Are Zildjian 5B Hickory Drumsticks Worth It? A Long-Term Review
For me, there’s no drumsticks better than Balbex, but many years ago I bought a pile of these Zildjian 5B Hickory sticks, and put them through their paces during that time. It’s a question I hear all the time: when a massive company like Zildjian makes drumsticks, do they actually hold up against the specialised brands that only make sticks?
I used these sticks throughout the tail end of the summer, right through the autumn and the winter of 2023. They had a long lifespan so here’s a real, no-nonsense assessment of how they handle day-to-day playing.
If you’re worried about whether a cymbal manufacturer can actually get the formula right for a wooden stick, I’m here to tell you that you have nothing to worry about. They last just as long as any other major manufacturer I’ve used. I had zero problems with breakage or premature snapping during my months of testing. If your main concern is getting a stick that won't leave you stranded in the middle of a gig, you can buy these with total confidence.
If you are looking to pick some up, you can check the current price here at Thomann—they often have them a bit cheaper, so it’s worth a look.
The Feel and Performance
When you pick these up, you’ll notice they are crafted from solid Hickory and feature a light lacquer running from the tip all the way down to the grip. This is a big plus for me. Because of that light coating, they don't get slippery in your hands when you start sweating, even during long practice sessions. The grip feels natural and reliable.
In terms of rebound, it’s not going to change your life, but it certainly isn't bad. The best way I can describe these sticks is that they are impressively average—and I mean that as a compliment. They aren't heavily top-heavy or bottom-heavy; they are just balanced, consistent, and predictable.
The tip is a classic teardrop shape. While that’s not my personal favorite design, I was genuinely surprised that it didn't chip prematurely, which is a common issue with a lot of other 5Bs.
The Technical Specs
For those who like to know the exact numbers:
Length: 406mm (approx. 15.9 inches)
Diameter: 15.1mm (0.594 inches)
Weight: A very standard 52 grams
The Verdict
If you are looking for a drumstick that has a crazy, over-engineered "rebound technology" or some wild marketing gimmick, this isn't it. And honestly, that’s why I like them. Sometimes, you just want a reliable 5B that does exactly what it’s supposed to do without any fuss.
These sticks are what I call “plain and simple,” and in the world of drumming, that is often exactly what you need. They tick all the boxes for balance, weight, and durability, and they won't complicate your playing style. If you’re a working drummer who needs a dependable stick that you don't have to think about, these are a solid, professional choice.
