{"id":36828,"date":"2022-09-07T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-07T15:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/?p=36828"},"modified":"2024-07-02T13:19:51","modified_gmt":"2024-07-02T20:19:51","slug":"the-different-types-of-drumsticks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/the-different-types-of-drumsticks\/","title":{"rendered":"The Different Types Of Drumsticks (And The Best To Buy)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>There are four basic types of drumsticks, and we&#8217;ll go over each one in this guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Standard<\/strong> <strong>drumsticks<\/strong>: The ones you see rockstars playing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Brushes<\/strong>: A wire &#8216;fan&#8217; that&#8217;s great for quiet playing and cymbal\/snare effects.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rods\/rutes<\/strong>: A bundle of thin wooden sticks used for quiet playing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mallets<\/strong>: Soft at one end and great for cymbal swells and tom rolls.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>And there are five basic types of drumstick tip shapes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Oval<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Acorn<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drop<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ball<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Barrel<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Out of all the drumsticks on the market, which ones are the best for you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This guide will give you a detailed rundown of the most common drumstick types and what to look for the next time you&#8217;re hunting for a pair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a quick overview of the different types of drumsticks:<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"toc_container\">\n<ul class=\"toc_list\">\n<li><a href=\"#Standard_drumsticks\">Standard drumsticks<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Brushes\">Brushes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Rods_rutes\">Rods\/rutes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Mallets\">Mallets<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Hybrid_drumsticks\">Hybrid drumsticks<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Sig_drumsticks\">Signature drumsticks<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"blue-text-block\"><center><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Are you a new drummer?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp; Get access to the beginner video course that&#8217;ll have you confidently playing along with your favorite songs in just 90 days: <em>New Drummers Start Here<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"join blue\" href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/drumshop\/new-drummers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Get the course (only $7)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/p>\n<p><\/center><\/div>\n<hr>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Standard_drumsticks\"><strong>Standard Drumsticks<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.historicdrumming.com\/history-of-the-snare-drum\/authentic-drum-sticks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Drumsticks have been around for a long time<\/a>. For drum kit players, these are your ultimate tools. The feeling of these in our hands is what makes most drummers fall in love with drumming from day one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you&#8217;re a new drummer, it can be tricky to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/how-to-choose-drumsticks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">choose which drumstick types<\/a> to get. You might notice that every stick has a set of letters and numbers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What do the numbers on drumsticks mean?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In a nutshell:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Lower number = thicker stick<br>Higher number = thinner stick<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most common numbers you\u2019ll see are 2, 5, 7, and 8. The lower the number, the thicker\/heftier the stick and the larger the circumference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What do the letters on drumsticks mean?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8216;A&#8217; refers to a lighter stick, while &#8216;B&#8217; means the stick is a bit heavier. All other sticks with varying letters fall somewhere in between these two.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These are the most common drumstick sizes you&#8217;ll see at music retailers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>7A (a lighter stick, great for jazz)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>5A (a good moderate stick for all types of playing)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>5B (a bit heftier than 5A)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>2B (heavy, best for hard rock)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Most drumsticks used on the drum set are around 16&#8243; long but can range from 15-17.5&#8243;. You can sometimes find extra-long sticks (like the Vic Firth &#8216;Extreme&#8217; line or the Los Cabos &#8216;Intense&#8217; line) if you&#8217;re looking for a different feel and response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/02111830\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-128-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-37225\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/02111830\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-128-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/02111830\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-128-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/02111830\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-128-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/02111830\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-128-1.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">7A, 5A, 5B and 2B are the most common drumstick sizes.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are drumsticks made of?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Most drumsticks are made from a select group of woods and other materials:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Maple&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hickory<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oak<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carbon Fiber<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Polyurethane<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aluminum<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"790\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/27205138\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-materials-OpenSans-2-copy-1-1024x790.jpg\" alt=\"Drumsticks can be made of different types of wood (like hickory or maple) and synthetic materials.\" class=\"wp-image-39445\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/27205138\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-materials-OpenSans-2-copy-1-1024x790.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/27205138\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-materials-OpenSans-2-copy-1-300x231.jpg 300w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/27205138\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-materials-OpenSans-2-copy-1-768x592.jpg 768w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/27205138\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-materials-OpenSans-2-copy-1-1536x1185.