New Slug Batter Badge and Bass Drum Beater Patent

Batter Badge

Power Head Bass Drum Beater

Slug just announced a new member to its line of Batter Badge impact pads for acoustic drums. The BB-STR measures 7" in diameter, and provides a large "sweet spot" ideal for snare drums. This clear pad has a list price of $9.95 (US), and will be available this summer.

Slug's line of Batter Badge impact pads are designed to protect drumheads from dings, dents, and dimples. The radially extending tendril arms of the Batter Badge allow the drumhead to flex, and prevent denting by absorbing impact over a larger surface area. They are made of tough, wear resistant polycarbonate film, and are easy to apply with a perminant adhesive backing.

Slug Percussion Products has been awarded a second patent from the United States Patent Office, for its Power Head foot pedal beater. New patented features include the beater head shape and tapered shaft.

The first patent award was for the beater's unique Unitary-Axle design (which makes the beater head free-floating, rotatable without tools, and self-adjusting). Included in the first patent is the assembly of the beater, using two snap-fitting caps of a singular hermaphroditic design, holding the head and shaft together, and allowing the Unitary-Axle to function.

Product development director, Eric Behrenfeld comments, "This second patent focuses on the unique shape of the beater head and its tapered shaft design. The head shape produces two distinct sounds and playing feels. The 'slotted-hammer-head' design prevents any 'slap' or suction effect when impacting the drumhead. The tapered shaft increases impact force because it has more top-end weight, and is stronger than any normal rod stock commonly found on other beaters. "

Slug now plans on incorporating the patented tapered shaft into new bass drum beater head shapes that the company is developing.