6 Best Backwards Bass Drum Pedal Options for Drummers (2026)

Updated November 2026

A backwards bass drum pedal is built to be set up in reverse, with the footboard, beater and spring arrangement flipped so the drummer can work the kick in an unusual orientation. Drummers look for this kind of pedal when they play left-handed, when they want a different feel on the kick, or when a kit layout makes a standard setup awkward. This list compares six real pedals from Amazon US with the selection criteria used here: how easily the pedal can be configured in reverse, build quality and hardware durability, adjustability of beater angle and spring tension, chain or drive type, and how well the design suits beginners versus gigging players. The aim is to help you match a pedal to your playing position and practice space.

Our Top Picks

Quick Comparison

Product	Best for	Key feature
Bass Drum Pedal, Single Kick Drum Pedal, Heavy-Duty Footboard Chain Drive	Beginners and general practice	Adjustable beater angle and spring tension
DW 2000 Series Double Bass Pedal	Left-handed and reversed setups	Double-pedal hardware from a well-known drum brand
Tama Standard Double-bass Drum Pedal	Gigging drummers	Standard double-pedal design
Single Bass Drum Pedal, Kick Drum Pedal for Drum Set Instrument	Budget-minded beginners	Single-chain drive
Double Bass Drum Pedal 2 Chain Double Kick Drum Pedal	Double-kick builds	Two chains with two-way beater heads
Pacific Drums and Percussion 700 Series Double (Single Chain) Bass Drum Pedal (PDDP712)	Practice rooms and home kits	700 Series build with single-chain drive

Bass Drum Pedal, Single Kick Drum Pedal, Heavy-Duty Footboard Chain Drive

Best for: Beginners and general practice

This single pedal suits drummers who want a straightforward setup they can rotate or reposition without a lot of hardware complexity. It is a good starting point if you are learning how beater angle and spring tension affect rebound.

Key specs

• Single kick pedal with a chain drive
• Heavy-duty footboard
• Adjustable beater angle and spring tension

Pros

• Adjustments are easy to reach without tools
• Chain drive gives a direct, responsive feel
• Suitable for both practice and light performance

Cons

• Single-pedal design is not ideal for double-kick playing
• Owners often recommend tightening hardware after the first few weeks

Bottom line: A sensible first pick for a drummer who wants a reversible-friendly single pedal with room to adjust as skills grow.

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DW 2000 Series Double Bass Pedal

Best for: Left-handed and reversed setups

The DW 2000 Series is a double bass pedal from a brand widely known in the drum industry. It fits drummers who need a reliable double pedal they can configure in a non-standard position.

Key specs

• Double bass pedal configuration
• Part of DW’s 2000 Series hardware line

Pros

• Well-established brand with broad parts support
• Double configuration suits modern rock and metal patterns
• Hardware is generally described by owners as stable under heavy use

Cons

• Setup in reverse takes more time than a single pedal
• Double pedals have more moving parts to maintain

Bottom line: Best for drummers who need a dependable double pedal and are comfortable with a more involved setup.

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Tama Standard Double-bass Drum Pedal

Best for: Gigging drummers

This Tama double pedal is aimed at players who move between rehearsal spaces and stages and want a familiar, road-ready feel. It suits drummers who value consistent response across sessions.

Key specs

• Standard double-bass configuration
• Tama brand hardware

Pros

• Tama is a well-known name with wide community support
• Standard layout makes it easy to learn and transfer between kits
• Owners often describe the feel as balanced

Cons

• Reversing the orientation requires careful alignment
• Heavier than some single pedals when transported

Bottom line: A good match for gigging drummers who want a dependable double pedal with a familiar layout.

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Single Bass Drum Pedal, Kick Drum Pedal for Drum Set Instrument

Best for: Budget-minded beginners

This single-chain kick pedal is designed for beginners and pros alike, and its simple construction makes it a low-commitment way to try a reversed or alternative setup before investing in premium hardware.

Key specs

• Single-chain drive
• Designed for drum set use

Pros

• Simple design is quick to set up
• Good entry point for experimenting with orientation
• Fewer parts than a double pedal

Cons

• Budget builds may require more frequent hardware checks
• Not suited to double-kick patterns

Bottom line: A practical choice for drummers who want to test a backwards setup without a large commitment.

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Double Bass Drum Pedal 2 Chain Double Kick Drum Pedal with 2 Way Beater Heads and Drum Keys

Best for: Double-kick builds

This double pedal includes two chains and two-way beater heads, which suits drummers building a double-kick kit who want the flexibility to swap beater faces. The included drum keys help with setup.

Key specs

• Two-chain double kick configuration
• Two-way beater heads
• Drum keys included

Pros

• Two-way beater heads offer tonal variety
• Included keys simplify adjustments
• Double configuration suits faster patterns

Cons

• Two chains add setup time when reversing orientation
• Owners sometimes report that beater heads need occasional re-seating

Bottom line: A good fit for drummers who want a double-kick pedal with extra beater options and a practical toolkit.

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Pacific Drums and Percussion 700 Series Double (Single Chain) Bass Drum Pedal (PDDP712)

Best for: Practice rooms and home kits

The Pacific 700 Series is a double-pedal configuration with a single-chain drive, a combination that tends to suit drummers who prioritize a smooth, consistent feel during practice sessions at home.

Key specs

• Double pedal configuration with single-chain drive
• 700 Series build

Pros

• Single chain keeps the mechanism simpler to adjust
• Pacific is associated with reliable entry-to-mid hardware
• Works well for steady practice routines

Cons

• Single-chain double pedals can feel different from dual-chain designs
• Fewer owner reports available compared with long-established double pedals

Bottom line: A solid pick for home drummers who want a double pedal with straightforward adjustment.

