Mapex Black Panther Switchblade 14 x 5.5 Maple Snare Drum

Fast, articulate and exceptionally responsive, the Mapex Black Panther Switchblade 14" x 5.5" Maple Snare Drum is designed to cut through the mix with authority. Its 6-ply American maple shell delivers a perfect blend of crisp attack, balanced warmth and musical projection, while single-flanged hoops allow the drum to breathe, producing an open, lively character. Finished in a stunning Exotic Aegean Burl veneer, the Switchblade looks every bit as striking as it sounds.

Whether you're laying down tight funk grooves, driving pop rhythms or powering through rock anthems, the Switchblade responds instantly to every nuance of your playing. Mapex's SONIClear™ 45-degree bearing edges increase head-to-shell contact for enhanced sensitivity, improved resonance and reliable tuning stability. Combined with its versatile 5.5" depth, the result is a snare that offers the ideal balance of crack, body and projection across a wide range of musical styles.

Key Features

• Shell - 6-Ply
• Shell Thickness - 6.0 mm
• Shell Material - American Maple
• 2.7 mm Snare Bed
• Finish - Aegean Burl Veneer
• Single Flanged Hoops
• Soniclear Bearing Edge
• Air Flow Venting
• Cylinder-Drive Strainer

Fast, Focused Attack

True to its name, the Black Panther Switchblade delivers lightning-fast response and exceptional articulation. Ghost notes, accents and rimshots speak with clarity and precision, while the 14" x 5.5" dimensions provide a tight, focused voice that easily cuts through dense mixes without excessive volume.

Rich American Maple Tone

At the heart of the Black Panther Switchblade is a 6-ply, 6.0 mm American maple shell. Renowned for its balanced tonal qualities, maple produces a warm yet articulate sound with plenty of presence and dynamic range. From delicate brushwork to powerful backbeats, the shell responds musically at every volume level.

Open Sound with Single-Flanged Hoops

The single-flanged hoops contribute to the drum's expressive character by allowing the shell to resonate freely. This creates enhanced sustain, lively overtones and a more open feel, while maintaining the sharp attack that defines the Switchblade. The result is impressive versatility, making it easy to achieve anything from controlled studio tones to more resonant, vintage-inspired sounds.

Premium Aegean Burl Finish

Wrapped in an eye-catching Exotic Aegean Burl veneer, the Switchblade offers boutique-level aesthetics to match its premium sound. Paired with sleek chrome hardware and the distinctive Black Panther design, it's a snare that commands attention both on stage and in the studio.