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/27205138\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-materials-OpenSans-2-copy-1.jpg 1556w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Drumsticks can be made of different types of wood (like hickory or maple) and synthetic materials.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Maple is a good lightweight wood while aluminum is a lightweight metal option. Hickory and maple are the most common drumstick materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The type of wood largely determines the weight of the sticks and how they sound. Another factor is the type\/shape of their tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Oval<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Acorn<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drop<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ball<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Barrel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nylon<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8230;which can slightly alter how the sticks feel when you strike the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/types-of-drumheads-podcast-17\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">drumheads<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"631\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/06154717\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-icons-1024x631.jpg\" alt=\"Drumsticks can come with different tip shapes including acorn, oval and barrel.\" class=\"wp-image-37247\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/06154717\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-icons-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/06154717\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-icons-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/06154717\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-icons-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/06154717\/Types-Of-Drumsticks-icons.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Drumsticks can come with different tip shapes including acorn, arrow and barrel.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>All of these tips are made from wood except nylon, which changes how the sticks sound when they hit the cymbals. Nylon-tipped sticks can give you a more consistent tone from one pair to another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A big debate among drummers is whether to get sticks with nylon or wooden tips. Nylon tips sound bright, while wooden tips sound warmer and more natural.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don&#8217;t know which tips you want on your sticks, test a few and let your ears decide. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"product-grid medium-up-3 small-up-2 clearfix\">\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29093629\/vater.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Vater x Drumeo<br \/>5A Hickory Drumsticks<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/drumshop\/drumsticks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BUY NOW<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29093627\/vicfirth.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Vic Firth<br \/>5A Hickory Drumsticks<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/guitar-center.pxf.io\/7mgGKA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">GUITAR CENTER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/0JaxzM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SWEETWATER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/vic_firth_vf5a.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29093924\/promark.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Promark<br \/>5A Hickory Drumsticks<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/guitar-center.pxf.io\/YgzqYR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">GUITAR CENTER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/vnd49e\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/pro_mark_tx5aw.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>At the end of the day, the best types of drumsticks are the ones that aren\u2019t broken. Don\u2019t get too stuck on which specific sticks to choose, as they all have the same purpose.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It comes down to personal preference, but here\u2019s some help from Jared Falk on narrowing down your choices:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How To Choose Drumsticks\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/JemCbY6bblo?start=269&#038;feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Brushes\"><strong>Brushes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Brushes are made from a thin set of evenly spread out wires. The volume you get from the drums is a lot quieter when using brushes, so they\u2019re often used for soft settings.&nbsp;This is one of the main reasons drummers will choose brushes over drumsticks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/28132348\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-129-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"retractable brush drumsticks are great for jazz or quiet playing\" class=\"wp-image-45338\" style=\"width:840px;height:560px\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/28132348\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-129-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/28132348\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-129-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/28132348\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-129-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/28132348\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-129.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Retractable brushes are great for jazz or quiet playing.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You can play like you would with standard sticks to get a mellower impact from the drums and cymbals. You can also sweep them over the snare drum head to get a swishing sound, which is an iconic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/brush-technique\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">brush playing<\/a> technique. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Brushes are mostly used in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/a-drummers-guide-to-jazz\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">jazz drumming<\/a>, but there&#8217;s also a place for them in other <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/brush-drum-lessons\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">modern music<\/a>. There\u2019s a bit of a learning curve to master brushes, but it opens up a whole new world of options.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"product-grid medium-up-3 small-up-2 clearfix\">\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29100700\/loscabosbrush.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Los Cabos<br \/>Standard Brushes<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/reverb.com\/item\/48511639-los-cabos-standard-brushes-rubber-retractable\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">REVERB<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/Ao6yQ1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29100118\/vfheritagebrush.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Vic Firth<br \/>Heritage Brushes<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/guitar-center.pxf.io\/BXLz9L\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">GUITAR CENTER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/ZdWxz1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/vic_firth_vfhb.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29112208\/zildjianbrush.