Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand Review: The Ultimate Blend of Vintage Style and Modern Precision
For years, I struggled with a common drumming dilemma: the trade-off between portability and stability. If you’ve ever played a high-stakes gig with a snare stand that creeps away from you mid-song, or one that refuses to tilt at just the right angle to save your wrists from fatigue, you know exactly what I’m talking about. We often spend thousands on the perfect snare drum, only to mount it on a subpar stand that chokes the resonance or wobbles under a heavy backbeat. This isn’t just a minor annoyance; it’s a fundamental flaw that can ruin your performance and your posture. Finding a stand that looks “vintage-cool” while performing like a modern tank is the holy grail of drum hardware. That’s why I was so eager to put the Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand through its paces. You can check the latest price and availability to see how it fits into your budget before we dive into the nitty-gritty details.
- DESIGNED FOR DRUMMERS WHO VALUE VINTAGE STYLE AND MODERN FUNCTIONALITY: Blending the charm of retro flat base stands with high-performance features, the Gibraltar 8713UA snare stand delivers a perfect...
- LOW MASS FLAT BASE TRIPOD FOR A CLEAN LOOK AND STABLE FOUNDATION: The flat base tripod design creates a sleek, minimal profile that fits perfectly into tight performance spaces, compact studio...
What to Consider Before Buying a Drum Set Snare Drum Stand
A Drum Set Snare Drum Stand is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for maintaining the structural integrity of your kit and ensuring your primary voice—the snare—is positioned for maximum ergonomic efficiency. Without a quality stand, you risk “snare creep,” inconsistent stick rebound, and even physical strain. The right stand acts as an extension of the drum itself, allowing the shell to breathe and vibrate naturally while providing a rock-solid platform for your most aggressive playing.
The ideal customer for this type of product is the gigging professional who needs quick setups, the vintage enthusiast who wants to match the aesthetic of a 1960s kit, or the studio session player who requires micro-precision in drum positioning. While it’s perfect for these groups, it might not be suitable for heavy-metal “bashers” who prefer massive, double-braced tripods that can withstand a literal earthquake, or those on an extremely tight budget who just need something that “holds the drum up.” If you fall into the latter category, you might consider more entry-level, double-braced options.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Consider the footprint of the stand’s base. In tight stage environments or small home studios, a flat-base stand can be a lifesaver, allowing you to tuck the legs under other stands or pedals. We found that the Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand excels in these cramped quarters due to its low-profile tripod.
- Capacity/Performance: Look for the weight capacity and the basket’s ability to hold various drum sizes. A stand should comfortably accommodate anything from a 10-inch side snare to a 14-inch heavy brass beast. The adjustment mechanism—whether geared or gearless—will determine how much control you have over the playing angle.
- Materials & Durability: Not all chrome is created equal. High-quality steel construction and robust plating ensure the stand won’t rust or bend over time. Pay attention to the “soft” parts as well, like the rubber feet and basket tips, as these are the first things to wear out on cheaper models.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider how quickly the stand collapses for transport. Memory locks and smooth-turning wing nuts are essential for fast setups. Long-term maintenance usually involves occasional lubrication of the threads and checking the tension of the basket adjustment.
Understanding these factors is the first step toward making an informed decision. Now, let’s see how this specific Gibraltar model measures up against these industry standards.
While the Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- DOUBLE BRACED STABILITY: No more wobbling or sliding while you play your drum set. Our double-braced tripod base ensures maximum stability and security, even for heavy hitters and aggressive playing...
- ★Adjustable Snare Stand: Snare drum stand with a double-braced tripod for unparalleled stability and versatility! This Drum stand effortlessly adjusts to compatible for Snare drum or practice pad...
- YOUEON snare drum stand with double braced tripod can be adjusted to fit any pad or drum with diameters from 10" - 14" Drums. And the height can be adjusted from 14.5 inches to 23 inches to...
First Impressions: Vintage Vibes and Modern Muscle
Unboxing the Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand is a treat for anyone who appreciates clean industrial design. Straight out of the box, the weight surprised me; at 6.3 pounds, it feels significantly more substantial than the flimsy flat-base stands of yesteryear. It strikes a perfect balance—heavy enough to feel “military-spec,” as some users have noted, but light enough to not break your back during a load-in. To see more of its physical build, you can see its full feature set and user reviews online.
