I wish reviewers would just put the paddle stats in a matrix so you can pause and visually compare rather than rattling off numbers that disappear off the screen.
Mmmm you’d have to define improvement. Cause I would take the Mach 2 Forza over the Pro-C. But I think for me in play the 14.3mm Bantam TKO-C is something I’d pull out of my bag as much as the M2F 14mm. Even though they aren’t very similar.
I naturally am pulling the 14.3mm TKO-C a lot but I do still like the 12.7mm TKO-CX as well. I play with both consistently but I’d say the 14.3 is a lot more approachable and easier to control! Sorry if that’s vague I love both 😂 but I am pulling the 14.3 out more often.
These paddles sound amazing! I like a lot of power with some control at the same time and the fact that the TKO-CX 12.7 has top tier power and decent control and sweet sport with top tier spin is crazy! Even with the high price will definitely consider buying
Yes. 116SW seems low. Knowing the static weights of each of these reviewed paddles would be extremely helpful. For the TKO-CX 12.7, the 116 swing weight seems very low, as you point out. If that's the true number, then the static weight of that paddle is likely below the spec. Here are the static/swing numbers for Braydon and Chris's TKO-CX 12.7: 7.82oz/118 and 8.0oz/121 I stayed away from the TKO-CX 12.7 only because of the high swing weights reported by Braydon and Chris.
@@stspickleball Thanks! That's very helpful to know that it's a below-spec static weight. If I could get that below-spec 7.65oz static weight/116SW TKO-CX 12.7, I'd probably buy it! You're lucky!
@@stspickleball PB Central doesn't take weight requests. Paddletek does, but the lowest you can request is 7.8, which is their lowest spec weight for that paddle. If I could order 7.65oz, I would. You were lucky!
Thanks for great review! Please advice here: TKO-C 12.7, Azul light weight, or Honolulu JK2 ? Which one should I get if wanna controllable power with low swing weight 😅? Thanks!
@@stspickleball I definitely lack control in my game but my style is more attacking and hitting drives. I would like more power but still controllable power, and as I mentioned lower swing weight is important for fast hands at the net.
Liked. However, regarding 'last a long time,' a paddle is only as long lasting as its weakest link or most short lived component. None of the cutting edge paddles really last a long time beyond 2-3 months because the face grit wears out. However, perhaps for some 2-3 months is a long time...? At $230 a pop, that's almost $1K in paddles if one wants to play with high spin throughout the year.
Yeah I do think the fact that these essentially can’t core crush and have a finer face grit material along with really solid spin will make them a safe bet for most though.
If you're looking for more power then yes you would very much enjoy it. I would also recommend you to check out the Honolulu J2K and the Mach 2 Forza :)
I really like 5” of 1g/in lead tape starting 1” out from the grip. If you really want to increase sweet spot you can put a 4” or a 5” strip in the middle of the flat side edge and mess with that as well it will have a bigger impact on the sweet spot for you.
They essentially the same paddle so if you don’t use a two handed BH or just simply prefer longer handles get the C. 14mm for The most control and 12 for more pop and power.
Yeah what the other guy said is spot on. You get more surface area and a larger sweet spot on the C over the CX. A bit less power but man the 14.3mm C is a wonderful paddle.
I feel like the TKO line has to be one of the best paddles of the year! Bought a TKO-CX 12.7 and didn’t lose any control but gained tons of put away power. I liked it so much I bought a second one! Thanks for the great reviews on this one!
Did you play with all of these stock? Add any weight? Noticeable pop difference between the C 12.7 and 14.3? Just played with the 12.7 weighted up and it was nice.
You rock! Yeah the 12.7 doesn’t have many drawbacks other than lack of control. If you use it long enough you will dial it in. I think you made a great choice tbh.
I personally don’t think it needs it! But if you feel like it does for you go check out my lead tape guide video it will answer every question you could have.
I always do my initial testing stock and have since added 5" of 1g /inch lead tape starting one inch out from the grip going up into the sides of the paddle :)
Thank you! I appreciate all your stats, informative structure and review style. This channel is one of my favorites and will be my go to for shopping for my next paddle after my pre-ordered apollo.
How does the tko sweet spot compare to the black ace? I’ve been looking to upgrade from it to a new power paddle since the black ace has a super small sweet spot
Thanks for yet another great review! You've always been one of my favorite paddle reviews and your reviews lately have been on fire! I really want to pick one of these up but I have a quick question. Other reviewers have said they're really loud. What's your take on that? Not sure I want a paddle that sounds like a cannon every time I hit it.
Really the only paddles that comes to mind for a more quiet / muted experience are the Gearbox Pro series paddles. They are really nice and muted and feel wonderful in play. If you decide to get one use the link in the description of my review video for them! :)
How does the TKO 12.7 compare with Paddletek ALW C 12.7? That one is also a powerful and poppy paddle as I recall from your review? Is it a very similar paddle in a different shape?
