My sister and I split a batch of 100 organ needles. The size 16 needles were all deformed. We did not check the needles when we got them. They had odd shaped holes and the grove was not straight on every one of them. If you buy on line you will want to look at them with a magnifying glass as soon as you get them home. Compare them to a needle you know is good. The needle hole should be smooth and a bit oblong or oval. The groove should be straight and smooth. Those were a fluke - we have bought organ needles before and they were just fine.