Ahead sticks

[Belgiandrummer]

I currently use wooden sticks, but yesterday I broke 3 sticks in a row so I am considering to buy a pair of those ahead sticks. I've never had them in my hands so does anybody know if they easily slip out of your hands? And are they really indestructable, I mean would they still be good after 15 years? Do you often have to replace the tips? And isn't it bad for the cymbals, metal on metal? And what about the sound?

Sorry for all the questions but I can't test them somewhere nearby.
Thanks a lot !!!!!!!!!!

[MagnZ]

If you use the search thing you will find many threads about stick breaking issues..
But ahead sticks can be destroyed. The covers and the stick itself.

[drummer625]

I use them..
They're great!
They do slip out of your hands sometimes but Ahead also sells grip tape for they're sticks. It's only about $5 and they are very easy to put on your sticks. They are not Industructible but they could last for 15 years but you have to take good care of them. They can brake if you don't replace the plastic covers soon enough. I normally replace them about every 2 or 3 weeks. If you don't replace them in time they can damage your cymbals too. You don't have to replace the tips a lot. I haven't even replaced mine yet and I've had my sticks for like 6 months.

The sound..
They sound a little different on cymblas but it's not too much difference then wood. You can also get diferent types of tips and that'll make it sound diferent.

-Cody

[DamoSyzygy]

I currently use wooden sticks, but yesterday I broke 3 sticks in a row so I am considering to buy a pair of those ahead sticks.
Unfortunately it wont solve the problem because your issue seems to be with your technique. I could understand of one pair broke straight away, but to have THREE pairs break quickly would suggest to me that you need to relax your hands a little more, accept the rebound from the drum.

Another issue may be with the sticks youre selecting at the store. Have a read of this document, it can maximize your chances of getting better sticks next time.

http://www.drum.com.au/lessons/oct.htm

[Belgiandrummer]

Unfortunately it wont solve the problem because your issue seems to be with your technique. I could understand of one pair broke straight away, but to have THREE pairs break quickly would suggest to me that you need to relax your hands a little more, accept the rebound from the drum.

Another issue may be with the sticks youre selecting at the store. Have a read of this document, it can maximize your chances of getting better sticks next time.

http://www.drum.com.au/lessons/oct.htm

I broke three sticks, not three pairs:p
I almost played them for a year so it was actually normal...

thanks a lot !

[ludwig guy]

The ahead sticks are great, as long as you replace the covers before you chip the aluminum core of the stick, if you dont, the stick is worthless. I have the Joey Jordison Model, they are great, they are light, and extremely fast. I recommend these sticks

[Gibbersticks]

Has anyone heard of sticks bending but not breaking? I bought a pair of ROCK series and have had them for 2-3 weeks and was playing today and it kinda rolled in my right hand. When I looked at it it was bent. I though I must have broken it so I took the cover off and it was totally solid. No cracks, dents or anything like that. the cover is barely worn as I have used them for maybe 15-20 hrs of playing time. I never break wood sticks and they get whitled down to where you would think the tip would snap off before I stop using them.

[Pearl Player]

Hiya all...

I basically have 3 types of Sticks I use. I use the Ahead 7a and also the 5a. I also use Promark 747's. Yea I know a strange range if sticks. LOL

The aheads are great I use em in the studio mainly. the 7a's for jazz and the mellower stuff. The 5a's for when I am after a more heavy sound. Pretty much the 747s are reserved for live. I also dont break sticks. Now very important with the aheads. If you cut the cover the stick is gonna break. The cover is part of the stucture of the stick. Also if ya hit a cymbal. Well you got metal to metal contact. Bad for the stick really hard on the cymbal. Since the 7a and the 5a use the same cover. I keep about 4 sets of the covers around. I also have a couple sets of the tips. Have not had to replace any tips at all. Hope ya kept the case and docs for em. Cause you need to follow the instructions they give ya for replacing the sleeves. Dont ever try to cut em off. One nick to the metal core of the stick. You can kiss em goodbye. That according to Ahead is the most common failure of the stick. And on removing the tips.. Use the biz card trick they talk about. Keeps the tips from getting nicked up.

After I play with the aheads I always check out the covers pretty closely. If you gonna gig with these, Get an extra pair so if ya do cut one you not forced to keep using it.

And yea the things are slick LOL They will fly through your fingers. I dont use grip tape I play with gloves most of the time.

Hope this helps ya out.

Mike

PS These are great sticks. However note. If your breaking sticks on a regular basis you should be checking on a few other things. Cause you could end up breaking a 30 dollar set of sticks. But with a little care These will last ya for months if not years. My sets are going on 3 years old now.

[masonni]

I use the Tommy Lee model when my hands start to cramp or beat up too much from wood. I always use them with grip tape and gloves and they NEVER slip. Just make sure you use the grip tape...
I change the covers on them regularly and have no problems with them cracking cymbals. I do hoever beat up the core of the sticks real bad. Every time I change the covers the core is all dented and bashed around, I have only broken maybe 2 pair in the last year though. So no complaints from me.

[Gibbersticks]

I have used the Ahead sticks for years and have only ever broken one stick. I have the 7A, 5B, and I bought the ROCK model as I started jamming with this new guitar player and felt like I needed a little beefier stick. The problem is that I have had these sticks for 2-3 weeks and it has bent. There is Very little wear on the cover so that is a non-issue. I called the customer service #1-800 and the guy said he had only heard of that happening once in 15yrs!!! I guess it is just one bad stick and I happened to buy it.

