---
title: "Drumstick Sizes Compared: 5A vs 5B vs 7A, by Brand and Wood"
description: "Drumstick models compared on size, length, diameter, wood, tip and balance, from the makers' own specs, and why a 5A is not the same 5A across brands."
author: "Raul Rodrigues"
publishedAt: 2026-10-07
checkedOn: 2026-10-07
canonical: https://upbeat.studio/compare/drumsticks/
---

# Drumsticks compared: sizes, woods and tips, by how you play

Drumstick sizes look standard and are not. A 5A from one maker is not the same stick as a 5A from another, and the letters and numbers only hint at what is in your hand. This page puts the sticks drummers actually buy in one table, with the length, diameter, wood, tip and balance their makers state, and filters them by how you play: a first pair, small hands, quiet practice, loud gigs, a light touch, or hands that hurt.

Checked on 2026-10-07. 16 tools. No prices on purpose: price models only, because prices change monthly.

## What you need, and what decides the pick

- **First pair.** I am buying my first pair and I want the safe choice. What decides it: a middle size (5A in most brands), hickory for its give, and pairs matched by weight or pitch.
- **Small hands.** My hands are small, or the sticks are for a kid. What decides it: a thinner grip, a shorter stick, and a lighter weight.
- **Quiet practice.** I practice in an apartment, on a pad or on an e-kit. What decides it: rods or practice sticks for real volume cuts, and a tip that does not chew up rubber or mesh.
- **Loud and durable.** I play hard and I am tired of breaking sticks. What decides it: a thicker stick, a denser wood or a tempered finish, and a tip shape that survives rimshots.
- **Light touch.** I play jazz, quiet gigs or with a light touch. What decides it: a thinner, lighter stick, a small tip for cymbal definition, and a long taper for rebound.
- **Sore hands.** My hands, wrists or forearms hurt after playing. What decides it: weight and balance, a grip that does not need squeezing, and a wood with some give; technique matters more than any stick.

## The table

| Tool | Maker | Kind | Platforms | Price model | Length, as the maker states it | Diameter at the grip, as the maker states it | Wood or material | Tip material | Tip shape | Taper | Weight or weight class | Pairs matched by pitch or weight | Grip coating or dipped finish | Heat or flame tempered | Balance, as the maker describes it | App Store | Google Play | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vic Firth American Classic 5A | Vic Firth | wood stick | 5A | hardware | 16 in, 40.64 cm | 0.565 in, 1.44 cm | hickory | both available | tear drop | medium | not stated by Vic Firth beyond great all-around size and weight; Thomann lists 50.0 g | yes | no | no | even: Vic Firth says a medium taper gives the best balance between the butt and the tip | not on this store | not on this store | First pair |
| Vic Firth American Classic 7A | Vic Firth | wood stick | 7A and lighter | hardware | 15.5 in, 39.37 cm | 0.54 in, 1.37 cm | hickory | both available | tear drop | medium | not stated by Vic Firth; Thomann lists 42.0 g | yes | no | no | even: Vic Firth says a medium taper gives the best balance between the butt and the tip | not on this store | not on this store | Light touch, Small hands |
| Vic Firth American Classic 5B | Vic Firth | wood stick | 5B and heavier | hardware | 16 in, 40.64 cm | 0.595 in, 1.51 cm | hickory | both available | tear drop | medium | not stated by Vic Firth beyond added thickness; Thomann lists 54.0 g | yes | no | no | even: Vic Firth says a medium taper gives the best balance between the butt and the tip | not on this store | not on this store | Loud and durable |
| Vic Firth American Classic Extreme 5A (X5A) | Vic Firth | wood stick | 5A | hardware | 16.5 in, 41.91 cm | 0.565 in, 1.44 cm | hickory | both available | tear drop | medium | not stated by Vic Firth; Thomann lists 50.0 g | yes | no | no | even: Vic Firth says a medium taper gives the best balance between the butt and the tip | not on this store | not on this store | Loud and durable |
| Vic Firth Nova 5A | Vic Firth | wood stick | 5A | hardware | 406 mm per Thomann; Vic Firth publishes no Nova spec | 14.3 mm per Thomann; Vic Firth publishes no Nova spec | hickory | both available | not published by Vic Firth; Thomann says oval, another retailer says tear drop | not published by Vic Firth; one retailer says medium | not stated by Vic Firth; Thomann lists 52.5 g | unknown | unknown | unknown | unknown | not on this store | not on this store | First pair |
| Vic Firth Kidsticks | Vic Firth | wood stick | kids | hardware | 13 in, 33.02 cm | 0.52 in, 1.32 cm | hickory | wood | tear drop | long | not stated by Vic Firth beyond shorter and thinner than an average stick; Thomann lists 33.8 g | yes | no | no | Vic Firth says a long taper gives a back-heavy feel with more flex and a faster response | not on this store | not on this store | Small hands, First pair |
| ProMark Classic Forward 5A Hickory Drumstick, Oval Wood Tip | ProMark (D'Addario) | wood stick | 5A | hardware | 16 in, 406.4 mm | 0.551 in, 14 mm | hickory | both available | oval | short | forward-weighted; no weight stated by ProMark; Thomann lists 43.0 g | yes | no | no | forward: front-weighted for power and speed | not on this store | not on this store | First pair, Loud and durable |
| ProMark Rebound 5A Hickory Drumstick, Acorn Wood Tip | ProMark (D'Addario) | wood stick | 5A | hardware | 16 in, 406.4 mm | 0.565 in, 14.4 mm | hickory | both available | acorn on the wood tip; the nylon tip version is oval | long | rear-weighted; no weight stated by ProMark; Thomann lists 52.0 g | yes | no | no | rebound: rear-weighted for agility | not on this store | not on this store | Light touch |
| ProMark Classic Attack 5B Shira Kashi Oak, Oval Wood Tip (PW5BW) | ProMark (D'Addario) | wood stick | 5B and heavier | hardware | 16 in | .590 in | Shira Kashi oak | wood or nylon, sold as separate models | oval | short | no weight stated; ProMark calls Shira Kashi oak a dense, heavy wood | yes | no | no | forward, a front-weighted balance for power and speed | not on this store | not on this store | Loud and durable |
| ProMark Hot Rods (H-RODS) | ProMark (D'Addario) | rods | 5A | hardware | 16 in | .550 in | birch dowels, nineteen medium | wood | bundled dowel ends; ProMark's spec field reads Butt | none stated | unknown | unknown | unknown | no | rebound, per ProMark's spec table | not on this store | not on this store | Quiet practice |
| Vater Los Angeles 5A (VH5AW wood tip, VH5AN nylon tip) | Vater Percussion | wood stick | 5A | hardware | 16 in | 0.57 in | American hickory | wood or nylon, sold as separate models | teardrop on the wood tip, oval on the nylon tip | not stated by Vater | unknown | yes | no | unknown | very well balanced, heavier toward the tip | not on this store | not on this store | First pair |
| Vater Manhattan 7A (VH7AW wood tip, VH7AN nylon tip) | Vater Percussion | wood stick | 7A and lighter | hardware | 16 in | 0.54 in | American hickory | wood or nylon, sold as separate models | small round tip on the wood version, small teardrop on the nylon version | not stated by Vater | unknown | yes | no | unknown | unknown | not on this store | not on this store | Light touch, Small hands |
| Zildjian 5A DIP Drumsticks (Z5AD, black DIP) | Zildjian | wood stick | 5A | hardware | 16 in | .560 in | hickory | wood; a nylon tip 5A DIP is a separate model | full-size oval | medium | unknown | unknown | yes | unknown | versatile balance from a mid-sized shaft and medium taper | not on this store | not on this store | First pair, Sore hands |
| Meinl Stick & Brush Standard 5A American Hickory (SB101) | Meinl Stick & Brush (Roland Meinl Musikinstrumente) | wood stick | 5A | hardware | 16 in | 0.565 in | American hickory | wood | acorn | medium | medium | yes | unknown | unknown | unknown | not on this store | not on this store | First pair |
| Millenium 5A Maple Drumsticks Wood | Millenium, Thomann's own brand | wood stick | 5A | hardware | 402 mm | 14.9 mm | maple | wood; a nylon tip 5AN version is a separate product | tear shaped | not stated | 45.5 g as listed by Thomann | unknown | unknown | unknown | unknown | not on this store | not on this store | First pair |
| AHEAD 5A Drumsticks | AHEAD (Big Bang Distribution) | synthetic stick | 5A | hardware | 16.00 in | 0.540 in | aluminum alloy core with a replaceable polyurethane cover | plastic, and AHEAD's own page disagrees on which: nylon in the feature list, DELRIN in the spec table; the optional 5AT tip is a cream white tip AHEAD says gives a softer wood-like sound, which Thomann lists as Wood | not named by AHEAD; Thomann lists tear shaped | medium | 53 grams | unknown | unknown | unknown | consistent weight and balance; AHEAD's own pages disagree on rebound: 5% more than wood on the product page, up to 10% better on the brand page | not on this store | not on this store | Loud and durable, Sore hands |

