Gretsch USA Custom Drums Unboxing – My Burnt Orange Beauties
Introduction
Few names in the drum world carry as much history and respect as Gretsch USA Custom. For decades, these kits have been at the heart of that “Great Gretsch Sound” — a tone that drummers recognize instantly for its warmth, punch, and musicality.
I recently received my brand-new Gretsch USA Custom kit in Burnt Orange Gloss Lacquer, and I couldn’t be more excited to share the story behind these drums, along with my personal journey unboxing and exploring them.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
The USA Custom line traces its roots back to the 1950s. Built in Gretsch’s Ridgeland, South Carolina factory, these drums are handcrafted with a meticulous process that hasn’t strayed far from their origins.
The shells are 6-ply maple/gum with Gretsch’s signature Silver Sealer interior, a combination that gives them their iconic warm, round tone with plenty of articulation. Every bearing edge is hand-cut, ensuring tuning consistency and maximum resonance.
Gretsch also uses their famous die-cast hoops, which provide focus, controlled sustain, and that unmistakable punch that sits perfectly in live and studio settings.
The Build Process
Walking through the Gretsch factory, one thing that struck me was how much of the process is still done by hand. From the way the shells are formed to the precision sanding and finishing, it’s clear that every kit that leaves the floor has been touched by expert craftspeople who take pride in their work.
The lacquer finishes are another highlight. My kit’s Burnt Orange Gloss Lacquer glows under the light, a rich and modern look that still carries a vintage vibe. On top of that, Gretsch graciously allowed me to take my order one step further by selecting vintage square badges for my drums, instead of the standard badges that typically come with the USA Customs. It’s a subtle but meaningful touch that connects this new kit directly to Gretsch’s classic heritage.
My Setup
My new setup includes:
- Rack Toms: 7×8, 7×10, 8×12
- Floor Tom: 16×16
- Kick Drum: 16×22
This configuration gives me a ton of tonal range in the studio, from high, articulate voices in the 8” tom to a deep, thunderous low end in the 16” floor tom. The 22” bass drum has the perfect mix of punch and boom, versatile enough for rock, funk, or studio work.
The Unboxing Experience
Unboxing a set like this is something special. At least it is for me. From the moment I cracked open the boxes, the craftsmanship and beauty of the Burnt Orange finish stood out. I could also smell the silver sealer. It’s not just a drum kit — it’s an instrument with history, character, and a voice that inspires you to play.
A Visit to the Factory
I was fortunate enough to get my very own private tour of the Gretsch Drums factory by the Director of Operations, Josh Safer. I got to meet a lot of the wonderful Gretsch Drums staff and team that are responsible for making these incredible instruments. This is somewhat of a private thing where not a lot of videos or photos are allowed, and for good reason. I included some photos of my tour in the above video, but here is a Gretsch-approved video done by Nick D'virgilio for Sweetwater. In this video you can see exactly how these drums are brought to life. Watching the care and expertise of the team gave me a whole new appreciation for what it means to play Gretsch Drums, and especially their Flagship USA Customs.
To be able to walk through this facility and experience every step of the process was absolutely incredible. I even got to see a semi-retired workhorse drill press machine known as #301. It was used to drill the shells of every Gretsch drum up until the year 2013 I believe. It is still used today for cases where the new machines are not able to do the job for whatever reason. Lastly, I was told that I could see the Silver Sealer Room and how the Silver Sealer is made, but then they would have to kill me. Needless to say, we stayed clear of that room that holds the secret sauce.
Final Thoughts
The Gretsch USA Custom series is more than just a drum kit — it’s a piece of history. A tradition of craftsmanship, and a sound that has shaped countless recordings and performances. Owning a set in Burnt Orange Gloss Lacquer, complete with the vintage square badges, feels like being part of that legacy, while also finding my own voice behind the kit.
If you’ve ever wondered what makes that Great Gretsch Sound, I invite you to check out my future videos and hear these drums for yourself.
Take Care and keep groovin'!
J. P. Morrison
jp@jpmorrisondrums.com
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