Best Ride Cymbals for Metal in 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Discover the best ride cymbals for metal drumming. Expert recommendations on bell-heavy, cutting ride cymbals for thrash, death, and progressive metal, featuring the exact rides used by George Kollias, Mike Portnoy, Dave Lombardo, and Gene Hoglan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ride cymbal do metal drummers use?
George Kollias (Nile) rides a 21" Zildjian A Custom Mega Bell Ride, Mario Duplantier (Gojira) plays the darker 21" Z Custom Mega Bell Ride, and Mike Portnoy rides a 21" Sabian Raw Bell Dry Ride. Gene Hoglan has played a 22" Sabian AAX Ride across Death, Testament, and Dethklok for over two decades.
What size ride cymbal is best for metal?
21"-22" is the metal standard, balancing low-end weight and wash with enough speed for fast patterns. 20" rides respond faster but offer less body — a reasonable choice if you prioritize speed over wash.
Do I need a Mega Bell ride for metal drumming?
Not necessarily. A Mega Bell design like the Zildjian A Custom Mega Bell (George Kollias's choice) is a genuine upgrade if bell accents and fills are a big part of your playing. If you want a more balanced, all-around ride, a standard-bell option like the Sabian AAX (Gene Hoglan's choice) is more versatile.
What's the best budget ride cymbal for metal?
The Zildjian ZBT Ride (€70-90) delivers a genuinely bright, cutting B8 bronze tone with a usable bell at a true beginner price. For a step up, the Sabian XSR Monarch Ride (€130-160) brings B20 bronze — usually reserved for pro cymbals — to a mid-range price.
Dry ride vs washy ride — which is better for metal?
Dry, controlled rides like Sabian's Raw Bell Dry Ride (Mike Portnoy's choice) keep stick definition tight and articulate, ideal for technical and progressive metal. Washier rides like Paiste's Reign Power Ride (Dave Lombardo's choice) build a bigger wall of sound suited to thrash and groove metal.