Vic Firth SPE3 Peter Erskine Big Band Signature Drumsticks

Vic Firth SPE3 Peter Erskine Big Band Signature Drumsticks

The Vic Firth SPE3 Peter Erskine Big Band stick is designed for players who want more body and presence than a lighter jazz stick, but still need control, rebound and proper cymbal definition.

It sits between a 5A and a 5B in feel, which makes it a really useful choice if you want something that can handle bigger ensemble playing without becoming heavy or clumsy. Peter Erskine originally developed this model for situations where his lighter Ride Stick did not quite have enough weight behind it, especially in big band and larger group settings.

The result is a stick that feels musical, balanced and responsive, but with a bit more strength when you need to lean into the kit.

What Do They Actually Feel Like?

The SPE3 has a .585" diameter and 16" length, so it has a little more substance than a standard lighter jazz stick.

The long taper helps the stick rebound easily, which makes it feel quick and fluid in the hand. That is important for ride cymbal work, comping, ghost notes and more detailed playing, where you need the stick to respond rather than feel like it is working against you.

The wood tear drop tip gives clear cymbal definition without sounding too thin. That makes it especially useful for ride patterns, big band playing, studio work and more dynamic styles where the cymbal sound really matters.

Who Are They For?

These are a great choice for jazz drummers, big band players, theatre drummers, studio players and anyone who wants a stick with finesse but a bit more weight than a very light jazz model.

They are also useful if you normally play 5A sticks but want something with a slightly fuller sound and more presence, without jumping all the way to a chunky rock stick.

If you are playing heavy rock or metal, you may want something thicker and more aggressive. But if you need control, cymbal clarity and enough weight for larger ensembles, the SPE3 is a very well-judged stick.

Key Features

Peter Erskine Big Band Signature model
Designed for big band, jazz, studio and ensemble playing
Sits between a 5A and 5B in overall feel
Hickory construction
Long taper for easy rebound and flexible response
Wood tear drop tip for clear cymbal definition
Balanced feel with more body than lighter jazz sticks
Good choice for ride cymbal work, comping and dynamic playing
Natural / lacquered finish
Sold as a pair
Product code: VF-SPE3

Specifications

Brand: Vic Firth
Series: Signature Series
Artist: Peter Erskine
Model: Big Band Stick
Product Code: VF-SPE3
Type: Drumsticks
Material: Hickory
Length: 16" / 40.64cm
Diameter: .585" / 1.49cm
Taper: Long
Tip Material: Wood
Tip Shape: Tear Drop
Finish: Natural / Lacquered
Quantity: 1 Pair
Suitable For: Drum Kit, Jazz, Big Band, Studio, Theatre, Ensemble and General Playing

What’s Included

1 pair of Vic Firth SPE3 Peter Erskine Big Band Signature Drumsticks

Not Sure If These Are the Right Sticks?

The SPE3 is a good choice if you want a stick with more presence than a light jazz model, but still want control, rebound and cymbal detail.

If you want something lighter and more delicate, look at smaller jazz-style sticks or Peter Erskine’s Ride Stick. If you want something heavier for louder rock playing, a 5B or heavier model may suit you better.

If you are unsure which stick size is right for your playing, get in touch and we will help you compare the options.