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10 Best Drumsticks 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

ProMark Classic Forward 7A Hickory Drumsticks, Oval Wood Tip, Buy 3 Pairs Get 1 Free

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,469
Material
Size and Weight
Tip Shape

Most important from
5742 reviews

Material
The hickory wood construction strikes a perfect balance between strength and responsiveness, making them reliable for various playing styles.
Size and Weight
Their forward weight distribution provides excellent control and reduces fatigue during extended performances.
Tip Shape
Oval-shaped wood tips deliver a warm, rich tone on cymbals and a clean, articulate attack on drums, ideal for nuanced and softer genres.

The ProMark Classic Forward 7A drumsticks are made of hickory wood, a popular choice for its durability and good balance of strength and feel. These sticks measure about 15.375 inches in length with a diameter of 0.512 inches, placing them in the 7A category known for being slightly thinner and lighter than standard 5A sticks, which makes them suitable for lighter playing styles like jazz or softer genres. Their oval-shaped wood tips provide a warm, full sound on cymbals and drums, which many drummers appreciate for its smooth articulation. The lacquer finish helps protect the sticks from sweat and wear, extending their lifespan and providing a comfortable grip.

Each pack comes with four pairs, and there is a promotion offering an extra pair free if you buy three packs, which is great for those who play frequently or want spares. Weighing just over 3 ounces, they feel light and easy to control, but may not deliver the power or volume needed for heavier or more aggressive drumming styles. These sticks are highly rated for quality and consistency, though drummers seeking more durability under heavy hitting might want to consider thicker options or different materials.

These ProMark sticks represent a solid choice for players looking for reliable, well-balanced drumsticks suitable for lighter, nuanced playing.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,469
Material
Size and Weight
Tip Shape

Most important from
5742 reviews

Material
The hickory wood construction strikes a perfect balance between strength and responsiveness, making them reliable for various playing styles.
Size and Weight
Their forward weight distribution provides excellent control and reduces fatigue during extended performances.
Tip Shape
Oval-shaped wood tips deliver a warm, rich tone on cymbals and a clean, articulate attack on drums, ideal for nuanced and softer genres.
#2

ProMark Drum Sticks 5A - Classic Forward Hickory 5A Drumsticks - Accessories for Drummers - Oval Wood Tip - 4 Pack

Rating
9.7
Material
Size and Weight
Tip Shape

Most important from
5741 reviews

Material
These drumsticks offer an excellent balance of durability and responsiveness, making them reliable for various playing styles.
Size and Weight
The 5A size delivers precision and power, perfectly suited for genres ranging from jazz to rock.
Tip Shape
The oval wood tip produces a warm, rich tone on cymbals and a clean attack on drums, ideal for both live performances and recording.
Finish
Comfortable feel and consistent performance make these sticks a go-to choice for drummers at any skill level.

The ProMark Classic Forward Hickory 5A drumsticks stand out as a solid choice for many drummers due to their use of hickory wood, which is known for being durable and responsive. This makes them comfortable to use for extended playing sessions and gives a classic feel. Their length of 16 inches and diameter around 14mm place them in the common 5A size range, which is versatile enough for both acoustic and electronic drums, as well as practice.

The oval wood tip is designed to produce a warm, dark tone that works well across different music styles, offering good control and a pleasant sound on cymbals and drum heads. The sticks come in a bulk pack of four pairs, which is convenient and cost-effective if you play often or want backups. They have a lacquer finish for a smooth grip.

While hickory is durable, these sticks may wear down faster than some synthetic or maple options if used very aggressively. Their feel and tone might not suit drummers looking for brighter sounds or a heavier stick weight. These ProMark 5A sticks provide a good balance of quality and value, making them a reliable and versatile option for everyday playing.

Rating
9.7
Material
Size and Weight
Tip Shape

Most important from
5741 reviews

Material
These drumsticks offer an excellent balance of durability and responsiveness, making them reliable for various playing styles.
Size and Weight
The 5A size delivers precision and power, perfectly suited for genres ranging from jazz to rock.
Tip Shape
The oval wood tip produces a warm, rich tone on cymbals and a clean attack on drums, ideal for both live performances and recording.
Finish
Comfortable feel and consistent performance make these sticks a go-to choice for drummers at any skill level.
#3

ProMark Neil Peart 747 Shira Kashi Oak Drumsticks, Wood Tip, - Buy 3 Pairs Get 1 Free

Rating
9.1
Material
Size and Weight

Most important from
3000 reviews

Material
The Shira Kashi oak wood delivers remarkable durability, resisting chipping and wear far better than traditional hickory sticks.
Size and Weight
These drumsticks offer a great balance and weight, making them comfortable and strong for various playing styles.

