Steps to Reduce Your Chance of Cracking a Zildjian Cymbal.

Introduction by guest poster AnnMarie Sanfilippo. 

It is very rare for a cymbal to break when used correctly. If you find that you are breaking cymbals often, the problem is usually related to misapplication, positioning, or striking technique.

All new Zildjian Cymbals carry a 2-year warranty against manufacturing flaws. To replace a cymbal under warranty, you will first need to locate your receipt as proof of purchase before submitting a warranty claim. If you do not have a receipt, the store where you purchased the cymbal should be able to provide you with a copy upon request.

All cymbals must pass an evaluation process before being replaced. A cymbal will not be replaced if it has been misplayed, dropped, played with excessive force, bought second hand, used in a lease program, or if more than two years have passed since the purchase of the cymbal.

Five Steps You Can Take to Reduce Your Risk of Cracking Cymbals

Zildjian cymbals are sturdy and reliable cymbals, and normally do not crack unless they are misused or treated poorly. It is almost always the users' fault if a cymbal cracks. Here are some steps you can take to make sure you don't crack your cymbals. 

1. Mount it correctly. When setting up your cymbals, make sure they are mounted properly on a stand. The diagram below details the proper procedure for mounting the cymbal. First, a plastic washer/sleeve is placed on the stand (labeled f and c on the diagram). This should be followed by a thick felt (e), upon which the cymbal (d) should be mounted. From there, another felt (b) should be placed on top of the cymbal. Finally, a wing nut (a) should be used to tighten it all together. But not too tight, or you will risk cracking the center bell of the cymbal. Tighten it enough so the cymbal cannot flop all the way up and down, but loose enough that it can freely resonate. You'll know if it's too tight if it doesn't move!

A diagram detailing the proper way to set up a cymbal. (Photo Credit: Avedis Zildjian Company)

2. Play it properly. One of the main reasons I've seen people crack cymbals is because they do not play it properly, and so damage it over time. Playing the cymbal too aggressively or improperly will result in a much shorter lifespan and increase the chances of cracking the cymbal. If it's a crash cymbal, don't strike vertically through it, but make a glancing blow. Our blog post here goes into more details about proper technique while playing. 

3. Clean it regularly. Cleaning Zildjian cymbals will help to retain their polish and finish, which can work wonders in the long run. If you need to know more about the specifics of cymbal cleaning, click here!

4. Store it appropriately. Zildjian cymbals, and any cymbal, should be stored in a room temperature environment. Temperature fluctuations can damage many kinds of musical equipment, so making sure it is stored in a dry and room temperature environment will reduce the risk of environmental damage. 

5. Treat it well! Especially if you are a gigging musician who takes his or her cymbals on the road a lot, make sure you do not mistreat your cymbals. As AnnMarie pointed out in the introduction, make sure they are not dropped, played intensely, or abused. Doing so will not only increase the risk of breaking the cymbal, but will ensure that you cannot get the cymbal replaced if it cracks due to your own misuse of it. 

If visuals/videos are more your style, then this video will show you the basics of cymbal care. 

Disclaimer: this blog is for educational purposes only.