@@stspickleballis that why they were delisted? I find it funny you can add weight tape but they cant 🤷🏻♂️ thinking of returning my Gen3 Joola and scooping a TKO-CK 12.7mm. I imagine I’ll like it much better then my Perseus 16mm
Paddletek is starting off strong this year! These all have great stats and sick designs. I'm starting to get tired of all the issues with thermoformed paddles, so it's good to see some other options that still have large sweet spots.
Mmmm which ones specifically are you looking into? If you’re looking for power and pop I’d go TKO-CX if you’re looking for plow through and or control go R3 or R2.
Played with a friend’s Bantam TKO-C 12.7 and loved it. Is there a cheaper paddle that’s somewhat comparable? B&B Filth? 11six24 Huarache X Control +? Hudef Viva Pro Gen 3?
There’s not honestly. It’s much hotter off the face than those and has a better feeling core. Only paddles that come close / surpass it power wise are the Gearbox and Joola paddles which are more expensive.
I wish reviewers would just put the paddle stats in a matrix so you can pause and visually compare rather than rattling off numbers that disappear off the screen.
Www.stspickleball.com
Just ordered my Bantam TKO C 12.7 mm last week thank's for the review
Awesome you’re very welcome! 😊
Excellent review! Way to succinctly breakdown each of the models. Grabbed a tko -c 14.3mm . Prefer the lighter swing weight and a little less pop.
Great choice I’m still between that one and the 12.7 CX. I took them both out today and I do love the control of the 14.3mm C.
What’s the closest to the 14mm M2 Forza??
@@pickleballnic probably the Wave Pro-C if you’re taking into account swing weight and twist weight etc. 😊
What’s the closest to or would be an improvement to my M2 Forza 14mm?
Mmmm you’d have to define improvement. Cause I would take the Mach 2 Forza over the Pro-C. But I think for me in play the 14.3mm Bantam TKO-C is something I’d pull out of my bag as much as the M2F 14mm. Even though they aren’t very similar.
Replacing a Joola Gen3 Magnus 14mm, with a TKO-CX. The Joola lasted 2, 3 hour sessions, core crushed….
Where you able to get a refund from Joola? I've been unable to reach them. Very frustrating.
@@robedwards6926 why I will order from Amazon. Free returns for 30 days. No issues ever on returns.
Wow this is just sad…. You’re gonna love the CX
😩😩😩
Fair
Hey brother, thanks for considering a Viva Pro (Gen 3) review in the near future~
Keep up the stellar work!
Of course thanks man!!
Does the cx feel super slow? Also how do 2 handed backhands feel with the C having the shorter handle?
A little slow but not bad. I am personally ok with an overlap on my two handed backhands so it was fine for me! And I have big hands.
After owning the paddles for a couple weeks which do you now prefer? Any of them your main?
I naturally am pulling the 14.3mm TKO-C a lot but I do still like the 12.7mm TKO-CX as well. I play with both consistently but I’d say the 14.3 is a lot more approachable and easier to control! Sorry if that’s vague I love both 😂 but I am pulling the 14.3 out more often.
These paddles sound amazing! I like a lot of power with some control at the same time and the fact that the TKO-CX 12.7 has top tier power and decent control and sweet sport with top tier spin is crazy! Even with the high price will definitely consider buying
Yeah I agree these really surprised me tbh
What is the stock weight of your tko-cx 12.7mm? 116 SW seems to be less than the numbers other reviewers have gotten.
Yes. 116SW seems low. Knowing the static weights of each of these reviewed paddles would be extremely helpful.
For the TKO-CX 12.7, the 116 swing weight seems very low, as you point out. If that's the true number, then the static weight of that paddle is likely below the spec.
Here are the static/swing numbers for Braydon and Chris's TKO-CX 12.7: 7.82oz/118 and 8.0oz/121
I stayed away from the TKO-CX 12.7 only because of the high swing weights reported by Braydon and Chris.
Static weight of mine is 7.65oz I just double checked :)
@@stspickleball Thanks! That's very helpful to know that it's a below-spec static weight. If I could get that below-spec 7.65oz static weight/116SW TKO-CX 12.7, I'd probably buy it! You're lucky!
Email pickleball central I’m sure they will hook you up!
@@stspickleball PB Central doesn't take weight requests. Paddletek does, but the lowest you can request is 7.8, which is their lowest spec weight for that paddle. If I could order 7.65oz, I would. You were lucky!
Just returned my Gen 3 Perseus 16mm, I’m stuck between the 12.7 and 14.3. What do you recommend?