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Buying Guide

Setup Direction and Pedal Orientation

A backwards bass drum pedal is only useful if the footboard, beater and spring arrangement can be oriented the way you need. Check whether the pedal’s mounting hardware and footboard can be rotated or reversed, and whether the manufacturer specifies a reversed configuration. Measure the distance from the pedal to your hi-hat and throne before you buy so the reversed layout doesn’t crowd your foot path.

Good picks for this: Bass Drum Pedal, Single Kick Drum Pedal, Heavy-Duty Footboard Chain Drive; DW 2000 Series Double Bass Pedal

Single Versus Double Configuration

Single pedals are simpler to reverse and adjust. Double pedals add a second beater and footboard, which means more hardware to align when the pedal is turned around. If you only play single-kick patterns, a single pedal keeps the setup manageable. If you need double-kick capability, plan for extra time during setup.

Good picks for this: Single Bass Drum Pedal, Kick Drum Pedal for Drum Set Instrument; Tama Standard Double-bass Drum Pedal

Chain Drive and Feel

Chain drives are common on many kick pedals and are often described by drummers as direct and responsive. Check whether the pedal uses a single chain or two chains, since two-chain designs can feel different underfoot. Try to play the pedal, or read owner descriptions, before committing to a particular drive style.

Good picks for this: Double Bass Drum Pedal 2 Chain Double Kick Drum Pedal; Pacific Drums and Percussion 700 Series Double (Single Chain) Bass Drum Pedal (PDDP712)

Beater Angle and Spring Tension

Beater angle and spring tension control how the pedal rebounds and how the beater meets the head. Look for pedals that let you adjust both independently. In reversed setups, you may need to re-set these values from scratch because the geometry changes. Take your time with small adjustments and note the settings that feel right.

Good picks for this: Bass Drum Pedal, Single Kick Drum Pedal, Heavy-Duty Footboard Chain Drive; Double Bass Drum Pedal 2 Chain Double Kick Drum Pedal

Build Quality and Durability

Heavy-duty footboards, solid hardware and well-made bearings matter most for players who practice daily or gig regularly. Owners often report that budget pedals may need more frequent tightening of bolts and clamps. Inspect welds, footboard finish and hinge points before buying, and budget time for periodic checks.

Good picks for this: Tama Standard Double-bass Drum Pedal; DW 2000 Series Double Bass Pedal

Use Case: Practice, Recording or Gigging

A pedal for home practice can prioritize quiet, smooth action and easy adjustment. A gigging pedal should prioritize durability and a feel you can trust under pressure. Recording work benefits from consistent response between takes. Match the pedal to where you use it most.

Good picks for this: Pacific Drums and Percussion 700 Series Double (Single Chain) Bass Drum Pedal (PDDP712); Tama Standard Double-bass Drum Pedal

Care and Maintenance

Keep the chain and bearings clean, check for loose bolts after each session, and lubricate moving parts according to the manufacturer’s guidance. Reversed pedals may wear unevenly, so periodically inspect beater alignment and footboard position. Replacement beaters and felts are easy to swap if they wear out.

Good picks for this: Bass Drum Pedal, Single Kick Drum Pedal, Heavy-Duty Footboard Chain Drive; Double Bass Drum Pedal 2 Chain Double Kick Drum Pedal

FAQ

What does a backwards bass drum pedal actually mean?

It refers to a bass drum pedal set up with the footboard, beater and spring arrangement oriented in reverse from the usual position. Drummers use this for left-handed playing, unusual kit layouts or personal preference. Not every pedal supports this, so check the manufacturer’s setup information.

Can any bass drum pedal be set up backwards?

Many pedals can be reconfigured, but the exact method depends on the design. Some have mounting hardware that allows rotation, while others require adjustments to the chain and beater path. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting a reversed setup to avoid damaging the hardware.

Is a single pedal better than a double pedal for reversed setups?

A single pedal is generally simpler to reverse because there is only one footboard and beater to align. A double pedal can work well too, but expect more setup time. Choose based on whether you need double-kick capability.

How do I know if the spring tension is right after reversing?

Start with the manufacturer’s recommended setting, then play a few slow strokes and listen for even rebound. If the beater returns too slowly or bounces too much, adjust tension in small increments. Keeping a note of changes helps you return to a setting that feels right.

Do I need special tools to set up a backwards pedal?

Most pedals require only basic drum keys or hex wrenches, though some include them in the box. Having a drum key and a small screwdriver on hand usually covers standard adjustments.

Will a backwards pedal wear out faster?

There is no established evidence that reversing a pedal causes faster wear, but uneven alignment can increase stress on certain parts. Regular inspection and proper alignment help keep the hardware in good condition.

Should a beginner start with a backwards setup?

Beginners often benefit from learning a standard setup first so they understand how each component affects feel and rebound. Once comfortable, a reversed setup can be explored if it suits your playing position or preferences.

Conclusion

Choosing a backwards bass drum pedal comes down to how you play and where you play. For most drummers, the single kick pedal with adjustable beater angle and spring tension offers the most flexible starting point. Players who need double-kick capability should consider the double pedals, with the Tama and DW options suited to gigging and reliable long-term use, and the two-chain double kick pedal suited to builds that call for extra beater variety. The Pacific 700 Series fits home practice rooms, and the budget single pedal is a low-commitment way to test a reversed layout before investing more. Match the pedal to your primary use, check the setup direction before buying, and allow time to dial in beater angle and spring tension.

Sources

• Workplace ergonomics and guidance on repetitive motion that can apply to foot and leg strain during long practice or performance sessions (osha.gov)
• Research summaries on musculoskeletal load and repetitive movement in musicians (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

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