[Zildjian 242]

Do yourself a favor and dont look at aheads. Metal on metal is not good for your cymbals. Yes they dont break easy but its better spending $5 on a stick is better then a new cymbal.

a few years ago my Zildjian A Splash was a victim of aheads, could bought a brick of vic's that will last just as long as aheads. instead had to shell out $80 to replace the cymbal

[goalieman92]

I'll help you out Zil.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a68/goalieman92/sp5-1.jpg

[punkdrummer1]

Do yourself a favor and dont look at aheads. Metal on metal is not good for your cymbals. Yes they dont break easy but its better spending $5 on a stick is better then a new cymbal.

a few years ago my Zildjian A Splash was a victim of aheads, could bought a brick of vic's that will last just as long as aheads. instead had to shell out $80 to replace the cymbal


I'm wondering, how people say they break you're cymbals. The sticks are covered by plastic, wich is softer than wood, and aslong as the sleeves are not showing the metal core, i dont see how they would damage your cymbals... Unless you're using the handells of the sticks.

[masonni]

I'm wondering, how people say they break you're cymbals. The sticks are covered by plastic, wich is softer than wood, and aslong as the sleeves are not showing the metal core, i dont see how they would damage your cymbals... Unless you're using the handells of the sticks.

Every time I have broken a cymbal it has been with wood sticks...

[wolfmoon]

I have been using Ahead 2b's for years. My crash cymbals are all "thin" I have never damged one of them. I say improper playing breaks them, not the sticks. That's my opinion..

[goalieman92]

I'm gonna say it now that I don't know why they break cymbal, but they do. I have seen some pretty amazing thing as a result of aheads, and from my understanding, the are hell on your wrist. I have never used them myself, but oh the things I have seen. In person, not just over the internet.

[Pearl Player]

I'm gonna say it now that I don't know why they break cymbal, but they do. I have seen some pretty amazing thing as a result of aheads, and from my understanding, the are hell on your wrist. I have never used them myself, but oh the things I have seen. In person, not just over the internet.

LOL The truth comes out like it normally does. "I have never used em myself" Then how can you say they are hell on your wrists? I know lots of guys that use em. And ya know, I have watched tons of folks use em. Im a monitor mix guy so I have a really good view. Never ever seen a cymbal broken cause of the aheads. Next point. If these things are so bad. How come MANY and I mean MANY Pro guys use em?

Internet filter on high. What it comes down to is this. You play what you feel comfortable with. Read between the lines on a lot of negative posts and you find out whats really going on. Ive seen wood sticks break cymbals. Would I stop using wood? Would you based on what I just said? Oh well...

Mike

[wolfmoon]

I'll say it again....

I have been using Ahead 2b's for years. My crash cymbals are all "thin" I have never damged one of them. I say improper playing breaks them, not the sticks. That's my opinion.. I have also had no problems with my hands or wrist.

[goalieman92]

The hell on the wrist is just what I've heard becuase of shock transfer.

Like in hockey. I'm a goalie and I will not use a composite stick because of the shock transfer. I personally know the guy that did all the testing for the sticks and he had a bad case of CTS after the first day.

Why do so many pro's use them?

Money talks

They are getting paid quite a bit of cash to play them and the are sponsered by cymbal companies so they don't worry about breaking their cymbals.

Cymbals will break. I know there are people here that have been using aheads for years for years and have not yet broken a cymbal. oh, and to the guy with all thin cymbals. Thin cymbals are less prone to breaking because the metal can transfer the shock easier then a heavy cymbal because it can flex easier. Based on what I have seen, the wood/ahead cymbal breaking ratio is about 1/4 or something like that.

If you wanna keep using them, that's your choice and I won't tell you that your wrong for it

[Gibbersticks]

Aheads are hell on your wrists??? I started using them again because I started playing with a metal band and my pro-mark 747s were tearing my hands and wrist apart. My sticks were flying out of my hands and cutting them to ribbons. I switched to Ahead Rock sticks with Ahead gloves and I was back to being totally in control and relaxed. I used to break cymbals when I was younger with these sticks but I was also using Sabian B8pro. Those things lasted me a month or two at most back then, probably due to poor technique and that fact that I don't hit nearly as hard as I used to! The last cymbal I broke was a 10yr old Sabian AA but that was with Promark 747's. I think Ahead sticks are great.

[goalieman92]

Like I said. I have only heard of them being bad on your wrist. And it makes sense based on my experiences with composite hockey sticks. Though they are light, the is a good bit of shock transfer and I won't use a composite goalie stick, nor a 1 peice composite players stick.

Back on task. I love my Pro mark 747 Jap white oaks. I will never use another stick unless it's a heavier one for practicing on a pad with. Maybe the 747 just wasn't your size and why you were having trouble, buy I have no problems at all.

Oh. and you know why they have the gloves? Shock transfer.

[Jeff Almeyda]

If you happen to like the feel of Ahead sticks...fine.

If you need to use them because of a stick shock problem... you need to look at your technique.

I don't buy the "I'm a metal player so I hit hard" argument. For every drummer that uses Ahead sticks I can name 10 that hit harder that don't.

[wy yung]

If you need to use them because of a stick shock problem... you need to look at your technique.


