11 best drum set sticks

Drum set sticks are essential tools for drummers, playing a crucial role in producing rhythms and beats on a drum set.These sticks come in various shapes, sizes, materials, and designs, allowing drummers to achieve different tones and styles while playing. Here are some key aspects of drum set sticks:

  1. Materials: Drum set sticks are typically made from wood, although there are also synthetic options like nylon or plastic. The most common wood types used for drum sticks include hickory, maple, oak, and birch. Each wood type has unique characteristics, affecting the stick's weight, durability, and feel.

  2. Size and Shape: Drum set sticks vary in size and shape, mainly determined by their diameter and length. The tip shape can also vary, with common options being acorn, oval, barrel, and teardrop. Different stick dimensions can produce varying tones and suit different playing styles. Thicker sticks provide more power, while thinner sticks offer greater finesse.

  3. Weight: Drum sticks come in different weight classifications, ranging from light to heavy. Heavier sticks generate more volume and are often preferred for rock and metal music, while lighter sticks are favored for jazz and lighter genres where precision and finesse are critical.

  4. Taper: The taper refers to the gradual reduction in diameter from the shoulder of the stick to the tip. Sticks with a long taper offer a balanced feel and rebound, while sticks with a short taper provide more power and control.

  5. Tip Type: The shape of the tip affects the sound and articulation. Round tips produce a fuller and warmer tone, while pointed tips provide more defined and bright sounds. The choice of tip type depends on the drummer's preference and music genre.

  6. Grip and Finish: Some drum sticks feature specialized grips, such as rubber or lacquer coatings, to enhance comfort and grip during performances. The finish on the sticks can also affect their feel and durability.

  7. Specialty Sticks: Drummers often use specialty sticks designed for specific purposes. For example, brushes with retractable wires are used for brush drumming techniques, and mallets are used to produce softer and melodic tones on drums and cymbals.

  8. Pairing: Drummers typically use sticks in pairs, one for each hand. The choice of sticks for each hand may vary depending on the desired sound and playing technique.

  9. Durability: Drum sticks are not indestructible and can break during intense playing. Drummers often carry spare sticks to ensure they can continue their performance without interruption.

  10. Personal Preference: The selection of drum set sticks is highly subjective and depends on the drummer's playing style, musical genre, and personal preferences. Many drummers experiment with various stick types to find the perfect match for their needs.

In summary, drum set sticks are vital tools for drummers, and their choice can significantly impact the sound and feel of a drum set performance. Drummers select sticks based on factors like material, size, weight, taper, tip type, and personal preference to achieve their desired sound and style.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best drum set sticks on the market
  

The Random House Book of Poetry for Children

Random House Books for Young Readers

Based on 458 reviews Check latest price

Magic Tree House Merlin Missions Books 1-25 Boxed Set (Magic Tree House (R) Merlin Mission)

Random House Books for Young Readers

Based on 312 reviews Check latest price

Product features

Magic Tree House Series
Begin here if you’re new to reading chapter books!
Move on to more challenging adventures with longer page counts!
Facts to go along with your favorite Magic Tree House stories!

My First Complete Learning Library: Boxset of 20 Board Books Gift Set for Kids (Horizontal Design)

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Magic Tree House Boxed Set, Books 1-4: Dinosaurs Before Dark, The Knight at Dawn, Mummies in the Morning, and Pirates Past Noon

Random House Books for Young Readers

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product features

Magic Tree House Series
Begin here if you’re new to reading chapter books!
Move on to more challenging adventures with longer page counts!
Facts to go along with your favorite Magic Tree House stories!

SCOOB! Those Meddling Kids (Scooby-Doo) (Pictureback(R))

Random House Books for Young Readers

Based on 43 reviews Check latest price

ARLX Drum Sticks 5A Wood Tip Drumstick, Maple, 2 Pair

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Material high quality north American maple. Suitable range: Drummer playing, beginner practicing and more wood tip provides a rich, full, balanced sound oval tip for rich cymbal sounds drumstick coating is gloss-free to reduce slippage Sound harbor is committed to give customer an excellent shopping experience.

  • STRONG AND DURABLE--Made from North American hard maple strong durable and strong sense of gravity.
  • NATURAL FINISH- Comfortable and Slip Resistant .
  • Perfect for Youth Rock Bands and Drummer playing ,and more
  • RESILIENCE REACTIVE FAST--Light and fast for jazz orchestral pit work.
  • Drum Stick Made from High quality North American maple.

