The Vater VH5A "Los Angeles" is a very well balanced stick. Heavier toward the tip for fast attack and response on drums.
Hickory History
Hickory is the most popular wood used for making
drumsticks. Hickory is denser, heavier and more
rigid than Maple. Hickory can also absorb a great
amount of shock, which reduces hand and wrist
fatigue. Dark, or "brown" hickory, is found
closer to the tree's center and is slightly
denser and heavier than "white" hickory.