard-hitting performance and boisterous attitude. A brand new addition to Mapex's acclaimed Black Panther range, the Atomizer snare's 2mm thick shell projects and elevates your playing above all else. Your entire kit would benefit from having the Atomizer as its groove-setting focal point. And if its sharp, commanding tones weren't enough, the Atomizer's stylish, metallic finish is the perfect accompaniment. Don't compromise. This is for drummers who want to be louder than everyone else.
If you're a professional dummer looking for a versatile new snare that offers a hefty response and killer rimshots, then we have just the thing for you!
Stylish, Pro-Grade, All-Copper Snare
With the Mapex Black Panther Predator you get an all-copper snare which delivers classic, bright snare sounds, alongside warm tones and a defined low-end.
This excellent 14" x 6" snare benefits from incredible projection and a ringing sustain, making it ideal for most popular genres where you may need a little "oompf".
Mapex Black Panther
Mapex's Black Panther drums are designed to offer a superb combination of looks and sound that are ideal for regular giggers and studio players.
Featuring custom Mapex features such as the SONIClear bearing edges and Sonic Saver hoqops, these drums make a force to be reckoned with, whether used on the stage or in the studio.
Mapex Black Panther Predator 14" x 6" Copper Snare Specs
The Mapex Black Panther 'Persuader' 14 x 6.5'' Hammered Brass Snare Drum is loud and professional. Its 1.2mm hammered brass shell delivers a balanced tone, with plenty of low-end that is perfect for cutting through heavier genres like rock and metal. Basically, this snare is loud! The Brass shell also features a hammered finish which delivers a more focused tone. Not only does this hammered finish improve the tonal characteristics of this snare, but it also creates a stunning aesthetic that will turn heads.
Specifications
Product Code:BPNBR465HCN
Shell Diameter:14''
Shell Depth:6.5''
Shell Material:1.2mm Hammered Brass
Air Vents:4
Hoops:Sonic Saver Hoops
Lugs:In-Line Locking B-Lugs
Snare Bed:2.3mm
Bearing Edge:Rolled SONIClear™ Edge, 45° Batter Side, 35° Snare Side
Throw-Off:BP Cylinder Drive Strainer & Butt, with microlock adjustment technology
Timeless, heritage snare sounds. The Mapex Black Panther Heritage Snare Drum is a high-performance, maple snare with excellent articulation and crisp attack. A brand new addition to Mapex's acclaimed Black Panther range, the Heritage snare is a tremendous choice for all players and genres - given its classic snare dimensions. Thanks to its 5-ply, maple-wood shell, it provides resonant tones with clear definition, while the SONIClear bearing edges ensure closer head-to-shell contact - improving response when you really need to cut through the mix. With this price tag, it's highly recommended for beginners moving up, or intermediate and advanced players looking for a fresh option. Its white strata lacquer finish is bound to impress your audience.
The Mapex 'Versatus' 14" x 4.58" Russ Miller Signature Snare is constructed from a 7-ply, 8.55mm maple and mahogany shell, providing exceptional durability and a tone that leads the mix. Maple offers further projection, while offering a wider tuning range and more attack to the sound. The mahogany builds on this, providing a fat tone that sounds exceptional when tuned low. The 4.58'' depth is cut to perfection. During the design process, Mapex would cut away a small amount at a time until they achieve the optimal sound - it was at 4.58''. The Versatus is also fitted with a 4-ply maple sound reinforcement ring on the top of the snare drum to provide cutting rimshots.
Versatus - a Latin term for versatile. With a great balance of power and finesse, the Versatus possesses sensitivity for bushes, articulation for light sticking, and control for big back beats. The lugs are staggered across the shell to provide an extremely wide tuning range, allowing you to find the perfect tone in any style.
The Mapex 'Versatus' 14" x 4.58" Russ Miller Signature Snare is constructed from a 7-ply, 8.55mm maple and mahogany shell, providing exceptional durability and a tone that leads the mix. Maple offers further projection, while offering a wider tuning range and more attack to the sound. The mahogany builds on this, providing a fat tone that sounds exceptional when tuned low. The 4.58'' depth is cut to perfection. During the design process, Mapex would cut away a small amount at a time until they achieve the optimal sound - it was at 4.58''. The Versatus is also fitted with a 4-ply maple sound reinforcement ring on the top of the snare drum to provide cutting rimshots.
