Best Snare Drums for Metalcore 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Best snare drums for metalcore drumming: what Matt Greiner (Pearl Signature Steel, 2011-2016 era), Matt Halpern (Pearl Reference Brass), and Alex Bent (Tama Starclassic Maple) played. Cutting attack for breakdowns and syncopated riffing — ranked budget to pro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the best metalcore drummers and what snares do they use?
Matt Greiner of August Burns Red currently plays a Mapex Black Panther Design Lab kit (since 2016); Pearl previously released a Matt Greiner signature steel snare during his 2011-2016 Pearl Reference Pure era. Matt Halpern of Periphery plays a Pearl Reference 14x6.5" Brass snare, and Alex Bent of Trivium plays a Tama Starclassic Maple 14x5" snare.
What snare drum does Matt Greiner use?
Matt Greiner of August Burns Red now plays a Mapex Black Panther Design Lab kit, switched to in 2016. Pearl previously released a Matt Greiner signature steel snare tied to his 2011-2016 Pearl Reference Pure era, but no specific snare model is verified for his current Mapex setup.
Steel or brass — which is better for metalcore?
Both work. Steel (the shell Matt Greiner played during his 2011-2016 Pearl era) delivers maximum brightness and crack, ideal for breakdown-heavy material. Brass (Matt Halpern) balances warmth with cutting articulation, while Alex Bent's maple shell trades some brightness for a warmer, fuller tone. Choose steel for maximum breakdown punch, brass for a more rounded tone, maple for warmth.
What snare depth is best for metalcore?
14x6"-6.5" (Matt Greiner's 2011-2016 Pearl era, Matt Halpern currently) adds real crack and body for breakdown-heavy material, while 14x5" (Alex Bent) favors quicker rebound for faster, more technical metalcore. Both depths are common across the genre's top drummers.
Do I need a pro-level snare to play metalcore?
No — a Pearl Export or Tama Stagestar steel snare, tuned moderately tight, will teach real breakdown and syncopation technique at a fraction of the price of the genre's professional signature and Reference models. Upgrade once your technique and budget allow.