Franklin Sports
Franklin Sports Pilot
The Franklin Sports Pilot is a lightweight fiberglass paddle with a polypropylene core and textured face. It suits players who want quick handling, easy spin, and a forgiving feel for serves and volleys.
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
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Overview
The Pilot weighs 7.7 to 8.2 ounces and measures 16 by 8 inches. Its 10mm polypropylene core keeps the frame light, while the fiberglass face adds a textured MaxGrit surface. The paddle is USA Pickleball approved for tournament play.
Reviewers describe it as easy to maneuver, with a comfortable non-slip grip and an ample sweet spot. That combination should appeal if you want faster hand movement without giving up forgiveness on off-center contact. Durability feedback is mixed, however. Some users reported paddles breaking after regular use, while other reviews praised the construction.
Play style
The Pilot fits quick, active play. A reviewer found it easy to maneuver for fast volleys and powerful serves, while the MaxGrit fiberglass surface helped produce topspin. The sweet spot also supported more accurate strokes.
Its light weight makes it a sensible choice for players who take big swings but dislike a sluggish paddle. It should also work for doubles players who value quick exchanges at the net. Look elsewhere if you specifically want the added heft and thicker feel of a heavier paddle.
Best for
- Players who want quick volleys and easy hand speed
- Players who rely on topspin or slice
- Players upgrading from a basic paddle and wanting a larger sweet spot
- Players who prefer a lightweight frame for powerful serves
- Tournament players who need USA Pickleball approval
Look elsewhere if
- Players who specifically want a heavier, more solid-feeling paddle
- Players who prioritize proven long-term durability above all else
- Players who prefer a thicker core than 10mm
- Players who want a paddle built around maximum reach rather than quick handling
Strengths
- Light 7.7 to 8.2-ounce weight supports quick maneuvering
- MaxGrit fiberglass face adds traction for spin
- Reviewers praised the ample sweet spot and accurate contact
- Non-slip grip feels sturdy and reassuring in reviews
- USA Pickleball approved for competitive and tournament play
Things to consider
- Some users reported breakage after regular use, so durability feedback is mixed
- The 10mm core may not suit players seeking a thicker, more substantial feel
- The lightweight design may feel less stable to players who prefer extra paddle mass
- Check the grip fit if a 4.3-inch circumference does not match your hand comfortably
Specs
| Brand | Franklin Sports |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8 oz |
| Core thickness | 10 mm |
| Core material | 10mm polypropylene |
| Face | Fiberglass |
| Face material | MaxGrit fiberglass |
| Length | 16 in |
| Width | 8 in |
| Grip circumference | 4.3 in |
| Handle | Non-slip comfort grip |
| USA Pickleball approved | Yes |
Not listed by the seller: shape, handle length.
Specs come from the seller's product listing and may be incomplete or change between batches. Double-check before you buy.