Vater 55BB Wood Tip

The Vater 55BB is a serious contender for players who demand weight and projection but still need control and dynamic range. It clocks in at 16.5 inches long—giving it the same extended reach as something like a Power 5B—but with a noticeably thicker diameter at 0.620”. That’s a full step above your standard 5B, offering a bigger feel in the hand and a bigger sound at the kit.

But don’t let the size fool you—this stick isn’t just for bashing. It’s been thoughtfully designed with a medium taper and an acorn-shaped wood tip that keeps things balanced and musical. The result? A powerful, punchy response on drums, and a warm, articulate wash on cymbals. It’s perfect for styles where volume and clarity are key—think rock, metal, funk, gospel, or any high-energy setting where subtle sticks just won’t cut it.

Crafted from American hickory, the 55BB brings all the durability and shock-absorption you’d expect, meaning less hand fatigue and more consistent performance during long sessions or loud gigs. These sticks hit hard, but they also respond well when you back off, making them a surprisingly versatile option for players who want more mass without sacrificing nuance.

At Musicmaker, the 55BB has become a bit of an insider’s favourite—especially among drummers who’ve outgrown their 5Bs but don’t want to leap all the way into marching stick territory. Big feel, big sound, big win.

Features

• Material: Sturdy American hickory for reliable strength and vibration control

• Length: 16.5" – extended length for more leverage and reach

• Diameter: 0.620" – thicker than a standard 5B for a more powerful grip and sound

• Tip Shape: Acorn wood tip for broad, musical cymbal tone and responsive attack

• Feel: Hefty and controlled, ideal for players with a stronger stroke

• Tone: Delivers rich, full-bodied sound on drums and warm definition on cymbals

• Style Suitability: Perfect for rock, metal, gospel, funk, and high-volume playing

• Comfort: Extra thickness offers a stable grip and improved control for big-handed players