The Lengshuichong-type bronze drum, from the Chinese “Eight-Type” classification system, represents the highest level of bronze manufacturing in Guangxi from the Han to the Southern Dynasties. According to the decorative features and geographic distribution, this type can be divided into three sub-types:Honghe, Yongjiang and Xunjiang. This study analyzed the chemical composition and lead isotope ratios of 47 samples from Lengshuichong-type bronze drums unearthed in Guangxi, including 16 previously published datasets, to investigate alloying practices and ore sources associated with the three sub-types of bronze drums. By integrating typological analysis and literature data, the study further explored the developmental sequence of these sub-types and their ethnic distribution. The analysis results show that the three sub-types had relatively consistent alloying patterns and, in most cases, shared mineral sources. The difference between the three sub-types mainly reflected their developmental sequence. They were produced by the same ethnic group, who continually exploited the same or similar ore deposits across different periods.