Legend: yes = the store listing or the maker says so; no = not there; unknown = neither says.

## One by one

### Vic Firth American Classic 5A

Vic Firth. wood stick, 5A, hardware. Free tier: One pair of lacquered hickory 5A sticks with wood teardrop tips; the nylon tip pair is sold separately as the 5AN.

Vic Firth's best-selling stick: 16 in of hickory at 0.565 in with a teardrop tip and medium taper, pitched as a great all-around size and weight for any musical situation, which makes it the default first pair. Stick sizes are not standard across brands, so a ProMark Forward 5A at 0.551 in will feel thinner, and the nylon tip 5AN and anti-slip Vic Grip 5AVG are separate products.

- Best for: First pair
- Not for: Not for very young children or players who want a clearly lighter, thinner stick; the 7A or Kidsticks are smaller.
- Someone does it better: ProMark sells its Forward 5A in a flame-tempered FireGrain version that ProMark calls its most durable Forward 5A, a treatment Vic Firth does not list for the American Classic 5A.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 2995 ratings, 4.8; vicfirth.com 1 review, 5.0
- Maker: https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classic-5a
- Sources:
  - Maker diameter: "Diameter: 0.565” | 1.44cm" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classic-5a)
  - Maker length: "Length: 16” | 40.64cm" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classic-5a)
  - Lacquer finish, wood teardrop tip: "Finish: Lacquer Tip Material: Wood Shape: Tear Drop" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classic-5a)
  - Medium taper and what it means for balance: "A medium taper gives you the best balance between the butt and the tip." (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classic-5a)
  - Positioned as an all-round size: "Great all-around size and weight for any musical situation" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classic-5a)
  - Nylon tip version exists: "Nylon tip for added clarity on cymbals and added durability" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-5an-nylon-tip)
  - Grip-coated version is a separate product: "Vic Grip provides an anti-slip finish on our classic 5A design." (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-5a-w-vic-grip)
  - Vic Firth says each pair of its sticks is weight-matched and pitch-paired: "how each pair of sticks is weight-matched and pitch-paired, every detail matters." (https://vicfirth.com/pages/brand)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.8 out of 5 stars from 2995 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_vf5a.htm)

### Vic Firth American Classic 7A

Vic Firth. wood stick, 7A and lighter, hardware. Free tier: One pair of lacquered hickory 7A sticks with wood teardrop tips; the nylon tip pair is sold separately as the 7AN.

Half an inch shorter than the 5A and slightly thinner at 0.54 in, the 7A is the hickory stick Vic Firth pitches for light jazz, combo and whenever a fast, light touch is needed, and Vic Firth's guide says shorter sticks are easier to control and weigh less, which suits small hands. Thomann lists it at 42 g against 50 g for the 5A, and Vic Firth calls the thicker 5B ideal for rock.