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Zildjian<br \/>Wire Brushes<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3CILKpx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AMAZON<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Even if you never end up using them, brushes are valuable tools to have in your stick bag, and learning to use them will only expand your drumming skillset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check this video of Jason Sutter giving the rundown on how to play with brushes:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Jason Sutter - Finding Your Voice with Brushes (Drumeo Live)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/1hhLcwQUlMk?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Rods_rutes\"><strong>Rods<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Rods (also known as &#8216;rute sticks&#8217;) are another quiet alternative to standard drumsticks. Comprised of a bundle of thin sticks that\u2019ve been strapped together, you may have been asked to use these if you\u2019ve performed in a small venue or church. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/28132349\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-127-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"rod\/rute drumstick\" class=\"wp-image-45339\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/28132349\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-127-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/28132349\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-127-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/28132349\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-127-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/28132349\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-127.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A rute stick by Vater<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The striking sound you get from rods is less intense than standard drumsticks, but you get more attack and volume than you do from brushes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some rods are made from wood while others are plastic or synthetic fiber. Thanks to their heavier weight, wooden rods tend to sound a bit louder. Plastic rods are quieter, and they don\u2019t break as easily as wooden rods.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"product-grid medium-up-3 small-up-2 clearfix\">\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29112718\/hotrods.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Promark<br \/>Hot Rods<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/guitar-center.pxf.io\/DVxbzd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">GUITAR CENTER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/ZdWx3k\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/pro_mark_h-rods.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29114551\/vicfirthrute.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Vic Firth<br \/>Rutes<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3KxXbSK\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AMAZON<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/ZdWx3k\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/vic_firth_vfrute.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29115134\/vatersplash.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Vater<br \/>Splashsticks<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/guitar-center.pxf.io\/mgdXB1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">GUITAR CENTER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/MXeD1o\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Rods are the perfect tools to use in places like coffee shops. You can play everything on the kit without overpowering the environment with sound. However, you lose a bit of stick definition on the cymbals compared to a standard drumstick.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Mallets\"><strong>Mallets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Mallets are sticks that have thick material pieces at the end. This material completely changes how the sticks sound when they strike drums and cymbals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The thicker the material at the end of a mallet, the warmer the sound will be.&nbsp;Almost all attack goes out the window, so they&#8217;re perfect for cymbal swells and tom rolls and builds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll see many drummers playing drum solos with mallets as their unique sound adds variety to the soundscape.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mallets take away the sharp cracking sound that cymbals produce, and that\u2019s why they work so well for swells. As you repeatedly hit a cymbal with mallets, the warm sound resonates and gets louder. It\u2019s the classic song starter and finisher.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"product-grid medium-up-3 small-up-2 clearfix\">\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29115434\/promark-mallets.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Promark<br \/>MT3 Oak Mallets<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3CGPw2q\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AMAZON<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/guitar-center.pxf.io\/Ao6yVo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">GUITAR CENTER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/pro_mark_mt3_multi_purpose_felt_mallet.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29115803\/aheadmallets.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Ahead<br \/>Polyurethane Mallets<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3wHlMig\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AMAZON<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.aheaddrumsticks.com\/drumsticks--mallets-msa.html#.Yw5aAOzMJEI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AHEAD<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29120638\/Meinl-SB400-alt1.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Meinl<br \/>Drumset Mallets<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3PV7yBa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AMAZON<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/5bJMQ2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/meinl_drumset_mallet_medium.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>If you don\u2019t have a set of mallets yet, you could always DIY it by attaching cymbal felts to the ends of your sticks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Hybrid_drumsticks\" style=\"color: #0b76db;\"><strong>Hybrid Drumsticks<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Every now and then, a drumstick brand will create something unique that combines different stick types and materials: a hybrid stick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most common type of hybrid stick has a standard drumstick tip on one end and a mallet tip on the other end. These are amazing for drummers who don\u2019t want to risk dropping their sticks while switching between mallets and standard sticks mid-song. Just flip these around whenever you want to play warmer tones or cymbal swells.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Musical theater drummers tend to be the biggest lovers of hybrid mallets, but it won\u2019t hurt anyone to have a pair of these handy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"product-grid medium-up-3 small-up-2 clearfix\">\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29122621\/Meinl-SB120-alt1.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Meinl <br \/>Switch Sticks<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3R28cyd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AMAZON<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/JrPLXq\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/meinl_5a_switch_stick.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29122955\/headhunters.