Paddletek Bantam TKO-C 14.3mm: Interesting New Technology, Or Lead Tape 2.0?

(Picture Destin Perry)

(Picture Destin Perry)

First Look

The Bantam TKO-C 14.3mm was released at a crucial time, right between the Joola Gen 3 bans and the introduction of new foam technology. While many companies are focusing on “Gen 3” technology that just focuses on power, it’s refreshing to see a different approach. This paddle’s new “technology” is more versatile, focusing on stability and enhancing various aspects of the paddle.

As a tennis and pickleball player, I found that this paddle feels like a tennis racket on the court, similar to many other paddles available today. Personally, I prefer hefty paddles that provide some weight behind the swing and get the job done.

Pro Player Christian Alshon (Picture Kerry Pittenger)

Background Research

The Company: Paddletek

Paddletek has released some really nice paddles in the last year or so, and this is on top of the ALW-C as well as this paddle, the TKO-C.

I think this paddle along with its color options makes for a competitive release among other popular paddles, such as the Joola Gen 2 or 3s, and the Gearbox Power Pros.

What Makes this Paddle Special?

This paddle was designed with a thick core and a raw carbon fiber surface. It has an elongated shape and a higher sweet spot, and the stock weight feels like a mid-weight paddle. It’s a great all-around and balanced paddle, introducing stability by adding three metal beads to the inside of the head guard, which adds some weight and speed to the “windshield wiper” motion.

Regarding the weight, I found that having it all in one place was sufficient, but it would be interesting to see what spreading out the weight from the three beads would do. While the extra weight is noticeable and provides a good feel to the paddle, it’s hard to say if it does much more than what lead tape does when added to the outside of the paddle.

Handle & Grip

For me, I’m not picky about the handle. I am able in Pickleball to play with a variety of grips and it’s not something that’s a make or break for me with a paddle. Especially since I can usually add a lot of weight, I generally am not opposed to adding an overgrip or even extra replacement grip to build up and add weight to a paddle handle.

My Experience

When testing this paddle, I had great plow through the ball. Serves were a bit less spinny and jumpy compared to something like the Diadem Speed Pro 18K or a Joola Perseus. However, I appreciated the predictability and overall speed, which allowed for consistent, fast, and effective serves.

Overall, hitting with this paddle produced a nice sound and felt solid. Groundstrokes and volleys were controlled, even though it is technically a 14mm paddle and not the 16mm I’m used to.

Comfort was improved by the steel balls in the head guard, adding weight around the impact area, which made it feel better in the hand.

The sound and vibrations were neither muted nor crisp. Instead of a “crack,” I expected a “thump” from the core but got something in between.

Regarding durability, there’s a big disclaimer: some users have reported that the steel balls in the paddle have become slightly loose. While this shouldn’t technically make the paddle unusable, it can cause rattling sounds and has caused some players headaches. This new and potentially risky technology in the paddle has its pros and cons.

What People Are Saying

I’ve been diving into the reviews for the Paddletek Bantam TKO-C 14.3mm paddle, and it’s getting a lot of love. Pickleball Effect mentioned one of the standout improvements Selkirk made, which is the grip shape. The new design feels more secure and comfortable in your hand, and less boxy. Just a heads-up, ThePickleballStudio is right, it’s a bit louder than other paddles, which might be something to consider if you’re playing in a noise-sensitive area​.

Comparative Analysis

For me, I’ve been using the Diadem 18K Speed Pro (review coming soon), and it has been performing better and better over time. Comparing this paddle to that, I can’t get the same guaranteed drive drop that can keep a ton of spin but land short. However, I will say that on resets and defense, this paddle was better!

Advanced players might move away from the Gen 3s to many different paddles or those seeking the “Gen 3” experience. I don’t think this paddle offers that technically. But what it does provide is a refreshing venture into consistency. It’s no wonder that Christian Alshon uses this paddle and loves it for this reason.

Overall, it was a flashy paddle, and I loved the look. I would say it’s perfect for someone looking for new and exciting technology and wants to try something different. Be aware of the risks, however, with the loosening balls, and don’t expect a spin monster.

View at Pickleball Central with discount code PORTAL10