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 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.

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.