The two most commonly used grips are matched grip and traditional grip. Both grips offer different feels, with their own pros and cons. I would advise all aspiring players to experiment with each one. Which one do you prefer and why?
Matched grip is probably the more commonly used grip. It is symmetrical and feels natural. Many drummers would agree that they get more power from a matched grip stroke. Sit comfortably on a chair with your hands to your sides. Place your hands on your knees, palms down. Lift your hands off your knees so your elbows form right angles. Now grab the sticks between thumb and forefinger, this is the lever. Next, wrap the other three fingers on the underside of the stick.
Players of side drums and marching snare drums used the traditional grip. The drum would hang from a shoulder strap to the left side of the player’s hip. Playing a matched grip simply didn’t work, so the traditional grip was used. There are different muscles used in the left hand of the traditional grip. This can be advantageous for lower volume situations, or playing with more finesse. Sit comfortably on a chair with your hands to your sides. Place your hands on your knees, palms down. Turn the palm of your left hand up. Place the stick between your thumb and palm. The stick should sit in the web of your left thumb so the thumbnail is parallel to the first knuckle of your forefinger. Turn your left hand halfway over and let the stick sit comfortably between your middle and ring finger. It may feel akward at first, but with practice will improve.
Give yourself time when trying different grips and be patient with yourself. It takes time to get comfortable and to develop necessary muscle memory.