What's up with Vic Firth sticks??

Is it just me or has the quality DRASTICALLY changed recently? I bought a pack of 4 of these at guitar center and they feel cheap, light, breakable, and chalky? Vic firth have always felt sturdy and dense and high quality. What's going on????

Is it just me or has the quality DRASTICALLY changed recently? I bought a pack of 4 of these at guitar center and they feel cheap, light, breakable, and chalky? Vic firth have always felt sturdy and dense and high quality. What's going on????