User questions & answers

Question: What Are The Dimensions Of This Item
Answer: hi the Drum Sticks 5A , Long : 16.1 inch
Question: Are these suitable for 5 year old child
Answer: Yes. My neighbor's girl is 5 and used them. No issues, however, me one broke. They are lightweight perfect for kids.
Question: What is this used for
Answer: Playing drums
Question: Does it come with the child in picture
Answer: Fortunately no child arrived in the envelope with the drum sticks!

Vic Firth American Classic 5A Drum Sticks

Vic Firth

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tear drop tip for rich cymbal sounds. The #1 stick in the world—great for every style of music!.

  • American Classic 5A
  • Classic Vic Firth Design
  • Wood Tip

User questions & answers

Question: where is this drum, complete set manufacured at
Answer: These are drum sticks.
Question: can you play these on a djembe
Answer: Definitely not. Djembe is to be only used with one's hands. These would destroy the skin and would sound terrible.
Question: what is the difference in 5A and 5B
Answer: American Classic® 5ATear drop tip for rich cymbal sounds. Light and fast for jazz orchestral and pit work.L = 16" | Dia. = .565" American Classic® 5BTear drop tip. Ideal for rock‚ band and practice.L = 16" | Dia. = .595"
Question: Do these drumsticks come with anything
Answer: Just the pair of drumsticks

Product features

Vic Firth American Classic 5A Drum Sticks

  • Great all-around size and weight for any musical situation
  • Tear drop tip for rich cymbal sounds
  • Diameter : .565" | 1.44cm
  • Length : 16" | 40.64cm
  • Taper : Medium
  • Series : American Classic
  • Surface Coating : Lacquer
  • Material (Wood) : Hickory

Donner DED-100 Electronic Drum Set - Seven Pieces Mesh Electric Drum Kit with 195 Sounds, Drumsticks & Audio Cables Included, More Stable Iron Metal Support, Deluxe Mesh Kit

Based on 238 reviews Check latest price
  • 【Delicate touch】The more delicate 8-inch all mesh drumhead, the feel is close to the real drum , helping you to practice as a good drummer.
  • 【Delicate touch】The more delicate 8-inch all mesh drumhead, the feel is close to the real drum , helping you to practice as a good drummer.
  • 【More stable and safe】The 10-inch silicone cymbal has a stable and well-distributed tone response at any position of the cymbal. The collapsible iron metal stand is more stable and safe.
  • 【Feature-rich】200 timbre, 20 demo song, 20 Preset tone,can be connected to MP3 to play songs,.Easy to practice, wearing headphones will not disturb others.
  • 【Come With All You Need 】 8’’ Tom-tom×3 , 8’’ Snare×1, 10’’ Hi-Hat×1, 10’’ Ride ×1, 10’’ Crash×1,8", Kick Pedal×1, Hi-Hat Pedal×1

User questions & answers

Question: mat size - do you need a floor mat for the drum kit? If so what size is the base when set up
Answer: I personally have the set on a carpeted floor. You will need something underneath especially for the base kick pedal assembly. After measuring, a 5x4 foot piece of matting wood work on a hardwood or tiled floor.
Question: Is the snare dual zone
Answer: Yes it is. It has three different sounds.
Question: Hi, what size jack do I need for the headphones? Is the headphone input auxiliary sized or guitar cable sized
Answer: Both the headphone and the audio output are 1/8th inch. The audio output is 1/4 inch (guitar cable). Kit includes this cable.
Question: Most of the pics have 3 tons and a snare.... the item list only states one snare and one tom. some clarity would be nice
Answer: This set has 3 toms and 1 snare, enjoy!

Product features

Donner aim to create new experiences in music and performance.

Relying on its strong and efficient research & development team, Donner is resolved to continue to create innovative and excellent instruments which maintain the high quality that inspires professional artists and creators

Adjustable mesh drum head

An accurate and balanced performance experience between the drumhead and the drum edge using the dual-trigger technology of years of commissioning by experienced engineers.The cymbal is injection molded from a specified material that delivers shock vibration to the sensor. Custom sensors have high sensitivity, dynamic response and anti-interference characteristics.

Longer life drumhead

Eight-inch durable all-mesh drumhead, the average life test of the laboratory reaches 200,000 times. The unique mesh drumhead hoop technology can solve the problem of mesh deformation and slackness. The Donner DED-100 mesh is more delicate and dense. It has a better feel and a longer life.