I am now pulling the 12.7 out almost solely in play. The TKO-CX 12.7 is one of my main go to paddles right now!
is the CX still delisted for usap?
It is not. Good to go now!
Thanks for great review! Please advice here: TKO-C 12.7, Azul light weight, or Honolulu JK2 ? Which one should I get if wanna controllable power with low swing weight 😅? Thanks!
How much do you value control vs how much do you value pop and power?
@@stspickleball I definitely lack control in my game but my style is more attacking and hitting drives. I would like more power but still controllable power, and as I mentioned lower swing weight is important for fast hands at the net.
I’d go Azul for you then. It has more power and still is controllable. That’s the best pick for you.
@@stspickleball thank you!
They need to fire someone at Joola
😂😂😂
Heard the CX is pulled from the approval list……fishing weights adding momentum.
Yeah we will see how it all plays out. Not sure if it's 100% yet so lets be patient and see what happens here.
Just checked. The CX is back on the list as of May 25, 2024.
Woot!! Figured it would be. It’s powerful but not like gearbox powerful so I figured it would be fine.
Liked. However, regarding 'last a long time,' a paddle is only as long lasting as its weakest link or most short lived component. None of the cutting edge paddles really last a long time beyond 2-3 months because the face grit wears out. However, perhaps for some 2-3 months is a long time...? At $230 a pop, that's almost $1K in paddles if one wants to play with high spin throughout the year.
Yeah I do think the fact that these essentially can’t core crush and have a finer face grit material along with really solid spin will make them a safe bet for most though.
Do you think I’d enjoy the 12.7mm TKO-CX coming from a Volair Mach 1 Forza 14mm? Thanks!
If you're looking for more power then yes you would very much enjoy it. I would also recommend you to check out the Honolulu J2K and the Mach 2 Forza :)
What is your lead setup for the TKO C 12? I want to increase sweet spot
I really like 5” of 1g/in lead tape starting 1” out from the grip. If you really want to increase sweet spot you can put a 4” or a 5” strip in the middle of the flat side edge and mess with that as well it will have a bigger impact on the sweet spot for you.
For those not using a 2 handed backhand, would you still recommend the CX vs the C?
They essentially the same paddle so if you don’t use a two handed BH or just simply prefer longer handles get the C. 14mm for The most control and 12 for more pop and power.
Yeah what the other guy said is spot on. You get more surface area and a larger sweet spot on the C over the CX. A bit less power but man the 14.3mm C is a wonderful paddle.
Kind of locked in on the 12.7 for power and swing weight. Likely will go for the C
Sounds like a good plan!
I feel like the TKO line has to be one of the best paddles of the year! Bought a TKO-CX 12.7 and didn’t lose any control but gained tons of put away power. I liked it so much I bought a second one! Thanks for the great reviews on this one!
I agree 100% the TKO-CX 12.7 has moved right up near the top of my personal list absolutely.
What’s the stock weight you received for TKO-C 14.3 and TKO-CX 12.7?
Stock weight for the TKO-CX 12.7 is 7.65oz and the stock weight for the TKO-C 14.3 is 7.75oz :)
Thanks for the review! Appreciate you running down the stats on each model. I canceled my Vatic Oni and ordered the TKO-CX 12.7mm and 7.8oz.
Very nice! I would agree with this decision the Oni has some major core issues.
Once again, the performance description is excellent. I was wondering if you have or could evaluate the Diadem Speed Pro.
Dang thanks so much!! I actually haven’t gotten my hands on a speed pro yet!
229$ for a gen 1 paddle, quite expensive!
I agree but it is really nice and outperforms most gen 2 paddles.
$279.00 for a Gen 3 that lasts 2, 3 hour sessions, then core crushed! Thats expensive!
Yeah that just… hurts
Interesting stats I have a TKO 12.7 and I didnt think it was that forgiving. Also its gen3 Joola loud
Extremely loud 100%
Did you play with all of these stock? Add any weight? Noticeable pop difference between the C 12.7 and 14.3? Just played with the 12.7 weighted up and it was nice.
I didn’t add any weight as they have really solid twist weight to begin with. Noticeable pop difference yes!
Just picked one up. Decided to live a little and bought the 12.7 so I can battle against the Gearboxes in open play. Used your code too. Thanks.
You rock! Yeah the 12.7 doesn’t have many drawbacks other than lack of control. If you use it long enough you will dial it in. I think you made a great choice tbh.
I'm loving my Tempest wave pro-C. Great job Paddletek..
Heck yeah!!! Great paddle for sure.
Where would you put lead tape on the tko-cx 12.7, if any at all?
I personally don’t think it needs it! But if you feel like it does for you go check out my lead tape guide video it will answer every question you could have.