Agreed. I think it's actually quite obvious that if your playing style is causing physical injury, there is something definitely wrong. Rather than a change of drumstick to lessen the damage caused through poor technique - which is what it is - a visit to a very good teacher is in order.

I'd just like to add something here. I believe the most important aspect of any physical activity, such as drumming, is a good understanding of the importance of basics. Proper stick technique being right at the top of the basics list. Without a grounding in the basics of technique, becoming truly advanced is most difficult. In martial arts there is a saying that reflects this:

"In the beginning basics are nothing. But in the end, basics are everything."

I beleive this is very true of drumming.

[DWfan20005]

I find them uncomortable but other then that I give them thumbs up!

[Pearl Player]

A note on the gloves comes to mind here. Ya wear the gloves or use stick tape because they are slippery little devils. I also use the promark 747 japanese oaks, with gloves.

And to further this statement about glove usage for shock control... LOL Zildjian also sells gloves. And they sell wood sticks. Gloves are a comfort kinda thing. Also gloves help a lot with stick control. You know Having a light grip and allowing the stick to move without having to hold em in a death grip.

And with the majority of an aheads weight being past the grips. Do the physics. Shock transfer is minimized.. And I do believe they address that topic on aheads site.

And now to the hockey stick analogy... What does a hockey stick have to do with a drum stick. And your talking composite and were talking metal encased in plastic..

A word of advice. There is a reason "here-say" evidance is not allowed in court. And I would bet that with at least 70% of these DRASTIC conclusions that some make around here fall into that catagory. Dig into the story and find out if that person ACTUALLY uses that item. I mean if you used em and absolutly hate em that is one thing.

As far an not using composite hockey sticks that a matter of personal preference. I bet you could find as many hockey players that swear by em. So if I needed advice on hockey sticks I guess I now know an expert on the topic and would surely ask.

Sheeeez
Mike

[goalieman92]

Do yourself a favor and dont look at aheads. Metal on metal is not good for your cymbals. Yes they dont break easy but its better spending $5 on a stick is better then a new cymbal.

a few years ago my Zildjian A Splash was a victim of aheads, could bought a brick of vic's that will last just as long as aheads. instead had to shell out $80 to replace the cymbal

ok there you go.. here is a true user of them.

[Pearl Player]

ok there you go.. here is a true user of them.

You have a point +1. However. Read the quote. Metal on Metal contact is not good. Then read folks talking about the covers. If the covers are in good shape. Well You dont have metal to Metal contact. Even Ahead warns ya about cover integrity.

That part just triggers my Internet Statement Filter. Yea if the covers are shot and ya dont replace em you most likely will damage a cymbal... Think if it like this.

Your brake pads/shoes wear down to the metal and you dont replace em and chew up a disk or drum.. Where is the fault. The pads? or the fact that you didnt do the proper servicing...

Mike

[wy yung]

You have a point +1. However. Read the quote. Metal on Metal contact is not good. Then read folks talking about the covers. If the covers are in good shape. Well You dont have metal to Metal contact. Even Ahead warns ya about cover integrity.



Mike


I don't think it is so much the cushion effect of the soft outer coating, but rather the lack of fleixibility inherant in metal that causes a problem.

[DamoSyzygy]

If you believe Aheads are a superior stick, play a crosstick with them and youll go back to wood sticks permanently.

[Zildjian 242]

You have a point +1. However. Read the quote. Metal on Metal contact is not good. Then read folks talking about the covers. If the covers are in good shape. Well You dont have metal to Metal contact. Even Ahead warns ya about cover integrity.

Even with the cover its still risky. Where does the shock go when you hit your cymbal or heads? When you use a wood stick it goes to them and you feel it. If you have a problem with to much shock then your technique is bad. Aheads, the shock goes to the cymbal or head which will probably shorten there life. To be honest id rather buy sticks then a new cymbal or heads

How come MANY and I mean MANY Pro guys use em?

Because there being paid to use them. Even there biggest name players hate them (lars)

[Pearl Player]

following that logic. Perhaps you should change to rubber sticks.

As I have said 3 times now. Its what feels good to you. And yea I dont like em for cross sticking.

Like I have also said now 3 times I use both wood and the aheads.

You will find proponents and opponents to everything in life. What I was pointing out is folks that have an opinion based on here-say not actual experience. Nothing more nothing less.

On that note I am done with this one LOL. The original poster here im sure has enough information to form his own opinion.

As was said in a really old TV show, "Just the facts Ma'am"

Mike

[Zildjian 242]

exactly, I hate a bad experience with aheads. You havent so thats good you found something you like. Im very fond of my vic firth HD9's so I dont have to search for the perfect stick anymore, which is half the battle

[Skynman]

I am using Ahead 5B and I have had no problems with them but I let a few people try them out and they did more damage to them playing 3 or 4 songs then I did in a month of rock n roll. I also looked at THEIR wood sticks and they were severly chewed up! So I am left with one conclusion they do not know how to properly hit a crash cymbal! No drumstick will last forever if you play them but knowing how to play with them will cut down on replacing drumsticks!

[wolfmoon]

Like I have said before. I have been using aheads for 5 or more years. I play metal/ rock with plenty of rimshots without breaking them. I have broken maybe 4 sticks over the years. How can you say they aren't for rim shots? A wooden stick can snap easier or maybe I should say just as easy. A lot of people think ahead's are unbreakable but they aren't. They can break, they can bend if you play out of hand (poor technique) For me, they are the best sticks. As I have also said before, they aren't for everyone. The covers should be inspected before you play. I have never had one (just split) If they look splintered, replace them.

