American Hickory DSK Drumsticks. A lengthy, but comfortable, stick that features a very fast beefy taper for some added weight up top. This allows for a powerful "throw" and solid impact that is perfect for an aggressive drumming style. The DSK's large and rounded barrel-shaped nylon tip is great for crispy clean hi-hat and ride cymbal tones. Hickory. Hickory is the most popular wood used for making drumsticks. Hickory is denser, heavier and more rigid than Maple. Hickory can also absorb a great amount of shock, which reduces hand and wrist fatigue. Dark, or "brown" hickory, is found closer to the tree's center and is slightly denser and heavier than "white" hickory.