Types of Drumsticks

Drumstick Guide for the Beginner

Drumsticks are one of the most important tools for any drummer. They come in all shapes and sizes, each with its own unique sound and feel. It’s important to know the different types of drumsticks if you are a beginner so you can choose the ones that are right for you.

The Basics

The most common way to categorize drumsticks is by their size and weight. The size of a drumstick is measured by its diameter, which is typically expressed in inches. The weight of a drumstick is measured by its taper, which is the difference in thickness between the tip and the handle.

The most common sizes of drumsticks are 5A, 5B, and 7A. 5A drumsticks are the standard size and are a good all-around choice for most drummers. 5B drumsticks are slightly larger and heavier than 5A drumsticks, and they produce a warmer, fuller sound. 7A drumsticks are smaller and lighter than 5A drumsticks, and they produce a brighter, sharper sound.

The Tip

The tip of a drumstick is the part that makes contact with the drumhead. There are five basic types of drumstick tips:

• Oval tips are the most common type of tip. They produce a balanced sound and are a good choice for most drummers.
• Teardrop tips produce a brighter sound than oval tips. They are a good choice for drummers who play a lot of cymbals.
• Round tips produce a softer sound than oval tips. They are a good choice for drummers who play jazz or other genres that require a light touch.
• Acorn tips produce a warmer, fuller sound than oval tips. They are a good choice for drummers who play rock or other genres that require a heavy sound.
• Barrel tips produce a very bright sound. They are a good choice for drummers who play a lot of high-pitched percussion instruments.

The Wood

The wood that a drumstick is made from also affects its sound and feel. The most common woods used for drumsticks are maple, hickory, and oak.

• Maple drumsticks are the lightest wood used for drumsticks. They produce a bright, sharp sound and are a good choice for drummers who play a lot of rock or metal.
• Hickory drumsticks are the heaviest wood used for drumsticks. They produce a warmer, fuller sound and are a good choice for drummers who play a variety of genres.
• Oak drumsticks are a good compromise between maple and hickory. They produce a balanced sound and are a good choice for drummers who play a variety of genres.

Other Considerations

In addition to size, weight, tip, and wood, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing drumsticks. These include:

• The length of the stick: Longer sticks produce a lower sound, while shorter sticks produce a higher sound.
• The taper of the stick: A gradual taper produces a smoother sound, while a sharp taper produces a more pronounced attack.
• The grip: Some drummers prefer sticks with a smooth grip, while others prefer sticks with a textured grip.

The Right Drumsticks for You

The best way to choose the right drumsticks for you is to experiment and find what feels and sounds best. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, so don’t be afraid to try different types of sticks until you find the perfect ones for you.

Here are a few tips for choosing drumsticks:

• Consider the type of music you play. If you play a lot of rock, you’ll need sticks that produce a bright, sharp sound. If you play a lot of jazz, you’ll need sticks that produce a softer, more mellow sound.
• Think about your playing style. If you’re a heavy hitter, you’ll need sticks that are durable and can withstand a lot of abuse. If you’re a light hitter, you can get away with using lighter sticks.
• Experiment with different sizes and weights. There’s no right or wrong answer, so it’s important to find what feels and sounds best to you.
• Talk to other drummers. Ask your friends, bandmates, or teachers what sticks they use and why they like them.

Here are some of the most popular standard drumsticks:

• Vic Firth American Classic 5A: These are a great all-around choice for drummers of all levels. They’re made of maple and have a round tip.

• Vater Los Angeles 5A: These sticks are slightly heavier than the Vic Firth 5A’s, making them a good choice for drummers who want a more powerful sound.

• Zildjian A Custom: These sticks are made of maple and have an oval tip. They’re a favorite among jazz drummers for their warm, mellow sound.

If you would like to try a free drum lessons, contact me and we’ll set up time to get together and kick off your next new adventure!