These are the best sticks I've ever used. And for their price, they can't be beat. These sticks really rock. I've used sticks from every major company, and I have to say, Vater has the(by far)best sticks out there. GET THESE STICKS. They won't let you down.

Originally, I purchased two packs of these two years or so ago thinking they would break regularly like previous brands.

Since then, I haven't purchased or used any other sticks and I still have about five pairs, and I am a fairly hard hitter. I have given away at least on pair in that time span.

Don't even hesitate. These are THE sticks to use.

These sticks first appealed to me because I continually broke my Vic Firth Sticks. I would break those every 2 or 3 days. I began to look for other sticks I could buy that are not quite so pricey as vic firth. (I didnt know anything about drumming at the time, didnt realize certain sticks would last longer) when I came across these sticks, which cost less, I ordered a four pack. I am certainly very very happy with these sticks. they take 3 to 4 weeks for me to break(fairly heavy hitter) and I do not have any problems with gripping. Overall, great sticks that have a great sound, reliability, price, and lifetime.

I used Vic Firth for many years. I found them to be the best company in terms of consistancy and comfort, but suddenly I began experiencing premature breakage. They began only lasting me 3-4 days tops, and in some extreme cases only a few hours. So the hunt began, I tried many pairs of Pro-Marks, Zildjians, Regal Tips, you name it. I stuck with Pro-Mark for awhile because of their extreme durablity, however I found them far too uncomfortable and heavy, and I prefer acron tips as opposed to Pro-Mark's barrel tips. A friend recommended Vater to me, so I gave them a shot and have never looked back. In my experience, they have the comfort and consistancy of Vic Firth and the durablity of Pro-Mark. Now a pair of Vaters usually last me 1-2 months. I'm not trying to trash Vic Firth here, but I have had many other friends tell me about the same exact issue with premature breakage, which leads me to believe Vic Firth's aren't for everyone, as we all have our own unique styles and techniques. Also I'm not trying to trash Pro-Mark, as once again, people like different things. Some may like a heavy beefy stick, but not me. I also very much recommend buying packs of drumsticks as opposed to just a bunch of single pairs, as it'll save you money.

Generally, these sticks are pretty good. They are sturdy and smooth, feel great, and are balanced well. One problem I encounter however, they literally fly out of my hands, and not just once in awhile. It's a continual problem and it gets annoying, especially during fills. I imagine I will be grabbing some different sticks for recording since I wouldn't exactly be happy if I missed a fill because the sticks were too slippery.

If you buy these grab a roll of stick tape and you'll be pretty safe, I think.

From now on I think I will "stick" with my Vics and Pro Marks ^_^