Vic Firth Steve Gadd Wire Brushes  

The Steve Gadd Brushes are great! The design is one of those ideas that make you wonder, "Why didn't someone think of this sooner?"  They give a nice, solid "swish", especially on a newer coated drumhead. The tips of the wires, being angled away from the drumhead, simply don't snag on the coating of the head. And, these brushes just invite you to try new techniques, like applying more pressure to your swish without worrying about the dreaded "snag." Certain special techniques, like laying the open brush on the snare head and rolling it back and forth have a different feel with these brushes. And, a single-stroke roll requires a slightly different approach, due to the fact that there is more actual metal brush area in contact with the head.  But these minor adjustmens aren't problems, just new ways of playing! For some inspirational brush playing, you might check out Jeff Hamilton and Steve Smith playing "Salt Peanuts" on YouTube.  Just two drummers with brushes and two snare drums. Steve Smith is using Vic Firth's traditional brush (the ones with the purple handle) and Jeff Hamilton is using his Regal Tip signature model.  Neither of these have the Gadd bent wires feature, but you'll be amazed at the tasteful brushwork. Anyway, nice comfortable rubber handle,  smooth retraction, reliable locking mechanism (full spread or a bit thinner) and that always-reliable Vic Firth quality. Twenty-some dollars isn't cheap, especially these days, but you won't be disappointed. And, unless you play very hard, these brushes are very durable and sturdy.

Man I really could not ask for better brushes!  Good tone when it comes in contact with the drum, good bend near the tips, and does NOT scratch your cymbals!  :D

I am a above average rock drummer, but I have always been an inept brush player.  I just never could get the flow or snap that I see others get.  UNTIL THESE BRUSHES.  I immediately went from inept to "okay".  No snagging, more consistent contact with the head, easy to control.  The bent edges control the pressure factor for untrained brush players like myself and make it MUCH easier.  It really is like cheating.  Thanks VF and Gadd.  AMAZING product.