- Best for: Light touch, Small hands
- Not for: Not for heavy hitters or loud rock gigs, where Vic Firth points players to the thicker 5B.
- Someone does it better: The Vic Firth American Classic 5B is thicker at 0.595 in and Vic Firth says the added thickness gives more durability, so it holds up better to hard playing.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 837 ratings, 4.8; vicfirth.com 1 review, 4.0
- Maker: https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-7a
- Sources:
  - Maker use case: "Perfect for light jazz and combo or whenever a fast, light touch is needed." (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-7a)
  - Maker diameter and length: "Diameter: 0.54” | 1.37cm Length: 15.5” | 39.37cm" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-7a)
  - Lacquer finish, wood teardrop tip: "Finish: Lacquer Tip Material: Wood Shape: Tear Drop" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-7a)
  - Medium taper and balance: "A medium taper gives you the best balance between the butt and the tip." (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-7a)
  - Nylon tip version exists: "Nylon tip adds crystal clarity to cymbals." (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-7an-nylon-tip)
  - Vic Firth on shorter and thinner sticks: "Shorter sticks are easier to control and weigh less." (https://vicfirth.com/pages/frequently-asked-questions)
  - Vic Firth says each pair of its sticks is weight-matched and pitch-paired: "how each pair of sticks is weight-matched and pitch-paired, every detail matters." (https://vicfirth.com/pages/brand)
  - Thomann rating and use: "4.8 out of 5 stars from 837 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_vf7a_drumsticks.htm)
  - Thomann positions it for jazz: "Perfect for all jazz styles, big band, combos, etc." (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_vf7a_drumsticks.htm)

### Vic Firth American Classic 5B

Vic Firth. wood stick, 5B and heavier, hardware. Free tier: One pair of lacquered hickory 5B sticks with wood teardrop tips; the nylon tip pair is sold separately as the 5BN.

Same 16 in length as the 5A but thicker at 0.595 in; Vic Firth says the added thickness is for more durability and calls the 5B ideal for rock, band and practice. The trade is weight and handling: Thomann lists it at 54 g against 50 g for the 5A, and Vic Firth's own guide says thinner sticks are easier to handle.

- Best for: Loud and durable
- Not for: Not for light jazz or small hands; Vic Firth pitches the thinner 7A for light jazz and says thinner sticks are easier to handle.
- Someone does it better: The Vic Firth American Classic 5A is thinner at 0.565 in and Vic Firth pitches it as a great all-around size and weight for any musical situation, so it is the more versatile choice.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 907 ratings, 4.8
- Maker: https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-5b
- Sources:
  - Maker durability claim: "Added thickness for more durability" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-5b)
  - Maker use case: "Ideal for rock, band, and practice" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-5b)
  - Maker diameter and length: "Diameter: 0.595” | 1.51cm Length: 16” | 40.64cm" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-5b)
  - Lacquer finish, wood teardrop tip: "Finish: Lacquer Tip Material: Wood Shape: Tear Drop" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-5b)
  - Medium taper and balance: "A medium taper gives you the best balance between the butt and the tip." (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-5b)
  - Nylon tip version exists: "Our classic 5B design but with a nylon tip for incredible clarity and articulation on cymbals" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-5bn-nylon-tip)
  - Vic Firth says each pair of its sticks is weight-matched and pitch-paired: "how each pair of sticks is weight-matched and pitch-paired, every detail matters." (https://vicfirth.com/pages/brand)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.8 out of 5 stars from 907 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_vf5b.htm)

### Vic Firth American Classic Extreme 5A (X5A)

Vic Firth. wood stick, 5A, hardware. Free tier: One pair of lacquered hickory X5A sticks with wood teardrop tips; the nylon tip pair is sold separately as the X5AN.

The X5A keeps the 5A's 0.565 in grip and teardrop tip but adds half an inch to 16.5 in, which Vic Firth says gives more power, leverage and reach. Vic Firth's own guide also says shorter sticks are easier to control, so if you already play a 5A, treat it as a second pair to try rather than a first.

- Best for: Loud and durable
- Not for: Not for small hands or young players, who will find a shorter 5A or 7A easier to control.
- Someone does it better: The standard Vic Firth American Classic 5A is half an inch shorter, and Vic Firth's own guide says shorter sticks are easier to control and weigh less.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 588 ratings, 4.8; vicfirth.com 2 reviews, 4.5
- Maker: https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-extreme-5a
- Sources:
  - Extreme models add half an inch: "each feature an extra 1/2" of length, providing extra reach and power!" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-extreme-5a)
  - Maker positioning against the 5A: "Like our best-selling 5A, but with added length for more power, leverage, and reach" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-extreme-5a)
  - Maker diameter and length: "Diameter: 0.565” | 1.44cm Length: 16.5” | 41.91cm" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-extreme-5a)
  - Lacquer finish, wood teardrop tip: "Finish: Lacquer Tip Material: Wood Shape: Tear Drop" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-extreme-5a)
  - Nylon tip version exists: "Nylon tip offers a brighter cymbal sound and added durability" (https://vicfirth.com/products/american-classicr-extreme-5an-nylon-tip)
  - Vic Firth on shorter sticks: "Shorter sticks are easier to control and weigh less." (https://vicfirth.com/pages/frequently-asked-questions)
  - Vic Firth says each pair of its sticks is weight-matched and pitch-paired: "how each pair of sticks is weight-matched and pitch-paired, every detail matters." (https://vicfirth.com/pages/brand)
  - Thomann rating and description: "4.8 out of 5 stars from 588 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_vfx5a.htm)
  - Thomann describes it against a 5A: "Comparable to 5A sticks but slightly longer for better reach and volume" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_vfx5a.htm)

### Vic Firth Nova 5A

Vic Firth. wood stick, 5A, hardware. Free tier: One pair of hickory 5A sticks with wood tips in natural, black or red; a nylon tip 5AN Nova is sold separately.

Nova is a hickory 5A that Thomann sells as made by Vic Firth, listed at 406 mm long and 14.3 mm thick, close to the American Classic 5A, with a nylon tip version too. Vic Firth's own website does not list the Nova line, so its specs, grading and pairing come only from retailers, one of which calls the wood grade B hickory.

- Best for: First pair
- Not for: Not for drummers who want the maker's published specs and Vic Firth's weight-matched, pitch-paired promise behind the pair they buy.
- Someone does it better: The Vic Firth American Classic 5A comes with a published maker spec sheet and Vic Firth's brand claim that each pair is weight-matched and pitch-paired, neither of which Vic Firth publishes for Nova.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 782 ratings, 4.3 for the natural wood tip; the black and red versions are rated separately
- Sources:
  - Sold as made by Vic Firth: "Made by Vic Firth" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_5a_nova_natural_wood_tip.htm)
  - Retailer length, diameter and tip: "Length: 406 mm Diameter: 14.3 mm Tip shape: Oval" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_5a_nova_natural_wood_tip.htm)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.3 out of 5 stars from 782 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_5a_nova_natural_wood_tip.htm)
  - Nylon tip Nova 5A exists: "Vic Firth 5AN Nova Hickory Nylon Tip" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_5an_nova_hickory_nylon_tip.htm)
  - Retailer grading claim, not from Vic Firth: "The Vic Firth Nova Drumsticks are made from grade B Hickory" (https://www.turramusic.com.au/products/vic-firth-nova-wood-tip-natural)
  - Retailer pairing claim, not from Vic Firth: "Each pair is weight-sorted and tone-paired using Vic Firth technology" (https://www.turramusic.com.au/products/vic-firth-nova-wood-tip-natural)

### Vic Firth Kidsticks

Vic Firth. wood stick, kids, hardware. Free tier: One pair of blue painted hickory sticks sized for children; a pink version is sold separately.

