Drum Shell Hardware:
Hardware drastically alters a drum's visual aesthetics, its acoustic resonance, and the structural mass. Some examples include:
 
Drum Sound:
Resonance
SustaIn
Color Tone (dark/bright)
Articulation
Dryness

 
Visual Aspects:
Color/Plating 
Symmetry
Bold or Light (Heavy vs. Minimalist)
Genre/Style 
Texture

 
Shell Hardware includes, but not limited to the following:
Lugs
Hoops
Tension Rods
Shell External Mounts
Air Vents
Collar Hooks and Claws
Kick Spurs
Floor Tom Legs
Support Systems (hanging/floating)
Butt Plates and Strainers (snare drums)
Mounting Screws and Washers (standard/oversized)