Best 13" Hi-Hat Cymbals Under $500 2026
Alright, so you're hunting for 13" hi-hats, huh? They're a sweet spot - tighter action, quicker response, perfect for jazz, funk, or just dialing back the volume when you don't need that huge crash. Finding a pair that sounds good and doesn't drain your gig money can be tricky, but it's doable. I've spent years sifting through gear, and I've got some solid recommendations for you in the under $500 range.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 13" hi-hat cymbals in 2026 are Meinl 13" Byzance Extra Dry Hi-Hat (top pick), Istanbul Agop 13" Agop Signature Hi-Hat for tighter budgets, and Meinl 13" Byzance Dark Hi-Hat for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $180–$493, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
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Meinl 13" Byzance Extra Dry Hi-Hat
by
Meinl
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Medium Dynamics
Fusion
Jazz
Key Feature:
These Meinl Byzance Extra Dry 13-inch hi-hats are a serious upgrade for players seeking a sophisticated, nuanced sound. They're perfect for jazz, funk, and quieter genres where you need precise control and a warm, muted character – think quieter studio work or intimate gigs where you don't want to overpower the kit.
PROS
- • Exceptional stick definition due to the carefully hammered profile.
- • The 'Extra Dry' lathing produces a uniquely muted, controlled wash.
- • B20 bronze provides a complex, warm tonal foundation.
- • 13-inch size offers a tighter, more responsive feel compared to larger hats.
CONS
- • The dry sound isn't suitable for all genres; lacks bright, shimmering qualities.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Can be overly quiet for louder, more aggressive musical styles.
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6/10
Art. 223535
$494
#2
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Istanbul Agop 13" Agop Signature Hi-Hat
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Studio Work
Jazz
Gospel
Key Feature:
These 13” Agop Signature hi-hats are a serious step up – Agop Tomurcuk’s final project really shines. The dry, focused sound is fantastic for jazz, funk, and anything needing articulate stick definition; they offer a vintage vibe without being overly stuffy. If you’re looking for a characterful, high-quality hi-hat that cuts through, these are a great choice.
PROS
- • Hand-hammering creates a complex, nuanced tone absent in mass-produced hats.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, full fundamental with excellent projection.
- • The crisp, defined 'chick' sound cuts through dense mixes effectively.
- • Agop Signature series represents a legacy of cymbal craftsmanship and tonal innovation.
CONS
- • The 'dry' sound might not suit players seeking a bright, shimmering hi-hat tone.
- • 13” size limits versatility; less suited for genres needing a larger, washier sound.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
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Art. 527933
$488
#3
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Meinl 13" Byzance Dark Hi-Hat
by
Meinl
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
R&B
Jazz
Gospel
Key Feature:
These Meinl Byzance Dark 13-inch hi-hats are a serious upgrade for players seeking a sophisticated, nuanced sound. They’re perfect for jazz, fusion, and any genre where a controlled, dark tone is essential – they really shine when you need a subtle, articulate groove.
PROS
- • Exceptional dark, controlled sound ideal for jazz and quieter genres
- • Hand-hammering provides nuanced complexity and responsiveness
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, full, and complex tone
- • 13-inch size offers a tighter, more defined chick sound
CONS
- • Price point places it in a premium-priced category for many drummers
- • Dark sound may lack the sizzle desired for louder, more aggressive styles
- • Smaller size can feel a bit limiting for players accustomed to 14-inch hats
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Art. 225840
$488
#4
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Meinl 13" Byzance Jazz Thin Hi-Hat
by
Meinl
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Gospel
Jazz
Fusion
Key Feature:
These Meinl Byzance Jazz Thin Hi-Hats are seriously gorgeous. They deliver that classic, smoky jazz sound with a beautifully controlled chick and a shimmering complexity that's hard to find. If you're a jazz or blues drummer looking for a refined, vintage vibe, these are an excellent choice.
PROS
- • Exceptionally responsive, nuanced chick sound due to thin profile and B20 bronze.
- • Warm, dark, and complex tone ideal for jazz, blues, and vintage recordings.
- • Hand-hammered finish provides a uniquely musical, shimmering quality.
- • 13-inch size offers a more intimate, controlled feel compared to larger hi-hats.
CONS
- • Thinness makes them potentially fragile; requires careful handling and transport.