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Headhunters<br \/>Jingle Things<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/reverb.com\/item\/3104651-headhunters-jingle-things-specialty-drumsticks-mallets\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">REVERB<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.headhunterssticksandcreations.com\/product\/jingle-things\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">HEAD HUNTERS<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29123243\/promarkbroomsticks.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Promark<br \/>Broomsticks<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3CGR2l8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AMAZON<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/JrPLXq\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/pro_mark_pmbrm1_medium_broomsticks.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/02120054\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-121-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-37227\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/02120054\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-121-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/02120054\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-121-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/02120054\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-121-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/02120054\/2022-09-01-Types-Of-Drumsticks-121-1.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">These are Headhunters Sandman hybrid brushes (with polypropylene filaments and a hoop for a different kind of attack)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You may also come across sticks with wire bristles or another material at the end to add a bit of flavor to the sticks. Some hybrid sticks are a lot more practical than others, so keep that in mind before choosing the latest Frankensticks to be your trusted pair.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"box-snippet\">\n<div class=\"shadow\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div><i class=\"fas icon fa-solid fa-exclamation\"><\/i><\/div>\n<div class=\"text-container\">\n                    <a style=\"color:#fff;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/testing-weird-drumsticks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Watch:<\/strong> We tested $1453.47 worth of drumstick alternatives<\/a>\n                <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Sig_drumsticks\"><strong>Signature Drumsticks<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Signature drumsticks get a section on their own because they\u2019re often different from standard stick designs. These are made when artists get involved with a brand&#8217;s design process and the stick specs are made to fit the artist\u2019s tastes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When using a pair of signature drumsticks, you\u2019re playing what a particular drummer thought would be the perfect stick.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"product-grid medium-up-3 small-up-2 clearfix\">\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29124526\/vfrayluzier.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Vic Firth Ray Luzier<br \/>Signature Drumsticks<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01GFNB6V2?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=musora-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=9319b230ac044f8cc60ce3f52bba093f\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AMAZON<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/guitar-center.pxf.io\/mgdXqM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">GUITAR CENTER<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29124644\/promarkneilpeart.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Promark Neil Peart<br \/>Signature Drumsticks<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3ABSQt2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AMAZON<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/9WoMD5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/pro_mark_txpw747w_drumsticks.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"columns\">\n<div class=\"product-grid-item\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/29124830\/larsulrich.jpeg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<h6>Ahead Lars Ulrich<br \/>Signature Drumsticks<\/h6>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3wFUdFY\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AMAZON<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/rndzrv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">SWEETWATER<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thomann.de\/gb\/ahead_lars_ulrich_drumsticks.htm?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">THOMANN<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Many signature sticks have unique additions that aren\u2019t commonly found on standard drumsticks. For example, check this clip that features <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sweetwater.com\/store\/detail\/SHAR2--vic-firth-signature-series-drumsticks-gavin-harrison\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gavin Harrison&#8217;s signature drumsticks<\/a> with a matte dipped grip:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Gavin Harrison: Grooving With 3&#039;s 4&#039;s and 5&#039;s - Drum Lesson (Drumeo)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/6GupX6_4GII?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Which drumsticks should I get?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s useful to have every type of drumstick in your stick bag, but you may use some more than others. Focus on standard drumsticks first since you&#8217;ll likely use them the most.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The other types of sticks you should get will depend on what styles of music you play. You\u2019ll need brushes for jazz and mallets for musical theater. Look around to see what\u2019s out there, try a few different pairs, and your stick bag will turn into your trusted arsenal of tools in no time.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"box-snippet\">\n<div class=\"shadow\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div><i class=\"fas icon fa-solid fa-question\"><\/i><\/div>\n<div class=\"text-container\">\n                    <strong>Got more drumming questions? Read:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/drumming-questions\/\">The Most Common Drumming Questions (Solved)<\/a>\n                <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><iframe class=\"email-form-include-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/weeklyemail\" frameborder=\"none\"><\/iframe><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn all about the different types of drumsticks &#8211; photos, videos, and examples included!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":174,"featured_media":37237,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4020,4015],"tags":[4014],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36828"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/174"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36828"}],"version-history":[{"count":118,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36828\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":51966,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36828\/revisions\/51966"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37237"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36828"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=36828"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.drumeo.com\/beat\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=36828"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}