The Matrix measures out as a 5A in the grip with a gradual taper to a small barrel tip for extreme cymbal clarity. A very quick feeling stick that is great stick for Jazz, Funk and R&B drumming. American Hickory dowels have to meet very strict quality characteristics to be made into a Vater drumstick. Vater's Hickory is stress released which is done by slowly raising the temperature at the end of the drying cycle for 8 hours. This relieves the stress in the wood and produces straight sticks that stay straight.