Versatus - a Latin term for versatile. With a great balance of power and finesse, the Versatus possesses sensitivity for bushes, articulation for light sticking, and control for big back beats. The lugs are staggered across the shell to provide an extremely wide tuning range, allowing you to find the perfect tone in any style.
The Mapex Black Panther 'Shadow' Snare Drum is a 6.5-inch deep snare drum with a full-bodied punch across the spectrum with enhanced low-mid frequencies. Its 7-ply Walnut / Birch shell provides a unique tone. The birch helps to add extra warmth and a cutting attack to balance perfectly with the walnut's superb projection. A brand new addition to Mapex's acclaimed Black Panther range, the Shadow snare is a tremendous choice for any genre, with its incredibly versatile, all-round tonal range. Add the Shadow snare to your kit and experience the dark, dramatic sounds that lurk within.
Every base covered. For his debut signature series snare, Craig Blundell wanted the perfect combination of versatility and rock-solid tone. With that in mind, he chose a 6-ply walnut and maple hybrid construction - and for good reason. Walnut allows the drum to really 'pop' at higher tunings, which is complemented by the maple's classic warmth. This only becomes more pronounced as you tune the drum lower, for a beefy low-end that still retains the walnut's crisp crack - particularly on rimshots.
Hoop and glory.
Speaking of rimshots...The Blundell Signature features Mapex's ingenious Sonic Saver hoops. Originally created for Mapex's legendary Black Panther snare drums, Sonic Savers feature a unique shaping process which creates a larger surface area on the top of the hoop, bridging the gap between the triple-flanged and die-cast methods. This makes them ideal for raucous rimshots, while also being kinder to your sticks - and your hands!
Craig Blundell: Professional prog-head
Craig began drumming at the age of 3, and it shows. He's now at the forefront of a genre which relies on tip-top technique in every area. He's also often heard drumming on the BBC's adverts and jingles, but it's his session work in the prog world where Blundell has really made a name for himself. From King Crimson' David Cross to Steve Wilson to Genesis' own Steve Hackett, Craig's dazzling skill and powerful feel have placed him at the top of the list when it comes to drumming guns for hire.
Specifications
Product Name:Mapex 'Machine' 14 x 5.5'' Craig Blundell Signature Snare
The Mapex Black Panther 'Hydro' 13" x 7'' Maple Snare Drum is a 7-inch-deep snare with imposing low-end and thumping volume. Providing fat, full-bodied sounds for bellowing backbeats perfect for rock and pop - especially those dramatic power ballads. A brand new addition to Mapex's acclaimed Black Panther range, the Hydro snare is a tremendous choice for all players. Its maple drum shell offers excellent, all-purpose tones with plenty of rumble and crunch - thanks to it chunky profile. The snare's SONIClear bearing edges ensure closer head-to-shell contact, improving resonance and response when you really need to cut through the mix. A key ingredient that gives its powerful dynamics the projection they deserve
Product Code:BPNML3700LFB
Size:13" x 7"
Material:Maple wood
Plies:6
Shell Thickness:5.1mm with 4mm Walnut reinforcement rings
21st century history. From Ella Fitzgerald to Michael Buble, Jeff Hamilton has accompanied the greats of jazz for almost 50 years. The Mapex 'Maximus' 14" x 6.5" Jeff Hamilton Signature Snare was designed in combination with the king of swing himself, to produce a snare that fits perfectly in any setting. A meticulously measured, deep and wide snare bed ensures tip top articulation in any style, while Mapex's SONIClear bearing edge technology makes tuning a breeze.
Vintage versatility. Mimicking the old-school sound of calf skin, but with modern reliability, the Mapex Maximus' Remo Fibreskyn Diplomat head has a tone to fit the bill, whether you're providing a full band's backbeat, or light brush-work in an intimate setting. Slip seamlessly through three different snare wire tensions with the ultra-smooth Trick Drums multi-step throw-off, while the in-line, locking lugs and gloss piano black finish complete an exquisite snare drum, with a subtle, classy look.
