Thats the thing about drop tines. They are often porous because the blood pools in them and doesnt circulate as well. They usually retain some of the velvet too. Drop tines that DO have better circulation are harder and pointed at the end. Drop tines that are porous usually are bigger, and soon shrink and also break off. Ive raised many bucks with drops as well as ones coming into my studio, and this is what Ive come to see. Hope this helps you all.