Is there a standard for drumstick sizes? Or is just different for each company that makes them?

Question

Oh and if anyone can provide a description for the size 8D that would be good too.

Answer 1

The 8D seems to be exclusive to Vic Firth, it is from their American Sound Hickory Drumstick series. The 8D is ideal for rock, band, and practice. It is designed for fuller sound. L=16", Dia.=.540"

Basically sizes and shapes are consistent throughout the industry.

Number
The numerical portion signifies the circumference of the stick. In general, the lower the number the larger circumference, and the greater the number the smaller the circumference.

Letter
The letter suffix: "S," "B," and "A" originally indicated the recommended application.

"S" model sticks are designed for Street applications such as drum corps and marching band.

"B" model sticks are intended for Band applications such as brass bands and symphonic concert bands. The 2B is recommended by teachers practically everywhere as ideal starter sticks.

"A" stands for Orchestra. "A" model sticks were designed for big band or dance type orchestras.

Answer 2

Yes, there is one standart which all companies hold on. The most common drumstick are 5A (for all styles of music and normal volume level). Depending on the music style my boyfriend recommends: 7A - For Jazz and finer style of playng. 5B or 3A - For hard, strong playng.
My boyfriend personally uses 7A "Vic Firth". 8D is much like 7A and you can see it best for yourselve at: http://www.vicfirth.com