Drumsticks Shopping Guide
Parthav
Shah
09/28/2025
Drumsticks are essential to your sound and playing experience. Whether you're a beginner or pro, understanding different types is the key. Picking the right pair can feel like choosing a wand—the perfect pair might just choose you!
How to Choose Drumsticks?
Size and Weight
Drumsticks are labeled with numbers and letters. The letter denotes weight and the number indicates thickness: Higher number = Thicker stick.
7A: Thin and light, 7A sticks are perfect for jazz, lighter rock, and acoustic settings.
5A: A versatile, medium-sized stick suitable for a wide range of styles. It's a go-to choice for many drummers.
5B: Slightly thicker and heavier than 5A, 5B sticks provide more power, making them ideal for rock and heavier genres.
2B: Thicker and heavier than 5B, 2B sticks are often used for marching bands or for drummers who prefer a heavy, robust stick.
Materials
Hickory: The most popular choice due to its durability and shock absorption. Hickory sticks offer a good balance of strength and flexibility.
Maple: Lighter than hickory, maple sticks are ideal for fast, intricate playing. They are less durable but provide a lighter touch.
Oak: Denser and heavier than hickory, oak sticks are extremely durable and offer a powerful sound, but they can be harder on your hands and drumheads.
Synthetic: Made from materials like aluminium or plastic, synthetic sticks are extremely durable and weather-resistant. They often have a different feel compared to wooden sticks and can produce a different sound.
Nylon vs Wooden Tip
Nylon-tipped sticks offer a more consistent tone between pairs. They produce a brighter sound, while wooden tips deliver a warmer, more natural tone.
Coatings and Finishes
Natural Wood: Uncoated sticks provide a natural feel and grip.
Lacquered: These sticks have a smooth finish that can be slippery for some drummers but are more durable.
Grip Coating: Some sticks come with a specialised grip coating, such as rubber or a textured finish, to prevent slipping during intense playing sessions.
Best Drumsticks?
A 5A drumstick is ideal for beginners because it offers a balanced weight and medium size, making it versatile and easy to handle for most drumming styles.
Happy drumming!
Meet your future drum teacher
Parthav began playing drums in 2016 and quickly fell in love with it. He excelled in Trinity College London exams in Western Classical and Rock & Pop (Grade 3). He has taught students aged 4 to 57, preparing them for exams and band gigs. Parthav personalizes lessons, organizes fun competitions, and encourages listening to various music genres. He admires drummers like Buddy Rich and Dave Grohl.