Franklin Jet Pickleball Paddle

Having tracked Franklin’s evolution since my early tournament days, I know their primary goal has always been maximizing accessibility and consistency across their lines. Now, the franklin jet pickleball paddle series proves they are uniquely focused on democratizing speed, offering an exceptionally light and reactive feel that finally competes at the professional level. My testing journey with the franklin jet pickleball paddle confirmed that while Franklin excels in entry-level aluminum construction, they also offer surprisingly high value in their advanced composite models. I spent several weeks putting these paddles through rigorous drills and competitive doubles matches to determine exactly where they fit into the rapidly changing equipment landscape of 2025.

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Jet Aluminum Paddle – Official USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved – 8mm Aluminum Core Racket – Great for Beginners – Blue

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When I first unboxed this specific franklin jet pickleball paddle, I noticed immediately how Franklin integrated the dual plated aluminum surface with an 8mm aluminum core. I found this combination creates a unique, dense hitting experience designed for maximal durability and a very pronounced feeling of power transfer, albeit at a slightly heavier weight (around 10.7-11oz). The engineering priority here seems to be longevity and robust impact resistance.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: 8mm Aluminum Core
– Surface Material: Dual Plated Aluminum
– Weight: 10.7 – 11.0 oz (Heavyweight)
– Paddle Dimensions: 16″ x 6″ inches
– Handle Length: 6″ inches
– Approved by: USA Pickleball (USAPA)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
– Control & Touch I experienced: Due to the weight and aluminum core, I found dinking to be challenging. The high rebound of the aluminum meant I had to soften my hands significantly to keep drop shots short. This paddle favors driving over finesse.
– Power & Drive I observed: This is where the paddle excels. During serves and powerful drives from the baseline, I noticed a substantial amount of pace generated with minimal effort. The aluminum core transmits energy exceptionally efficiently.
– Spin Generation I noticed: Spin generation was minimal. The smooth aluminum surface, while durable, doesn’t grip the ball like specialized composite or carbon faces. Drives tended to be flatter.
– Sweet Spot Size I measured: Given the density of the aluminum core, I found the sweet spot to be highly consistent, though physically smaller than many composite paddles I test. Hits slightly off-center still felt solid.

Strengths
I loved the sheer durability and robust feel of this paddle; it is built to last and requires virtually no maintenance. The power it delivered on third-shot drives was impressive, making it a powerful weapon for high-impact baseline exchanges.

Limitations
The weight is substantial (11 oz is heavy), and after a long doubles session, I felt the fatigue in my wrist. Control and touch shots are difficult to execute precisely.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Beginner or recreational players who prioritize durability and raw power over finesse. I recommend it specifically for those playing casual outdoor games on rough surfaces where composite paddles might wear too quickly.

Franklin Sports 2 Player Pickleball Paddles + Balls Starter Set – (2) Jet Aluminum Paddles + (2) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved

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Testing this starter set immediately brought me back to my initial days learning the game. I experienced reliable, consistent performance right out of the box, which is exactly what new players need. This package, featuring two durable Jet aluminum paddles and two official X-40 outdoor pickleballs, proved its value in the first few recreational games I organized. I noted that the non-slip comfort grip on these franklin jet pickleball paddle handled extended play periods well, preventing sweat and slippage.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Aluminum Core
– Surface Material: Dual Plated Aluminum
– Paddle Weight: Approx. 10.7 – 11.0 oz (Heavyweight)
– Included Balls: (2) X-40 Outdoor Pickleballs
– Approved by: USA Pickleball (USAPA)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
– Control & Touch I experienced: Similar to the single Jet paddle, touch was tricky. However, in casual doubles scenarios with new players, the consistent rebound was actually beneficial for simplifying contact. I wasn’t focused on complex dinks but rather on getting the ball over the net reliably.
– Power & Drive I observed: Excellent power for baseline play, which is great for beginners learning to serve and drive deep. I noticed the heavier weight helped stabilize the paddle face against hard incoming shots.
– Spin Generation I noticed: Minimal, as expected from the smooth aluminum face. I focused on clean strikes rather than technical slices.
– Value I assessed: The X-40 balls are the gold standard for outdoor play. Having them included makes this set instantly playable, which is a huge bonus I appreciate for newcomers.

Strengths
The immense value and instant playability of this set is its greatest asset. I recommend this configuration highly for families or friends looking to start playing immediately without investing heavily in specialized gear.