[Shinx]

I've never used Aheads but the best point I could think of for not using them is that they cost $30 in the first place and then you have to buy new covers every so often so you don't cause metal to metal contact on a cymbal. That sounds a bit weird to me. The cheapest I could find new covers is $3. I'm sure there are cheaper packages but say you have to change the covers every month. Thats $30 plus 11 months of new covers ($33), equaling somewhere around $63, not including tax or a few more or less replacements. A reasonable estimate, I'd say. I could buy about 8 different pairs of wooden sticks that I like (probably more), including different sizes. I don't break sticks often at all so the Aheads don't seem like the sticks for me.

[walter]

I currently use wooden sticks, but yesterday I broke 3 sticks in a row so I am considering to buy a pair of those ahead sticks. I've never had them in my hands so does anybody know if they easily slip out of your hands? And are they really indestructable, I mean would they still be good after 15 years? Do you often have to replace the tips? And isn't it bad for the cymbals, metal on metal? And what about the sound?

Sorry for all the questions but I can't test them somewhere nearby.
Thanks a lot !!!!!!!!!!

I have a pair of ahead tico torres model...well they are surely the hardest sticks around and look very cool...
They doesn't slip easily 'cos the grip side is made by a rough material (fiberglass?), but I use them with the gloves on, 'cos that material causes irritation on my fingers (:p).
Don't worry for the cymbals 'cos the tip is made of nylon...obviously if you don't prefer the sound of a wood tip!
They are too heavy and too elastic at the same time so I decided to use them only for practice...

[drumbandit]

right its funny haha but i have the joey jordison sticks. they were a gift so nobody laugh. i have to say they have lasted me so long, and they make my kit sound so different. not better ot worse but they just change the whole sound of the snare. for insance on a track i recorded i used wooden then the aheads and it sounds like 2 different snares. thats my bit on aheads.
Tom

[haz_91]

they are good sticks for the moeny you pay!!! they make your kit sound completely different compared to woodern sticks, i find with the ahead sticks that i can play faster rythyms and not feel as tierd as i would with woodern sticks, plus you've got the fact that the ahead sticks are perfectly matched in weight, insted of having maybe one heavyer than the other with a pair of woodern ones, i have the lars urlich pair and they have lasted me the best part of 6-8 months and ive totaly thrashed my kit for the best part of 2-3 hours a day playing metal, the other cool thing is if you break say a nylon tip, it can be easly replaced also you dont feel the vibration you get from woodern sticks, the only thing which i think that sucks is that they are heavyer towards the front of the stick and you get allot of bounce from that detail, but other than that a very good pair or sticks!!!!!

[ChristZero]

I once thought of trying those Aheads. Went to the store, checked them out and I must say if you want to be at least a bit technical about drumming, they´re the wrong choice. Doubles and finger bounce stuff wouldn´t really work for me with Ahead sticks. Well, for metal drumming it´s quite appropriate. I also play metal but as I am no hard hitter, there´s no need for anything else than hickory.

[DWfan20005]

With most Ahead products they leave a black stuff on your hands after. I would only use for Electric Kits (IMO) but w/e.

[Freeway-Drummer]

I use the Ahead 7a sticks, they've got an good sound.
I like it for palying metal

[RedCask]

What do you guys think of these sticks?
i got a pair (40$), 5B aluminums, and at first i loved them. but after a while, im just starting to miss my old wood sticks. The tips would constantly unscrew...and im beginning to worry about what its doing to my cymbals. The aluminum feel, just...gets old. it leaves weird marks on my hand, and to tell you the truth, it bruises some parts of my hands...

They are nice to have in your bag i guess, but im thinking of going back to the wood. the wood bounces better, and its a warmer feel on the cymbals...

i want to know what you guys think of them too.

[Class A Drummer]

I use to hate them, but when my friend got sent 2 pairs instead of one, he gave me one of the pairs. They are not my favorite sticks, but they are really hard to break and do the job.

They are alright, but there are definitley other sticks i would rather use.

I think the reason they are so expensive is because they are so hard to break with all the metal in em.

[spyder]

I use 5A's now, and I like them, but I definitely miss the old Promark 5A's. You almost have to try them both out at the same time to compair the feel of he two.

[Tutin]

I like the sticks, and they aren't bad for the cymbals I believe. I used them for about 3 years and now I use wood again for some reason. I think they are a better value for money.

Having said that I went through 6 pairs.

[PineyplayParadiddles]

I went through a phase of using Aheads. I got some 5As and the Tommy Lee signitures along with the gloves

[maddrummr]

Personally i would not spend 40 bucks on ONE pair of drum sticks.

Three pairs of good ol' woodys are fine.

[RedCask]

I find myself having more fun with wood sticks.
i just realized it, cause...well i just dont really know.

it cool that they dont break and all, but they get slippery. today i was playing and it just SLipped, and hit my forhead. i wasnt too happy. so i grab my old wax zildjians.
im just gonna have maybe 1 pair of those 5A's, and just go back to the old wood.

just cant go wrong with em, even if they break...the feel is better.
thanks guys

[spyder]

truthfully the only reason I used them before was because of the "look"

[RedCask]

hahah
well, that and the idea of a unbreakable stick really caught my eye

[cjl71178]

I've used the Ahead sticks many times and I still have a pair of the Peter Criss model. I remember when they first came out, they didn't have a limited warranty on them. I broke a couple pair and the music store replaced them. Now they have a 60-day warranty from the date of purchase.

