Franklin C45 Pickleball Paddle Review
Franklin C45 Pickleball Paddle: Balanced Power Hybrid for Fast, Controlled Play
At PickleTip.com, we have reviewed countless pickleball paddles over the last two years. Lately, many manufacturers have been sending us their newest releases to test without any conditions or payments, ensuring that our feedback remains unbiased and honest. We recently got our hands on the Franklin C45 pickleball paddle, which had a limited initial launch and is slated to return to stock in early March.
I had the chance to test the Franklin C45, without purchasing it or receiving it from Franklin, thanks to a friend named Jeff who picked one up during its limited launch. Testing Jeff’s personal paddle gave me a neutral, no strings attached perspective on Franklin’s latest release.
I have to admit, I was never fully convinced about Franklin’s paddles. After seeing a big name pro (Ben Johns) part ways with the brand, I assumed they might not measure up. Looking back, I realize how wrong I was to dismiss them. When I finally stepped on the court with the Franklin C45, I discovered just how much I had been missing.
In about 30 minutes of on court trial, this paddle immediately impressed. Despite Jeff adding four weight strips around the edges, the paddle still felt remarkably light. After only a short adjustment period, drops and resets seemed effortless, and overall consistency with soft shots was strikingly good for such a power oriented design. If you’re seeking a paddle that offers quick speed at the net alongside dependable control, the Franklin C45 may be just what you need.
Specifications
- Weight Range: Approximately 7.5 – 7.9 oz
- Dimensions: 16.25″ (Length) x 7.5″ (Width)
- Thickness: 14 mm
- Material: Three-layer carbon fiber facing (45°/90°/45°) with a specialized core
- Handle Length: 5.75″
- Grip Circumference: 4.25″
Franklin C45 Performance Analysis
Control/Feel
This paddle blends responsiveness with a surprisingly soft touch on gentle shots. The multi layer carbon fiber face, combined with precise foam channel placement in the core, helps maintain consistent ball feel and ample feedback off the face.
Power
Engineered as a power hybrid, the Franklin C45 delivers solid pop and driving force on groundstrokes. Aggressive serve speeds place it in a higher power bracket without sacrificing control.
Spin
Though not the highest spin paddle on the market, the Franklin C45 produced high spin rates that felt above average. Although not super gritty to the touch, the 45 degree carbon weave and textured surface help you shape the ball effectively.
Pop
Punch volleys produced a lively response near the net. Aggressive volleys felt crisp and could be driven with confidence.
Forgiveness
Off center hits feel reasonably stable, but adding weight tape around the edges noticeably broadens the sweet spot and bolsters stability against harder shots. I suspect that the stock paddle would be maneuverable but benefited from the touch of the added perimeter weight.
Maneuverability
One of the C45’s standout traits is how light it feels in hand. Quick exchanges at the kitchen line become easier thanks to minimal swing weight. Even with added weight strips, it retains excellent speed in hand.
Franklin C45 In Depth Review
Design & Build Quality
The Franklin C45 features a dual thermoforming approach. First, the raw sheets of polypropylene and carbon fiber are thermally bonded to form a unibody. Then, a CNC machine carefully carves channels for two types of foam, which are inserted before a second thermoforming stage seals the edges. This ensures strong structural integrity and consistency across the hitting surface. Because the foam channels are placed precisely and are sealed tightly, the design reduces unwanted vibrations that can plague less stable paddles. This precision thermoforming technique also helps keep the core intact longer, extending the paddle’s useful lifespan.
On Court Performance
The first impression is lightness. Despite the paddle’s relatively thick core, it swings very quickly. Even when weights were added in multiple positions, the paddle felt maneuverable. Players who rely on fast hands will appreciate the agility, while the sturdy edge foam contributes to a satisfying, solid strike.
Control
Short game shots, including resets, dinks, and drops, were intuitive. After a brief adjustment period, the paddle’s feel made it easy to place the ball accurately in the kitchen or execute controlled lobs.
Power
While it does not classify as an extreme power paddle, the C45 delivers enough pop to finish points and drive balls deep. Players with a full swing can generate formidable pace, allowing for strong offensive attacks.
Spin
A combination of textured carbon fiber and the extra dwell time from the specialized foam channels help with spin generation. While some paddles can impart even heavier spin, the C45 produces more than enough bite for effective topspin, slices, and roll volleys.
