GRIFFIN Piccolo Snare Drum 13in x 3.5in - Bright, Tight Piccolo Tone

In this review the GRIFFIN piccolo snare drum is judged as a compact, purpose-built addition for drummers who want a bright, cutting snare voice. Its small 13in diameter and 3.5in depth deliver a high-pitched, articulate attack that suits rock, acoustic sets, and smaller live stages; the single biggest reason to buy is the focused piccolo tone that cuts through a mix while taking up minimal kit space. The drum feels aimed at players who want a distinctive secondary snare rather than a full-time replacement for a standard depth snare.

Key Features

• Piccolo size and tone: The 13in x 3.5in dimensions produce a high-pitched, tight snap that works well for rimshots and articulate backbeats.
• Poplar wood shell: A 3-ply, 7.5 mm poplar shell gives a warm wooden character while keeping the shell light and responsive.
• White coated head: The white powder coated snare head provides a focused attack and a visually clean surface suited for stage use.
• Six tuning lugs: Multiple lugs allow finer tuning control so players can dial in a firmer, crisper tension for brighter articulation.
• Carved snare beds: Built-in snare beds let the snare wires sit flush against the bottom head to reduce unwanted buzz and improve sensitivity.
• Included drum key and throw-off: The drum key and snare strainer/throw off make setup and tension changes straightforward for gigging drummers.

Who It's For

The piccolo snare is ideal for drummers in rock bands, acoustic ensembles, churches, school performances, and studio sessions who need a bright, cutting secondary snare. It is particularly useful when a compact, high-pitched tone is desired for fills, backbeats, or as a complementary voice to a deeper main snare.

Players seeking a full-bodied main snare with deep low-end presence should look elsewhere; this drum is not intended to replace a standard depth snare for those who prioritize body and resonance over a sharp piccolo attack. Also, players wanting premium exotic woods or heavy-duty metal hardware may find the construction adequate but not luxurious.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Bright, focused piccolo sound that cuts through mixes for live and acoustic settings.
• Poplar shell offers a balanced woody tone while keeping the drum lightweight.
• Snare beds and six lugs help reduce buzz and improve tuning stability and response.
• Good value for money for a purpose-built piccolo snare kit with included drum key.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed impressions of build quality and hardware finish compared with higher-end models.
• Not suited as a primary deep-sounding snare for players who need low-end body and sustain.

Specifications

Diameter	13 in
Depth	3.5 in
Shell material	3-ply poplar, 7.5 mm
Head	White coated snare head
Tuning lugs	6 lugs
Finish	Black PVC wrap with poplar wood shell
Extras	Drum key included, snare strainer/throw off

Our Verdict

The GRIFFIN 13in x 3.5in piccolo snare is a practical, value-oriented choice for drummers who need a bright, tight secondary snare that cuts through on stage and in the studio. Its poplar construction, snare beds, and six-lug tuning give useful control and a reliable piccolo voice, making it a sensible addition to a percussion setup for those who prioritize attack and portability over deep resonance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this snare suitable for live rock performances?
Yes. The high-pitched, articulate piccolo tone is designed to cut through band mixes and works well for rock and amplified settings.

Can this be used as a primary snare?
It can be used as a primary snare in some setups, but players seeking a fuller, deeper main snare will likely prefer a deeper shell instead.

Does it include a drum key and strainer?
Yes. The package includes a drum key and a snare throw-off/strainer for setup and quick adjustments.