Kidsticks are 13 in long and 0.52 in thick, which Vic Firth calls shorter and thinner than an average stick, made from the same hickory as its full-size sticks and engineered for very young drum set players aged 3 to 8. The blue or pink color is a painted finish, not a grip coating.

- Best for: Small hands, First pair
- Not for: Not for players older than about 8 or adults with small hands, who are better served by a full-length 7A.
- Someone does it better: The Vic Firth American Classic 7A is a full 15.5 in long, so a child who is outgrowing Kidsticks gets adult reach and a light touch from it.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 112 ratings, 4.7
- Maker: https://vicfirth.com/products/kidsticks
- Sources:
  - Maker age guidance: "Engineered to make playing easy for the very young drum set player" (https://vicfirth.com/products/kidsticks)
  - Maker age range: "ages 3 to 8. Produces a quality sound." (https://vicfirth.com/products/kidsticks)
  - Shorter and thinner than standard: "Shorter and thinner than an average stick" (https://vicfirth.com/products/kidsticks)
  - Maker diameter and length: "Diameter: 0.52” | 1.32cm Length: 13” | 33.02cm" (https://vicfirth.com/products/kidsticks)
  - Long taper: "Taper: Long" (https://vicfirth.com/products/kidsticks)
  - Finish and tip: "Finish: Paint Tip Material: Wood Shape: Tear Drop" (https://vicfirth.com/products/kidsticks)
  - Pink version is sold separately: "Features a vibrant pink finish!" (https://vicfirth.com/products/kidsticks-w-pink-finish)
  - What a long taper does: "A long taper produces a back-heavy feel with more flex and a faster response." (https://vicfirth.com/products/kidsticks)
  - Vic Firth says each pair of its sticks is weight-matched and pitch-paired: "how each pair of sticks is weight-matched and pitch-paired, every detail matters." (https://vicfirth.com/pages/brand)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.7 out of 5 stars from 112 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vic_firth_kids_drum_sticks_hickory.htm)

### ProMark Classic Forward 5A Hickory Drumstick, Oval Wood Tip

ProMark (D'Addario). wood stick, 5A, hardware. Free tier: One pair of lacquered hickory sticks with oval wood tips; nylon tip and FireGrain versions are separate products.

ProMark's classic 5A has a short taper and oval wood tip that put the weight toward the front, which ProMark says gives a forward-weighted feel for increased power, and its ProMatch process claims consistent weight and pitch pair to pair. At 0.551 in it is slightly thinner than Vic Firth's 0.565 in 5A, and if durability matters most, ProMark sells the same stick heat-tempered as FireGrain.

- Best for: First pair, Loud and durable
- Not for: Not for players who want a rear-weighted stick with more rebound; ProMark's Rebound line is built for that.
- Someone does it better: The ProMark Rebound 5A uses a long taper and a rear-weighted feel that ProMark says is ideal for agility, so it suits players who want a more responsive stick than a front-weighted one.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 307 ratings, 4.7; daddario.com 1 review, 5.0
- Maker: https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-forward-5a-hickory-drumstick-oval-wood-tip
- Sources:
  - Short taper, oval tip, forward weighting: "features an oval tip shape and a short taper, producing a forward-weighted feel for increased power." (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-forward-5a-hickory-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Maker diameter: "Diameter: .551" / 14mm" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-forward-5a-hickory-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Maker length: "Length: 16" / 406.4mm" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-forward-5a-hickory-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Maker balance spec: "Balance: Forward" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-forward-5a-hickory-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Weight and pitch matching: "The ProMatch process ensures unrivaled consistency of weight and pitch from stick to stick, and pair to pair." (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-forward-5a-hickory-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Front-weighted balance for power and speed: "A front-weighted balance gives Forward its timeless into-the-drum playing feel, emphasizing power and speed." (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-forward-5a-hickory-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Heat-tempered FireGrain version exists: "ProMark's most durable Forward 5A. FireGrain is a patented heat-tempering process" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-forward-5a-firegrain-hickory-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Nylon tip version exists: "features a nylon oval tip and a short taper" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-forward-5a-hickory-drumstick-oval-nylon-tip)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.7 out of 5 stars from 307 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/pro_mark_tx5aw.htm)

### ProMark Rebound 5A Hickory Drumstick, Acorn Wood Tip

ProMark (D'Addario). wood stick, 5A, hardware. Free tier: One pair of lacquered hickory sticks with acorn wood tips; nylon tip, FireGrain and ActiveGrip versions are separate products.

The Rebound 5A puts more weight toward the back with a long taper and an acorn wood tip, which ProMark says gives a rear-weighted feel that is ideal for agility, and ProMark designs the Rebound line for agility, speed and technical playing. It has the same 0.565 in grip as a Vic Firth 5A but a different balance, so try it against a forward-weighted stick before committing a whole gig to it.

