Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $200
Standard/Professional
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
In the world of percussion, the Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare is a force to be reckoned with. This snare drum combines precision craftsmanship with a commanding presence, offering drummers a dynamic and cutting edge to their sound. With its 14x5.5" steel shell, the Tomahawk delivers a bright, metallic attack that slices through any mix with ease, making it an essential addition to both live performances and studio recordings.
The snare's robust construction ensures durability and reliability, while the sleek hardware complements its powerful acoustic properties. Whether you're laying down backbeats in a rock anthem or adding intricate rhythms to a jazz ensemble, the Tomahawk's sensitive response and versatile tuning range will meet the demands of any genre. Experience the precision and power that make the Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare a favorite among drummers who seek both style and substance in their gear.
Key Features:
- 14x5.5" steel shell for a bright, cutting sound
- Precision-crafted for enhanced durability
- Versatile tuning range suitable for various music styles
- Sleek hardware for a modern aesthetic
- Ideal for both live performances and studio recordings
Product specs
| Brand | Mapex |
| Model | ARST4551CEB Armory Tomahawk 14x5.5" Steel Snare Drum |
| Finish | Black Chrome |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Snare Drums |
| Diameter | 14" |
FAQs
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What type of sound can I expect from the Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare Drum?
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The Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare Drum, with its 1mm hammered steel shell, delivers a bright, cutting sound with a sharp "crack" and plenty of projection, making it ideal for rock and pop genres.
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What are the dimensions of the Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare Drum?
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The Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare Drum measures 14 inches in diameter and 5.5 inches in depth, providing a balanced combination of depth and attack.
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What is the finish of the Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare Drum?
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The snare drum features a sleek black chrome finish, which not only looks stylish but also adds a layer of durability to the drum.
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What kind of bearing edge does the Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare Drum have?
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The Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare Drum is equipped with a rounded 45º bearing edge, which contributes to its clear sound and enhanced sensitivity.
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Does the Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare Drum have a throw-off mechanism?
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Yes, it features a piston strainer with a vertical throw-off, allowing for quick and smooth snare wire engagement and disengagement.
Videos
Maestro Robinson
Feature Friday EP. 2 - Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare Drum
Feature Friday EP. 2 - Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare Drum
Maestro Robinson
MAPEX MXAR4551CEB Armory Snare - Thomahawk - 14 x 5,5 Zoll
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MAPEX Armory Tomahawk 14x5,5"
Drumcenter cz
Custom Hydrodip Snare Drum!?! Mapex Armory Tomahawk
Grant Payne
Mapex Armory The Tomahawk Snare | Unboxing
mcdrums
Reviews
PROS
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Produces loud, cutting snare sound perfect for dynamic performances
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Offers a perfect blend of traditional and powerful sound suitable for various genres
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Affordable price for the quality, especially appealing for budget-conscious musicians
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Lightweight design makes it easy to transport and handle
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Ideal for higher tunings, delivering impressive attack and short sustain
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Comes with original heads and decals, offering good initial presentation
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Suitable for those seeking a steel snare with a dope sound
CONS
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Some units may arrive with bent or warped components, affecting playability
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Potential inconsistencies in shell condition, such as unintended hammering or bending
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Not ideal for extensive touring due to potential durability issues
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Chrome finish may not meet expectations for those seeking a pristine appearance
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare.
Build quality
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The original black finish is prone to permanent fingerprint marks, particularly for users with acidic sweat.
Source
Mods and upgrades
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Alcohol inking is a popular DIY mod to transform the snare's appearance, using supplies like alcohol inks and blow dryers.
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Setup and maintenance
User experience
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Owners note that without a clear coat, the chrome shell is highly susceptible to marking.
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The Tomahawk is frequently praised for its sound quality when set up with stock Remo Ambassador heads, highlighting its ease of use right out of the box.
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The Daisy Cutter model is noted for exceeding visual expectations compared to promotional images, with a sound that impresses when properly tuned.
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Owners highlight the Mapex Tomahawk's presence and solid hardware, with long-term users noting its durability after years of regular use.
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Value and pricing
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Despite its quality, the Armory snare line, including the Tomahawk, is often considered a standout in its price bracket, rivaling higher-end models.
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Comparisons
Features and functionality
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The Tomahawk's snare gripping system design makes slipping nearly impossible, enhancing reliability during performances.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings
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154
The snare drum that may not be the best, but does an excellent job at performing
I broke a snare head with this drum. It’s the first 14” snare drum I’ve ever had. The steel shell forms a perfect mix of normal snare drum sound and the powerful sound for almost any genre of music.
154
Oh yeah, you can also get a lot of different sounds from this one snare drum. Tune it high, tune it low, put things on it, use different heads, or even make use of the snare wires off. DOESNT MATTER
123
Great budget snare for beginners & professional drummers.
I bought this snare used in 2019. I got a Remo Emperor Coated for it and it sounded magnificent! Tons of attack with a surprisingly short sustain which was perfect for the style and sound that I was going for. I think Mapex snares, specially metal snares sound best at higher tunings and this snare is no exception. I took it on tour for half a year across the country and one day I swapped the batter head and realized that the shell was bent. I always kept my snare in a case so I don't think this snare is ideal for country-wide tours. I still highly recommend it. It's a great budget snare that I wouldn't have a problem buying again.
Preferred Settings + Usage:
Evans System Blue Marching snare head (batter) Evans Hazy 300 (resonant) Puresound Blaster 20-strand snare wires Medium high tuning Remo Richie Ring control rings
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 Mapex Armory Tomahawk Snare, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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Community setups
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