Gear article

Promark Classic Forward 747 Hickory Drumsticks Wood Tip

The Promark Classic Forward 747 Hickory Wood Tip drumsticks are a professional-grade percussion accessory designed for players who require the diameter of a 5A stick with additional length and power. Featuring a forward-weighted balance and a short taper, these sticks are engineered to deliver increased volume and durability in high-decibel performance settings.

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Overview

The Promark Classic Forward 747 Hickory Drumsticks are a staple in the brand's 'Forward' series, designed specifically to optimise power and reach. While they share the familiar diameter of a standard 5A stick, the 747 profile provides an extra 1/4 inch of length. This design choice caters to drummers who prefer the grip of a 5A but need more leverage and a slightly heavier strike.

Construction and Weighting

Constructed from hickory—a wood prized for its resilience, responsiveness, and durability—these sticks feature a 'Forward' weight distribution. This is achieved through a shorter taper, which moves the centre of gravity toward the tip. This design results in less rebound but significantly more power per stroke, making it easier for the drummer to generate volume without exerting excessive physical force.

Sonic Characteristics

The sticks are equipped with an oval-shaped wood tip. This tip geometry provides a larger surface area for contact with the drumhead, resulting in a full-bodied, dark tone on toms and snares. When used on cymbals, the wood tip produces a bright, articulate sound that helps individual hits remain distinct within a dense musical arrangement.

Application and Suitability

Due to their forward-weighted nature and increased length, the 747s are highly suited for louder musical genres such as rock, metal, and heavy pop. They are particularly effective for drummers who find standard 5A sticks slightly too short or light for cutting through high-gain guitar amplifiers and large PA systems.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard 5A sticks, the 747 offers more reach and a heavier feel. While budget alternatives like the Gear4Music 5A Maple sticks offer a lighter weight and faster rebound due to the properties of maple, the Promark 747 Hickory is considerably more durable and better suited for heavy hitting. It serves as a more powerful alternative for those who find the 5B too thick but the 5A too light.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the diameter of the Promark 747 stick?
The Promark 747 has the same diameter as a classic 5A drumstick. This allows drummers who are accustomed to the 5A grip to transition to the 747 easily.
How does the length of the 747 compare to a standard 5A?
The 747 provides an additional 1/4 inch of reach compared to a standard 5A stick. This extra length helps with reaching further across a large drum kit and provides more leverage.
What kind of wood is used in these sticks?
These sticks are made from Hickory. Hickory is the most popular wood choice for drumsticks due to its shock absorption and long-lasting durability.
What is the benefit of the 'Forward' weighting?
The Forward weighting is created by a shorter taper, shifting weight toward the tip. This design generates more power and makes it easier to cut through loud mixes.
What shape is the tip on the Promark 747?
The sticks feature an oval-shaped wood tip. This shape is designed to provide a full-bodied tone on drums and articulate clarity on cymbals.
Are these sticks suitable for jazz or light playing?
While they can be used for any genre, they are specifically designed for louder situations. Their forward weight and reduced rebound make them better suited for rock and power-heavy styles rather than delicate jazz.
How does the taper affect the performance of the stick?
The 747 features a short taper. This results in a stick that feels 'front-heavy,' offering less rebound but providing significantly more force behind every stroke.
Has the packaging for these sticks changed recently?
Yes, Promark has recently rebranded these sticks with new packaging. Customers may receive either the old or new packaging, but the physical product remains identical.
What is the typical price for a pair of these sticks?
The typical retail price is approximately £13.00 per pair. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
How do these compare to maple drumsticks?
Hickory sticks like the 747 are denser and more durable than maple alternatives, such as the Gear4Music 5A Maple sticks. They offer more power and vibration absorption than maple.
Will these sticks help me play louder?
Yes, the combination of the forward-weighted design and the extra length allows for more powerful strokes. This helps the drummer cut through a loud stage mix more effectively.
Do these sticks have a nylon or wood tip?
This specific model features a wood tip. Wood tips are preferred by many for their natural, warm tone on drumheads and bright, organic sound on cymbals.