What snare did Lars Ulrich use on Master of Puppets?

Lars used a Ludwig Supraphonic LM402 (14"x6.5" aluminum) on Master of Puppets. It's one of the most iconic thrash snare tones ever recorded.

Steel or brass snare for thrash metal?

Steel is more common for aggressive, cutting thrash tones. Brass works well for groove-influenced thrash or drummers wanting warmth with projection. Both are used by thrash legends.

What size snare is best for fast thrash?

14"x5" to 14"x5.5" provides the quickest response for high-speed playing. Deeper snares (6.5"+) add body but sacrifice some responsiveness at extreme tempos.

Should I use die-cast or triple-flanged hoops?

Die-cast hoops are preferred for thrash—they provide more focused attack and consistent tuning. Triple-flanged hoops are more forgiving but may lack the precision of die-cast.

Can I use a wood snare for thrash metal?

While metal shells dominate thrash, maple or birch snares can work with proper tuning and EQ. They're less common but offer a different texture if you want to stand out.

How tight should I tune my thrash snare?

Medium-high is the sweet spot—tight enough for crack and response, but not so tight you lose body. Listen to classic albums as reference and adjust from there.