Suitable for multiple music styles

DED-100 uses French DREAM's sampling technology, uses digital technology to record the sound of real instruments, rigorously collects the sound quality of the original sound drum, efficient software algorithms and chip computing efficiency, can avoid sound delay and repetition, 200timbre can satisfy your jazz, rock, blues, pun k and other styles of demand, whether it is practice or stage performance, can perfectly match the band.

Package Included:

1.Sound module X 1

2. Hi-Hat 10’’ X 1

3.Ride 10’’ X 1

4.Crash 10’’ X 1

5.Tom-tom 8’’ X 3

6. Snare 8’’ X 1

7.Hi-Hat Pedal X 1, Kick Pedal×1

8.Drum Sticks X 1

9.Drum Key X 1

10.Audio input line X 1

Nylon Drumsticks for Drum Set 5A Light Durable Plastic Exercise ANTI-SLIP Handles Drum Sticks for Kids Adults Musical Instrument Percussion Accessories (Black)

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • 【Size and Package】1.5cm*40.6cm,126g/pair,package come with 1 pair of Drumsticks with power Grips
  • 【DURABLE & STURDY】Made of high quality nylon material,which is durable and soft to use.
  • 【ANTI-SKIP DESIGN】The handle is with power grips which can be effectively anti-skid.And the stick head is bubble-shaped design,fashionable and unique.
  • 【Good for beginner】The color can attract the interests of beginners,especially for kids,lightweight and appropriate size,easy for child to hold and play.
  • 【Enough options】Available in 5 choice,Green/Blue/Red Nylon Drumsticks,Green- fluorescence,Wood.beginner can find the one he want.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the non slip material used for the grips? Is it a smooth rubber or more like a neoprene
Answer: I dk to be honestly
Question: Would these be very good for a real drum set or would wood be better
Answer: You can check to see if your local Kohl’s with except this as a return and they will mail it back for you. They have a specific section at customer service for Amazon orders.

Promark TX5AW-FG FireGrain Classic 5A Drumsticks, Oval Tip

ProMark

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Promark's most durable Classic 5A ever. FireGrain is a revolutionary heat-tempering process that transforms ordinary hickory drumsticks into precision tools with unprecedented durability. While keeping their original weight, balance, and attack, Promark FireGrain sticks allow drummers to hit harder and play longer, naturally. No excess vibration, no space age gimmicks, just natural hickory, hardened by flame. Promark's most durable Classic 5A ever. FireGrain is a revolutionary heat-tempering process that transforms ordinary hickory drumsticks into precision tools with unprecedented durability. While keeping their original weight, balance, and attack, Promark FireGrain sticks allow drummers to hit harder and play longer, naturally. No excess vibration, no space age gimmicks, just natural hickory, hardened by flame.

  • Hickory is the most popular wood choice for drumsticks due to its resilience, responsiveness, durability, and classic feel
  • Length: 16"
  • Diameter: .551"
  • FireGrain - a revolutionary heat-tempering process that transforms ordinary hickory drumsticks into precision tolls with unprecedented durability.
  • Oval wood tip provides a dark, warm tone suited for multiple applications

User questions & answers

Question: What type (rebound, normal, forward) would you recommend for complicated rhythms and fills on a drumset
Answer: It is honestly A preference thing for the most part. I find personally that I have a bit more speed with the forward balanced one than with normal. I have a drummer friend that hates forward balanced and swears by his normal balanced Vic Firths. I believe I went with the Forward balanced 5B and I love them. I hope this helps a bit.
Question: What size would be best for marching
Answer: I have always used 5A for drumset and as an all around stick size for concert snare work. Believe most people prefer a thicker size for marching, like a 5B but its been a long time since I played a marching snare.
Question: What is the difference between 'classic', 'forward balance', and 'rebound balance'? Buying for son using on snare drum and also electric drum kit
Answer: Classic is a standard weight, the forward for me was better hitting on cymbals being a little heaver, and the rebound for me was a lighter weight same size just better bounce on the snare. I'd go for the rebound 5A would be best for snare rebound hits and the electric kit.Regards,Joe
Question: Looking forward to buy a stack of 12. Do you guys have them in 12 pak or any pak
Answer: They come to us in bricks of 6.

Product features

FireGrain Technology

Promark's most durable hickory drumsticks ever. FireGrain utilizes a revolutionary heat-tempering process that transforms ordinary hickory drumsticks into precision tools with unprecedented durability. While keeping their original weight, balance, and feel, Promark FireGrain sticks allow drummers to hit harder and play longer, naturally. No excess vibration, no space age gimmicks, just natural hickory, hardened by flame.