- Best for: Light touch
- Not for: Not for drummers who want a front-heavy stick that digs into the drum for maximum power.
- Someone does it better: The ProMark Classic Forward 5A has a short taper and a forward-weighted feel that ProMark says gives increased power, so it drives harder into the drum.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 86 ratings, 4.7; daddario.com 2 reviews, 4.5
- Maker: https://www.daddario.com/products/rebound-5a-hickory-drumstick-acorn-wood-tip
- Sources:
  - Acorn tip, long taper, rear weighting: "features an acorn tip shape and a long taper, producing a rear-weighted feel that is ideal for agility." (https://www.daddario.com/products/rebound-5a-hickory-drumstick-acorn-wood-tip)
  - Maker diameter: "Diameter: .565" / 14.4mm" (https://www.daddario.com/products/rebound-5a-hickory-drumstick-acorn-wood-tip)
  - Maker balance spec: "Balance: Rebound" (https://www.daddario.com/products/rebound-5a-hickory-drumstick-acorn-wood-tip)
  - Weight and pitch matching: "The ProMatch process ensures unrivaled consistency of weight and pitch from stick to stick, and pair to pair." (https://www.daddario.com/products/rebound-5a-hickory-drumstick-acorn-wood-tip)
  - Nylon tip version, oval: "The rear-weighted design of our Rebound 5A drumstick combined with our ProMark Classic Nylon Oval Tip" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-rebound-5a-hickory-drumstick-oval-nylon-tip)
  - Heat-tempered FireGrain version exists: "ProMark's most durable Rebound 5A. FireGrain is a patented heat-tempering process" (https://www.daddario.com/products/rebound-5a-firegrain-hickory-drumstick-acorn-wood-tip)
  - Grip-coated ActiveGrip version exists: "engineered to get tackier as your hands sweat and body temperature rises." (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-rebound-5a-activegrip-hickory-drumstick-acorn-wood-tip)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.7 out of 5 stars from 86 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/pro_mark_rbh565aw_5a_rebound_hickory.htm)
  - Thomann on the shoulder and balance point: "This makes the center of gravity closer to the rear end of the stick, which creates more rebound" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/pro_mark_rbh565aw_5a_rebound_hickory.htm)

### ProMark Classic Attack 5B Shira Kashi Oak, Oval Wood Tip (PW5BW)

ProMark (D'Addario). wood stick, 5B and heavier, hardware. Free tier: A pair of 5B sticks in Japanese Shira Kashi oak; the oval nylon tip version is a separate model, PW5BN.

Sold today as the ProMark Classic Attack 5B Shira Kashi Oak, this is a thick 16 in by .590 in 5B in Japanese oak with a short taper and a forward-weighted feel that ProMark pitches for power, attack and durability, including metal. Know before choosing that ProMark calls the oak a dense, heavy wood, so this is a heavy pair built for hitting hard rather than for a light touch.

- Best for: Loud and durable
- Not for: Not for jazz, quiet rooms or small hands, where a dense, front-weighted 5B works against you.
- Someone does it better: The AHEAD 5A claims to last 6 to 10 times longer than wood and has replaceable covers and tips, so wear means swapping parts instead of buying a new pair.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 15 ratings, 4.6
- Maker: https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-attack-5b-shira-kashi-oak-drumstick-oval-wood-tip
- Sources:
  - Oval tip, short taper, dense oak, forward-weighted for power and durability: "features an oval tip shape, short taper, and dense Shira Kashi Oak, producing a forward-weighted feel with increased power and durability" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-attack-5b-shira-kashi-oak-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Diameter: "Diameter: .590" / 15mm" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-attack-5b-shira-kashi-oak-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Length: "Length: 16" / 406.4mm" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-attack-5b-shira-kashi-oak-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Weight and pitch consistency between sticks and pairs: "The ProMatch process ensures unrivaled consistency of weight and pitch from stick to stick, and pair to pair." (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-attack-5b-shira-kashi-oak-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Dense, heavy wood aimed at metal drumming: "Shira Kashi Oak is a dense, heavy wood providing a sturdy feel, increased attack, and exceptional durability, making it ideal for metal drumming" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-attack-5b-shira-kashi-oak-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Lacquer finish and plain oak material, no grip coating and not FireGrain: "Finish: Lacquer" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-attack-5b-shira-kashi-oak-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - ProMark names FireGrain in the material field of its heat treated models: "Material/Wood Type: FireGrain" (https://www.daddario.com/products/rebound-5a-firegrain-hickory-drumstick-acorn-wood-tip)
  - Forward balance: "Balance: Forward" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-attack-5b-shira-kashi-oak-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Nylon tip version exists: "Tip Material: Nylon" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-attack-5b-shira-kashi-oak-drumstick-oval-nylon-tip)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.6 out of 5 stars from 15 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/pro_mark_pw5bw_oak_wood_tip.htm)

### ProMark Hot Rods (H-RODS)

ProMark (D'Addario). rods, 5A, hardware. Free tier: A pair of rods, each made of nineteen medium birch dowels with a rubber end cap.

Nineteen medium birch dowels bundled into a 16 in rod that ProMark says gives a lighter sound than traditional drumsticks with enough articulation, for when you need to play in a quiet environment. Know before choosing that ProMark sells them as an alternate sound source and does not compare them to any stick size; they sit in the 5A class here only because their stated .550 in diameter matches ProMark's own .551 in Classic Forward 5A.

- Best for: Quiet practice
- Not for: Not for drummers who need full stick volume and attack for every song of a loud gig.
- Someone does it better: ProMark's own Lightning Rods offer more attack, increased projection and brighter cymbal sounds than the Hot Rods, and ProMark lists them as ideal for practice and reduced volume.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 463 ratings, 4.6; daddario.com 3 reviews, all 5 stars
- Maker: https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-hot-rods-drumsticks
- Sources:
  - Made for quiet environments: "The ProMark Hot Rods are perfect when you need to play in a quiet environment." (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-hot-rods-drumsticks)
  - Birch dowels, lighter sound than sticks: "made using premium birch dowels and provide a lighter sound than traditional drumsticks, but enough articulation" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-hot-rods-drumsticks)
  - Size: "Diameter: .550" Length: 16"" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-hot-rods-drumsticks)
  - Dowel count: "Made with nineteen medium birch dowels" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-hot-rods-drumsticks)
  - Rubber end cap: "Now featuring a new playable rubber end cap for a fuller tone on drums and cymbals." (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-hot-rods-drumsticks)
  - Balance as listed by the maker: "Balance: Rebound" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-hot-rods-drumsticks)
  - Plain birch handle, raw finish, not FireGrain: "Handle Material: Birch" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-hot-rods-drumsticks)
  - ProMark's own 5A is .551 in, the basis for the 5A size class: "Diameter: .551" / 14mm" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-classic-forward-5a-hickory-drumstick-oval-wood-tip)
  - Lightning Rods are louder and brighter than Hot Rods: "offer more attack, increased projection, and brighter cymbal sounds than our Hot Rods model" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-lightning-rods)
  - ProMark lists the Lightning Rods as ideal for practice and reduced volume: "Ideal For: Practice/Reduced Volume" (https://www.daddario.com/products/promark-lightning-rods)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.6 out of 5 stars from 463 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/pro_mark_h-rods.htm)

### Vater Los Angeles 5A (VH5AW wood tip, VH5AN nylon tip)

Vater Percussion. wood stick, 5A, hardware. Free tier: A pair of hickory 5A sticks; wood tip and nylon tip are separate models.

