Mapex Black Panther Snare Drum Switchblade 14 x 5.5 Maple

Fast, sharp and brilliantly responsive, the Mapex Black Panther Switchblade 14 x 5.5 Maple Snare Drum is built to cut through any mix with ease. Its 6 ply American Maple shell delivers crisp articulation and musical warmth, while the single flanged hoops keep the sound open, lively and full of character. Finished in a stunning Aegean Burl veneer, this snare looks every bit as slick and precise as it sounds.

Whether you are playing tight funk, punchy pop or aggressive rock, the Switchblade reacts instantly to every nuance of your playing. The SONIClear 45 degree bearing edge maximises head to shell contact for enhanced sensitivity and tuning stability, while the 5.5 inch depth strikes the perfect balance between crack, body and projection. This is a versatile, modern snare that rewards a confident stroke and sits comfortably in a wide range of musical settings.

Fast, Cutting Response

The Switchblade lives up to its name with a lightning fast response that makes ghost notes, accents and rimshots leap out of the drum. The 14 x 5.5 inch format keeps the sound tight and focused, giving you a bright, articulate crack that slices through guitars and keys without needing to be overplayed.

Warm, Musical Maple Shell

A 6 ply, 6.0 mm American Maple shell provides the core of the Switchblade sound. Maple is renowned for its balanced tone, offering a smooth blend of warmth, presence and definition. This gives you a snare that feels full and musical at all dynamics, from subtle brush work to full power backbeats.

Open, Lively Single Flanged Hoops

Single flanged hoops keep the shell breathing and the tone open, enhancing overtones and sustain for a more expressive voice. They also contribute to the Switchblade’s sharp attack and airy feel, making it easier to dial in everything from dry, controlled tones to more resonant, vintage inspired sounds with simple tuning changes.

Striking Aegean Burl Finish

The Exotic Aegean Burl outer veneer gives this snare a premium, boutique look that stands out on any stage or in any studio. Combined with the sleek chrome hardware and distinctive Black Panther styling, the Switchblade is a drum you will be proud to have at the heart of your kit.

• 14 x 5.5 Inch Maple Shell - The classic 14 inch diameter paired with a 5.5 inch depth delivers a focused, modern crack with enough body to fill the room. It is an ideal all round size for live and studio work, offering quick response without sacrificing punch.
• 6 Ply, 6.0 mm American Maple Construction - The thin, 6 ply Maple shell provides a lively, resonant tone with plenty of warmth and clarity. This construction enhances sensitivity and dynamic range, so every stroke is translated cleanly and musically.
• SONIClear 45 Degree Bearing Edge - The SONIClear edge improves head to shell contact for easier tuning, greater sustain and enhanced sensitivity. It helps the drum speak clearly at all tunings, from tight and high for pop and funk to lower, fatter sounds for rock and hip hop.
• Single Flanged Hoops with Chrome Hardware - Single flanged hoops keep the tone open and vibrant, while the robust chrome hardware and double ended B lugs provide stable, reliable tuning. The combination offers both a responsive feel and a stylish, professional look.

Shell

• Model: BPNML4550CKX Switchblade
• Size: 14" x 5.5"
• Shell Material: 6 ply, 6.0 mm Maple
• Snare Bed: 2.7 mm with 5.5" width
• Finish: Aegean Burl (Exotic Burl veneer)
• Bearing Edge: SONIClear 45 degree

Hardware

• Lugs: Double ended B lugs
• Air Vents: 3 air vents
• Hoops: Single flanged hoops
• Hardware Finish: Chrome