Vater Splashstick Heavy
When you need the finesse of rods but with more punch and staying power, the Vater Splashstick Heavy steps in with authority. These are not your everyday bundle sticks—they're built for drummers who want low-volume options without sacrificing impact, feel, or presence.
Crafted from hand-selected birch dowels, the Splashstick Heavy offers a deeper, more pronounced attack than standard rods. The heavier build provides greater articulation and rebound, giving you more stick-like control while still producing that signature bundled warmth. Whether you're driving a groove in an acoustic rock set or playing with restraint in a worship or unplugged session, these rods bring volume control with added clarity and definition.
At 16 inches long and 0.680 inches in diameter, the Splashstick Heavy gives a firm, solid grip with just the right amount of weight to dig in when needed. The extended rubber grip section leaves about 4 inches of dowel exposed, offering improved durability—especially for rimshot-heavy players. This clever design also gives a better balance, preventing slippage and enhancing overall stick control.
They sound full and punchy on toms and snares, but still offer that restrained brush-like texture when needed—ideal for players who shift between genres or need to bring subtle dynamics into a louder setting. These aren’t soft, spindly rods—they’re a hybrid powerhouse built for players who want presence without punishment.
Here at Musicmaker, these have become a top choice for gigging drummers who need to dial it down without dulling it out. From pop to jazz to acoustic covers, the Splashstick Heavy delivers reliable, expressive performance with a strong backbone.
Features
- Material: Hand-selected birch dowels for warmth and strength
- Length: 16" – standard reach for familiarity and balance
- Diameter: 0.680" – thicker profile for increased weight and projection
- Grip: Extended rubber grip with 4" of exposed dowel for improved control and rimshot resistance
- Feel: Heavier than standard rods, offering more rebound and stick-like response
- Tone: Warm, punchy, and dynamic—perfect for acoustic, unplugged, and low-volume settings
- Durability: Built to withstand more aggressive playing than traditional rods
- Versatility: Great for live gigs, rehearsals, and crossover playing styles