I have been a Pro-Mark stick user since the 1970's, and normally I tend to stay away from "store brand" sticks due to the fact that 90% of the time, they are "factory 2nds". But, when I found out that these were the "real-deal" Pro-Mark sticks, I figured I would give them a shot. I'm really happy I did for two reasons: 1) Saved a little cash. 2) Able to support my favorite drum shop. If you are a Pro-Mark 5A Hickory Wood Tip user, you really owe it to yourself to buy these. As an aside, what would be a nice touch would be a little re-working of the sleeve that the stick come in. Instead of using the standard Pro-Mark sleeve, it would be a nice marketing tool if the sleeve read "Lone Star Percussion by Pro-Mark", or something similar. (That is if it wouldn't drive up the cost of the sticks) Again...thanks Lone Star Percussion (oh yeah...and Pro-Mark)