The Mike Portnoy ActiveGrip 420X is among the first signature drumsticks to feature Promark's Patent Pending Technology ActiveGrip - a heat activated grip technology engineered to get tackier as drummers hands sweat and their body temperature rises - so the harder you play the stronger they grip. The 420X offers more power and projection erring on the larger side of a 5A at 16 ½” long. The oval wood tip provides a warm tonality on cymbals and drums and appeals to the widest segment of drummers.