Best Crash Cymbals for Metal in 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Discover the best crash cymbals for metal drumming. Expert recommendations on fast, explosive accent crashes for thrash, death, and progressive metal, featuring the exact crashes used by Lars Ulrich, Joey Jordison, Gene Hoglan, and Mario Duplantier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What crash cymbal does Lars Ulrich use?
Lars Ulrich uses Zildjian A Custom Rock Crashes in 16", 17", and 18" sizes, part of his Zildjian A Custom setup that has defined Metallica's cymbal sound since the 1996 Load sessions.
What size crash cymbal is best for metal?
16"-19" covers the metal crash range. Smaller crashes (16"-17") respond faster for rapid accents; larger crashes (18"-19") project louder and sustain longer for heavier breakdowns. Most pro drummers, like Mario Duplantier, run multiple sizes.
How many crash cymbals should a metal drummer have?
Most pro metal drummers run 2-4 crashes at different sizes and weights for a graduated range of accent options. Mario Duplantier (Gojira) layers three — 18", 19", and 20" — each with a different tonal character.
What's the best budget crash cymbal for metal?
The Zildjian ZBT Crash (€60-80) delivers a genuinely explosive B8 bronze sound at a true beginner price. For a step up, the Sabian XSR Fast Crash (€100-130) brings B20 bronze — usually reserved for pro cymbals — to a mid-range price.
Crash vs china cymbal — what's the difference for metal?
A crash rings out cleanly with a longer, more musical decay, making it the standard choice for fills and transitions. A china produces a faster, dirtier, more explosive attack with a shorter decay, better suited to accenting breakdowns and blast beat punctuation.