The gasket really helps. When I installed the metal stick without any sanding the scratching was noticeable and created resistance. I think the scratching came from under the lip of the stick not in contact with the gasket. I could be wrong but sanding the coating off to a smooth steel surface...
I recently replaced my new 3ds xl circle pad with a metal Shapeways stick as shown above. I definitely would recommend this mod BUT all the surfaces touching the housing needs to be sanded down thoroughly. The stick is solid metal with a powdered type coating which will scratch and add...