# What hardware you need to add cowbells, cymbals, or extra percussion to a drum setup

Question: What hardware do I need to add cowbells, cymbals, or extra percussion to my drum setup?
Updated: 2026-09-30
Canonical: https://suntekstore.com/guides/mus-what-do-i-need-for-drum-hardware-mounting/

## Short answer

To add cowbells, cymbals, or other small percussion, you usually need a clamp that attaches to an existing stand or rack plus the correct arm or rod for the instrument you want to mount. The right choice depends on where you want the add-on placed, whether you are clamping to a cymbal stand, rack tube, hi-hat area, tom mount, or bass drum hoop, and whether the accessory needs a straight rod, L-rod, or cymbal extension arm.

## Start with the mounting point

The first decision is not the accessory itself but where it will live on your kit. Most add-on percussion hardware works by grabbing an existing stand, rack tube, tom position, hi-hat area, or bass drum hoop, so you want the base piece to match the part of the kit you already have.

If you want to add a cowbell to an existing stand, a dedicated holder such as [Cowbell Mounting Bracket](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78021304/) is the simple route because it is made specifically as a cowbell mounting bracket. If you want more flexibility for different percussion pieces, a general clamp such as [Adjustable Drum Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001057954/) can act as the connector between your stand or rack and a separate arm or rod.

For players who want a percussion piece close to the hi-hat side, [High-Hat Extension Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001222834/) is useful because the listing describes it as an extension clamp that can help place cymbals, cowbells, and other accessories in that zone. If your goal is a very compact setup centered at the bass drum, [Bass Drum Cowbell Mount Adjustable](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001413188/) is the specialized option because it mounts to the bass drum hoop rather than taking up another floor stand.

When you are unsure about fit, check the listing for the clamp style and the tube or hoop it is meant to grab. A small connector like [Drum Clamp 19 Mm 38 Mm](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78033050/) lists 19 mm and 38 mm, so it only makes sense if those sizes line up with the tubes in your setup.

## Choose the right arm or rod for the instrument

Once you know where the hardware will attach, the next job is choosing the piece that actually holds the percussion. Cowbells and blocks often use a rod or L-rod style mount, while splash cymbals and other cymbals usually need a cymbal arm or cymbal holder.

For cowbells, an L-rod or dedicated mount rod is common. [Cowbell Mount Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026712/) is a percussion mount rod made for cowbell mounting, while [Cowbell Mount Holder 8.27](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78022550/) gives you a holder with arm and the listing shows an 8.27 in length, which can matter if you need the bell pushed a little farther from the stand. If you want a clamp and rod together in one piece, [Drum Clamp with L-Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001294148/) and [Drum Tom Clamp with L-Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001287192/) both combine a drum clamp with an L-rod so you can mount auxiliary percussion without shopping for separate parts.

For cymbals, use hardware meant to support a cymbal at the angle you need. [Adjustable Cymbal Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001037306/) is an adjustable cymbal extension arm with a curved shape, which is helpful when you want to reach around other drums or keep the added cymbal within easier reach. [Cymbal Stand Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78030518/) is another cymbal stand extension arm, and [Cymbal Mounting Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78021810/) or [Cymbal Extension Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026708/) can work as the clamp or connector point if your existing stand needs a separate cymbal mounting clamp.

If you are adding more than one extra piece, think of the system as base clamp plus holding arm. A general clamp like [Adjustable Drum Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001057954/) can connect to a rod such as [Cowbell Mount Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026712/) for a cowbell, or to a cymbal arm such as [Cymbal Stand Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78030518/) for a small cymbal, as long as the mounting points match what your stand accepts.

## How the pieces work together on a real setup

A clean add-on setup usually has three parts: the anchor, the support arm, and the instrument mount point. The anchor is the clamp or bracket that grips your existing hardware. The support arm is the rod or extension that places the accessory where your hand can reach it. The instrument mount point is the end that actually accepts the cowbell or cymbal.