- • The dark tone may not suit heavier rock or metal styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
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6/10
Art. 223647
$461
#5
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Istanbul Agop 13" Xist Dry Dark Hi-Hat
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Studio Work
Jazz
Medium Dynamics
Key Feature:
These Xist Dry Dark hi-hats are a fantastic choice for drummers seeking a vintage, articulate sound. The 13-inch size and hand-hammered construction create a really unique and controlled 'dry' feel, perfect for jazz, funk, and any style where you want a more intimate and defined hi-hat sound.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and nuanced tone.
- • Hand-hammering creates unique sonic character and responsiveness.
- • Short trashy attack provides crisp stick definition and a 'dry' feel.
- • 13-inch size offers a lower, more controlled pitch than standard 14-inch.
CONS
- • The 'dry' sound might lack the wash desired for certain genres.
- • B20 bronze can be more prone to tarnishing than other alloys.
- • The trashy nature limits versatility for cleaner, more open sounds.
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1.0/5
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7/10
Art. 474220
$306
#6
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1.0/5
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Zultan 13" Caz Hi-Hat
by
Zultan
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Medium Dynamics
Gospel
Studio Work
Key Feature:
These Zultan Caz hi-hats are a real gem for jazz and fusion players craving a traditional, hand-hammered vibe. The lighter weight gives them incredible responsiveness, and the B20 bronze delivers a beautiful warmth without sacrificing clarity – a fantastic option for nuanced playing.
PROS
- • B20 bronze provides a warm, complex harmonic profile.
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced stick definition and wash.
- • Lower weight allows for quick, responsive footwork and chick sounds.
- • Polished surface enhances brilliance and projection, cutting through mixes.
CONS
- • The thinner profile might lack sustain for heavier rock styles.
- • Caz series’ darker tone isn’t universally appealing; some prefer brighter hats.
- • Lower weight could feel 'floppy' for drummers used to heavier hi-hats.
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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6/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 278660
$241
#7
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6/10
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8/10
Zultan 13" Hi-Hat CS Series
by
Zultan
Size
13"
Alloy
B25 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
R&B
Gospel
Jazz
Key Feature:
These Zultan 13' hi-hats offer a really nice, classic sound that’s perfect for players who want something warm and musical without being overly dry. The hand-hammering gives them a unique feel and response that you just don’t get with machine-stamped cymbals – a solid choice for jazz, funk, and anyone seeking a vintage vibe.
PROS
- • B25 bronze provides warm, complex overtones and sustain
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced sonic character and responsiveness
- • 13-inch size offers quick, crisp stick definition and footwork
- • Sealed edge minimizes unwanted frequencies and maximizes durability
CONS
- • B25 bronze may lack the bright, cutting edge of B12 bronze options
- • CS Series is a mid-range offering; higher Zultan lines offer more refinement
- • 13' hi-hats aren't universally favored; some prefer larger sizes
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1.0/5
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6/10
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Value:
8/10
Art. 281104
$241
#8
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1.0/5
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6/10
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Zultan 13" Z-Series Hi-Hat
by
Zultan
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Studio Work
Medium Dynamics
Fusion
Key Feature:
These Zultan 13” hi-hats are a real find. The hand-hammered construction gives them a unique, lively feel and a sparkling sound that cuts through a mix. They’re ideal for drummers wanting a bright, responsive hi-hat without the premium price tag of some of the bigger names.
PROS
- • Hand-hammering creates complex overtones and a lively response.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a bright, cutting, yet musical tone.
- • The 13” size offers a tighter, more controlled 'chick' sound.
- • Versatile enough for various genres, from jazz to modern pop.
CONS
- • The bright sound might be too aggressive for very mellow, traditional jazz.
- • Zultan cymbals, while well-made, don’t have the same brand recognition as the giants.
- • The thinner weight might not hold up to extremely heavy hitters long-term.
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Value:
8/10
Art. 595631
$237
#9
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1.0/5
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6/10
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4/10
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Zultan 13" Raw Hi-Hat
by
Zultan
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Jazz
R&B
Fusion
Key Feature:
The Zultan 13' Raw Hi-Hats are a seriously cool option for drummers seeking a darker, more controlled sound. They’re fantastic for jazz, funk, and anything needing a nuanced, earthy feel without excessive wash – a great choice for players wanting a unique voice without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced stick definition and musicality.
- • Raw finish minimizes overtones for a controlled, dry sound.
- • Compact sound is ideal for tighter, more focused grooves.
CONS
- • Raw finish may require more frequent cleaning to prevent oxidation.
- • Limited versatility; not ideal for very bright or splashy playing styles.