The assembly is intuitive, and the chrome finish is flawless. The most striking feature is the Ultra Adjust ball-style tilter, which looks sleek and promises a level of maneuverability that standard geared stands simply cannot match. Comparing this to market leaders like the DW 6000 series, the Gibraltar feels a bit more “over-engineered” in a good way—it’s more robust and the locking mechanisms feel more “locked-in.” It’s clear that Gibraltar didn’t just want to make a “retro” stand; they wanted to make a professional-grade tool that happens to have a vintage silhouette.
What We Like
- The Ultra Adjust gearless tilter provides 360-degree, infinite angle possibilities.
- The flat-base design is incredibly stable while maintaining a tiny footprint.
- ABS super lock inserts prevent “metal-on-metal” rattling and ensure quiet operation.
- The Key Lock collar system effectively eliminates tripod leg movement during play.
What We Didn’t Like
- The three-arm basket design can occasionally interfere with 10-lug snare drum hoops.
- It is heavier than some might expect for a “lightweight” flat-base style stand.
Deep Dive: Performance Analysis of the Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand
The Revolution of the Ultra Adjust Gearless Tilter
In our testing, the standout feature of the Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand is undeniably the Ultra Adjust gearless tilter. Most snare stands use a “tilter” with teeth (gears). This means you are restricted to specific “clicks” or increments of angle. If your perfect playing position falls between two clicks, you’re out of luck. However, the 8713UA utilizes a ball-and-socket style brake tilter. This allows you to position your snare or tom at literally any angle, in any direction.
We found that this isn’t just about the tilt; it’s about the offset. Because it’s a ball joint, you can move the drum slightly closer or further away from you without moving the base of the stand. This is a feature that really sets it apart for players with complex setups or those who use large bass drums and need to angle their snare just right to clear the hoop. In the studio, this allows for micro-adjustments to the snare’s “sweet spot” for microphones, which can drastically improve your recorded sound.
Flat Base Stability: Aesthetics Meet Engineering
There is a common misconception that flat-base stands are “weak.” The Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand completely debunks this myth. While it looks like a vintage piece of hardware from 1965, the engineering is purely modern. The low-mass flat base tripod creates a wide, stable foundation that stays flush with the floor. We put this to the test by mounting a heavy 14×8-inch deep snare and playing aggressive backbeats. The result? Zero wobble.
The “Key Lock” collar system is a brilliant addition. It ensures that once you set the legs, they aren’t going anywhere. This addresses the number one complaint with vintage hardware—the legs collapsing or shifting under pressure. For drummers who use multiple pedals or have a forest of cymbal stands, the flat base is a godsend. You can slide the flat legs underneath the tripod of a nearby crash stand, saving precious stage real estate. This level of practicality is why many pros are choosing this stand for their touring rigs.
Versatility: From Snare to Rack Tom
One of the most impressive aspects we discovered is how well this stand doubles as a tom stand. Many snare stands “choke” rack toms because the rubber grips are too hard or the basket is too rigid, killing the drum’s natural resonance. The Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand features specially designed rubber tips that allow the drum to vibrate more freely. We tested it with a 13-inch rack tom, and the sustain was noticeably better than when using a standard double-braced snare stand.
The height range is also worth noting. It can go quite low, making it ideal for deep-shelled snares (8 inches or more), but it also reaches high enough for standard applications. However, some users have noted that if you are exceptionally tall and play standing up (like in a concert or orchestral setting), you might need to look at the extended version. For the seated drum set player, the height range is nearly perfect. It’s this adaptability that makes it an exceptional value for the money.
Build Quality and Long-Term Durability
After weeks of setup and teardown, the Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand showed no signs of wear. The hinged height adjustments use ABS “super lock” inserts, which means there is no metal-on-metal contact. This prevents the “scarring” of the tubes that you see on cheaper stands and keeps the adjustment smooth for years. The wing nuts are ergonomically designed and easy on the fingers—a small but significant detail when you’re tearing down a kit in a dark club at 2:00 AM.
The weight of the stand (6.3 lbs) is a testament to the quality of the metal used. It feels “robust” and “heavy-duty,” echoing the sentiment of several users who described it as having “military-spec” construction. While it isn’t the lightest flat-base stand on the market, the extra heft translates directly into stability and longevity. When you invest in this stand, you aren’t just buying a temporary fix; you’re buying a piece of hardware with a 5-year warranty that is built to outlast your drum kit. You can check the latest pricing to see that for this level of build quality, the price point is very competitive.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general consensus among the drumming community is overwhelmingly positive, with many users highlighting the stand’s “rock-solid” feel. One user specifically praised the Ultra Adjust ball, calling it the “military spec of drum stands” and noting how much easier it makes positioning. Another professional player mentioned that after trying various brands like DW and Tama, they found Gibraltar’s flat-base series to be the most functional for a gigging musician, outperforming the competition in terms of strength-to-weight ratio.