Pop
Volleys and overhead smashes come off the paddle with a lively response. Quick reflex exchanges at the net feel especially sharp, making rapid fire rallies engaging and dynamic.
Forgiveness
Center strikes are rewarded with reliable depth, though contact near the edges can be more demanding. Strategically adding lead or tungsten tape around the perimeter can alleviate this by widening the sweet spot.
Maneuverability
This paddle excels in speed and reaction time. Even players who prefer heavier setups will likely find the C45 nimble during defensive blocks and counters, allowing for swift transitions from defense to offense.
Franklin C45 Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Lightweight yet capable of delivering ample power.
- Comfortable feel and clean feedback for soft touch shots.
- Spin friendly face that allows shaping the ball on drives and serves.
- Highly maneuverable, ideal for quick volleys and fast exchanges.
- Dual thermoforming construction enhances durability and reduces unwanted vibrations.
- Cons:
- Stock setup may feel slightly unstable against big hitters without added perimeter weight.
- The handle circumference (4.25″ reported) could be thick for those who prefer a thinner grip.
- Players seeking the absolute highest spin or power might crave a tad more in both areas.
Player Feedback
Researching this paddle on the forums, online paddle reviews, and Reddit were consistent with my opinion. Across multiple playtests, many noted how quickly they adapted to the C45’s feel. Some described it as “light in the hand yet solid through impact,” while others praised the efficient blend of power and control that minimized unforced errors. A few highlighted the substantial improvement in their touch game during dinks and resets, particularly once they found the right amount of lead tape for their style.
A Franklin C45 Outlook
The Franklin C45 pickleball paddle is a great choice for intermediate to advanced players who crave lively response, controlled aggression, and a lightweight feel. It shines most when quick hands at the net matter, but it also provides enough power to handle baseline drives. Unlike some paddles that require major sacrifices in either control or power, the C45 strives to deliver both. Its build quality and innovative construction suggest a longer lasting, more consistent hitting experience over time.
Comparable Paddles
- Option A: JOOLA Perseus 3S 14mm – A power oriented raw carbon paddle that features a solid sweet spot and slightly heavier feel, making it a strong contender for aggressive players.
- Option B: CRBN 2 (16mm) – Known for balanced control and reliable spin; it has a somewhat softer face but doesn’t pack quite the same pop as the Franklin C45.
- Option C: Vatic Pro Prism Flash (14mm) – A lightweight, speed focused design that sacrifices some overall power for quick hand speed and maneuverability.
Franklin C45 Q&A
Many players find the stock paddle very quick but prefer adding tape along the edges for extra stability and a larger sweet spot. If you enjoy a lively, ultra maneuverable setup, you can certainly play it stock.
While beginners might appreciate its lightweight nature, the Franklin C45 is typically best for intermediate to advanced players aiming to blend offensive attacks with controlled resets. If you’re just starting out, you can still use it, but be mindful of dialing in the timing and touch.
This paddle was designed to enhance core longevity and edge stability, so the dual thermoforming process should improve structural integrity over time. Avoid extreme temperatures or forceful impacts on hard surfaces, and it should hold up well.
The standard grip circumference is around 4.25 inches, and the handle length is about 5.75 inches, providing enough room for those who use two hands on their backhand. If you prefer a thinner grip, you could replace the stock grip with a thinner alternative.
Quick hands excel here. The paddle’s maneuverability helps with punch volleys and blocks, letting you switch from defense to offense smoothly.
Franklin C45
Testing the Franklin C45 taught me a valuable lesson about not judging a brand prematurely. Even after just half an hour on court, I knew I’d want one of my own. I regret not giving Franklin paddles a fair shake sooner. If you’ve been on the fence like I was, let me know: Are you planning to give the Franklin C45 a shot when it returns to stock in early March? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s discuss if this paddle might be your next big upgrade.
Update: Franklin C45 Paddles are Back in Stock!
March 5th 2025 Update: Great news! I received an email from Franklin today confirming that the C45 pickleball paddle is back in stock and available for purchase. I ordered mine immediately to make sure I didn’t miss out.
March 7th 2025: Super Fast shipping, my paddle arrived today.
If you’ve been waiting to get your hands on this paddle, now is the time to grab one before it sells out again!
This paddle is so light and makes my hands super fast. I love it.