Best Drum Pedals for Thrash Metal 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What drum pedals does Dave Lombardo use?

Dave Lombardo of Slayer uses Pearl Demon Drive double pedals. The direct drive action and NiNjA bearing system give him the frictionless, sustained speed that has defined his double bass drumming since pioneering the style on Slayer's 'Reign in Blood.'

What pedal does Charlie Benante from Anthrax use?

Charlie Benante uses a Tama Speed Cobra double pedal. Its direct drive action and lightweight design support the extremely fast double kick technique that helped him popularize blast beat drumming within thrash metal across all 11 of Anthrax's studio albums.

Direct drive or chain drive — which is better for thrash metal?

Both work at the highest level. Dave Lombardo, Gene Hoglan, and Charlie Benante all use direct drive pedals (Pearl Demon Drive, Tama Speed Cobra) for maximum speed and precision. Lars Ulrich has driven Metallica's entire catalog on chain drive (Tama Iron Cobra 900), proving it remains a fully viable, reliable choice. Direct drive suits maximum speed; chain drive suits proven, road-tested reliability.

What pedal does Lars Ulrich use?

Lars Ulrich of Metallica uses a Tama Iron Cobra 900 Power Glide double pedal. Its dual cam system — Power Glide for linear response and Rolling Glide for progressive acceleration — has powered Metallica's thrash metal rhythms from 'Kill 'Em All' through their entire stadium-touring career.

Do I need a direct drive pedal to play thrash metal?

No — Lars Ulrich's entire Metallica career runs on chain drive. Direct drive pedals like the Pearl Demon Drive or Tama Speed Cobra offer a slight edge in top-end speed and precision, but chain drive remains fully competitive at the highest professional level. Focus on developing consistent technique before worrying about drive type.