Robert

Precisely. Who knew drumming should have hazard pay? 😝

I wouldn’t say I drop them more than normal but I have experienced the tip getting hung up on the underside of a cymbal whether it’s the hi hat or a crash/ride. It seems to be on the rebound when it comes up and I’m transitioning from one sound to another. ‘SNAG’...next thing I know I’ve got a helicopter blade in stick form coming right at my head. DUCK!!!! 

I think it’s a timing issue and as practice continues it will get better. 

We we need helmets. 😏

Thank you my friend for the input. I’m playing an e-kit for now but I’m beginning the search for acoustic.  I don’t want to just jump into something because the price is good. 

I suppose any manufacturer is going to have an issue here and there though. 

On 7/25/2019 at 8:38 PM, Aaron said:

Our main Sanctuary has a Mapex Orion Kit 
Our Youth/Young Adult Center called "The Highway" has a Gretsch Catalina Maple 

Aaron, I’ve been seriously considering the Catalina Maple. How is that kit in your opinion?

@Julia, unfortunately it only comes in black. I know that must be disappointing for you  😜

One other thing...it may add a little weight to the sticks and that may change how you play. I’m not sure but something to think about. 

@Julia, a tape that I tried and has been working well is electrical tape but it is rubber instead of vinyl or plastic. It’s a little more expensive for a roll but it may be worth it. It’s a bit thicker than standard electrical tape, grips extremely well but doesn’t hang up due to friction. Bonus: no tiny black crumbs. 👍🏻

I have a pair here at work and I’m with @Julia on this one. The shape has to be right for me and since I’m playing on a homemade hard rubber practice pad here at work (yeah, I have a lot of free time here 😜), sound quality isn’t important. I won’t touch this pair near my kit. For some silly reason the aesthetics of a stick is waaaaay too important to me. What’s pictured is just awful. 😂

41 minutes ago, Julia said:

So true that the descriptions are interesting! I think it's probably what makes a drumstick and gear catalog an actual piece of literature.  I like to consider taper and head shape from an aesthetic angle, which of course has nothing to do with how they sound 🙄