I like using them on a practice pad, but I never used them on the drumkit all the time. When I was gigging, I liked using them on certain songs that just felt better with them instead of wood sticks.

[RedCask]

i just got off from playing drums

and the sole reason was:

the tip for the damn (ahead)stick flew off and hit me in the face. haha, really struck a solemn mood on my groove.

see...that wouldnt necessarily happen with wood sticks, then again...with wood sticks i could potentially have half a stick in my face. so i dont know, im still under dispute

[konaboy]

I don't like the sound of them on ride cymbals especially.

I played Aheads for awhile and grew tired of them and really liked the sound an feel that only wood can give. Playing with control and dynamics will help prevent sticks from breaking. I can get a pair of wood sticks to last months and the only reason they get replaced is the wood whittling away on the cymbals.

[RedCask]

ya i had the....tim alexander sticks for over 3 months.
i kept thos in really good condition

didnt even chip the tips, but then a few days ago i cracked from inside. it was the wierdest crack i have ever seen.
hmm. but ya, i totally agree with ya. ride+ahead sticks=not so good

[masonni]

I have played the Ahead sticks in varus models on and off over the years. I do like the feeling of a good wood stick in my hands, but the way I go through them, Ahead is a little more friendly to my bank account. I could spend $30 on 6 pair of sticks and have them for 6 days, or I could spend $30 on a pair of Ahead and have them for 6 months.
Plus I get cramps in my hands from wood after a while. Just the price you pay of playing every day for years on end. The Ahead sticks take the pain away, so I am playing with them more than anything now. I was playing the Tommy Lee's but they are a little too heavy. The Tico Torres is a little lighter, so I think I setteled on those.

[Flamacue]

I got them a long time ago...the Lars Ulrich version...I loved them for a very long time...replaced the nylon sheath on one, and eventually broke the metal shaft on one, so I just got rid of them. I know I didn't spend $40 on them...it was probably a little over $20 if I recall...but that was a very long time ago.

The nylon sheath is probably better on the cymbals than hard wood, as far as damage concerns anyway.

I finally switched back to wood. I like the ability to switch to different sizes for different reasons...endurance workouts, lighter feel, whatever, and I can't justify to get ahead sticks for every reason...but I can get a crap load of wood ones. And I'm a lot more gentle these days, I can't even break tiny wooden sticks anymore...

[MagnZ]

What do you guys think of these sticks?
i got a pair (40$), 5B aluminums, and at first i loved them. but after a while, im just starting to miss my old wood sticks. The tips would constantly unscrew...and im beginning to worry about what its doing to my cymbals. The aluminum feel, just...gets old. it leaves weird marks on my hand, and to tell you the truth, it bruises some parts of my hands...

They are nice to have in your bag i guess, but im thinking of going back to the wood. the wood bounces better, and its a warmer feel on the cymbals...

i want to know what you guys think of them too.

I had the exact same experiense.. I loved them at first, but then they just startet to feel wrong.. The aluminium grip is lousy when when you are starting to swetand they damage the cymbals more than wood does... I friend of mine borke two a-customs because of ahead( he is a real hevy hitter tough, so I am not completly shure)

[they_call_me_diesel]

I've been playing the Joey Jordison model for a little over 2 years and I love them... Im a power pop/pop punk drummer so im not a real heavy hitter but im fast... they reduce vibration a lot, and they're really lite... Ive never broken a tip, or had it come unscrewed... I dunno why other people r having such hard times with them.

[RedCask]

thats wierd...

with me, the vibration has decreased....but something else occurs. its not exactly vibrating, but after a while my hands like..go numb.
i dont get it, and i cant explain it. but it feels like my hands are getting bruised.
Im not exactly a heavy hitter, im more of a progressive styled drummer. my favorite music to play is Porcupine Tree's music.

im short on money, hah, and all i need is a broken cymbal on my hands. that could definatly ruin my day...week.

[The Gare]

I played in a Queensryche trib for almost 5 years and bought them kinda becuase of the "look" since Rockenfield uses them, although I use the Joey Jordison models. I have broken a number of them. It is wierd because they just "snap" in half, no bend or anything, they just snap. I get them for a little over $23.00 a pair. I see in my videos I am always tightening the tip out of habit, so aside from that I love'em mostly, but recording you gotta have wood. The last engineer hated them!!! And they do get kinda slippery, I have launched them into the crowd before. They just slide right out of your hand!!!

It's good to have both. Just in case...

[masonni]

So many people out there always say "I don't like holding onto the metal" That's why 99% of Ahead artists use GRIP TAPE. Your not supposed to hold the metal...

And they don't break cymbals if you play them properly.

[RedCask]

So many people out there always say "I don't like holding onto the metal" That's why 99% of Ahead artists use GRIP TAPE. Your not supposed to hold the metal...

And they don't break cymbals if you play them properly.


whats grip tape??? ive never heard of it, but i want some

[Class A Drummer]

whats grip tape??? ive never heard of it, but i want some

Its this tape you use to grip your sticks. You rap it around them in a certain way and it gives you a better grip. Hence the name "grip tape."

