
Drumming News
Noble & Cooley is excited to unveil their latest limited-edition creation: the Special Edition Solid Shell Sassafras Snare Drum. With only 24 units available, this exclusive release promises both collectors and drummers an extraordinary blend of craftsmanship, sound, and sensory delight.
The Special Edition Sassafras Snare Drum features a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality, including a variety of depth options—3.875”, 5”, 6”, 7”, and 8”—all paired with a standard 14″ diameter. Each drum is hand-crafted using premium sassafras wood, a highly durable and visually striking material native to North America. Historically used in shipbuilding and furniture-making, sassafras also plays a role in the production of root beer, adding an intriguing, natural element to the instrument. The resulting tonal profile of the wood strikes a perfect balance between the dryness of ash and the warmth of tulip, providing a forgiving, fat sound that resonates beautifully at a wide range of tunings.



The standout feature of the Special Edition Sassafras is its elegant, blackened grain finish, achieved through a cerusing process. This technique accentuates the open grain of the wood, offering a striking two-toned effect that contrasts beautifully against the honey maple satin base. To elevate the sensory experience even further, each drum is treated with a dab of root beer-scented oil, infusing a subtle yet delightful fragrance into the playing experience.
In addition to the distinctive finish, the drums come with a suite of premium features. The black nickel hardware upgrade, black nickel flanged hoops, and Special Edition badge ensure a sleek and sophisticated appearance. Each drum is also marked with an interior hand-pasted label featuring the serial number and the official ‘NC’ stamp, making every snare drum a one-of-a-kind collector’s item. As a bonus, every Special Edition Sassafras Snare Drum comes with a complimentary Noble & Cooley antique copper drum key, rounding out the package with both functionality and style.
The Special Edition Solid Shell Sassafras Snare Drum is truly a rare find, limited to just 24 units. Drummers interested in adding this unique instrument to their collection can contact their local dealer or reach out directly to Noble & Cooley to place an order.
Sassafras may be lesser-known among drum enthusiasts, but its tonal properties make it an ideal choice for snare drum shells, delivering a dry, rich, and resonant tone that is suitable for a wide range of playing styles and tunings. Whether you’re a professional drummer or a passionate collector, the Special Edition Sassafras Snare Drum offers an exceptional combination of craftsmanship, history, and sound.
Don’t miss out on this exclusive release—order yours today before they’re gone!