Gear article

Gibraltar Ball & L-Rod Tom Arm (10.5mm)

The Gibraltar Ball & L-Rod Tom Arm is a heavy-duty drum mounting component designed to integrate additional rack toms into a drum kit. It features a 10.5mm L-rod and a 2.2cm diameter down tube, offering universal compatibility with a wide range of mounting clamps and bass drum brackets.

Gibraltar Hardware Gibraltar Ball & L-Rod Tom Arm 10.5mm
Gibraltar Hardware Gibraltar Ball & L-Rod Tom Arm 10.5mm
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Overview

The Gibraltar Ball & L-Rod Tom Arm is a versatile mounting solution for drummers looking to expand their setup. It acts as the bridge between a support stand—such as a cymbal stand or a dedicated tom stand—and the rack tom itself. By utilising a standard L-rod format, it allows for the secure suspension of drums equipped with 10.5mm mounting brackets.

Design and Adjustment

A primary feature of this hardware is its ball-in-socket adjustment mechanism. This design provides 360-degree adjustability, allowing the user to position the tom at virtually any angle to suit their ergonomic requirements. The unit includes a memory lock on the down tube, which ensures that height settings remain consistent across multiple sessions and reduces set-up time during live performances.

Yamaha HS740A Hi Hat Stand
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Compatibility and Construction

The down tube has a diameter of 2.2cm, making it compatible with the majority of standard multi-clamps and bass drum mounting plates found in the industry. The sturdy construction is intended to withstand the vibrations and weight associated with heavy rack toms. The 10.5mm L-rod is a common specification for many modern drum manufacturers, ensuring broad utility across different brands.

Market Context

Priced around £53, this tom arm sits in a mid-to-high tier for individual hardware components. It competes with other high-end mounting solutions such as the Tama Roadpro series or Pearl's specialized holders. While other brands like Dixon or Sonor offer their own proprietary mounts, Gibraltar's reputation for universal hardware makes this a popular choice for drummers mixing and matching components from different manufacturers.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the diameter of the L-rod on this Gibraltar mount?
The L-rod on this specific model is 10.5mm in diameter. This is a standard size that fits many modern rack tom brackets from various drum manufacturers.
Will the down tube fit into a standard bass drum mount?
Yes, the down tube is 2.2cm in diameter. This size is compatible with most standard bass drum mounts and multi-clamps designed for drum hardware.
Does this tom arm allow for full rotation?
The arm features a ball-joint mechanism that provides 360-degree adjustability. This allows the drummer to set the rack tom at any angle required for their playing style.
Is a memory lock included with the Gibraltar Ball & L-Rod Tom Arm?
Yes, the product includes a memory lock on the down tube. This helps ensure fast and consistent installation by locking in the desired height and position.
What is the typical price for this hardware component?
The typical price range for this Gibraltar tom arm is approximately GBP 53. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current market availability.
Can I use this arm to add a tom to a cymbal stand?
Yes, it can be used to add a rack tom to an existing setup by using a compatible multi-clamp to attach the 2.2cm down tube to a cymbal stand. Its sturdy construction is designed for this specific purpose.
Is this product compatible with 12.7mm tom brackets?
No, this specific model features a 10.5mm L-rod. If your drum requires a 12.7mm rod, you would need to look for the larger diameter version of the Gibraltar L-rod.
How does the ball joint lock into place?
The ball joint is typically tightened using a wing nut or bolt mechanism on the side of the housing. Once tightened, the sturdy construction holds the ball securely at the chosen angle.
Is the construction durable enough for touring?
Yes, Gibraltar is known for sturdy construction and heavy-duty hardware. This tom arm is specifically described as ideal for drummers looking to safely mount rack toms in professional or frequent-use environments.
How does this compare to the Tama Roadpro Single Tom Stand?
While the Tama Roadpro is a full stand assembly, the Gibraltar Ball & L-Rod is a component part. The Gibraltar arm offers similar high-end adjustability but is intended to be integrated into existing stands rather than standing alone.
Can this be used for electronic drum pads?
If the electronic drum pad uses a 10.5mm mounting bracket, this arm will work. However, users should check the specific diameter requirements of their electronic pads before purchase.
What finish is the hardware?
Like most Gibraltar hardware, this tom arm features a professional chrome finish. This provides a clean aesthetic that matches most standard drum kits and hardware sets.