There’s nothing like the feeling of blasting through a double kick section and nailing that breakdown – only until your stick snaps mid-fill. Been there. More than once.
Metal drummers go hard. And we break a lot of sticks. That’s why choosing the right pair isn’t just about brand: it’s about durability, control, and pure power. Whether you’re shredding through blast beats or pounding breakdowns, you need sticks that can take the hits and come back for more.
This guide breaks down the best drumsticks for metal drummers in 2025 with sticks designed to handle heavy hitters, fast tempos, and sweaty, all-night sets.
Metal drummers need drumsticks that are strong, balanced, and built for impact. 2B, 5B Rock, and signature sticks with thicker grips and nylon tips are top picks.
Let’s get into the top picks and what actually holds up in the pit, on stage, or in your rehearsal room.
Top Drumsticks for Metal Drummers in 2025
Promark Classic Forward 2B
Vic Firth Metal
Ahead Lars Ulrich Signature
Wincent 5B Hickory
Vater American Hickory 2B
We go deeper on each of these sticks in the sections below – including who they’re best for, what to expect, and why they made the cut.
Best Drumsticks for Metal Drummers
When you’re playing metal, your sticks need to hit hard, last long, and keep up with fast footwork and aggressive cymbal riding.
Below are the top choices that real metal drummers trust – from touring pros to practice room warriors:
1. Promark Classic Forward 2B: Best Overall for Metal Drummers
If you’ve ever snapped a 5A stick mid-breakdown, you already know it’s time to level up. The Promark Classic Forward 2B is built specifically for heavy hitters, with just the right amount of weight, strength, and balance to keep up with blast beats, breakdowns, and relentless cymbal work.
What makes this stick stand out is its short taper, which shifts the weight toward the front. That gives you more power with less effort, making it perfect for metal styles where speed and impact matter equally.
Best for: Deathcore, thrash, black metal, hardcore
I’ve used these for hours-long rehearsals and they just don’t quit. Plus they feel surprisingly fast for their size.
They’re available in both wood tip (warm, classic feel) and nylon tip (for extra durability and sharper cymbal articulation), so you can dial in your preference.
Why Metal Drummers Love Them:
- Short taper gives you forward balance for extra punch
- Strong hickory handles aggressive playing without breaking
- Feels powerful without being too sluggish for fast fills
- Available with nylon tips for longer cymbal life
2. Vic Firth Metal: Best for Long Sets
Designed specifically for heavy hitters, the Vic Firth Metal drumstick is a go-to for metal drummers who need something that can last through a full set without tiring you out.
It’s longer and slightly thicker than a standard 2B, which gives you more leverage and reach which is super handy if you’re behind a big kit or doing long rides on your cymbals.
Best for: Metalcore, thrash, sludge, doom, progressive metal
What stands out about the Metal stick is its oval tip and medium taper, which give you just enough rebound to stay fast without losing control. It’s also dense and well-balanced, so you can dig in without feeling like you’re swinging a log.
I’ve used these for rehearsals and longer sets, and what I loved most was the reduced fatigue, especially in the wrist and forearm. The extra length means you don’t have to work as hard to get volume, and the feel is still clean and responsive even after hours of playing.
Why It Works for Long Metal Sets:
- Longer length gives you extra reach and speed
- Slightly thicker shaft adds power without killing control
- Oval tip provides a strong, even cymbal sound
- Balanced weight makes it easier to play hard without burning out
3. Ahead Lars Ulrich Signature: Most Durable
If you’ve ever wished your sticks would just stop breaking already, the Ahead Lars Ulrich Signature Drumsticks are the closest thing to indestructible.
These aren’t made of wood like traditional sticks – they use an aluminum core with replaceable polyurethane sleeves, making them insanely durable and shock-absorbing.
Best for: Touring drummers, extreme metal, studio work, hard-hitting players
The Lars model is heavier than a typical 2B, but once you adjust to the weight, the payoff is huge. These sticks last 10–20 times longer than wood, and they reduce hand and wrist fatigue thanks to the built-in vibration reduction system.
If you play brutal, fast, rim-heavy styles, or you’ve had wrist issues from years of blasting, these sticks are a serious upgrade.
They aren’t cheap, but the longevity makes them a solid investment, especially for touring drummers or those who play multiple sets a week.
