How to choose drumsticks

What do the numbers and letters on drumsticks mean?

On every drumstick you find a code like 5A or 2B. The number tells you the thickness: the lower the number, the thicker the stick. The seven is thin, the five medium, the two thick. The letter originally defined the use. A meant orchestra and lighter playing, B a band and a harder sound, S marching drums. Today it is more of a rough guide than a rule. In short, a thicker stick is louder and more durable, a thinner one is faster and gentler.

What drumstick sizes are there?

Four sizes cover most players. The 7A is thin and light, ideal for jazz, quiet playing and smaller hands. The 5A is the most universal and best-selling size, fits almost everything and is great to start with. The 5B is thicker, gives more power and suits rock. The 2B is the thickest, for harder rock, metal and building strength while practising. You find the full range in the drumsticks and brushes category.

Wooden or nylon tip?

The tip is the very end of the stick and mainly affects the sound of the cymbals. A wooden tip sounds warmer and more natural. A nylon one sounds brighter and sharper on cymbals and is more durable, so it does not wear down as easily. For most styles wood is the classic, while nylon is appreciated by players who want a brighter cymbal sound and a longer life.

What wood are drumsticks made of?

The material of the shaft decides the weight and durability. Hickory is the most common, absorbs shock well and is balanced, so it is a safe choice for everyone. Maple is lighter and faster and suits gentler, quick playing. Oak is the heaviest and most durable, lasts the longest but is less flexible. If you are unsure, hickory will not let you down.

Which drumsticks for a beginner?

For a beginner the best is a 5A in hickory with a wooden tip. It is medium thick, balanced and handles every style while you look for your own. It is neither too heavy nor too thin, so technique is easy to learn on it. A practice pad goes well with them, along with practice from the article how to learn drums.

Drumsticks for electronic drums and other types

For electronic drums nylon tips are better, as they are gentler on the pads and mesh heads and last longer. Besides classic sticks there are also brushes for a soft jazz sound and rods, that is bundles of dowels, for quiet playing at home. Each type gives a different dynamic, so it pays to keep several kinds at home. See drumsticks and brushes and the whole acoustic drums range.

The best-known drumstick brands

Three names have led for years. Vic Firth is the world number one and its American Classic 5A is the benchmark among drumsticks. Vater and Pro-Mark offer equally good models, including signature sticks of famous drummers. With brands it is mainly about consistent weight and wood quality, so the next pair fits exactly like the previous one.

Frequently asked questions about drumsticks

What does 5A mean on drumsticks?

The number 5 means medium thickness and the letter A a lighter, universal category. The 5A is the best-selling size, suits most styles and is ideal for beginners.

What is the difference between 5A and 5B?

Both are medium, but the 5B is a bit thicker and heavier. The 5A is universal and fast, the 5B gives more power and volume, which is why rock players choose it. The thickness shows mainly during longer playing.

Wooden or nylon drumsticks?

A wooden tip sounds warmer and more natural, a nylon one brighter on the cymbals and is more durable. For acoustic drums both work, for electronic ones rather nylon.

Which drumsticks for electronic drums?

For electronic drums we recommend nylon tips. They are gentler on the pads and mesh heads and last considerably longer than wooden ones.

How long do drumsticks last?

It depends on the style and how hard you play. With regular practice, count on roughly weeks to months per pair. That is exactly why it pays to buy drumsticks in several pairs at once.

Choose your drumsticks

Start with a 5A in hickory and gradually find what suits you. Thinner for gentle playing, thicker for power, wood for warmth, nylon for brightness. Have a look at drumsticks and brushes from Vic Firth, Vater and Pro-Mark, or the whole drums and drumheads range. If you are just starting out, the ideal drum kit for beginners and how to learn drums will help.