Limitations
The overall weight makes it unsuitable for juniors or players with wrist issues, and the grips are quite standard, lacking advanced moisture-wicking technology.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Absolute beginners, casual recreational players, or organizations looking for high-durability paddles for group lessons. I recommend this set for immediate use in outdoor environments.

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Titus + Jet Aluminum Plated Pickleball Paddles – USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved Paddle – 8mm Thick Core, Red

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I’ve seen many new players struggle to find equipment balancing control with raw, accessible power—I found the Titus franklin jet pickleball paddle solves this directly by focusing on mass and density. In my testing, the design philosophy addresses the common beginner frustration of inadequate power by prioritizing the dual plated aluminum surface and 8mm core which transfers maximum energy. This paddle helps eliminate the “mushy” feel I often hear budget composite paddles deliver.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: 8mm Aluminum Core
– Surface Material: Dual Plated Aluminum
– Weight: 10.7 – 11.0 oz
– Protective Feature: Plastic surrounding edge casing
– Grip: Form-fitting non-slip grip handle
– Approved by: USA Pickleball (USAPA)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
– Control & Touch I experienced: While still requiring a soft touch, I noticed the form-fitting grip offered a slightly better feel than the standard Jet models, giving me marginally more confidence during third-shot drops, though I still had to be extremely conscious of my contact angle.
– Power & Drive I observed: Identical raw power to the other Jet aluminum models. I observed immense speed generation on flat serves and volleys hit above the net line.
– Protective Casing I tested: I deliberately bumped the paddle against the ground during drills, and the plastic surrounding casing held up exceptionally well, confirming Franklin’s focus on extending the lifespan of this durable paddle.
– Longevity I tracked: After several hard-hitting sessions, the face showed virtually no visible wear, which confirms the long-term cost savings this durable aluminum structure provides.

Strengths
The unparalleled durability provided by the aluminum face and protective casing impressed me. For players prone to knocking their paddles or seeking extreme longevity, this model is fantastic.

Limitations
The heavier weight restricts maneuverability at the net, making quick hand battles during kitchen exchanges slower than I prefer.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Durability seekers, institutional use (schools, recreation centers), and powerful baseline hitters. I recommend this model for players who need a high-impact, long-lasting franklin jet pickleball paddle solution.

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – (2) Dagger Fiberglass Rackets + (4) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved – 2 Player Set

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In my review of today’s market, I noticed that while the franklin jet pickleball paddle focuses on aluminum durability, the Dagger set stands out by shifting to fiberglass and polypropylene core technology, significantly altering the performance profile. I observed engineering refinements during my extended play sessions; the Dagger positioned itself as a meaningful step up in touch and forgiveness compared to the heavier Jet line. The 11.3 – 11.7 ounce weight range, while heavy for a composite paddle, provided much more stability than I expected.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Polypropylene Core
– Surface Material: Fiberglass
– Weight: 11.3 – 11.7 oz (Heavyweight for composite)
– Handle Length: 4.9 inches
– Approved by: USA Pickleball (USAPA)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
– Control & Touch I experienced: Moving from aluminum to fiberglass was a revelation for touch shots. I found I could execute controlled third-shot drops with much more ease, as the fiberglass surface held the ball longer.
– Power & Drive I observed: Power was still high due to the overall heavyweight structure, but felt slightly more dampened and controlled than the harsh aluminum feedback of the franklin jet pickleball paddle.
– Spin Generation I noticed: The fiberglass surface offered superior grit compared to the Jet models. I successfully implemented top-spin serves and slices, making it a better option for intermediate strategy development.
– Consistency I tracked: The inclusion of four high-quality X-40 balls ensures consistency throughout long matches, making this a truly ready-to-compete starter set.

Strengths
The significant improvement in touch and spin offered by the fiberglass surface provides a much better pathway for developing intermediate skills compared to the purely powerful Jet aluminum series.

Limitations
The listed weight is very heavy for a composite paddle (11.7 oz is rare), which could still lead to wrist strain for many players, negating some of the advantage of the composite core.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Beginners transitioning to intermediate play who need the touch and spin capability of fiberglass but still prefer a heavier paddle for stability and drive power.