[RedCask]

Its this tape you use to grip your sticks. You rap it around them in a certain way and it gives you a better grip. Hence the name "grip tape."

ya, well i think i understand that part.
but like i've never seen it at any stores, or anyhting. maybe ill just look harder

[RedCask]

i went to the doctors office today, to get this weird reaction ive been having on my hands.


and they asked if i've been doing anything differnt lately. and i mentioned the drum sticks (ahead sticks) and that they were metal and ive never used them ebfore. and the doctor said i had an allergic reaction to the sticks...and the metal and what not, becuase the reaction started right affter i started using them. super sketchy.

that sucks so much

[Class A Drummer]

ya, well i think i understand that part.
but like i've never seen it at any stores, or anyhting. maybe ill just look harder

Yeah i have only seen it in stores once. My drumline uses it. It reaaaaaallly helps. It kills the shock on your hand while doing rimshots and stuff. Also, its just easier to grip.

[masonni]

i went to the doctors office today, to get this weird reaction ive been having on my hands.


and they asked if i've been doing anything differnt lately. and i mentioned the drum sticks (ahead sticks) and that they were metal and ive never used them ebfore. and the doctor said i had an allergic reaction to the sticks...and the metal and what not, becuase the reaction started right affter i started using them. super sketchy.

that sucks so much

Funny,
I had a doctor check out my hands about a year ago, and they told me to keep playing Ahead sticks. The vibrations in wood had started to develope mild carpl-tunel (sp?) and they told me the metal sticks with the anti-vib system will help reduce it.

Anyway.....
Grip Tape... Ahead, Pro Mark and Vater all make it. I know you can buy it at Guitar Center, or online at musicians friend. I personally use the Ahead tape, it's kinda just the same as everyone elses, but for some reason I like it better.

Or you can always go with gloves... Again Ahead gloves I think are the best, but Zildjian, Pro Mark and Vater also make them.

[Ironcobra]

mine fall out of my hands way to much, i dont know if anyone said this, im to tired to read all the posts

[punkdrummer1]

I've had my Lars Ulrich sticks for almost half a year now, and I still prefer the 2$ wood sticks. I like the aheads, don't get me wrong. But they're heavy. But they last long, and are the perfect practice stick. I use mine for practice, so that when i grab a lighter stick, my hands fly.

[ddrummer]

I have been told by other drummers that ahead sticks break ur cymbols i wanna know what every one else thinks. do they break cymbols or not...... Cheers

[Class A Drummer]

No........ Not yet atleast.

[evans_69]

funny this has just come up i have purchased some today and am hoping they will be fine, fed up with paying for new sticks all the time, trouble is i use zildjian K's and paiste signatures so i am a bit worried lol.. i bought the joey model they are fairly small in diameter so hopefully will be fine..

[drovja]

With Ahead sticks, the metal core inside them makes them prone to destroying things. Most drummers that use these go through heads and cymbals like crazy. At least with wooden sticks you'll break the sticks not your cymbals. The sticks are cheaper and easier to replace than cymbals.

[wolfmoon]

With Ahead sticks, the metal core inside them makes them prone to destroying things. Most drummers that use these go through heads and cymbals like crazy. At least with wooden sticks you'll break the sticks not your cymbals. The sticks are cheaper and easier to replace than cymbals.

Not true... at all. I have been using aheads for 7 years. I have never destroyed a head and more importantly, I have NEVER damaged or have broken a cymbal.

[Victor_se]

Well i have a pair of ahead XL rock and 5as

the only con i see for them is the weight.

I've never broken a cymbal whit my aheads; whit the head stuff....
I believe that everything depends of that so hard you hit the heads, I have broken the same amount of heads with my aheads and with the wood ones

[konaboy]

If you don't have proper technique and strike the cymbals straight on they will help crack your cymbals quicker because metal just doesn't give as much. With that being said used aheads for 2-3 years and never broke a cymbal. For me I just wasn't happy with the sound on the ride and hi hats which is why I went back to wood.

[Victor_se]

with the sound on the ride and hi hats.

i wasn't very happy with that sound too

[Doublebass_freak]

I played Ahead sticks for quite a while and i would advise anyone else to use wood for many reasons, the most important reason is that i did find that they broke my cymbals but also they are not balanced very well at all they are really top heavy which makes it harder to play faster rolls cause you have to keep bringing the stick off the head.

[thumper]

I have a pair of Ahead 7Bs, and have yet to break a cymbal or drum head, although I have broken several wooden sticks. It's all in your technique...
Aheads sound a lot different than wood though...If I am playing in a venue that calls for more volume I will use the Aheads. They are pretty well bulletproof!

[xMrJeffx]

AHEAD sticks are great I have the Joey Jordison Autograph Series vesrsion of them...and I have not been to Guitar Center in a LONG TIME!
When I used wood sticks I had to go to Guitar Center every week because I broke them like toothpicks!

They Rock!

xMrJeffx

[groovemaster]

I been looking at ahead drumsticks. I notice that all the sticks seem to have the same features. I wonder which stick is better. Please try to describe as well as you can the type of sound the each stick uses on the hi hats, ride, crash, and the drums. Are they hard on your equipment. It isn't very profitable to buy a stick that will last longer if I just transfer the money I use to buy sticks to buy cymbals, heads, and other type of equipment.

