why are wooden barrels convex instead of cylindrical (like steel drums)?

Question

why are wooden barrels convex instead of cylindrical (like steel drums)?

In: 24

Answer 1

Answered in this sub previously:

ELI5 why are wooden barrels “barrel-shaped” (i.e., wider across the middle than at the top and bottom) rather than cylindrical? Wouldn’t cylindrical containers be easier to build, store, and transport?
byu/big_macaroons inexplainlikeimfive

Answer 2

Because of how they are made, you couldn’t wedge the band on a cylindrical barrel.

A barrel can also be made conical like this https://www.dreamstime.com/front-view-closeup-old-wooden-conical-wine-whiskey-beer-barrel-rusted-metallic-collars-isolated-white-background-image221014876

But that style is less convenient to handle. Typical barrel shape is easier to roll around.