This is disappointing to read. I feel like I've tried every stick out there from just about every brand, and I always come back to Regal Tip. The finish is just perfect for my hands, but the feel of the sticks just work for me too. I started back in the 1970's, and the 5A'a were my stick forever.
I've had decent luck with some other sticks - the Zildjian Dennis Chambers being a standout. (Also the Steve Gadd - the black paint seems to work in some way like the Regal Tip lacquer, the VF Keith Carlock, the VF Doubleglazes are ok, ...)
One thing I read on another forum that seems pretty good is to use BullsEye shellac. A couple coats on a stick feels better than nothing, but not as good as the Regal Tip finish. I bought a supply of the natural Steve Gadd sticks when they were released - I was so happy to not have the black paint! However, I realized after a few weeks that the paint actually made the sticks feel better in my hands. At least it's an option, and it does make the natural stick feel better..
Maybe this is all in my head, but I believe the RT nylon tips sound better and are more robust than other nylon tips. From growing up with the RT 5A nylon tips, I just figured I preferred nylon tips in general. Not so with other brands. Also, I've had nylon tips break apart on VF and ProMark sticks, and I'm not a hard hitter. (I mean, I can but I don't.) I've never cracked or broken a nylon tip on a Regal Tip. Also, somehow the RT's sound great on a cymbal to my ears. For any other nylon tip, I actually prefer the wood tipped version. (e.g. the Zildjian Dennis Chambers.) I may opt for the nylon tip for durability, but not sound.,
I just hope that Regal Tip gets it together and is able to survive. On a personal level, I'd hate to lose them as my favorite stick, but I'd hate to see them go out of business for all the employees and the history of RT.