Denis Loncaric
Finding the best drumsticks can feel like a daunting task. I know; I’ve been there.
But not only that, I’ve tried some of the best drumsticks and tested some of the not-so-popular ones.
I tried all kinds of drumsticks from different manufacturers, thicker, thinner, longer, shorter, from mallets and dreadlocks to traditional wooden ones, basically any drumstick you can possibly imagine.
Once I gathered my long experience I made a list of my top 9 best drumstick manufacturers comparing each other’s quality, material, durability, and versatility.
What I look for
Durability
You will change your drumsticks frequently, and that’s normal. However, durability is still important for drumsticks so I looked for that. Drumsticks should be firm enough to handle constant hitting and not prone to breaking after a few drum sessions yet be comfortable in your hands.
Great bounce
I searched for a natural, fast excellent bounce-back stick. With such drumsticks, you can use a minimum of exertion and receive a perfect amount of bounciness. Such a feature will help you deliver the best sound possible in every genre.
Natural feel
I looked for a natural feeling that you should have in your hands once you play with your drumsticks. They shouldn't feel too heavy or too light in your hands but they should be just perfect for your style and drumming purposes.
What Makes One Drumstick Better Than Another?
When it comes to drumsticks, not all are created equal. The quality of a drumstick can significantly impact your drumming experience. Here’s what you need to know:
Material
The material of a drumstick plays a crucial role in its durability and the sound it produces. Most drumsticks are made from wood, with hickory, maple, and oak being the most common types.
Hickory is well-balanced and resilient, and maple is lighter. It offers a warm tone, while oak is dense and provides a more powerful sound.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of a drumstick affect its playability and the volume of sound it can produce. A heavier stick can make louder sounds, while a lighter one allows faster and more intricate playing styles.
The size, including the length and diameter, can also affect your reach and control over your drum set.
Tip Shape
The shape of the drumstick tip influences the sound quality. Round tips produce a bright, clear cymbal sound, while barrel-shaped tips offer a broad, loud sound. Teardrop tips can deliver a rich, full tone, and oval tips provide a dark, warm tone.
Top Drumstick Manufacturers
Vic Firth
Pros
- Versatile and suitable for various playing styles
- Made from quality hickory, a durable wood
- Well-balanced sticks
Cons
- Some drummers find them a bit heavier than other brands
Why Vic Firth?
Vic Firth is a renowned drumstick manufacturer that has been a drummer’s favorite for years.
The company was founded by Everett “Vic” Firth, a performer in the Boston Symphony Orchestra, who started making his own drumsticks to achieve the quality he desired.
This pursuit of perfection is evident in Vic Firth’s products. Their drumsticks are known for their versatility, catering to various playing styles.
Whether you’re into jazz, rock, or orchestral music, Vic Firth has a stick that balances rebound and power to suit your needs. Their commitment to quality and the breadth of their product line make them a go-to brand for many drummers.
Who is it for?
Vic Firth drumsticks are ideal for drummers who prefer a heavier stick and appreciate the balance and durability that these sticks offer.
Popular Models
Vater
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting
- Denser feel provides a substantial feel in the hands
Cons
- It may not be suitable for those who prefer lighter sticks
Why Vater?
Vater is a family-owned American company making drumsticks for over half a century. They are highly praised for their durable and long-lasting sticks.
Vater takes pride in their manufacturing process, which includes strict quality control measures to ensure that every pair of sticks is perfectly matched in weight and pitch.
Their Pro Rock sticks are particularly popular due to their denser feel and extra reach, giving drummers the necessary control and impact. Vater’s dedication to quality and its wide range of models make them reliable for drummers of all styles.
Who is it for?
Vater drumsticks are perfect for drummers who prefer a denser feel and need extra reach.
Popular Models
Promark
Pros
- Good bounce
- Front-heavy sticks
Cons
- They tend to feel harder against the skin
Why Promark?
Promark is a drumstick brand that stands out for its innovative approach to drumstick design.
They were the first company to introduce Japanese Shira Kashi White Oak drumsticks to drummers in the United States, offering a more durable alternative to hickory.
Promark’s Firegrain sticks, for instance, are heat-treated for increased durability without compromising the natural feel of the wood.
This makes them a bit front-heavy, conducive to playing an easy Moeller stroke, a technique that allows drummers to play fast, fluid strokes with minimal effort.
Promark’s commitment to innovation and quality makes them a preferred choice for many drummers.
Who is it for?
Promark drumsticks are ideal for drummers who prefer a front-heavy stick with a good bounce.
Popular Models
Zildjian
Pros
- Durable and powerful
- Consistent sound, ideal for rock and metal drummers
Cons
- Some drummers have noted that they seem a bit thin compared to other brands
Why Zildjian?
Zildjian’s history dates back to the 17th century, more commonly known for its cymbals. However, they also produce high-quality drumsticks. Zildjian’s drumsticks are designed with the same commitment to quality and musicality as their cymbals.
For instance, their 5A Nylon Black Dip Drumsticks are praised for their durability and power. They feature a double coating of black paint that provides a unique, tacky grip to prevent the sticks from slipping.
Zildjian’s dedication to quality and understanding of a drummer’s needs make their drumsticks popular.
Who is it for?
Zildjian drumsticks are particularly popular among rock and metal drummers due to their consistent sound.
Popular Models
Regal Tip
Pros
- Provides fantastic bounce
- Nylon tips provide a little extra volume
Cons
- Some drummers have noted that they are a bit light
Why Regal Tip?
