Franklin Sports
Franklin Sports C45
Choose the Franklin Sports C45 if you want an elongated carbon paddle with a light swing, added reach, and a power-focused feel. It suits you if you want stronger drives and spin without choosing a heavier paddle.
Character from the specs · Power
Worked out from core thickness, weight, face and shape using general rules of thumb — not from a play test.
Is this paddle right for you?
4 quick questions, scored from the specs
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. It doesn’t change the price you pay.
Overview
You get an elongated 16.4-inch shape, a 7.6-inch width, and a 5.6-inch handle. The listed 7.6-to-8.0-ounce weight keeps the paddle relatively light, while the longer shape gives you extra reach. The polymer core and carbon face are designed to balance power, control, and durability.
You also get a T700 carbon-fiber face with peel-ply texture and a listed 16mm core. One reviewer tested a 14mm version and praised its double-thermoformed construction, tacky grip, and very light feel. Check the exact version before buying because the listed specifications differ from the reviewed model.
Play style
Choose this paddle if you want power without a heavy swing. The elongated shape gives you more reach and leverage for drives, while the textured carbon face supports spin. A reviewer described the C45 as a lightweight hybrid power paddle and found the grip comfortable and tacky.
You may like it for aggressive baseline shots and quick exchanges. If you prefer a distinctly soft, control-first feel at the kitchen, compare other paddles before buying. The elongated shape and longer handle favor reach and full swings over a compact feel.
Best for
- You want more reach on baseline shots and at the kitchen
- You hit big baseline drives but prefer a lighter swing
- You want carbon-face spin potential
- You are making a first upgrade to a longer paddle
Look elsewhere if
- You want a compact, wide-body shape
- You prefer a distinctly soft, control-first paddle
- You want a heavier, more stable feel
- You prefer a shorter handle
Strengths
- You get extra reach and leverage from the elongated 16.4-inch shape
- The T700 carbon face with peel-ply texture supports spin potential
- The listed 7.6-to-8.0-ounce weight keeps your swing relatively light
- A reviewer found the tested paddle exceptionally light and its tacky grip comfortable
- A reviewer credited the double-thermoformed construction with reducing vibration
Things to consider
- The seller lists a 16mm core, while the review covered a 14mm version
- You may prefer another paddle if you want maximum touch over power
- The elongated shape may feel less compact during quick hand battles
- The exact weight can vary within the listed 7.6-to-8.0-ounce range
- Check the specific version and dimensions before you buy
Specs
| Brand | Franklin Sports |
|---|---|
| Weight | 7.9 oz |
| Core thickness | 16 mm |
| Core material | Polymer |
| Face | Carbon fiber |
| Face material | T700 carbon fiber with peel-ply texture |
| Shape | Elongated |
| Length | 16.4 in |
| Width | 7.6 in |
| Handle length | 5.6 in |
| Grip circumference | 4.15 in |
| USA Pickleball approved | Yes |
Not listed by the seller: handle.
Specs come from the seller's product listing and may be incomplete or change between batches. Double-check before you buy.