The Mapex Black Panther 'Solidus' 14" x 7'' 11-Ply Maple Snare Drum features a thick, 11-ply shell composition, delivering thunderous projection for a complete, sonic assault. Smooth jazz players need not apply. A brand new addition to Mapex's acclaimed Black Panther range, the Solidus snare is a tremendous choice for rock, metal and all hard-hitting genres. Its all-maple drum shell offers excellent, all-purpose high and mid-range frequencies, with augmented lows - thanks to the 11-ply shell and its 7-inch depth. But don't be fooled by its size - it's no big, lumbering beast. You can expect blistering attack with dry sustain - begging to be struck over and over. With the Solidus snare by your side, you rule the groove.
Mapex Black Panther Pegasus Maple/Walnut Snare, 14x5.5inThese Black Panther snare drums have been reconceived and redesigned from the ground up, with careful attention paid to retaining the character of this much loved series, whilst at the same time introducing new shell features, sizes and materials, that deliver an irresistible blend of tone, power and control.Features 14" x 5.5" 7-ply, 6.15mm Hybrid Maple/Walnut Shell SONIClear™ Bearing Edges 45° Batter Side/35° Snare Side Triple Vented Chamber Sonic Saver Hoops Double Ended Locking Lugs BP Cylinder Drive Snare Strainer and Butt with Microlock Adjustment 2.3mm Snare Bed Natural Maple Burl Transparent Gloss Finish Remo USA Ambassador Heads
The Equinox 14" Snare features a North American Maple shell, reinforcement rings and the classic styling of single-flanged hoops which evoke musical traditions and modern execution. This drum possesses the controlled articulation needed to hear the most subtle ghost notes coupled with a bright and open presence at full volume.
FEATURES:
The harder all-Maple shell and edge reinforcement rings raise the frequency response in the 1-3 kHz range, giving this drum a clear and bright tone to cut through guitars, larger ensembles and horn bands.
The SONIClear Bearing Edge is standard on all Black Panther Design Lab Shells and allows the drumhead to sit flatter and make better contact with the shell. The result is a clearer fundamental pitch, effortless and consistent tuning, and a significantly expanded tuning range
Design Lab Snares feature Puresound Custom Series 16-Strand wires. The wires are medium-gauged evenly spaced standard coils, providing an even balance between snare response and shell sound.
The Cylinder-Drive Strainer and Butt-End Adjuster use a self-lubricating bearing to ensure smooth operation. The adjustment dial employs "micro-lock" technology that provides precise control and prevents the snare wires from loosening during play.
14 x 5 Maple Shell
6-ply 6mm Maple w/4-ply 4mm Maple Reinforcement Rings
* This snare drum is ex display from the UK Drum Show 2025. It is sold complete with the warranty, all original packaging and in "as new" condition with just some stick marks on the head
The Mapex 'Versatus' 14" x 4.58" Russ Miller Signature Snare is constructed from a 7-ply, 8.55mm maple and mahogany shell, providing exceptional durability and a tone that leads the mix. Maple offers further projection, while offering a wider tuning range and more attack to the sound. The mahogany builds on this, providing a fat tone that sounds exceptional when tuned low. The 4.58'' depth is cut to perfection. During the design process, Mapex would cut away a small amount at a time until they achieve the optimal sound - it was at 4.58''. The Versatus is also fitted with a 4-ply maple sound reinforcement ring on the top of the snare drum to provide cutting rimshots.
Versatus - a Latin term for versatile. With a great balance of power and finesse, the Versatus possesses sensitivity for bushes, articulation for light sticking, and control for big back beats. The lugs are staggered across the shell to provide an extremely wide tuning range, allowing you to find the perfect tone in any style.
* This snare drum is ex display from the UK Drum Show 2025. It is sold complete with the warranty, all original packaging and in "as new" condition with just some stick marks on the head
New Hybrid Maple/Poplar Shell Construction (Wood Shell Models) Inheriting the Mapex “Concept Hybrid” design, the new 7.2mm Maple/Poplar hybrid shell delivers a warm and vintage sound. Smaller 10” and 12” ‘popcorn’ models are fitted with tom mounts, for easy side-snare and f/x set ups. • Mapex Armory Piston Strainer The Piston Strainer with vertical throw-off enables a quick, comfortable, and smooth operation and prevents snare wire tension changes while playing. The same strainer is also used on the Armory “Tomahawk” Snare. • New W-Lug New Low Mass Lug Design.