For example, a rack or stand tube can take a frame clamp like [Adjustable Drum Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001057954/), then a cowbell rod like [Cowbell Mount Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026712/) or an all-in-one L-rod clamp like [Drum Clamp with L-Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001294148/). If you want a side cymbal without adding another tripod stand, a clamp such as [Cymbal Mounting Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78021810/) can connect an arm like [Cymbal Stand Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78030518/) to your current stand.

A hi-hat side add-on works similarly, but the goal is tighter placement. [High-Hat Extension Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001222834/) is useful here because the listing says it is designed to extend that area for cymbals, cowbells, and other percussion without crowding the setup. A bass-drum-side solution is different because [Bass Drum Cowbell Mount Adjustable](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001413188/) clamps to the hoop and gives you a vertical rod style mount right at the center of the kit.

If you also want to use a tom position as the anchor, [Tom Drum Mount Bracket 12inch](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78025508/) is a tom drum mount bracket listed in a 12 inch size, so it is something to compare carefully against the drum or accessory position you intend to use. The main idea is to keep the anchor strong, the arm length sensible, and the accessory close enough to strike naturally without forcing awkward reach.

## Common mistakes to avoid before ordering

The most common mistake is buying only half of the system. Many drummers order a clamp when they actually need a clamp plus a rod, or they buy a rod without a way to attach it to a stand. Before ordering, picture the complete path from stand or hoop to clamp to arm to instrument.

Another mistake is assuming all tube sizes and mounts are interchangeable. They are not. [Drum Clamp 19 Mm 38 Mm](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78033050/) specifically lists 19 mm and 38 mm, so treat those as fit checks rather than general estimates. If a listing does not state the receiving size for your instrument, compare the rod type, clamp opening, and the hardware already on your kit.

Do not use cymbal hardware when you really need a cowbell rod, or vice versa. [Adjustable Cymbal Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001037306/) is described as a cymbal extension arm, while [Cowbell Mount Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026712/) is described as a cowbell mount rod; choosing the wrong style can leave you with the right clamp but no practical way to secure the accessory.

Finally, avoid overloading one stand with too many add-ons. Even sturdy pieces like [Drum Tom Clamp with L-Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001287192/) or [Drum Clamp with L-Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001294148/) still depend on the stability of the stand they are attached to. Keep heavier or more frequently hit accessories on the strongest anchor point available, and use specialized mounts when placement matters more than squeezing everything onto one stand.

## A typical kit

1. [Adjustable Drum Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001057954/): Use this as the main anchor clamp when you want to add an arm or rod to an existing rack or stand.
2. [Cowbell Mount Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026712/): This rod is the simple choice for mounting a cowbell or similar percussion piece from a compatible clamp.
3. [Adjustable Cymbal Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001037306/): Pick this when you need an adjustable extension arm to place an extra cymbal at a useful angle.
4. [High-Hat Extension Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001222834/): This is a compact extension clamp for adding a cowbell or cymbal near the hi-hat side of the kit.
5. [Bass Drum Cowbell Mount Adjustable](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001413188/): Choose this if you want a dedicated cowbell mount that attaches to the bass drum hoop instead of another stand.
6. [Drum Clamp with L-Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001294148/): This clamp with L-rod is a good all-in-one option for mounting auxiliary percussion from an existing stand.

## FAQ

### Can I add a cowbell without buying another full stand?

Yes. In many setups, a clamp-and-rod solution is enough, such as pairing [Adjustable Drum Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001057954/) with [Cowbell Mount Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026712/), or using an all-in-one piece like [Drum Clamp with L-Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001294148/). You can also use a dedicated bass drum option like [Bass Drum Cowbell Mount Adjustable](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001413188/) if you want the bell mounted from the hoop instead of a stand.

### What is the difference between a clamp, an arm, and a rod?

A clamp is the part that grabs your existing stand, rack, or hoop. An arm or rod is the part that extends outward and holds the accessory in playing position. For example, [Adjustable Cymbal Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001037306/) is an extension arm for cymbals, while [Cowbell Mount Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026712/) is a mount rod aimed at cowbell use.

