The TIM Fairbanks fire grain marching stick features a long, 4 ¼” taper as well as a rear taper at the butt end of the stick to produce a great balance and feel in the hands. The diameter at the handle is kept at .708” for a comfortable grip and then gradually increases to .755” in shoulder of the drumstick for improved durability where rim shots are played. The stick also features a large round tip for a full, articulate sound from the drum. Fire grain is a revolutionary heat-tempering process that transforms ordinary hickory drumsticks into precision tools with unprecedented durability. While keeping their original weight, balance, and attack, Promark fire grain sticks allow drummers to hit harder and play longer, naturally. No excess vibration, no space age gimmicks, just natural hickory, hardened by flame.