I much prefer Titanium needles over regular ones. All my needles are usually premium brands & I still prefer the Titanium ones. Have never heard that they shatter but I will be attentive to that. They last longer (much longer) but I also feel they just do a better job. IMHO, anyway. Tartan, I have been able to buy some at Fabricland, not a lot but some. My LQS does carry them also but her shop is an hour away so I when I need a few things I always pick up some needles at the same time.