Regal Tip has been a drumstick manufacturer for over 60 years. They are known for inventing the nylon tip. This feature provides a brighter, more articulate sound than traditional wood tips.
Their drumsticks are known for delivering fantastic speed and a little extra volume due to their nylon tips. Regal Tip’s commitment to innovation and unique nylon tips make them a favorite among drummers seeking speed and volume in their playing.
Who is it for?
Regal Tip drumsticks are ideal for drummers who prefer a lighter stick and appreciate the extra volume provided by the nylon tips.
Popular Models
Ahead
Pros
- Durable and powerful
- Provides excellent bounce-back
Cons
- Some users find Ahead drum sticks too heavy
Why Ahead?
Ahead is a drumstick brand known for its innovative, metal-alloy drumsticks. They’re praised for their durability and power, outlasting traditional wooden sticks significantly.
Ahead sticks also feature built-in vibration reduction, which can help reduce hand fatigue and prevent injuries. This makes them popular among hard-hitting drummers and those who play for extended periods.
Who is it for?
Ahead drumsticks are ideal for drummers who appreciate a durable and powerful stick that provides excellent bounce-back.
Popular Models
Dope Stickz
Pros
- New and innovative brand
- Created by a professional drummer
- Colorful
Cons
- Availability
Why Dope Stickz?
Dope Stickz is a newer brand created by drummer Eric Moore. Eric Moore is known for his powerful, energetic playing style, bringing this same energy to his drumstick brand.
Since these drumsticks are gaining popularity in the drumming community, I decided to take them for a spin.
My experience with their 5A model was great. I rarely break the stick, but I often break the tip of the stick, and when that happens, it’s game over.
Dope Stikz lasted for several gigs and suffered some serious beating, and the tip was still there, so thumbs up for this new brand.
Popular Models
The Role of Drumsticks in Drumming
Drumsticks are more than just a tool to hit the drums. They are an extension of the drummer, influencing the sound and the overall performance.
Sound Quality
The type of drumstick you use can dramatically change the sound of your drums. As mentioned earlier, the material, size, weight, and tip shape all contribute to the sound quality.
For example, a heavier stick made from oak with a large, round tip will produce a loud, bright sound, while a lighter maple stick with a small, teardrop tip will create a softer, warmer tone.
Playability
The right drumstick can enhance your playing technique and comfort.
A stick that’s too heavy may tire your hands quickly, while one that’s too light may not provide the volume or impact you need. The right balance can help you play more effectively and enjoyably.
So, investing in a quality drumstick is not just about durability; it’s about finding the right tool that complements your drumming style and helps you create the desired sound.
Remember, the best drumstick is the one that feels right in your hands and delivers the sound you’re looking for.
Common Pain Points
One common issue is choosing a drumstick that needs to be lighter or lighter.
This can lead to a lack of control or insufficient volume. Another common problem is not considering the music style you play. For instance, a heavy oak drumstick for light jazz can overpower the music.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to drumsticks. It’s about finding what works best for you and your music. So, take your time, experiment with different options, and find your perfect pair.
Choosing the Right Drumstick Brand for You
Choosing the right drumstick brand is a personal journey. It’s like finding the perfect pair of shoes – what works for one person might not work for another. Here’s how you can navigate this process:
Understand Your Drumming Style
First off, you need to understand your drumming style. Are you into jazz, rock, or orchestral music? Different styles require different types of drumsticks.
For instance, you prefer heavier sticks for a more powerful sound if you’re a rock drummer. On the other hand, jazz drummers often go for lighter sticks that allow for more delicate playing.
Try Different Brands
Feel free to experiment with different brands. Each brand has unique characteristics and offers a variety of models to choose from.
For example, Vic Firth is known for its wide range of options and consistent quality. ProMark, on the other hand, is famous for its oak drumsticks, which are denser and heavier.
Consider the Material
Drumsticks are typically made from hickory, maple, or oak. Hickory is the most common due to its resilience and responsive feel. Maple sticks are lighter and offer a warm tone, while oak sticks are durable and provide a more pronounced sound.
How I Picked
The first thing that I did was research all the drumstick manufacturers that are on the market.
Then I gathered all the sticks I’ve used throughout my career and that’s a lot but believe it or not, I remember each one of them vividly!
I made sure to cover all types, lengths, and thicknesses. Once I had a type of drumsticks I compared them with the same one from different manufacturers.
I decided to pick one best overall from 9 different manufacturers following my look-for criteria.
How I Tested
I tested different drumsticks the same way. I picked the same type of drumsticks from different manufacturers and compared them with one another.
This included material, length, weight, and thickness. Once I chose the sticks I played the same songs with the same amount of strength and power.
Since different types of drumsticks are suitable for different musical genres, I tested them for a specific drumming style. I tested drumsticks for rock, metal, and jazz music.
I also tested different drumsticks that are suitable for beginners but also professional drummers.
Why you should trust me
As a drummer and percussionist with over 15 years of experience, I’m deeply passionate about drumming. My insights and writings have earned recognition in Drum Magazine, reflecting my commitment to the drumming community.
I focus on providing authentic advice and well-researched recommendations, drawing from extensive hands-on experience. My aim is to deliver relatable and informative content that supports drummers of all levels in their musical journey.
My name is Denis. I am a drummer, percussionist, music enthusiast, and blogger. Drums have been my passion for 15 years now. My idea is to write about the things I like and I am interested in. I want to share my drum passion with fellow musicians who walk, talk, and breathe drums.