- • Smaller size restricts the potential for wide-open, explosive sounds.
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1.0/5
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6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 383221
$208
#10
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6/10
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8/10
Masterwork 13" Troy Traditional Hi-Hat
by
Masterwork
Size
13"
Alloy
B25 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
R&B
Jazz
Fusion
Key Feature:
These Masterwork Troy Traditional hi-hats are a fantastic option if you're chasing a vintage, organic hi-hat sound. They're beautifully crafted with a quick action and a lovely trashy chick, making them perfect for jazz, blues, and classic rock players who appreciate a more nuanced and expressive feel.
PROS
- • B25 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and musical response.
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced overtones and a lively stick feel.
- • The thinner profile provides a quick, trashy chick sound and crisp pedal response.
- • Traditional finish retains more of the bronze's natural character and warmth.
CONS
- • The lighter weight might feel unstable for heavier hitters or louder styles.
- • Traditional finish requires more careful maintenance to prevent oxidation.
- • Sound profile is less versatile; not ideal for modern, very dry hi-hat sounds.
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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6/10
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Value:
8/10
Art. 611367
$180
#11
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Meinl 13" Byzance Serpents Hi-Hat
by
Meinl
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
R&B
Medium Dynamics
Jazz
Key Feature:
These Serpents hats are a real departure from the norm, offering a beautifully controlled and nuanced sound that's perfect for jazz, fusion, and more subtle genres. The Derek Roddy signature really shines through – expect a warm, responsive feel with a gorgeous, almost shimmering wash. They’re an investment, but if you’re after a truly unique hi-hat voice, these are hard to beat.
PROS
- • Derek Roddy signature design delivers a uniquely musical, complex sound.
- • B20 bronze construction provides warmth and sustain characteristic of high-end cymbals.
- • Distinct top and bottom cymbal hammering creates nuanced chick and pedal response.
- • 13-inch size offers a darker, more controlled sound than standard 14-inch hats.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, making them a significant investment for many drummers.
- • The 'washed-out' tone might not suit heavier, more aggressive musical styles.
- • Smaller size limits versatility; not ideal for players needing a bright, cutting sound.
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Art. 278559
$483
#12
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1.0/5
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6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Istanbul Agop 13" Xist Hi-Hat Brilliant
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Studio Work
Jazz
Gospel
Key Feature:
These Xist hi-hats are a fantastic choice for players wanting a crisp, modern sound without spending a fortune. They’re incredibly responsive and articulate, making them ideal for genres like pop, funk, and lighter rock where clarity is key. If you’re looking for a solid, reliable pair of 13-inch hi-hats that offer great projection and a clean attack, these are definitely worth checking out.
PROS
- • The B20 bronze alloy delivers a bright, articulate, and responsive sound.
- • The 'Brilliant' finish enhances shimmer and projection, cutting through dense mixes.
- • Medium weight offers a good balance of stick definition and wash potential.
- • Xist series consistently provides excellent value for the performance level.
CONS
- • The brighter sound may not suit drummers seeking a dark, vintage hi-hat tone.
- • While versatile, they might lack the extreme low-end thump of heavier hi-hats.
- • The brilliant finish can show fingerprints and require more frequent cleaning.
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6/10
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Value:
7/10
Art. 265124
$306
#13
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Zultan 13" Mellow Hi-Hat
by
Zultan
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
R&B
Jazz
Fusion
Key Feature:
The Zultan Mellow 13” hi-hats are a seriously clever bit of kit. They’ve managed to dial back the volume significantly without sacrificing that authentic hi-hat feel – the rebound is spot on. Perfect for gigging musicians needing to be mindful of volume or those wanting a quieter practice option, these are a great solution.
PROS
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex tone with good sustain.
- • Significant volume reduction (up to 30%) ideal for quieter environments.
- • Hand-hammered construction ensures consistent response and realistic feel.
- • Natural finish provides a balanced look and avoids overly bright frequencies.
CONS
- • Mellow sound may lack the aggressive sizzle some drummers prefer.
- • While versatile, its quieter nature limits its suitability for very loud stages.
- • Natural finish can be more prone to tarnish than some lacquered finishes.
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1.0/5
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6/10
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Value:
7/10
Art. 561614
$296
#14
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6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Zultan 13" Heritage Hi-Hat
by
Zultan
Size
13"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Medium Dynamics
R&B
Gospel
Key Feature:
The Zultan Heritage 13-inch hi-hats are a fantastic option for drummers seeking a vintage vibe with a bit of punch. They're responsive and articulate, cutting through a mix nicely, and feel really well-built for the price. These are perfect for rock, funk, and soul players who want character without excessive expense.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex overtone profile.
