Vinnie Paul vs Lars Ulrich — Drum Gear Comparison | MetalForge
Side-by-side gear: Vinnie Paul (Pantera / Damageplan / Hellyeah) vs Lars Ulrich (Metallica). Kits, cymbals, pedals, sticks — compare specs and prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What drum kit does Vinnie Paul use?
Vinnie Paul uses ddrum (brand confirmed; specific kit series unverified) with Sabian (brand per secondary sources; specific models unverified). Vinnie played ddrum Vinnie Paul Signature Series drums with Sabian AA & AAX cymbals and ddrum double pedals. His 14x8" signature snare produced the thunderous crack defining Pantera's groove. Lars plays Tama Starclassic Maple and Birch drums with Zildjian A Custom cymbals and Tama Iron Cobra double pedals.
What drum kit does Lars Ulrich use?
Lars Ulrich uses Tama Starclassic Maple with Zildjian A Custom Series (14" Dyno Beat Hi-Hats, 16", 17" & 18" Rock Crashes, 20" Z Custom China, 22" Ride). Vinnie played ddrum Vinnie Paul Signature Series drums with Sabian AA & AAX cymbals and ddrum double pedals. His 14x8" signature snare produced the thunderous crack defining Pantera's groove. Lars plays Tama Starclassic Maple and Birch drums with Zildjian A Custom cymbals and Tama Iron Cobra double pedals.
Which is better, Vinnie Paul or Lars Ulrich?
Vinnie Paul and Lars Ulrich represent two pillars of American heavy metal. Vinnie delivered the groove that made Pantera untouchable in the 90s; Lars delivered the thrash backbone that took Metallica to stadium level. Neither is defined primarily by technical wizardry — both are defined by feel, power, and the ability to make their bands sound bigger than anyone else.