Sword & Shield C2 Pickleball Paddle Review

Honolulu Sword & Shield C2 – Elite Control at a Budget Price

The Sword & Shield C2 paddle from Honolulu Pickleball Company caught me off guard in the best way. I’ve tested dozens of paddles, from premium thermoformed models to beginner sets from Amazon, and this one… it hits differently. At just $95, it’s positioned as a budget-friendly Gen 1.5 paddle, but plays like a refined hybrid. With a soft feel, above average pop, and control that rivals $200 paddles, the C2 might just be the best beginner to intermediate control paddle I’ve played under $100.

It’s ideal for new players learning proper form, older players with soft hands, or anyone who wants maximum control without sacrificing spin or maneuverability. This paddle let me trust my resets and drops more than most in its class. It’s also a legit contender for intermediate and even advanced players who prioritize placement and touch.

Specifications

• Weight: 7.9 – 8.2 oz (avg: 8.07 oz)
• Dimensions: 16.2″ x 7.8″
• Thickness: 16 mm
• Material: Raw T700 Toray Carbon Fiber face, Polypropylene core
• Handle Length: 5.5″ (usable closer to 5.25″)
• Grip Circumference: 4.125″

Performance Analysis

• Control/Feel: 9.5/10 – Incredibly soft and forgiving. Easy resets, precise drops.
• Power: 8.5/10 – Slightly more power than expected from a Gen 1.5.
• Spin: 9.0/10 – T700 face grips the ball beautifully. 2600+ RPM in tests.
• Pop: 8/10 – Noticeably more than Vatic Prism Flash or 11SIX24 Jellybean.
• Forgiveness: 9.0/10 – Large sweet spot thanks to high twist weight (6.8–7.0).
• Maneuverability: 9.0/10 – Easy to whip, ideal for fast hands at the kitchen.

Design & Build Quality

The C2 uses Honolulu’s hybrid mold with a sleek gray aesthetic and clean branding. It’s built using a cold-press Gen 1.5 process with a slight twist, Honolulu heats their paddles a bit longer than traditional Gen 1.5’s like the Prism or Jellybean. The result? A touch more firmness and pop, while retaining that plush feel. The carbon fiber weave looks sharp under light and offers long lasting grit.

I’ve played both indoors and outside, and the build quality holds up. The paddle includes foam edge infusion and perimeter balancing, and the included cover is a nice bonus. Nothing feels cheap here, this is far beyond “budget” territory in construction.

Sword & Shield C2 On Court Performance

Control

Resetting with the Sword & Shield C2 felt like cheating. I could drop dinks and thirds right over the net even on fast exchanges. Against power paddles, I never felt outmatched in the soft game. I let my paddle do the work, something most paddles under $100 fail to deliver.

Power

It’s not a power paddle, but it holds its own from the baseline. In head to head testing, I found it had slightly more baseline pop than the Vatic Prism Flash. Speedups are effective, though not blistering.

Spin

Spin was excellent. Well over 2300+ RPMs, which means enough grip for topspin drives, shaped rolls, and dirty serves. The texture feels natural, not a spray on gimmick, and has stayed consistent after weeks of play.

Pop

Compared to other Gen 1.5 paddles, the C2 stands out. There’s enough pop to keep opponents honest on quick counters. At the kitchen, it has just the right rebound to flick roll shots effectively.

Forgiveness

Thanks to a twist weight of ~7, the paddle resists torque on mishits better than you’d expect. Off center shots don’t die, and there’s less vibration than typical in this class.

Maneuverability

This thing is quick. Swing weight tested between 112–116 depending on build, making it faster than most thermoformed control paddles. I had no trouble flicking hands up on reflex volleys or late poaches.

Sword & Shield C2 Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Superb control with enough pop to stay aggressive
• Durable raw carbon fiber face with excellent spin
• Affordable price point without cheap build quality
• Large sweet spot and minimal vibration
• Ideal for developing consistency in resets and dinks
• Light and fast, great for fast hands and doubles play

Cons:

• Not ideal for big hitters who crave power first paddles
• Handle is slightly tapered, true usable length feels more like 5.25″
• Color options are limited to gray (for now)

Player Feedback

Multiple intermediate players I train with tested the C2. One commented: “This feels like the Prism but with more life.” Another said, “I’ve never hit resets this clean, especially not with a paddle under $100.” Most agreed that it plays soft, but not mushy. Beginners felt immediate improvement in dinking confidence, while 4.0+ players appreciated the responsiveness and spin.

Who Should Play with the Sword & Shield C2?

The Sword & Shield C2 is one of those rare paddles that defies its price tag. It’s perfect for new players ready to upgrade from a starter set, or intermediate players who want a reliable, soft-touch paddle that won’t punish mishits. If you want elite level control, durable spin, and surprising pop, this is the paddle.

Compared to the Vatic Prism Flash and 11Six24 Jellybean, the C2 offers more pop and a similarly plush feel with better twist weight. It’s not as powerful as the Honolulu J2K, but it costs significantly less and is far easier to control out of the box.

Comparable Paddles

• Vatic Prism Flash: Slightly less pop, similar control
• 11Six24 Jellybean: Comparable in spin, but less pop and twist weight
• Honolulu J2K: More power, firmer feel, higher price

Honolulu C2 Paddle Frequently Asked Questions

In the vast sea of pickleball paddles, the Sword & Shield C2 emerges as a compelling contender, weaving together impressive control, surprising spin, and a build quality that belies its approachable price. It’s a paddle that doesn’t shout about its capabilities but rather whispers confidence into your hands with each precise dink and controlled drive. If your game thrives on finesse, strategic placement, and the satisfying thud of a perfectly executed reset, the C2 deserves a serious look. It might just be the unassuming workhorse that elevates your play without emptying your wallet.