[wolfmoon]

There are several threads on here about Ahead sticks. I have been using them for close to 7 years now. They aren't for everyone. I like them. Some hate them. I use 2B's but sometimes use 5B's as well. I ply metal/rock. I use thin crash cymbals as well as heavy power crashes such as Paiste Signatures power crashes and even a Rude crash ride. I have never damaged a cymbal thin or heavy.

[joeysnare]

if your forgetfull dont buy em,ive seen drummers forget to change the outer wrap.they wore down to the metal and didnt know it,metal on metal contact with their cymbals, makes me shiver just thinking about it....

[wolfmoon]

It's hard not to notice that the covers are worn to that point. It's very noticable in the sound and feel of the stick. Plus, it doesn't hurt to look them over before and after playing.

[KarlCrafton]

I tried them when they first came out, and in the first 30 seconds, I knew they weren't for me.
The construction, durrability, and idea of them is great.
Actually, I was kinda bummed I didn't like them.

It was the sound of them on my drums and cymbals that I hated.
To me, they take all the crisp, full attack, and soul out of the drums, & cymbals loose everything to me.

I use the sound Lars used to have as an example.

Yeah, he may have broken a lot of sticks, but he was using Regal Tip 5b nylon tips with about the thinnest necks known to man for cryin' out loud!

His sound used to be massive, crisp, snappy & ballsy.....now it all just sounds kinda dead to me.

I judge this by live (& recorded) stuff I've heard for concerts/TV & documentary stuff & that I have.
I guess if people don't really hear a difference, or it doesn't matter to them, they'd be a cool stick.

For my money wood sticks just sound better, and I'm not one to NOT try out new stuff that LOOKS like it would be cool or better to use.

But I agree with wolfmoon, they do work great for a ton of people.
Check them out for yourself--they may work for what you want to do.

[T.Underhill]

Do an advanced search for "ahead" in the 'heads and sticks' section. Many threads/replies on Ahead sticks.

[That Guy]

I tried them when they first came out, and in the first 30 seconds, I knew they weren't for me.

Same experience. They had no feel and the response with the cymbals seemed to really lag.

[audiophile]

Thanks for the info on all this. I think I am going to go ahead and get a pair and see what I think.
As far as grip tape goes, the stuff you buy from music retailers, i.e. Ahead, Pro-Mark, Vater etc. is way to expensive. I have been using grip tape for tennis raquets, it is a third of the cost and you can wrap anywhere from 2 - 4 pairs depending on how much you cover, per package. It also seems to last longer than Pro-Marks wrap.

[xush]

I think you definitely have to try them to see if they work for you. The feel is VERY different from wood. I couldn't get used to the way they balance- just a really different feel.

When I started getting occasional hand cramps, I switched to Hornets sticks with the carved handle and that took care of it, no more cramps...

[razorx]

some times i like them and sometimes i dont. i useualy use the 2bs or 5as. it just depends how i feel some days. and they do break....just to let you know

[Gilded]

I'm a very heavy player (DevilDriver, Cradle Of Filth, Lamb Of God, DragonForce, etc). If your not, the sticks aren't for you.

[prempex]

im looking at purchasing a set of ahead sticks, for numerous reasons, and i was just wondering, do they make a lightweight, or skinny jazz stick?
like a 7something.

[Muffled Tom]

I'm the drummer for school's Jazz Band and I use timbale sticks. tThey work fantastic for jazz.. nice light sound, and great responsivness off of cymbals and tight heads.

[konaboy]

Here's the 7A's top of the page

http://bigbangdist.com/ahead_sticks_list.htm

Though I wouldn't recommend them for jazz they just don't give the same tone and response as a wood stick, especially on the cymbals. Ahead's are really designed in my opinion for heavy hitters.

[don strandberg]

Gentleman of the forum..

I know this isnt something new.. I searched and there were some topics on the matter.
Yet my mind isnt made up. At 30 bucks a pair. I would like to hear your voice.
Thanks in advance ...
Don/////

[bermuda]

As with any tactile thing, opinions will be subjective and vary widely. And my opinion is: I don't like the feel, or the cross-stick sound.

But here are some facts: They bend under moderate-heavy use, and the tip and shoulder sleeve are designed to unscrew and come apart (think about that for a few seconds...)

I suggest you save your money.

If you're looking for a long-lasting/synthetic stick, I'm afraid there's nothing out there at the moment that feels good or lasts. The last great synthetics were Mainlines, c1995-2001, and good luck finding those anymore. :(

Bermuda

[drumbandit]

Sound strange, but the Ahead sticks make me, or at least make me think I can play faster and cleaner. I don't really like them, they get really slippy when I'm playing live and I read about them damaging cymbals at a far faster rate than wooden sticks.

But I can't help but thinking they just have this weight/balance difference whatever it is that gives a great feel when playing fast.

Tom

[Rogue Elephant]

I own a pair of both the 5As and the Matt McDonough sticks. I've never had a problem with excessively breaking cymbals..or heads for that matter. To tell the truth, I have yet to break a cymbal with a pair of Aheads... As long as you keep some extra sleeves and maybe a few tips around (although I've never had to change tips) and change them when they need it, you should be fine. Just remember to periodically take the sleeves off to check out the core of the stick to make sure it's not damaged..especially before a live show.

