After years of stricktly playing Vic Firth, I've become disapointed in their quality and longevity over the past few years. I decided to give Meinl a try. Their 5A sticks are slightly heavier than the Vic Firth 5As, but not so much that it impacted my play style. Also, they seem to be much more durrable. Rim shots arn't a problem with them. Excellent sticks.