• Armory Series Throw off • 1.3mm triple flanged hoops • Transparent Midnight Black finish
* This snare drum is ex display from the UK Drum Show 2025. It is sold complete with the warranty, all original packaging and in "as new" condition with just some stick marks on the head
New Hybrid Maple/Poplar Shell Construction (Wood Shell Models) Inheriting the Mapex “Concept Hybrid” design, the new 7.2mm Maple/Poplar hybrid shell delivers a warm and vintage sound. Smaller 10” and 12” ‘popcorn’ models are fitted with tom mounts, for easy side-snare and f/x set ups. • Mapex Armory Piston Strainer The Piston Strainer with vertical throw-off enables a quick, comfortable, and smooth operation and prevents snare wire tension changes while playing. The same strainer is also used on the Armory “Tomahawk” Snare. • New W-Lug New Low Mass Lug Design.
SONIClear Bearing Edges • Armory Series Throwoff • 1.3mm triple flanged hoops • Transparent Midnight Black finish
* This snare drum is ex display from the UK Drum Show 2025. It is sold complete with the warranty, all original packaging and in "as new" condition with just some stick marks on the head
The Mapex MPX Steel Snare Drum is a balance between performance and value for money. With an attractive chrome finish and a steel design for maximum durability and support, the snare features a 10 x 5.5 inch Remo drumhead for a smooth and accurate response, ideal for a range of drumming styles and genres. A well balanced sound makes the Mapex MPX Snare a great drum for beginner and developing drummers and musicians.
* This snare drum is ex display from the UK Drum Show 2025. It is sold complete with the warranty, all original packaging and in "as new" condition with just some stick marks on the head
New Hybrid Maple/Poplar Shell Construction (Wood Shell Models) Inheriting the Mapex “Concept Hybrid” design, the new 7.2mm Maple/Poplar hybrid shell delivers a warm and vintage sound. Smaller 10” and 12” ‘popcorn’ models are fitted with tom mounts, for easy side-snare and f/x set ups. • Mapex Armory Piston Strainer The Piston Strainer with vertical throw-off enables a quick, comfortable, and smooth operation and prevents snare wire tension changes while playing. The same strainer is also used on the Armory “Tomahawk” Snare. • New W-Lug New Low Mass Lug Design.
If you're looking for a drum shop UK or drum store near me stocking the full Mapex snare drum range, Into Music Store is an authorised Mapex dealer in Horncastle, Lincolnshire. UK next day delivery is available on all Mapex snare drums.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Mapex Black Panther range is one of the most diverse and innovative snare drum series available - each model has its own name, shell specification, and distinct tonal character. Covering maple, birch, walnut, brass, aluminium, copper, and steel shells across a wide variety of sizes and depths, the Black Panther range offers something genuinely different for every playing style and genre.
The Mapex Black Panther Design Lab is a limited production series featuring snare drums with distinctive designs and premium specifications. Current models include the Equinox and Cherry Bomb - both available in 13" and 14" sizes.
The Mapex MPX is an accessible, great-value range covering steel and maple/poplar hybrid shells across multiple sizes - ideal for drummers who want reliable Mapex quality at a more accessible price point. The Black Panther is the flagship professional series with premium shell materials, more distinctive tonal characters, and a significantly wider range of options.
Mapex Black Panther snare drums are used by a number of world-class drummers. Signature models are available from Craig Blundell (Machine), Russ Miller (Versatus), Jeff Hamilton (Maximus), and Chris Adler (Warbird).
The Mapex MPX range covers an unusually wide variety of sizes - from a compact 10"x5.5" steel snare and a shallow 13"x3.5" through to 12"x6", 13"x6", 14"x6.5", and a deep 14"x8" in maple/poplar hybrid. This makes the MPX range one of the most versatile accessible snare drum lines available, with options for effects, piccolo, standard, and deep configurations.
