Excellent pair of sticks, even though most drummers will probably prefer sticks where the weight is more prevalent in the grip (butt) area. It just needs a bit of getting used to, because there is also the big advantage that your hits will have more power with the weight distributed towards the shoulder of the stick.
PROS
- sturdy and durable, can take a beating with very few scratches on them
- the distribution of the weight towards the shoulder adds extra power and volume to your hits
- perfect for rock and metal
CONS
- it's a matter of taste, but some drummers might not like the light butt and heavy shoulder
I confess I prefer Vater because Josh Freese, my drumming idol, uses them. A propos, it would be great if Thomann made his signature sticks available, as well.