The American Classic® line combines tradition and Vic Firth style. With bold designs for fuller sound, the Classics are turned from select hickory - a dense wood with little flex for a more pronounced sound. Hickory is also capable of withstanding a great deal of shock, making it highly durable. The wood tips are deeply back-cut for intensified cymbal response. The nylon tips are similar in size and shape to their wood counterparts, providing enhanced performance and a feel closer to their original wood tip models. Nylon tips are the most durable and brightest sounding on cymbals.