These are excellent sticks.  I've been through many pairs and settled on Ahead sticks for their durability and shock resistance.  However, the tips kept unscrewing leading to gashed heads and the grip area is limited.  Enter the Pro-Mark oak!  I loved the balance and feel of the hickory 747's but, they didn't last long.  I went on a whim with these and it was love at first swing!  They have the volume and durability of an Ahead with the balanced feel.  I suggest taking your favorite style of whatever stick you're using and try it in the oak.  I've tried several and keep coming back to the 747N.  My only wish is that they reissue the oak natural finish series(Also a fantastic series if you prefer hickory).  If you're looking for a stick that hits harder and lasts longer, go for these!