### How do I know if the hardware will fit my stand or rack?

Check the listing for any stated tube sizes, clamp range, or mount style, then compare that with the hardware already on your kit. [Drum Clamp 19 Mm 38 Mm](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78033050/) is a good reminder because it specifically lists 19 mm and 38 mm, which means it should only be chosen when those dimensions match your setup.

### What should I use for a splash or extra cymbal?

Start with a clamp or connector on an existing stand, then add a cymbal arm. [Adjustable Cymbal Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001037306/) and [Cymbal Stand Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78030518/) are the examples here, while [Cymbal Mounting Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78021810/) or [Cymbal Extension Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026708/) can serve as the clamp point if your stand needs a separate cymbal mounting connector.

### Is a hi-hat side mount different from a bass drum mount?

Yes, because the anchor point and the playing position are different. [High-Hat Extension Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001222834/) is aimed at extending the hi-hat area for compact placement, while [Bass Drum Cowbell Mount Adjustable](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001413188/) is meant to attach directly to the bass drum hoop for a centered cowbell position.

## Shop the list

Live price, availability and delivery window for every item mentioned above.

- [Adjustable Drum Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001057954/): 32.99 USD, in stock, delivery 12-22 days, SKU DCD-10001057954 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001057954.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/DCD-10001057954?qty=1))
- [Cowbell Mount Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026712/): 14.99 USD, in stock, delivery 7-15 days, SKU ST-78026712 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026712.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/ST-78026712?qty=1))
- [Adjustable Cymbal Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001037306/): 37.14 USD, in stock, delivery 12-22 days, SKU DCD-10001037306 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001037306.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/DCD-10001037306?qty=1))
- [High-Hat Extension Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001222834/): 30.79 USD, in stock, delivery 12-22 days, SKU DCD-10001222834 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001222834.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/DCD-10001222834?qty=1))
- [Bass Drum Cowbell Mount Adjustable](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001413188/): 15.09 USD, in stock, delivery 12-22 days, SKU DCD-10001413188 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001413188.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/DCD-10001413188?qty=1))
- [Drum Clamp with L-Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001294148/): 29.29 USD, in stock, delivery 12-22 days, SKU DCD-10001294148 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001294148.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/DCD-10001294148?qty=1))
- [Drum Clamp 19 Mm 38 Mm](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78033050/): 19.59 USD, in stock, delivery 7-15 days, SKU ST-78033050 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78033050.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/ST-78033050?qty=1))
- [Cowbell Mounting Bracket](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78021304/): 36.59 USD, in stock, delivery 7-15 days, SKU ST-78021304 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78021304.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/ST-78021304?qty=1))
- [Cowbell Mount Holder 8.27](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78022550/): 15.39 USD, in stock, delivery 7-15 days, SKU ST-78022550 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78022550.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/ST-78022550?qty=1))
- [Cymbal Stand Extension Arm](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78030518/): 19.69 USD, in stock, delivery 7-15 days, SKU ST-78030518 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78030518.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/ST-78030518?qty=1))
- [Cymbal Mounting Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78021810/): 19.49 USD, in stock, delivery 7-15 days, SKU ST-78021810 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78021810.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/ST-78021810?qty=1))
- [Cymbal Extension Clamp](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026708/): 18.79 USD, in stock, delivery 7-15 days, SKU ST-78026708 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78026708.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/ST-78026708?qty=1))
- [Drum Tom Clamp with L-Rod](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001287192/): 30.09 USD, in stock, delivery 11-21 days, SKU DCD-10001287192 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/DCD-10001287192.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/DCD-10001287192?qty=1))
- [Tom Drum Mount Bracket 12inch](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78025508/): 44.89 USD, in stock, delivery 7-15 days, SKU ST-78025508 ([facts](https://suntekstore.com/p/ST-78025508.md), [buy](https://suntekstore.com/buy/ST-78025508?qty=1))

Store policies: free standard shipping to the US, 30-day returns. See https://suntekstore.com/llms.txt