Hi
I am trying to get to grips with the top end style and was slightly overwhelmed by the choices of wood and lengths available for just a simple rod type of Tipper. In my local model shop I bought a one metre length of 8mm carbon fibre rod for about £10. Out of this I made four different length tippers. I know the choice of material may offend traditionalists but carbon fibre is very dense and easy to cut and shape. Once the ends are rounded a small dab of superglue on them just finishes the job. The tippers may not be traditional but at least they may give the user an idea of what they do and do not like regarding density and length.

I also tried making a hotrod style tipper with some much thinner carbon fibre but I found it quite heavy to play with and there wasn't much of a click to it.

Regarding tippers made from bamboo BBQ sticks. Be very careful. Even if thy appear well rounded and smooth to the touch they can cause serious damage to the skin if the playing is heavy.

I hope this is of use.

Regards, Wigwail