Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,083
High-end/Boutique
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum - 6.5" x 14"". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
The Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum - 6.5" x 14" is a testament to craftsmanship that blends vintage charm with modern innovation. Revered by drummers across generations, this snare is celebrated for its hand-hammered brass shell, offering a unique, dry attack that many consider the pinnacle of snare drum tone. Its seamless brass construction is elegantly complemented by the classic Imperial lugs, presenting an aesthetic that harks back to the golden age of drumming.
The Black Beauty's sonic character is both warm and metallic, delivering the fat tone that has become synonymous with Ludwig's storied legacy. Whether you're laying down a subtle groove or unleashing a thunderous backbeat, the snare's P88AC strainer ensures exceptional responsiveness and precision. This drum isn't just a piece of equipment; it's an invitation to explore new depths of rhythm and expression.
Available in limited quantities each year, the Ludwig Black Beauty Snare is not just a purchase, but an investment in quality and timeless sound. It's no wonder this snare has become a staple for legends and aspiring drummers alike, making it a must-have in any serious percussionist's collection.
Key Features:
- Hand-hammered brass shell
- Seamless black anodized brass construction
- Imperial lugs for a classic look
- Triple-flanged hoops for durability
- Equipped with Supra-Phonic P88AC snare strainer
- Limited annual availability from Ludwig USA
Product specs
| Type | Snare |
| Drum Depth | 6.5" |
| Drum Diameter | 14" |
| Shell Material | Brass |
| Shell Construction | 1.2mm, Beaded |
| Hoops | Triple-flanged |
| Lugs | 10 x Chrome Tube Lugs |
| Finish | Gloss |
| Heads | Ludwig Weather Master |
| Additional Features | P88 Strainer |
FAQs
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What type of sound can I expect from the Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum?
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The Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum is renowned for its warm, full-bodied tone with a crisp attack and rich overtones, thanks to its brass shell. The hammered finish adds a unique character, enhancing its complex sound profile.
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How does the hammered finish affect the Ludwig Black Beauty Snare Drum's sound?
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The hammered finish of the Ludwig Black Beauty Snare Drum provides additional tonal complexity and slightly drier overtones, making it versatile for various musical styles.
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Is the Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum's robust projection and dynamic range make it an excellent choice for live performances, providing clarity and presence in a mix.
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What are the key features of the Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum's construction?
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This snare drum features a 1.2mm beaded brass shell with a gloss finish, triple-flanged hoops, and 10 chrome tube lugs, offering durability and precise tuning stability.
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Does the Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum come with a stand or case?
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No, the Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum does not include a stand or case; these must be purchased separately.
Videos
Memphis Drum Shop
Ludwig 14x6.5 Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum (LB417K)
Ludwig 14x6.5 Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum (LB417K)
Memphis Drum Shop
Ludwig 14x6.5 Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum LB417KT
Memphis Drum Shop
Ludwig Black Beauty Hammered Snare Drum 6.5x14
Drum Center of Portsmouth
Ludwig 6.5X14 Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum - Imperial Lugs, Quick n' Dirty
soundpurestudios
Ludwig 6.5X14 Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum - Tube Lugs, Quick n' Dirty
soundpurestudios
Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum 6.5x14 LB417K
2112 PERCUSSION
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional sound quality with a clean and metallic tone
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Highly versatile across tunings and musical styles
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Easy to tune, even after environmental changes
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Stunning visual appeal with high-quality finish
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Hammered brass shell adds warmth and cuts through mixes
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Works well in both studio settings and live performances
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Reliable build with durable hardware
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Compatible with various genres and setups
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Smooth and efficient P-88 Strainer mechanism
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Receives compliments from drummers and sound engineers alike
CONS
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Screws may loosen slightly over time
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Double ply heads can introduce an undesirable "bonk" sound in recordings
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum - 6.5" x 14".
Features and functionality
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The Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty snare drum is noted for its unique sound that stands out even among high-end models from DW, Pearl, and Gretsch.
Source -
Tube lugs are noted for allowing more shell resonance due to less mass compared to imperial lugs.
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Hammered shells provide a warmer sound with fewer overtones compared to smooth shells, which may require more dampening to control ringiness.
Source
User experience
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A drum enthusiast switched from a 402 Supra to a Ludwig Black Beauty, highlighting the irresistible appeal of its sound.
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One user described the appeal of the Ludwig Black Beauty as so compelling that it overshadowed their initial interest in a different model, the 402 Supra.
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Owners highlight the 6.5" Black Beauty for its full sound, making it a favored choice over other deeper drums like the 6.5" Acrolite.
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Owners express a strong emotional connection, referring to the drum as a "holy grail," indicating its coveted status among enthusiasts.
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Some users have had the Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty on their wish lists for over a decade, highlighting its enduring appeal and desirability.
Source
Value and pricing
Comparisons
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Users indicate the 6.5" Black Beauty offers more depth and body, especially at higher tunings, compared to the 5" which is more responsive and sensitive.
Source
Setup and maintenance
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The hammered version is described as more dry, with users suggesting different tuning techniques and head choices to manage ringiness effectively.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings
222
Versatile and perfect for any gig.
I actually have imperial lugs on there. I like them more for the flexibility. But this guy wrecks. I get compliments at ALL of my gigs from drummers and sound engineers I have been gigging and recording with this for the last few years. My only warning, is when you have double ply heads on it, it does add an undesirable bonk type sound in the studio, like in the mid to mid-low frequency range. And it's kind of hard to eq out without making the snare lifeless.
3050
THE Best Snare in the Game
Everything about this drum is pure awesome. The hardware is great and the look is great but the sound is even better. It gives a clean metallic sound with a lot of body to it and works in every genre and setup. 10/10
Artist usage
Add artist
According to the website U2: Stage And Studio, Larry Mullen, Jr. used a "14" Ludwig (hammered) Black Beauty snare drum" during U2's 360° Tour.
Album Usage
The Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum - 6.5" x 14" has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ludwig Hammered Black Beauty Snare Drum - 6.5" x 14", it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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