MTEN Pickleball Paddles Set of 2, USAPA Approved Fiberglass Surface Pickleball Set with 2 Pickleball Rackets, 4 Pickleball Balls, 1 Portable Carry Bag, Pickle Racket Set ​for Men Women

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To fully appreciate the value proposition of the franklin jet pickleball paddle, I always test comparable competitor models. When I assessed the MTEN set, I focused heavily on the intentional design choices, particularly the combination of a polypropylene honeycomb core and a fiberglass surface. I observed that the resulting low weight of 7.78 – 7.8 oz was clearly intentional, prioritizing quick hands and rapid-fire exchanges, contrasting sharply with the bulk of the aluminum Jet models I had just tested.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
– Surface Material: Fiberglass
– Weight: 7.78 – 7.8 oz (Light/Midweight)
– Grip Circumference: 4.57 inches
– Approved by: USA Pickleball (USAPA)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
– Control & Touch I experienced: The lighter weight and honeycomb core drastically improved my touch game compared to the franklin jet pickleball paddle. I found it very easy to absorb pace and execute soft dinks and resets.
– Power & Drive I observed: Power was noticeably lower. I had to swing much harder to generate pace on overheads and serves, which is the trade-off for the lightweight design.
– Maneuverability I tracked: This paddle was extremely fast in my hands at the kitchen line. I noticed immediate improvement in my ability to block fast volleys due to the light frame.
– Grip Quality I assessed: The ergonomic, sweat-absorbent grip tape provided a very comfortable and reliable hold, superior in feel to the standard grips on the entry-level Franklin sets.

Strengths
The light weight and excellent balance make this set highly maneuverable, ideal for maximizing responsiveness at the net. The total package, including a dedicated carry bag, offers superb value for a composite set.

Limitations
The lack of weight means that strong players will feel a lack of “pop” and overall driving power compared to heavier aluminum or thick core options.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Players prioritizing maneuverability, quick hand speed, and improved control/spin over raw power. I recommend it for intermediate players making the shift from aluminum or wood paddles.

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket – Official USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved Paddle – Lightweight Pro Racket – Pink – 10mm Thick Core

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The Pilot tells a clear specification story: Franklin built this paddle to address the weight and spin limitations I found in the franklin jet pickleball paddle line. I immediately focused on the shift to a polypropylene core and the inclusion of the MaxGrit fiberglass surface layer. The resulting lightweight frame (7.7 – 8.2 ounces) combined with a focus on core thickness (10mm) confirms this paddle’s position as a serious intermediate/advanced option built for control and spin, not just raw power.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Polypropylene Core (10mm Thick)
– Surface Material: MaxGrit Fiberglass
– Weight: 7.7 – 8.2 oz (Lightweight)
– Paddle Design: Pro Racket Shape
– Approved by: USA Pickleball (USAPA)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
– Control & Touch I experienced: Excellent touch. The polypropylene core absorbed pace wonderfully, allowing me to drop the ball softly into the kitchen consistently. I felt highly connected to the ball.
– Power & Drive I observed: Power was balanced. It offered enough pop for overheads, but I had to actively generate speed, unlike the heavy franklin jet pickleball paddle which provided power passively through mass.
– Spin Generation I noticed: The MaxGrit surface was a significant upgrade. I noticed a much higher RPM on my topspin shots and slices, severely challenging my opponents’ returns during test drills.
– Comfort I felt: The lightweight nature drastically reduced arm fatigue during extended singles matches I played.

Strengths
This is the lightest Franklin paddle I tested that still maintains USAPA Pro certification. The MaxGrit surface technology successfully delivers high spin capability, a critical feature often missing from Franklin’s budget lines.

Limitations
The 10mm core is relatively thin by today’s standards (many competitors use 16mm), which slightly reduces the overall dampening and creates a higher-pitched sound profile I found distracting.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Experienced intermediate players seeking maximum spin and speed, or those with previous wrist/shoulder injuries who require a lightweight, maneuverable frame for aggressive net play.

JOJOLEMON Pickleball Paddles, Raw Carbon Fiber Rackets with 16mm Polymer Honeycomb Core, Hybrid Racquet Designed for Ultimate Spin & Consistency – USAPA Approved

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To truly benchmark the franklin jet pickleball paddle, I look at what the next tier offers. I found the JOJOLEMON paddle successfully bridges the gap between high-level beginner needs and professional requirements by integrating cutting-edge materials. This paddle features a Raw Carbon Fiber surface and a thick 16mm Polymer Honeycomb Core, positioning it at the forefront of spin and consistency technology—a massive leap from the entry-level aluminum I had been testing.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: 16mm Polymer Honeycomb Core
– Surface Material: Raw Carbon Fiber (T700SC) with Teflon Coating
– Weight: 8.0 oz (Midweight)
– Thickness: 16mm
– Approved by: USAPA

