S.E. Shires Trombone Leadpipe Collection – Modular Setup Options
This curated collection showcases a range of factory S.E. Shires Custom Series leadpipes, all crafted at the Shires Boston workshop. It includes options for nearly every common bore size — .547 large-bore tenor, .562 bass, .525 medium bore, and .500 / .508 small-bore trombones.
While new Shires instruments typically ship with only #1, #2, and #3 brass leadpipes, this collection features a wider selection of less-common and legacy variants such as 1.5, 2.5, long “L” versions, and alternate alloys in gold brass, nickel silver, and sterling silver. Many are original Boston-made components offered below current factory prices.
All leadpipes shown here are true Custom-Series parts yet remain fully compatible with Shires Q Series slides, making them excellent upgrade options for Q-Series players seeking greater response control and tonal flexibility.
⚙️ About Shires Leadpipes
A leadpipe plays a major role in how a trombone feels and responds. Each taper and material subtly changes resistance, tone, and articulation.
Standard #1 / #2 / #3 (Brass, Standard Length): #1 is the most open and free-blowing, #2 offers balanced resistance, and #3 is the most centered and stable.
Intermediate #1.5 and #2.5: Provide refined resistance adjustments between the core models.
Long “L” Versions: Slightly longer for added stability and firmness under air.
Alternative Alloys: Gold brass for warmth, nickel silver for brilliance and clarity, sterling silver for projection and tonal richness.
Because Shires uses a modular slide system, each leadpipe is interchangeable — one of the easiest and most effective ways to fine-tune response without altering the instrument permanently.
📌 How to Browse & Buy
This page serves as both a reference and an entry point to the current inventory.
To view leadpipes currently in stock with detailed photos and pricing, visit our Accessories section:
👉 Browse the available Shires leadpipes
Inventory rotates frequently as pieces are added and sold, so check back periodically or reach out if you’re searching for a specific size, material, or taper.