The ProMark Neil Peart 747 Shira Kashi Oak Drumsticks are designed with high-quality Shira Kashi oak wood, known for its durability and solid feel. Each stick features an oval-shaped wood tip, which provides a warm, rounded tone on drums and cymbals—a plus if you prefer a classic sound. The sticks measure 16.25 inches in length and have a diameter of about 0.551 inches, giving you a balanced size and moderate weight (around 3.5 ounces per pair) that suits a wide range of playing styles from light to somewhat aggressive.

This size and weight make them comfortable for many players, including those who value precise control without tiring their hands quickly. The finish is smooth and classic, helping with grip without feeling too slick or sticky. One notable advantage is the pack deal—buying three pairs and getting one free offers good value, especially if you play frequently and go through sticks. The material is metal oak wood, a type of dense oak which, while durable, may feel harder or heavier than maple sticks some drummers prefer for faster, lighter play.

Also, the oval tip shape might not suit players who want a brighter or sharper cymbal sound, as other tip shapes (like acorn or barrel) can offer different tonal options. These sticks are particularly well-suited for intermediate to advanced drummers who want a reliable, classic feel and tone, especially fans of Neil Peart or those seeking a quality stick known for durability and balanced performance.

Rating
9.1
Material
Size and Weight

Most important from
3000 reviews

Material
The Shira Kashi oak wood delivers remarkable durability, resisting chipping and wear far better than traditional hickory sticks.
Size and Weight
These drumsticks offer a great balance and weight, making them comfortable and strong for various playing styles.

Buying Guide for the Best Drumsticks

Choosing the right drumsticks is crucial for any drummer, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional. The right pair of drumsticks can significantly impact your playing style, comfort, and the sound you produce. When selecting drumsticks, consider factors such as the type of music you play, your playing technique, and your personal preferences. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
MaterialDrumsticks are typically made from wood, but there are also options made from synthetic materials. The most common woods used are hickory, maple, and oak. Hickory is the most popular due to its balance of strength, flexibility, and shock absorption. Maple is lighter and provides a faster playing experience, making it suitable for jazz and lighter playing styles. Oak is denser and more durable, ideal for heavy hitters. Synthetic materials like nylon or carbon fiber offer increased durability and consistency but may feel different from traditional wood sticks. Choose the material based on your playing style and the feel you prefer.
Size and WeightDrumsticks come in various sizes and weights, typically denoted by a combination of letters and numbers (e.g., 5A, 7A, 2B). The number indicates the stick's diameter, with lower numbers being thicker and higher numbers being thinner. The letter usually represents the stick's weight and application, with 'A' being lighter and 'B' being heavier. For example, 5A sticks are a versatile choice for many styles, while 7A sticks are lighter and better for jazz. Heavier sticks like 2B are suitable for rock and metal. Choose a size and weight that feels comfortable in your hands and suits your playing style.
Tip ShapeThe tip shape of a drumstick affects the sound you produce, especially on cymbals. Common tip shapes include round, acorn, barrel, and teardrop. Round tips provide a focused, clear sound, making them great for precise playing. Acorn tips offer a fuller sound with more contact area, suitable for a variety of styles. Barrel tips produce a louder, punchier sound, ideal for rock and metal. Teardrop tips give a warm, rich tone, perfect for jazz and softer music. Consider the type of music you play and the sound you want to achieve when choosing the tip shape.
LengthThe length of drumsticks can affect your reach and leverage. Standard drumsticks are around 16 inches long, but you can find shorter or longer sticks depending on your needs. Longer sticks provide more reach and leverage, which can be beneficial for playing faster or with more power. Shorter sticks offer better control and are easier to maneuver, making them suitable for intricate playing styles. Choose a length that feels comfortable and complements your playing technique.
FinishThe finish of a drumstick can affect your grip and comfort. Common finishes include natural, lacquered, and rubber-coated. Natural finishes provide a raw wood feel, which can be more tactile but may cause blisters for some players. Lacquered finishes offer a smooth, glossy surface that can feel slick but is less likely to cause blisters. Rubber-coated finishes provide extra grip and comfort, ideal for players who sweat a lot or need a more secure hold. Consider your grip preference and how the finish feels in your hands when choosing drumsticks.

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