hmm.. here is my two cents worth. i dun not recomend metal sticks though there are some people who swear by it. just my feel. i feel that wood sticks still produce the more acoustic feel and sound. and metal stick do injure your cymbals. and definately any wood hoops. the wood hoops lacquer layer will crack. i have experienced that myself. yea. so but still give it a try, it may be your preference.