[crdirtRider856]

I tried the ahead sticks when they came out and i could'nt get a feel for them so i went back to the 747's til about 6 months ago. i got the 5b rock model and actually love them now. its true-they feel NOTHING like wood but i only use nylon tips and the tips on wooden sticks would break before the shafts would show any wear...it was getting expensive. i use the ride bell the majority of the time so this new pair has lasted much longer than the wood sticks did. i feel less fatigue and love the rebound of them.but thats just my personal experience. i would recommend aheads for maybe the heavier hitters or drummers on a tight budget. it never hurts to try something new because you never know- you might love'em! GOOD LUCK AND DRUM ON!

[crazyhands520]

Well I have a funny story about Ahead.

OK. I'm a huge Joey Jordison fan, and I'm sort of OCD about stuff. Not really meaning neat, but when I get into something I have to go out and buy everything about it. So I went out bought the Slipknot DVD's (I already had every single one of their CDs), a Joey Mask, the Joey Kit (currently packed away in my attic), and of course the Ahead Joey Jordison sticks. Back then I was breaking about 2 pairs a month, when I got the Joey sticks I had them for ever and ever, but heres the catch... I realized that I was breaking way to many cymbals for my own good. I tore a piece out of my favorite crash, cracked my ride, and broke my china. It could have been the cymbals just couldnt take it any more, or it could have been the sticks. I blamed it on the sticks, and have never touched Ahead sticks since.

I now play Pro-Mark 2B sticks with the Natural finish for rock, and Pro-Mark 5A Acid Jazz sticks for jazz

[wolfmoon]

Well I have a funny story about Ahead.

OK. I'm a huge Joey Jordison fan, and I'm sort of OCD about stuff. Not really meaning neat, but when I get into something I have to go out and buy everything about it. So I went out bought the Slipknot DVD's (I already had every single one of their CDs), a Joey Mask, the Joey Kit (currently packed away in my attic), and of course the Ahead Joey Jordison sticks. Back then I was breaking about 2 pairs a month, when I got the Joey sticks I had them for ever and ever, but heres the catch... I realized that I was breaking way to many cymbals for my own good. I tore a piece out of my favorite crash, cracked my ride, and broke my china. It could have been the cymbals just couldnt take it any more, or it could have been the sticks. I blamed it on the sticks, and have never touched Ahead sticks since.

I now play Pro-Mark 2B sticks with the Natural finish for rock, and Pro-Mark 5A Acid Jazz sticks for jazz

Well, like I said nearly a year ago in this thread... I have been using them now for over 7 years. In that time period I have never broken, cracked, nicked, bent or damaged a cymbal in any way shape or form. I use all Paiste models from thin Dimensions crashes, 2oo2 mediums, Signatures and the Rude series. This includes hi hats, crashes, rides and chinas of the series I mentioned. Now I have went thru several pairs of Aheads over the years but not enough of them to complain. I can't see myself using anything else but Aheads.They aren't for everyone. I didn't like them when I first tried them but I got use to them and never went back. I think anyone that is wrecking their gear with Aheads must be doing something very wrong.

[wolfmoon]

As with any tactile thing, opinions will be subjective and vary widely. And my opinion is: I don't like the feel, or the cross-stick sound.

But here are some facts: They bend under moderate-heavy use, and the tip and shoulder sleeve are designed to unscrew and come apart (think about that for a few seconds...)

I suggest you save your money.

If you're looking for a long-lasting/synthetic stick, I'm afraid there's nothing out there at the moment that feels good or lasts. The last great synthetics were Mainlines, c1995-2001, and good luck finding those anymore. :(

Bermuda

Yeah, they will bend with hardcore rimshots one after the other but a wooden stick will snap in half or splinter long before the Ahead stick will bend. You are right about the cross stick sound. They aren't very great for that if you do a lot of it. As far as the tips go, we all know they unscrew in order to change the covers. If you add a small drop of super glue to the threads on the stick, the tips won't just fly off. I don't always do this. I keep them tight and check them before and after I play.They are easily removed by gripping the tip with pliers and a towel (to avoid roughing the tip up) It may seem like a lot of trouble but it really isn't.

Some say the sleeves are too hard to get off. If you drop the sticks in a sink of hot water and let them sit for a few minutes, they slide right off. Put the new covers in the water... wait... and they slide right on. To me, the trouble is worth because I save a lot of money. I would normally go through 3 or pairs of wood sticks in a week with their price ranging between 8 - 10$ per pair. So for 30$ a pair I get 6 - 9 months out of them before 1 gives. Duriing that time I may replace the sleeves twice. They are just a few dollars.

[crazyhands520]

Well, like I said nearly a year ago in this thread... I have been using them now for over 7 years. In that time period I have never broken, cracked, nicked, bent or damaged a cymbal in any way shape or form. I use all Paiste models from thin Dimensions crashes, 2oo2 mediums, Signatures and the Rude series. This includes hi hats, crashes, rides and chinas of the series I mentioned. Now I have went thru several pairs of Aheads over the years but not enough of them to complain. I can't see myself using anything else but Aheads.They aren't for everyone. I didn't like them when I first tried them but I got use to them and never went back. I think anyone that is wrecking their gear with Aheads must be doing something very wrong.

I might have been doing something wrong but I've been playing the same way with wood sticks and havent broken a cymbal since I switched from the Ahead sticks, which was like 3 or 4 years ago.