Vater makes its 5A at 16 in by 0.57 in in hickory and describes it as very well balanced and heavier toward the tip for fast attack and response on drums. Know before choosing that 5A sizes differ by brand: Vater lists 0.57 in, Zildjian lists .560 in for its 5A DIP and ProMark lists .551 in for its Classic Forward 5A, so try one pair before buying several.

- Best for: First pair
- Not for: Not for players who want a back weighted stick, since Vater describes this one as heavier toward the tip.
- Someone does it better: The Zildjian 5A DIP adds a slightly tacky grip coating that Zildjian says lets you loosen your grip and relax your hands, which the lacquered Los Angeles 5A does not have.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 285 ratings, 4.7
- Maker: https://www.vater.com/product/3
- Sources:
  - Balance and attack: "Very well balanced stick. Heavier toward the tip for fast attack and response on drums." (https://admin.vater.com/products/3.json)
  - Length, diameter and wood tip shape: ""dimensions_length":16.0,"dimensions_diameter":0.57,"tip_shape":"teardrop"" (https://admin.vater.com/products/3.json)
  - Nylon tip version has an oval tip: "Oval nylon tip for a bright sound." (https://admin.vater.com/products/981911.json)
  - Tone and weight matched: "All Vater Drumsticks are tone and weight matched by computer analysis." (https://www.vater.com/partials/manufacturing-new.html)
  - Finish is regular lacquer, no grip coating: ""name":"Regular Lacquer"" (https://admin.vater.com/products.json?q=los%20angeles%205A%20wood)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.7 out of 5 stars from 285 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vater_5a.htm)
  - Thomann restates the balance and lists American hickory: "Very well balanced stick, heavier toward the tip for fast response" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vater_5a.htm)

### Vater Manhattan 7A (VH7AW wood tip, VH7AN nylon tip)

Vater Percussion. wood stick, 7A and lighter, hardware. Free tier: A pair of hickory 7A sticks; wood tip and nylon tip are separate models.

A thin 0.54 in hickory 7A that Vater makes longer than an average 7A, at 16 in, with a small round tip for defined cymbal work. Know before choosing that it is the same 16 in length as Vater's Los Angeles 5A, so you get a thin grip with full length reach, not a short stick.

- Best for: Light touch, Small hands
- Not for: Not for drummers who chose 7A to get a shorter stick, since Vater makes this one 16 in long.
- Someone does it better: Meinl weighs and sorts its raw dowels so that only lightweight hickory becomes Big Apple sticks, a line that includes the Big Apple Bop 7A and that Meinl pitches for fast ride patterns; Vater describes no such weight sort for the Manhattan.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 254 ratings, 4.7
- Maker: https://www.vater.com/product/1
- Sources:
  - Longer than average 7A, small round tip: "Longer than an average 7A with a small round tip for defined cymbal work." (https://admin.vater.com/products/1.json)
  - Length, diameter, tip tag: ""dimensions_length":16.0,"dimensions_diameter":0.54,"tip_shape":"ball"" (https://admin.vater.com/products/1.json)
  - Nylon version has a small teardrop tip: "Longer than an average 7A with a small teardrop nylon tip for defined cymbal work." (https://admin.vater.com/products/981916.json)
  - Tone and weight matched: "All Vater Drumsticks are tone and weight matched by computer analysis." (https://www.vater.com/partials/manufacturing-new.html)
  - Finish is regular lacquer, no grip coating: ""name":"Regular Lacquer"" (https://admin.vater.com/products.json?q=manhattan%207A%20wood)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.7 out of 5 stars from 254 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vater_7a_manhattan_sticks.htm)
  - Thomann restates size and length: "Longer than the average 7A model" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/vater_7a_manhattan_sticks.htm)
  - Meinl sorts lightweight hickory into Big Apple sticks: "only lightweight hickory becomes Big Apple sticks (which are great for fast ride patterns)" (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/topics/high-quality-drum-sticks)
  - Big Apple Bop comes in 7A: "Big Apple Bop sticks are available in size 7A, and Big Apple Swing comes in 7A and 5B." (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/topics/big-apple-drumsticks)

### Zildjian 5A DIP Drumsticks (Z5AD, black DIP)

Zildjian. wood stick, 5A, hardware. Free tier: A pair of hickory 5A sticks with the DIP grip coating; purple, maple green and nylon tip DIP versions are separate models.

Zildjian's most popular 5A shape with a slightly tacky DIP coating on the grip area, which Zildjian says lets you loosen your grip and relax your hands. Know before choosing that the coating covers only the grip, and one of the two reviews on zildjian.com says the sticks do not grip as much after use.

- Best for: First pair, Sore hands
- Not for: Not for drummers who prefer a smooth, plain wood feel in the hand.
- Someone does it better: Vater backs its Los Angeles 5A with a claim that all its sticks are tone and weight matched by computer analysis, which Zildjian does not state for the DIP.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 144 ratings, 4.2 for the 5A Black Dip; zildjian.com 2 reviews, 4.5
- Maker: https://zildjian.com/products/5a-dip-drumsticks
- Sources:
  - DIP is a grip coating: "The DIP material is a special coating that is applied to the grip area of the stick" (https://zildjian.com/products/5a-dip-drumsticks)
  - Maker says it relaxes the hands: "This allows drummers to loosen their grip and relax their hands." (https://zildjian.com/products/5a-dip-drumsticks)
  - Shape and balance: "Mid-sized shaft and medium taper provide a versitile balance and feel great for any playing style" (https://zildjian.com/products/5a-dip-drumsticks)
  - Diameter: "Diameter: .560” | 1.42cm" (https://zildjian.com/products/5a-dip-drumsticks)
  - Length: "Length: 16” | 40.64cm" (https://zildjian.com/products/5a-dip-drumsticks)
  - Oval tip, most popular model: "Our most popular model. Full-size oval tip produces full tone." (https://zildjian.com/products/5a-dip-drumsticks)
  - A zildjian.com reviewer reports the grip fading: "For me the sticks don’t really grip as much anymore but they sticks are strong and really good" (https://zildjian.com/products/5a-dip-drumsticks)
  - Nylon tip DIP version: "Z5AND" (https://zildjian.com/products/5a-nylon-dip-drumsticks)
  - Thomann describes the black rubber coated end: "Stick end coated in black rubber to ensure a secure grip and to prevent them from slipping out of the hand" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/zildjian_5a_black_dip_hickory_sticks.htm)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.2 out of 5 stars from 144 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/zildjian_5a_black_dip_hickory_sticks.htm)

### Meinl Stick & Brush Standard 5A American Hickory (SB101)

Meinl Stick & Brush (Roland Meinl Musikinstrumente). wood stick, 5A, hardware. Free tier: A pair of American hickory 5A sticks with acorn wood tips.

