Many drummers today use a double drum pedal, which provides the power and punch of double bass drums without having to haul around an extra bass drum (which, as we all know, can be a grueling pain in the neck, arms, shoulders, and back). Double drum pedals also allow for our set-ups to be tight and compact.
The design of the double pedal has come a long way over the years, specifically with its linkage that extends to the left side slave pedal (right-side on a lefty double pedal). These linkages use numerous bearings to provide smooth action and a more direct feel to the slave side pedal. What is not always realized, however, is that along with the double pedal's mechanical improvements comes the need to properly carry this important piece of gear.
I often see drummers holding their double pedals and walking around with them like they're a briefcase, using the linkage as a handle. I always cringe when I see this because this linkage and its ball bearings were not designed to feel the effects of gravity in this way. While a double pedal is extremely long-lasting when it's used properly, the primary linkage is very fragile, and the continued mistreatment of a double drum pedal can lead to unusual wear at the linkage's U joints and cause sluggish and sloppy action.
Major tip: If you pick up your double pedal fully put together, ALWAYS carry it with two hands, supporting each footboard. Do this even if you are quickly moving offstage after a performance.
If you treat your double pedal properly, you can enjoy a long and happy life together and save yourself $100 a pop for the replacement of a worn out linkage.
Should you have any questions or need specific guidance about your double pedal, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always here to assist!
The design of the double pedal has come a long way over the years, specifically with its linkage that extends to the left side slave pedal (right-side on a lefty double pedal). These linkages use numerous bearings to provide smooth action and a more direct feel to the slave side pedal. What is not always realized, however, is that along with the double pedal's mechanical improvements comes the need to properly carry this important piece of gear.
I often see drummers holding their double pedals and walking around with them like they're a briefcase, using the linkage as a handle. I always cringe when I see this because this linkage and its ball bearings were not designed to feel the effects of gravity in this way. While a double pedal is extremely long-lasting when it's used properly, the primary linkage is very fragile, and the continued mistreatment of a double drum pedal can lead to unusual wear at the linkage's U joints and cause sluggish and sloppy action.
Major tip: If you pick up your double pedal fully put together, ALWAYS carry it with two hands, supporting each footboard. Do this even if you are quickly moving offstage after a performance.
If you treat your double pedal properly, you can enjoy a long and happy life together and save yourself $100 a pop for the replacement of a worn out linkage.
Should you have any questions or need specific guidance about your double pedal, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always here to assist!
About the Author:
Victor
Salazar is the owner of Vic's Drum Shop, an internationally renowned drum and
percussion retailer in Chicago, IL. The vast knowledge of drum gear that he's
accumulated over his 40 year career has made Vic a valuable resource for
beginning drummers, drumming hobbyists, professional drummers, and many of the
world's premier drum superstars.
Salazar is the owner of Vic's Drum Shop, an internationally renowned drum and
percussion retailer in Chicago, IL. The vast knowledge of drum gear that he's
accumulated over his 40 year career has made Vic a valuable resource for
beginning drummers, drumming hobbyists, professional drummers, and many of the
world's premier drum superstars.
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