Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Review
A strong lightweight value pick when you want hand speed—not a thick-core carbon control paddle.
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Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Paddletek |
| Weight | 7.0–7.5 oz |
| Thickness | 12.7mm |
| Length | 15.625" |
| Width | 7.75" |
| Grip length | 5.0" |
| Grip circumference | 4.25" |
| Surface | Textured fiberglass epoxy hybrid |
| Core | Bantam PolyCore polymer honeycomb |
| Shape | standard |
| Price range | $80–$100 |
Specs last verified 2026-09-10. Source: specification source.
What makes it different
Paddletek lists the Bantam TS-5 as a lighter take on the EX-L idea: 7.0–7.5 oz, a 12.7mm Bantam PolyCore, and a textured fiberglass epoxy hybrid face. That is a different category than thick-core carbon paddles.
Play profile
Expect faster hands and an approachable standard shape. Do not buy it expecting 16mm dwell. If you want thicker-core control, look at Franklin 16mm or Selkirk’s thicker control builds instead.
Advantages
- +Light static weight (7.0–7.5 oz) for hand speed
- +Standard shape is approachable for most recreational players
- +Strong value from a established paddle brand
Tradeoffs
- −12.7mm core is thinner than typical “control” 16mm recommendations
- −Fiberglass hybrid face, not carbon
- −Less brand hype than JOOLA/Selkirk for some shoppers
Ideal player
- • Players who want a truly lightweight paddle
- • Recreational players seeking faster hands at the kitchen
- • Shoppers who want a reputable sub-$100 all-court option
Alternatives
Franklin Sports Signature Series Pro 16mm
A widely available fiberglass 16mm paddle that makes sense as a first real upgrade for recreational players.
Check price on AmazonSelkirk LUXX Control Air Epic (InfiniGrit)
A thicker-core Selkirk control paddle for intermediate players who want soft, precise playability more than raw pace.
Check price on AmazonTroxgo Editors
Research & editorial
We research manufacturer specs, compare paddles against consistent criteria, and explain who each product actually makes sense for—without fabricated “we tested it” claims.
Published 2026-03-20 · Updated 2026-09-10
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Franklin Signature Pro vs Paddletek Bantam TS-5: Which Should You Buy?
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