A middle of the road 5A in American hickory with an acorn tip, medium taper and medium weight, weight and pitch matched, with a tip Meinl says gives full response on cymbals and drums with clarity and articulation. Know before choosing that Meinl sources its hickory from the Appalachian region but makes the sticks in Germany, and that Thomann shows only 27 ratings for it.

- Best for: First pair
- Not for: Not for drummers who want a front heavy stick for power, since Meinl rates it medium weight with a medium taper.
- Someone does it better: The Zildjian 5A DIP adds a tacky grip coating that Zildjian says lets you relax your hands; Meinl describes no grip treatment on the Standard 5A.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 27 ratings, 4.7
- Maker: https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/products/sb101-m5945.html
- Sources:
  - Weight and pitch matched, acorn tip: "Weight & Pitch Matched" (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/products/sb101-m5945.html)
  - Length 16 in: "16″" (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/products/sb101-m5945.html)
  - Diameter 0.565 in: "0.565″" (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/products/sb101-m5945.html)
  - Medium taper: "Taper Length: Medium" (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/products/sb101-m5945.html)
  - Medium weight class: "Weight: Medium" (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/products/sb101-m5945.html)
  - Tone on cymbals and drums: "The Classic acorn tip shape produces full tonal response on cymbals and drums with clarity and articulation." (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/products/sb101-m5945.html)
  - Hickory sourced from the Appalachian region: "Our American hickory comes from the Appalachian region, one of the only places in the world to find this special wood." (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/topics/drumstick-wood-types)
  - Made in Germany: "Finally, Meinl sticks are proudly made in Germany." (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/topics/high-quality-drum-sticks)
  - Wood tip per Thomann's spec sheet: "Acorn (acorn-shaped) wooden head" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/meinl_5a_standard_hickory.htm)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.7 out of 5 stars from 27 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/meinl_5a_standard_hickory.htm)

### Millenium 5A Maple Drumsticks Wood

Millenium, Thomann's own brand. wood stick, 5A, hardware. Free tier: A pair of maple 5A sticks with wooden tips; a nylon tip 5AN version is a separate product.

Thomann's own brand 5A in maple, 402 mm long and 14.9 mm thick with a tear shaped wood tip, so it is a little shorter and thicker than the 16 in by 0.565 in Meinl Standard 5A. Know before choosing that maple is a lighter and less dense wood than hickory, and Thomann reviews include reports of these sticks wearing out fast on crashes and hi-hats.

- Best for: First pair
- Not for: Not for hard hitters or cymbal heavy playing, where Thomann reviewers report the maple wears out quickly.
- Someone does it better: The Meinl Standard 5A is American hickory, which Meinl describes as more durable than maple, and is weight and pitch matched.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 2728 ratings, 4.0
- Maker: https://www.thomann.co.uk/millenium_5a_drumsticks.htm
- Sources:
  - Material and tip: "Material: Maple wood" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/millenium_5a_drumsticks.htm)
  - Length: "Length: 402 mm" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/millenium_5a_drumsticks.htm)
  - Diameter: "Body: Ø 14,9 mm" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/millenium_5a_drumsticks.htm)
  - Weight: "45,5 g" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/millenium_5a_drumsticks.htm)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.0 out of 5 stars from 2728 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/millenium_5a_drumsticks.htm)
  - A reviewer reports fast wear on crashes and hi-hats: "as soon as you hit a crash or hi-hat, these things disintegrate in a few minutes" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/millenium_5a_drumsticks.htm)
  - Millenium is Thomann's own brand: "Millenium is Thomann's own brand." (https://www.thomann.co.uk/millenium.html)
  - Maple is lighter and less dense than hickory: "A much lighter and less dense wood than hickory." (https://www.vater.com/partials/stickselect.html)
  - Maple is less durable than hickory: "Hard maple is a bit less durable compared to American Hickory for sticks" (https://meinlstickandbrush.com/en/topics/drumstick-wood-types)

### AHEAD 5A Drumsticks

AHEAD (Big Bang Distribution). synthetic stick, 5A, hardware. Free tier: A pair of aluminum core 5A sticks with medium taper polyurethane covers and plastic tips fitted, which AHEAD calls nylon in its feature list and DELRIN in its spec table; replacement covers, tips and rings are sold separately.

An aluminum core 5A with a replaceable polyurethane cover and screw-on tip that AHEAD says has 50% less shock and lasts 6 to 10 times longer than wood, so worn parts are swapped rather than the whole pair. Know before choosing that it is thinner than the wood 5As here at 0.540 in, the same as Vater's Manhattan 7A, and some Thomann reviewers find it heavier and less natural in the hand than wood.