What’s the best lightest paddle in the market now I want a battle paddle
Best lightest paddle is going to be the 14mm Mach 2 Forza or the Spartus Apollo. I’d just go with the Apollo and save the money!
Thanks for the review. I think TKO-CX 12.7mm is my favorite.
Amazing paddle honestly
Got the tko cx using your code! Thanks man! Love the paddle
Awesome!! Glad you love it!
Thank you!!
@@stspickleball Did you put any lead on your paddle set up during testing? Or did you just test it stock?
I always do my initial testing stock and have since added 5" of 1g /inch lead tape starting one inch out from the grip going up into the sides of the paddle :)
@@stspickleball how does it make it play with that set up?
Thank you! I appreciate all your stats, informative structure and review style. This channel is one of my favorites and will be my go to for shopping for my next paddle after my pre-ordered apollo.
Wow, thank you! I appreciate that so much! Hope you love the Apollo 😊
How does the 14.3 tko c compare to the thrive azul?
Both super solid tbh. 14.3 TKO-C has a more plush feel off the face and has more control. The Azul is more firm off the face and a hybrid shape 😊
The handle. Is it complete or vibration?
Complete 😊 it’s a solid handle they did a good job.
Going to get the tko-c 14.3. Have small hands and need the 5.25 handle. Thanks for your input.
Got the TKO-C 14.3. WOW the power is good spin great but the pop !111
Great review! TKO-CX is my next paddle..
Good choice!
How does the tko sweet spot compare to the black ace? I’ve been looking to upgrade from it to a new power paddle since the black ace has a super small sweet spot
Much better than the black ace! 100%
Like a lot larger lol
Liked. Maybe I missed it. How do these compare to the ALW versions? Thanks.
Longer handles and not as wide face - same core/face. A bit heavier, too. ALWs super light
Exactly this 😊
@6:22 all the Joola paddles on the side 🤭
Lol right! Love these testing sessions with my Titan Ball Machine
Thanks for yet another great review! You've always been one of my favorite paddle reviews and your reviews lately have been on fire! I really want to pick one of these up but I have a quick question. Other reviewers have said they're really loud. What's your take on that? Not sure I want a paddle that sounds like a cannon every time I hit it.
It’s very loud. Actually glad you pointed that out I should have added that in my review. If you need a quieter paddle this is not it 😂
Also thank you very very much for the kind words!
Thanks so much for the response! Just curious, what are some of the quieter paddles that you've reviewed lately that you would recommend?
Really the only paddles that comes to mind for a more quiet / muted experience are the Gearbox Pro series paddles. They are really nice and muted and feel wonderful in play. If you decide to get one use the link in the description of my review video for them! :)
How does the TKO 12.7 compare with Paddletek ALW C 12.7? That one is also a powerful and poppy paddle as I recall from your review? Is it a very similar paddle in a different shape?
It is definitely a very similar paddle in a different shape 100%. Super hot off the face just like the ALW-C 😊
@@stspickleballthanks. Is there also a discount on your code for the ALW C at Pickleballcentral? Or just for the TKO?
My code should work for every paddle on pickleball central outside of Joola and Selkirk 😊
@@stspickleballthanks. Ordered a TKO-C using your code.
I appreciate you!
These twist weight numbers are absolute off the charts for thin elongated paddles
Yeah they are 100% they added little fishing lead ball weights into the sides of the paddles inside 😂
@@stspickleballis that why they were delisted? I find it funny you can add weight tape but they cant 🤷🏻♂️ thinking of returning my Gen3 Joola and scooping a TKO-CK 12.7mm. I imagine I’ll like it much better then my Perseus 16mm
Back on list
Yep it’s back on!!
Paddletek is starting off strong this year! These all have great stats and sick designs. I'm starting to get tired of all the issues with thermoformed paddles, so it's good to see some other options that still have large sweet spots.
100% agree no chance of any issues here and still crazy power and great sweet spots 😊
Tko-c or the pulsar fx?
Mmmm which ones specifically are you looking into? If you’re looking for power and pop I’d go TKO-CX if you’re looking for plow through and or control go R3 or R2.
@@stspickleball power, spin and control with forgiveness
Well you can have everything 😂 that doesn’t exist lol
Played with a friend’s Bantam TKO-C 12.7 and loved it. Is there a cheaper paddle that’s somewhat comparable? B&B Filth? 11six24 Huarache X Control +? Hudef Viva Pro Gen 3?
There’s not honestly. It’s much hotter off the face than those and has a better feeling core. Only paddles that come close / surpass it power wise are the Gearbox and Joola paddles which are more expensive.
First
You’re on it!! 😂
Hell yeah, and it was a great video I just got my purple bantam 12.7 and let me tell you the white edge guard is sharp
Super sharp! I love the purple and white together haha.