What a thrill to have such a fine pair of sticks. Their weightiness helps them sit in my hands in the balanced way we've been invited to hold them. This has evened the sound from both hands, my left having been lighter and a bit awkward while using the makeshift bachi from sensei for beginners. Ki Ki Ki sound is fuller, nuttier (or is the nutty sound influenced by the fact that I know they are made of hickory wood?) Kara Ka sound is more graceful as the bachi tip and return easily in hand. Long enough, not tapered. I look forward to using them the rest of my days doing Taiko drumming.