- Best for: Loud and durable, Sore hands
- Not for: Not for drummers who want the feel and sound of a wood stick, which some Thomann reviewers say these do not match.
- Someone does it better: The Vater Los Angeles 5A gives the feel of real hickory at a fuller 0.57 in diameter and is rated 4.7 on Thomann against 4.4 for the AHEAD 5A.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail: Thomann 109 ratings, 4.4
- Maker: https://bigbangdist.com/product/ahead-drumsticks-5a-drumsticks/
- Sources:
  - Durability claim: "Last 6 to 10 times longer than wood drumsticks" (https://bigbangdist.com/product/ahead-drumsticks-5a-drumsticks/)
  - Shock claim: "50% less shock than wood drumsticks" (https://bigbangdist.com/product/ahead-drumsticks-5a-drumsticks/)
  - Rebound claim on the product page: "5% more rebound than wood drumsticks" (https://bigbangdist.com/product/ahead-drumsticks-5a-drumsticks/)
  - Weight consistency within 1%: "High precision alloy core guarantees consistent weight and balance variations of less that 1%" (https://bigbangdist.com/product/ahead-drumsticks-5a-drumsticks/)
  - Replaceable parts: "Replaceable covers, tips and rings" (https://bigbangdist.com/product/ahead-drumsticks-5a-drumsticks/)
  - Nylon tip: "High quality, unbreakable nylon tip provides a brighter, more articulate sound" (https://bigbangdist.com/product/ahead-drumsticks-5a-drumsticks/)
  - Diameter: "0.540 inches" (https://bigbangdist.com/product/ahead-drumsticks-5a-drumsticks/)
  - Weight: "53 grams" (https://bigbangdist.com/product/ahead-drumsticks-5a-drumsticks/)
  - Construction and the brand page's rebound figure: "The flex allows drummers to play fast with less effort because they rebound up to 10% better." (https://bigbangdist.com/brands/ahead/)
  - Aluminum tubing with replaceable cover on the upper half: "AHEAD Drumsticks are made of an aerospace grade aluminum tubing where the upper half of the stick has a replaceable polyurethane cover" (https://bigbangdist.com/brands/ahead/)
  - AHEAD's spec table names the tip type DELRIN, while its feature list says nylon: "DELRIN" (https://bigbangdist.com/product/ahead-drumsticks-5a-drumsticks/)
  - The 5AT replacement tip gives a wood-like sound; AHEAD does not call it wood: "Durable cream white replacement tips that provide a softer wood-like sound." (https://bigbangdist.com/product/medium-taper-drumstick-tip-pair/)
  - Thomann lists the 5AT replacement tip as Wood: "Ahead Tip 5AT 5A / 7A Wood" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/ahead_5a_sticks.htm)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.4 out of 5 stars from 109 customer ratings" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/ahead_5a_sticks.htm)
  - A reviewer finds the feel short of wood: "Durable but the feeling when you are playing is not as good as a wooden stick" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/ahead_5a_sticks.htm)
  - A reviewer finds them a little heavy: "they are a little heavy, not great rebound, weird feel" (https://www.thomann.co.uk/ahead_5a_sticks.htm)

## What we found

### A 5A is not one size

Ten of the sticks in this table are called 5A, and their makers give grip diameters from 0.540 inch (AHEAD) to 0.57 inch (Vater Los Angeles), with Millenium's maple 5A at 14.9 mm, about 0.587 inch. AHEAD's 5A is as thin as Vic Firth's and Vater's 7A, both 0.540 inch. If a 5A feels wrong in your hand, another brand's 5A may feel right; compare the Diameter column, not the name.

### Same name, nine grams apart

ProMark sells two 5A hickory sticks at the same 16 inch length: the Forward 5A and the Rebound 5A. Thomann lists them at 43 g and 52 g per stick, because ProMark moves the balance forward on one and back on the other. Only AHEAD publishes a weight for its own stick (53 grams); every other weight on this page is the retailer's figure, and the Weight column says so.

### Vater's 7A is as long as a 5A

Most 7As are shorter than the same maker's 5A: Vic Firth's is 15.5 inches against 16. Vater's Manhattan 7A is 16 inches, the same length as its Los Angeles 5A, and Vater describes it as longer than an average 7A. If you want a thin stick with full reach, that is the one row in the table that gives you both.

## How we checked

**Where the facts come from.** Every spec, feature tick and claim comes from the maker's own page, a store listing, a manual or a retailer's spec sheet, read on 2026-10-07, and the exact words relied on are kept with each row (open "Sources" on any card). Retail ratings are the retailer's own count on that date. A feature is marked yes only when one of those sources says it; when none does, it is shown as unknown rather than as no.

**How it was checked.** Every row was researched once and then handed to a second, independent pass whose only job was to break it: open the same pages, check every spec, every tick, every rating and every quote. Rows it could not confirm were corrected, marked unknown, or dropped before publishing.

**What this page does not measure yet.** We have not weighed or measured these sticks ourselves. The numbers are the makers' own, and makers measure differently, which is part of why the same size name means different sticks. A measured table, with weight per stick and the difference inside a pair, needs the sticks in hand, and this page will say so when it has it.

**No prices.** Prices change weekly across retailers and regions. The retailer shows today's price.

## FAQ

### What is the difference between 5A and 7A drumsticks?

A 7A is thinner, usually a little shorter and lighter than a 5A from the same maker, which suits jazz, quieter playing and smaller hands. A 5A is the middle size most beginners start with. The difference is real within one brand; across brands the same name can mean a different stick, which is why the table lists each maker's own length and diameter.

### What do the numbers and letters on drumsticks mean?

The convention most makers follow is that a lower number means a thicker stick, so a 2B is thicker than a 5B, and a 5A is thicker than a 7A. The letter is older history: A sticks were lighter, B sticks heavier. None of it is a standard, and makers size their sticks differently, so read the length and diameter, not only the name.

### How do I choose the right size drumsticks as a beginner?

Start with a 5A in hickory from a maker that matches its pairs, play it for a few weeks, and then adjust: thinner if your hands feel crowded or you play quietly, thicker if you play loud or the stick feels lost in your hand. The first-pair chip filters the table to that safe start.

### Hickory, maple or oak drumsticks: which is better?

Hickory is the default because it bends a little and absorbs shock. Maple is lighter and suits a light touch and small hands. Oak is denser and heavier and lasts longer under hard playing, at the cost of more shock to the hands. The Wood column shows what each stick is made of.

### Nylon tip or wood tip?

Nylon tips do not chip and sound brighter on cymbals; wood tips sound warmer and can splinter on hard cymbal work. On rubber pads and e-kit cymbals, check what the kit maker recommends. Several sticks in this table come in both; the Tip column says which.

### Do drumsticks really make a difference?

Less than technique, more than people think. A stick that is too heavy or too thick for your hands makes you squeeze, and squeezing is what makes hands hurt. If your hands are sore, a lighter or better-balanced stick can help, and a lesson on grip will help more.

## Related

- [How to hold drumsticks](https://upbeat.studio/blog/how-to-hold-drum-sticks-correctly)
- [Drum practice pads compared](https://upbeat.studio/compare/practice-pads)
- [The student's guide to drum stick sizes](https://upbeat.studio/blog/the-students-guide-to-drum-stick-sizes-and-how-to-choose-them)