The Lightning Rods are perfect for when sticks are a little to full on. I play in a small electric band, originally acoustic and tend to switch between sticks and rods as required between songs. Very bright sounding on gentle cymbal taps and ride. They feel excellent in the hands, nice and light, but plenty of power and volume if required, particularly effective when playing rim shots and flams. I've had one pair for a year now, in use for 6 hours a week in rehearsals and they have some wear, but the dowel rods haven't broken, just have a few nicks as expected from hi hat, rims. I also put a little surgical tape around them towards the end of the rods for a little more protection and I think it provides a little more attack on the snare head. Great price for their longevity and a pleasure to play with.