Why They’re a Tank:
- Aluminum core resists breaking, splintering, and chipping
- Replaceable nylon sleeves and tips = long-term savings
- Built-in vibration reduction to protect joints
- Designed with Lars Ulrich (so yeah, they’re built for war)
4. Wincent 5B Hickory: Best Grip
If sweaty hands or mid-set stick slippage is your biggest frustration, the Wincent 5B Hickory drumsticks are a total game changer. What makes them stand out is Wincent’s Unique Wax Protection (UWP). It’s a subtle grip coating that feels natural in your hand while giving you way more control than raw wood.
Unlike tapes or grips that can mess with your balance or cause blisters, UWP is baked into the finish. It doesn’t peel or melt and offers just the right amount of tackiness.
Best for: Speed metal, deathcore, technical death, live gigs
These sticks also come pre-treated with Wincent’s Wax Protection Sealer, which helps prevent splintering and keeps your sticks feeling smooth for longer.
The 5B size hits a sweet spot: thick enough for metal, but not so bulky that it slows you down. If you love the feel of a heavy stick but still want a responsive ride or fast ghost notes, these are a killer middle ground.
Why Drummers Love the Grip:
- Built-in UWP coating gives control without tape
- Hickory body = strong, balanced, and great for metal
- 5B size is versatile for aggressive but technical playing
- Pre-treated to improve lifespan and reduce chipping
5. Vater American Hickory 2B: Best Budget
If you’re just getting into metal drumming or you burn through sticks way too fast to justify $20+ pairs, the Vater American Hickory 2B is hands-down the best budget option that still performs like a pro-level stick.
You’re getting a full-sized, no-compromise 2B made from durable American hickory – the same wood used in high-end sticks. They feel solid, slightly front-heavy (in a good way), and give you the chunky impact you want when you’re laying into the snare or crashing hard.
Best for: Beginners, budget-conscious metal drummers, rehearsal sessions
What’s surprising is how consistent they are for the price. I’ve seen cheaper sticks that chip after an hour – but these hold up, stay straight, and feel clean even after long rehearsals.
And you can usually buy them in multi-packs, making them a cost-effective pick for metal drummers on a budget.
Why They’re a Steal:
- Full 2B size for heavy hitting and loud playing
- American hickory for durability and balanced response
- Often sold in 2 or 4 pair bundles = huge value
- Slightly rounded tip for focused cymbal attack
FAQs:
What size drumsticks are best for metal?
Most metal drummers prefer 2B or “metal” sized sticks, which are thicker and heavier than standard 5A/5B sticks. The added weight helps with power and volume, especially during loud or fast playing. Some speed-focused metal players may also use 5B for more agility.
Are nylon tips or wood tips better for metal?
It depends on your setup and style. Nylon tips last longer and give a brighter cymbal sound, which is great for fast ride work. Wood tips feel more natural and give a warmer tone but may chip faster under hard hitting.
Do I need special sticks for metal drumming?
You don’t need signature or “metal” sticks, but using sticks that are designed for heavy playing, like 2Bs or reinforced models, will help prevent breakage and fatigue. Sticks with short tapers, thicker shafts, or grip coatings are ideal.
Why do my drumsticks keep breaking?
If you’re playing metal, it’s normal to go through sticks quickly – especially if you’re hitting rimshots, playing hard cymbals, or using cheap wood. Try rotating your sticks mid-set, upgrading to hickory or even alloy sticks, and working on your rim technique.
Also check out our guide: Broken Drumsticks: 7 Tips to Make Your Sticks Last Longer
What’s the most durable drumstick for metal?
The Ahead Lars Ulrich Signature sticks are among the most durable on the market thanks to their aluminum core and replaceable nylon sleeves. They cost more upfront but last many times longer than wood sticks, especially under heavy playing.
To Sum Up
At the end of the day, the best drumsticks for metal drumming aren’t just about size or brand – they’re about survival. You need sticks that can handle the aggression, speed, and sheer force that comes with the genre.
If you’re looking for all-around power and balance, go with the Promark Classic Forward 2B. Need something built for endurance? The Vic Firth Metal stick gives you that extra reach without the fatigue.
And if you’re tired of breaking sticks altogether, the Ahead Lars Ulrich Signature model might be the investment that saves you cash (and headaches) in the long run.
Want to improve your grip or go budget? We’ve got those covered too.
And if you’re still unsure what size or shape fits you best, head over to Drumsticks 101 – How to Choose Drumsticks Like a Pro to dial in your perfect match.
No matter your speed or style: deathcore, thrash, black metal, or progressive – your sticks should feel like an extension of your hands, not something you fight against.