Flame Tempered

Using our revolutionary heat-tempering process, we transform ordinary hickory into drumsticks with unprecedented durability. This age-old technique has been updated and revolutionized for the 21st century to bring drummers unmatched natural strength.

Natural Feel

Unlike other drumsticks that use synthetic alternatives or certain wood types that transmit excessive vibrations, FireGrain drumsticks retain the natural feel, weight, and balance that you would expect from regular hickory. Available in Classic, Forward and Rebound Balance models across a variety of sizes.

Added Durability

At our state-of-the-art sawmill in Elkton, TN, we employ an advanced dowel sorting process to select the highest quality, most durable wood from each hickory tree we process. This means that before they’re even subjected to our proprietary heat tempering process, FireGrain sticks are already made from the best and strongest hickory around.

Anderson .Paak

"From the moment I started playing drums, I’ve always chosen Promark. These FireGrain sticks keep me playing harder, for longer."

Daru Jones (Jack White)

"The new FireGrains are the business. Do not sleep on these!!! Now I can continue to keep it funky and groove from genre to genre with more mileage."

Terry Baker (Kirk Franklin)

"I love the new FireGrain sticks, they give me the solid durability that I need for three hours of consistent playing!"

Ben Thatcher (Royal Blood)

"These new Promark FireGrain sticks are fierce and strong. Just like Bruce Willis in Die Hard."

Rebound Balance

Rebound Balance sticks feature a long 3” taper to optimize finesse and agility. Available in 5A and 5B Acorn Tip models.

Classic

Promark’s iconic feel since 1957. Our classic models feature a medium taper with an oval tip for a well-balanced feel that produces warm, full tones from drums and cymbals. Now available with FireGrain Technology in our Classic 7A, 5A, 5B, and 2B sizes.

Forward Balance

Forward Balance sticks feature a short 2 ¼” taper, optimizing power and speed. Available in 5A and 5B Acorn Tip models.

Best Choice Products 5-Piece Full Size Complete Adult Drum Set w/ Cymbal Stands, Stool, Drum Pedal, Sticks, Floor Tom (Black)

Based on 412 reviews Check latest price
  • FULL SIZE ADULT DRUM SET: Complete with every piece needed to jam out, this set includes a snare, bass drum, floor tom, high-hat cymbal, ride cymbal, bass drum pedal, stool, 2 rack toms, and drum sticks
  • CLASSIC DESIGN: Crafted with a high-gloss finish, as well as white drum heads and eye-catching chrome details to give your drums a timeless appearance
  • VERSATILE SIZE: Ideal for beginning drummers and those more experienced, this set's standard size makes it suitable for users young and old
  • DURABLE COMPOSITION: Made of solid wood and metal, these drums are built to stand the test of time while fostering your love of music
  • BASS DRUM DIMENSIONS: 23"(Dia) x 16.5"(H)

User questions & answers

Question: Are these better than Gammon drumsets
Answer: No gammon are better the only complaints with the set where the symbols and the stool to set on can really hold a lot of weight but over all I just replace some heads and symbols and it sounds really good
Question: where can i find a manual to put these together?bought them for my 12 yr old grand son and want to set them up for him before christmas.any one know o
Answer: I bought this for my son's girlfriend and he had no instructions to put it together . So he decided to check on YouTube and all the instructions were there and he was able to put it together. Go on YouTube it is awesome, and you will be directed how to put it together. Good Luck!
Question: Can someone please give me the head sizes on the snare kick and toms and the cymbal sizes
Answer: Snare head=14 in.; Kick head=22 in.;Tom heads=16in., 12in., and 10 in.; Crash cymbal=14in.; hi-hat=12 in. (No Ride Cymbal)
Question: Hello
Answer: Our drums were packed in one large box. Had several smaller boxes inside.

Product features

SNARE DRUM

Produce sharp staccato sounds when you cue up your drumsticks! From soft jazzy strokes to heart-pumping rhythms, the snare drum can do it all.

DRUM PEDAL

Whether you're following along to your favorite hit or making brand-new music on your own, don't miss a beat! The drum pedal is here to keep you on track.

BASS DRUM

With your drum pedal comes the bass drum, to produce that low BOOMING sound all musicians love to hear! Keep time and move the tempo your way.

CYMBAL

Keep a crisp and sizzling sound with cymbals! These hi-hat style cymbals deliver a bright sound to accent any musical piece.

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