Tom
drums were first used by jazz drummers in the 20th Century. The original
toms had no rims and drummers tuned them using the heat from a match
and some water. Modern toms have proper rims and tuning lugs and are
made of a shell, head, and metal hardware.
Tom drums are distinctive because they are double-headed but have
no snare. They are built in a variety of different depths and diameters
in order offer a wide range of timbre. Two rack toms are considered
standard for most drum sets.
Mounting systems for tom drums vary on the setting and type of tom
you are playing. Most are designed to mount on a rack, but others
are designed to hang from a marching harness, or have their own freestanding
stand.