- • Hand-hammered construction ensures nuanced sonic character and responsiveness.
- • 13-inch size offers quick, crisp stick definition and footwork.
- • Heritage series provides a vintage-inspired sound without extreme fragility.
CONS
- • The assertive nature might be overwhelming for very subtle, quiet playing styles.
- • B20 bronze can be prone to fingerprints and requires diligent care.
- • While versatile, it truly shines in mid-to-heavy playing scenarios.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 422374
$296
#15
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AudioFu Score
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6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Sabian 13" B8X Hi-Hat
by
Sabian
Size
13"
Alloy
B8 bronze
Jazz
Medium Dynamics
Studio Work
Key Feature:
The Sabian B8X 13-inch hi-hats are a solid choice for gigging musicians on a budget. They offer a surprisingly full sound for their price point, and the smaller size makes them really responsive for funk, jazz, and more nuanced playing – a great upgrade from entry-level cymbals.
PROS
- • B8 bronze alloy delivers a surprisingly warm, responsive tone.
- • Hammered bell adds a touch of complexity and shimmer.
- • 13-inch size provides a tighter, more controlled feel.
- • Stronger twilight zone enhances stick definition and articulation.
CONS
- • B8 bronze isn't as durable as higher-end alloys; prone to cracking.
- • The 'warm' sound might lack the bright sizzle some players desire.
- • Limited dynamic range compared to more expensive hi-hats.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 363280
$274
Every 13" hi-hat cymbals that matches
37 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
13" Hi-Hat Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 37 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $274
from $79 to $488
Size
median 13"
from 13" to 13" · 37 models
Alloy
B20, B25, B8
most common · 19 models
Hammering
hand
most common · 10 models
How to Choose the Best 13" Hi-Hat Cymbals
1
Sound Character
This isn't just "bright" or "dark." We're looking for nuanced tones - that shimmering stick definition, a controlled wash, and a little bit of complexity. Cheap hats often sound thin and one-dimensional. You want something that responds to your dynamics.
2
Stick Definition & Articulation
Can you hear every nuance of your stick technique? A good hi-hat pair should give you crisp, clear articulation, not a muddy, undefined sound. This is crucial for quiet passages and intricate patterns.
3
Wash & Sustain
The wash is that airy, shimmering sound you get when you open the hats. It needs to be controlled, not overwhelming. Sustain refers to how long that wash lingers - too little and it's lifeless, too much and it's sloppy.
4
Feel & Response
This is all about how the hats feel under your sticks. Do they respond quickly and evenly? Are they stiff or floppy? A responsive pair will make your playing feel more fluid and expressive.
5
Durability & Construction
Let's be real, you're not buying B25s here. Expect some trade-offs. But a well-made pair shouldn't feel flimsy or start cracking after a few gigs. Look for consistent lathing and a decent weight.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're mostly looking at bronze alloy or brass construction. Bronze will generally offer a more complex, nuanced sound, but brass is tougher and often more affordable. Don't expect a huge, long sustain like you'd get with higher-end cymbals - that's a trade-off for the smaller size and lower price. Listen for a crisp attack and avoid anything that sounds overly dry or brittle.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 37 13" hi-hat cymbals from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, yes. Bronze tends to have a more complex, nuanced tone that brass often lacks, but the difference isn't always massive. If you're serious about your sound, the extra cash is usually justified. If you're just starting out, brass is a perfectly viable option.
Generally, 'medium thin' means a quicker, more responsive action, good for lighter playing and intricate patterns. 'Medium' will have a bit more weight and sustain, better for a more driving feel. It's subjective - try to find sound samples before you buy.
No. Let's be honest. You're not going to get that same level of refinement and complexity. However, there are plenty of hats in this range that sound really good and will serve you well for gigs and rehearsals. Manage your expectations.
Not necessarily. While heavier hats can provide a more defined 'chick' sound, the responsiveness is often sacrificed. For funk, you want something that's responsive and cuts through the mix, even if it's slightly lighter. Experiment to find what feels right for your style.
Absolutely! You can often find fantastic deals on used hi-hats. Just be sure to inspect them carefully for cracks or excessive wear. A little bit of stick marks are fine, but avoid anything that looks like it's been through a war.
