When should I change my drumsticks?
Most drum students taking lessons often struggle with the question, “When should I change my drumsticks?” Even drummers online seem to disagree on the answer. So, what’s the right approach? To find out, we turned to our drum teacher, Victor, who has been teaching drums for the past 10 years, for his expert advice!
Drum lessons rank as one of the most popular music lessons in Singapore
Drum lessons are among the most popular in Singapore! If you’re wondering about the lifespan of drumsticks, it might be time to enroll in proper drum lessons. With over a decade of experience teaching students from all walks of life, we’re confident in our ability to help you excel and enjoy playing the drums. Click the image above to learn more!
How long is the typical lifespan before I should change my drumsticks?
Teacher Victor: It really depends on the technique you’re using often, how much you play, and how hard are you hitting. So it’s really personal. Other than that, the wood matters. There are 3 types of wood used commonly for the drumsticks, Maple, Hickory, and Oak. With Maple being the least durable, and Oak the most durable. The reasons for the choice of wood will be another question entirely.
What are the common reasons a pair of drumsticks gets damaged prematurely
Teacher Victor: Largely due to wrong techniques used, and hitting too hard on the drums, especially hitting the rim shot on the snare too hard. But sometimes, it is also the choice of the wood for the drumsticks. Maple breaks easily, and oak just doesn’t break.
Are there good practices for drumstick longevity if I’m trying not to change my drumsticks?
Teacher Victor: Do not hit too hard is the obvious one. But also to take note of the technique, and don’t hold the stick too tightly as well. Play the hi-hat by hitting the top of the hi-hat, rather than “chopping” the stick by the sides all the time.
How do we know for sure when it is time to change the drumsticks?
Teacher Victor: It’s really personal. But personally I feel when the responses of the stick are different, when the stick actually chipped off too much that the bounce feels different, or when you’re feeling rich.
What happens if we don’t change the drumsticks
Teacher Victor: The stick will break eventually. And the sticks are meant to be broken. You may also change your stroking techniques due to the change in bounce responses from the stick, due to the difference in weight distribution.
Are there any unusual stories about drumsticks?
Teacher Victor: There was once my student’s grandmother thought that his stick is spoiling, and thought fixing it by wrapping it up with scotch tape. By doing so, it actually changed the weight of the stick, which may lead to the change in the technique. The stickiness of the tape may also dirty the cymbals and drumhead. So I told him to buy a new pair of sticks instead.
Conclusion
Using a good pair of drumsticks and replacing them when necessary is essential for maintaining a consistent feel while playing. Worn-out or damaged sticks can alter the balance, rebound, and control, making it harder to develop proper technique. Similarly, modifying drumsticks with tape or additional materials for grip can change their weight distribution and feel, affecting how they respond in your hands. By ensuring your drumsticks are in good condition and keeping modifications minimal, you create a stable playing experience that supports muscle memory development, helping you progress more smoothly and confidently on the drums.
However, if you still have some questions, talk to us.
Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
