Vic Firth 5ANVG American Classic Hickory

I use these drumsticks to bring the best out of my cymbals in softer jazz songs and/or whenever the ride cymbal has to be very prominent - I also love the applied red coating which makes the sticks "glue" to you hands. My standard sticks are 5A, I occasionally use the 55A model but whenever I can I buy them with the VG (Vic Grip) coating

They are quality Vic Firth's, I'll give them that. Not breaking anytime soon, they hit good and so on. But playing with them? Stay away.

The grip sure works, and I am one to argue that the grip could be less grippy even. I can play 15 minutes using these sticks and after that I just have stop and not touch a drum stick for a week with the blisters I have. It's a funny idea, "sticks that stick", but reality is that at least for the extreme-metal and it's blast beats I play they're just killing my skin.

The red anti-slip coating feels a little sticky but maybe that was intended. And I guess one can get used to it. This is the only thing about these sticks for me. But overall, the size is perfect for both power and speed and the plastic tear-shaped tips give a brighter, versatile sound than wooden tips. Of course whether one prefers plastic tips or wood is a matter of taste!

The Vic Grip is a nice touch. it feels as if you don't have to grip the stick as tightly. The grip will wear down over time though. The 5A stick size is a nice all round size and offers good playability. Not as heavy as a 5B but delivers a bigger sound than a 7A.

The grip wears very soon and once it starts there is no using them anymore. Pity, well balanced sticks.

Don' t slip, the ends are always ringing. Am curious if the sticks break first or the nylon ends fall away:-)

I bought these sticks as they are coated and provide more grip for your hands, so there is less chance the sticks will go flying across the room. They work well, and the wood does not splinter as much as other brands I have tried.