Mt. Juliet, TN June 1, 2026…. Legends are never satisfied and continuously strive for innovation. The legendary Mapex Black Panther snare drum series continues to explore new sonic territory with the commanding voice of the Nemesis and the fast, bright Switchblade. Each bringing the purpose-built legacy of Black Panther to 2026. Each one engineered from the shell out to deliver a voice that is unmistakably, unapologetically its own.

“I love snare drums, and the Mapex design principal is that each one is an instrument,” says Mapex Brand Manager, Jeff Mulvihill. “Each of these instruments has a unique voice with a specific purpose embedded in the design, adding to the Black Panther series sonic flow and expanding the collection.”

The Nemesis:
A 14" x 5.5" seven-ply walnut/padauk hybrid shell chosen for its warm, full-bodied tone with serious punch. Die-cast hoops bring tuning stability and a sonic focus that cuts through any mix. Finished in new Mocha Satin lacquer with offset single “b” lugs, the Nemesis does not ask for attention. It takes it.

The Switchblade:
A 14" x 5.5" six-ply all-maple shell built for speed and sensitivity. Retro-style single-flanged hoops open up the shell’s natural overtones, that produces bright, cutting response. Finished in Aegean Burl lacquer with Mapex’s newest “double b” lug design, the Switchblade is as visually sharp as it sounds.