At ProOrca, we don't just sell pieces of wood. We handcraft, in France, the drumsticks that will give rhythm to your life. So, of course, the question often comes up in our workshops: "Should I use 5A or 5B?"

Spoiler alert: there's no wrong answer. But there's definitely your answer . The one that fits your playing, your feel, your groove. So we're taking you on a no-nonsense tour, but with all the ProOrca know-how. Because a good pair of sticks changes everything.

5A vs 5B: what are the concrete differences?

No need to get out a ruler and a precision scale (although...). What you need to remember is this:

• The Classic 5A ProOrca sticks are the most versatile. Not too thin, not too heavy, a good balance between comfort and power.
  
  

• The Classic 5B ProOrca have a little more body, a larger diameter, and more weight. The result: a more powerful, denser sound and a more pronounced presence.
  
  

But don't go out and buy the Classic 5B ProOrca just yet because "they hit harder" or the Classic 5A ProOrca because "they're easier." That would be missing the point: how you feel .

It all depends on your style…and your hands

Drumsticks are like shoes. Just because your favorite drummer plays 5B doesn't mean you have to do the same. Just because you're a beginner doesn't mean you should avoid 5B either. It all depends on your body type, your playing style, and your sound .

→ If you have rather thin hands or you like fast and articulate play, the Classic 5A ProOrca can bring you more comfort.

→ If you are looking for presence, weight, a more massive response, the Classic 5B ProOrca will respond generously.

And for those in between, we have options tailored to the millimeter. We'll tell you about them right after...

The game-changing variations

At ProOrca, we didn't just reproduce the standards. We tweaked them, adjusted them, and enhanced them to meet very real needs. Here are a few variations worth checking out:

• Special 5AXL : to play further, louder

This is our “long-range” version of the 5A ProOrca. Same diameter, but longer. The result: an improved lever arm , for increased playing comfort and a more direct attack, without weighing down the stick.

• Special 5AS : the 5A, slim and precise version

A little thinner, lighter, it maintains the natural balance of the 5A ProOrca while offering surgical precision . Perfect for those who like to control every note to the millimeter.

• Special 5BXL : amplitude at the service of power

Love the size of the 5B ProOrca but want more? The 5BXL ProOrca is for you. Longer, yet still well-balanced , it gives you more projection, presence... and pleasure.

• Special 5B Fat : thicker, punchier

This is where we enter the club of refined hitters. Thicker, it provides natural power , with a comfortable fit. And it absorbs impacts without flinching.

And what about comfort?

Because yes, we talk a lot about sound. But you hold your sticks for several hours at a time. They have to be pleasant. Natural. They have to make you want to play, not throw your snare drum out the window.

This is why we have also designed models with integrated grip (the famous XGrip ), or those from the Signature French Grip Channel range .

And we offer all these models in 5A and 5B. Because we know that a good feeling is a whole.

Our professional advice, without filter

• Just starting out? Start with a pair of 5A ProOrca or 5AXL ProOrca . They'll help you find your feet without excessive fatigue.

• Do you like to hit? Try the 5B Fat ProOrca or 5BXL ProOrca . They'll take whatever you throw at them, with a smile.

• Looking for precision? The5AS ProOrca is a rare gem. Lightweight, controllable, and perfect for technical play.

The last strike

You're not born a 5A. You don't die a 5B. You evolve, you explore, you refine your feelings. The important thing isn't the number. It's what you do with it.

At ProOrca, we're here to support you, pair after pair, groove after groove. So... 5A ProOrca or 5B ProOrca ? The answer is at your fingertips. And we're here to make it rock. 🔥

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