ProMark Drumsticks

Drumstick codes are those number/letter combinations you see on every stick. Commonly, you’ll see the number 2, 5, or 7, and the letters A or B. While there is technically no standardization, you can count on the numbers referring to diameters. The smaller the number, the thicker the stick. The letters reference the weight of the stick, where “A” is lighter than “B”. 5A is often viewed as the “middle-ground” or standard stick spec.

Drumstick taper refers to where the stick’s thickness begins to narrow towards the tip. The taper specifically can impact how the stick rebounds when you hit the drum. You can choose from short, medium, or longer taper depending on the feel and rebound you prefer.

Longer taper provides more rebound and an overall lighter feel. Short taper gives a heavier, forward-leaning feel with less rebound.

Drumsticks are made from a few different types of wood (and occasionally other materials all together). The most common wood used to make drumsticks is hickory due to its relatively light density and good durability. On the lighter side of hickory is maple, which is slightly less durable, but allows for faster playing due to its extra flexibility density. By contrast, Oak is a heavier, denser, and more durable wood than hickory and is great for heavy hitters.

Though it’s not a different kind of wood per se’, ProMark also makes FireGrain sticks. FireGrain puts hickory sticks through a flame-tempering process, giving them extra durability without adding any additional weight. We’ve also got ActiveGrip sticks, which use a special coating that gets stickier when you need it most—as your palms get warmer and sweatier.

ProMark Rebound 5A - 
These sticks are rear-balanced and versatile, making them a great choice for various music styles. The acorn tip provides a larger sweet spot for increase responsiveness. They are made from hickory, the industry standard for durability and feel.

ProMark Forward 5A - 
These drumsticks are front-weighted for increased power and a classic feel. The oval tip provides a full-bodied and warm tone suited for multiple applications. They are also made from hickory.

ProMark 7A FireGrain - 
These sticks are treated with a patented heat-tempering process that makes them more durable. They are lighter and thinner, which is great for delicate playing or for younger player/beginners.

ProMark Hot Rods -
If you're looking for something quieter, these are a great alternative to traditional sticks. They are made from birch dowels and produce a softer but articulate sound. Made with a playable end cap for fuller tone on drums and cymbals.

1. Material - Our drumsticks are made from hickory, maple, or shira kashi oak. Hickory is the most common and offers a good balance of strength and flexibility. Maple is lighter and great for fast playing, while Shira Kashi oak has increased attack and durability.

2. Size and Weight - Drumsticks are labeled with numbers and letters, such as 5A, 7A, or 5B. The number indicates the diameter (lower numbers mean thicker sticks). Our weight is scaled by size as well so the bigger the stick, the heavier the weight.

3. Tip Shape - The shape of the tip affects the sound you produce. Common shapes include:

• Round: Produces a full and clear sound.
• Oval: Full bodied and warm tone.
• Teardrop: Offers a darker, rich tone.
• Acorn: Increased responsiveness and articulation
• Barrel: Delivers a punch sound with pronounced attack
• Tip Material: Tips can be wood or nylon. Wood tips offer a natural feel and sound, while nylon tips are more durable and produce a brighter sound on cymbals

4. Length and Taper - The length of the stick affects your reach and leverage. Longer sticks provide more reach, while shorter sticks offer better control. The taper (the shoulder of the stick going toward the bead) influences the stick's balance and rebound. A longer taper provides more rear-weight and a faster response, while a shorter taper offers more power and durability.

5. Finish and Coating - Some sticks come with special coatings or grips to prevent slipping. Here's our offering of different finishes:

• Lacquer: Our standard finish, smooth and consistent
• Raw: Natural finished hickory
• ActiveGrip: Heat Activated non-slip coating
• Paint: Water-based paint finish

Drumstick tips vary in two ways: shape and material. While many drumstick tips are fashioned from the same wood as the rest of the stick, some have nylon tips. Wood tips generally produce a warmer sound, while nylon tips have a brighter more articulate sound and added durability.

Tip shape has even more options. ProMark stick tips include acorn, barrel, large round, small round, oval, and teardrop. The shape and corresponding size of the tip’s contact point determines tone and articulation.