Franklin FS Tour Series Dynasty Paddle Review
As an avid pickleball player with a passion for testing various gear, I recently got my hands on the Franklin FS Tour Series Dynasty Paddle. Being a competitive player, I was looking for a paddle that could provide a blend of power and control for both tournament-level matches and fun games with friends. I had heard great things about Franklin paddles from fellow players and was excited to see if this one lived up to the hype.
Performance Overview
This paddle is engineered with input from Franklin’s pros, making it an excellent choice for those serious about their game. Constructed with a premium T700 raw carbon fiber surface, it promised great spin and shot accuracy. The 14mm polymer core is designed to maximize the sweet spot, enabling players like me to enjoy a perfect balance between power and precision.
In my first few matches, I immediately noticed how responsive the paddle felt. During fast rallies and dinking situations, the Dynasty Paddle excelled—just as I had hoped. The enhanced polymer core provided ample pop during hard hits while maintaining control. This was evident when I executed both powerful serves and delicate dinks, where every shot felt intentional. Many players even commented on the power it generated, echoing sentiments from other reviews noting impressive results for intermediate to advanced players.
Key Highlights
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Control and Power: The paddle delivers a fantastic balance of both, allowing you to place shots precisely where you want them. One reviewer noted that the sweet spot “spans the entire paddle head,” which I wholeheartedly agree with.
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Durability and Feel: I appreciated the one-piece core construction, which feels robust and reduces vibration upon impact. The paddle is definitely built to last, with many players mentioning its durability and consistent performance over time.
- Grip Comfort: The elongated handle at 5.6 inches provided me with the extra reach I needed, allowing for more comfortable two-handed backhands. The cushioned grip offered a nice feel as well, although I did find one reviewer suggesting that it might be a bit plush for some players’ preferences.
Considerations
While my experience has been predominantly positive, there are a couple of aspects that I feel are worth mentioning:
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Weight: Although set at a mid-weight range of 8 to 8.4 ounces, some players might find this a bit heavy compared to other paddles on the market. This was a common point raised in various reviews, where some felt it impacted maneuverability at the net. Personally, the weight felt just right for my style, but it’s something to keep in mind for those who prefer a lighter paddle.
- Grip Thickness: I noticed that a few players echoed concerns about the grip being too thick for playing. For my part, I found it comfortable, but if you prefer a thinner profile, you may want to consider customizing the grip as one player did by replacing the original with Wilson overgrip tape.
Conclusion
Overall, I would rate the Franklin FS Tour Series Dynasty Paddle at a solid 4.5 stars. Its exceptional control, power, and durability make it an outstanding choice for serious pickleball players. If you’re looking to elevate your game and appreciate the feel of a high-quality paddle, I would definitely recommend giving this one a shot.
In summary, if you’re targeting competitive play and want a paddle that can perform under pressure while providing reliability and comfort, the Franklin FS Tour Series should be on your short list. It met my expectations and then some, and I look forward to many more matches with it in my hand!
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