Just over a traditional 5B in the grip Heavier taper for solid feel. Well balanced, weighted and responsive with a rounded barrel-style wood tip. The Xtreme Design Series offers increased weight and durability without sacrificing response.
American Hickory is the most popular wood choice for drumsticks due to its shock absorption and durability and Vater uses the two best Hickory species, which are Shellbark and Shagbark Hickory. Vater's material has to meet very strict quality characteristics to be made into a their drumstick. They only use dowels that have a moisture content specific to "striking" tools (10%-12%), so you get a drumstick with great feel and durability.
Each time a Hickory tree is harvested by any of their suppliers, another one is planted. New trees are also produced from the Hickory nuts that naturally fall from the trees.