However, no product is without its quirks. A common point of discussion is the basket’s compatibility with 10-lug snare drums. As one user pointed out, the three symmetrical arms can sometimes align awkwardly with the lugs or the hoop’s holes. While most find a workaround by slightly rotating the drum, it’s something to keep in mind if you are a stickler for perfect alignment. Additionally, some users who purchased the “short” or “extended” versions expressed a wish for a “medium” height, though for most standard drum set players, the 8713UA hits the sweet spot. Despite these minor gripes, the sentiment is clear: it’s a high-performance upgrade that is “worth the extra money.”
Comparing the Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand to the Competition
1. Donner Double Braced Snare Drum Stand with Stick Holder
- Adjustable basket fits 10"-14" diameter snares drums. 26 to 40 inches Height adjustable to accommodate students of all ages and adaptable to growing drummers
- Equipped with a widely foldable and double-braced design tripod, rubber arm tips and anti-slip rubber feet for stability, the drum stand is also easy for carrying, storage and travel
The Donner stand is a completely different animal, aimed primarily at students and those needing significant height (up to 40 inches). Unlike the Gibraltar 8713UA, it features a traditional double-braced tripod base. While it offers great value for beginners and includes a stick holder, it lacks the professional-grade Ultra Adjust tilter and the space-saving flat base of the Gibraltar. We would recommend the Donner for students or orchestral players on a budget who need to play standing up, but for the serious kit drummer, the Gibraltar offers far superior precision and style.
2. Gibraltar Double Braced Snare Stand
- DOUBLE BRACED STABILITY: No more wobbling or sliding while you play your drum set. Our double-braced tripod base ensures maximum stability and security, even for heavy hitters and aggressive playing...
- LOW-NOISE INSERTS: Say goodbye to unwanted noise and rattling. Our low-noise nylon collar inserts keep your snare sounding clean and crisp, no matter how hard you play.
This is the 8713UA’s “workhorse” cousin. It utilizes a more standard double-braced design and a geared tilter. While it is incredibly reliable and slightly more traditional, it lacks the “infinite” adjustment capabilities of the Ultra Adjust ball joint. If you prefer the look and feel of a standard tripod and don’t mind the “clicks” of a geared tilter, this is a solid, slightly more affordable choice. However, once you experience the freedom of the gearless tilter on the Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand, it’s hard to go back to a standard stand.
3. Griffin TiltPro X 2-Pack Double-Braced Snare Drum Stands
- WITH HEAVY DUTY METAL SNARE BASKET ADJUSTMENT KNOB: New upgraded heavy duty circle metal adjustment basket knob, designed to hold any standard snare drum (6 inches deep), as well as small top drums...
- MOUNT YOUR DRUM OR SNARE DRUM PAD SECURELY: Whether on stage or in the studio, no performer wants to compromise their performance. Sturdy and durable, this premium quality Griffin snare drum stand...
The Griffin 2-pack is all about quantity and economy. It’s an excellent choice for someone who needs to outfit multiple kits or practice pads on a very tight budget. These stands are lightweight and functional but lack the “tank-like” build quality and the specialized resonance-friendly tips of the Gibraltar. While the Griffin stands are fine for home practice, the 8713UA is much better suited for the rigors of professional gigging and high-end studio recording where stability and fine-tuning are paramount.
Final Verdict: A Masterclass in Drum Hardware
The Gibraltar 8713UA Ultra Adjust Flat Base Snare Stand is a rare product that manages to satisfy both the aesthetic-conscious vintage enthusiast and the performance-driven modern professional. Its combination of a stable flat base and the revolutionary Ultra Adjust gearless tilter makes it one of the most versatile stands I have ever used. Whether you’re mounting a heavy snare or a resonant rack tom, this stand provides a secure, “military-spec” foundation that won’t fail you on stage or in the studio.
While the minor interference with 10-lug snares is worth noting, the sheer quality of the materials and the elegance of the design far outweigh any small drawbacks. If you are tired of fighting with geared tilters and bulky tripod legs, this is the upgrade you’ve been waiting for. It’s an investment in your sound, your setup speed, and your peace of mind. I highly recommend that you take a closer look at the Gibraltar 8713UA and experience the difference that professional-grade hardware can make in your playing today.
Last update on 2026-07-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API