Performance & Features (What I Found):
– Control & Touch I experienced: Exceptional control due to the thick core, which provided extensive dwell time. I found resets from deep in the court were effortless, absorbing incoming pace beautifully.
– Power & Drive I observed: Power was highly manageable. The 16mm core ensures a smooth transition of energy, providing sufficient pop without feeling jarring, offering a much more plush feel than the hard hit of the Jet aluminum paddle.
– Spin Generation I noticed: The Raw Carbon Fiber (T700) surface is designed specifically for spin. I consistently generated extremely high spin rates, allowing for sharp angles and dipping serves that are impossible with the smooth aluminum franklin jet pickleball paddle.
– Consistency I tracked: The dense, thick core provides a massive, forgiving sweet spot across the face, leading to high consistency even on mis-hits.

Strengths
The T700 raw carbon fiber surface offers the highest spin potential and maximum control compared to any fiberglass or aluminum Franklin model. The 16mm core provides best-in-class vibration dampening and touch.

Limitations
This is a premium-priced model, meaning it requires a much larger initial investment compared to the highly budget-friendly Franklin Jet line.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for: Advanced players and competitive intermediate players who demand maximum spin, consistency, and highly controlled power. I recommend it for dedicated tournament players.

My Expert Analysis on the Franklin Jet Pickleball Paddle Lineup

Throughout my extensive testing journey, I found that the primary differentiator among Franklin’s offerings is the core material and weight. The classic franklin jet pickleball paddle series, defined by its aluminum core, is essentially a powerhouse for the budget-conscious, prioritizing durability and raw driving speed.

The aluminum Jet models (like the single Blue and the 2-Player Set) performed consistently: they hit hard, they are heavy (10.7+ oz), and they will outlast almost any composite paddle in terms of surface integrity. I noticed that for beginners learning to strike the ball cleanly and generate pace, this mass is actually helpful. However, I found attempting to execute soft dinks and highly technical spin shots to be extremely frustrating with the aluminum face.

When I shifted to the composite offerings, like the Dagger (fiberglass) and the Pilot (polypropylene/MaxGrit), I immediately gained vastly improved touch and spin capability. The Pilot, in particular, with its lightweight profile and textured surface, is truly an upper-intermediate paddle and a huge step up from the base franklin jet pickleball paddle.

Key Differences I Noticed:

• For Durability and Raw Power: I recommend sticking with the franklin jet pickleball paddle (Aluminum Core). Its heavyweight structure delivers consistent, flat power.
• For Spin and Touch: I found the move to fiberglass (Dagger or MTEN) or, ideally, MaxGrit (Pilot) necessary. These materials dramatically improved my short game and ability to generate top spin.
• For Maneuverability: The aluminum models are too slow for fast kitchen exchanges. I recommend the lightweight Pilot or the MTEN (both under 8.2 oz) for players who need quick hands.
• For Pure Value: The 2-Player Jet Set offers the best overall package for entry-level use, providing two paddles and official X-40 balls, making it incredibly accessible.

What I Look for When Buying Franklin Jet Pickleball Paddle

When I evaluate any paddle, especially one focused on the entry-level market like the franklin jet pickleball paddle, I look beyond the initial price tag to assess long-term playability and suitability for skill progression.

I primarily evaluate the core composition. Since the standard franklin jet pickleball paddle uses aluminum, I am looking for durability and consistent rebound—not finesse. I check the density of the aluminum core, which directly impacts vibration dampening (aluminum typically transfers more vibration, which I account for). I also analyze the handle length and circumference, ensuring the 6-inch handle length on the Jet allows for adequate two-handed backhands, even with the slightly heavier weight.

Performance factors that I’ve found matter most for this series include the weight distribution and the surface texture. The Jet’s weight is biased toward the head due to the aluminum, which aids in power, but I make sure to note if that balance compromises net speed. For surface, since aluminum lacks natural texture, I look at the protective casing, confirming that the edges are protected against the inevitable nicks that occur during hard play, ensuring the paddle’s shape remains compliant and intact for competition.

Types Explained

Franklin offers three main core categories I tested, each serving a distinct purpose for the player shopping the franklin jet pickleball paddle line and its siblings.

The first type is the Aluminum Core (Jet Series). These are characterized by extreme durability, heavy weight (10.7+ oz), and high, un-dampened power. I recommend this type for institutional use, rental programs, or true beginners who are prioritizing cost savings and a powerful, consistent rebound above all else.

The second type is the Fiberglass Surface with Polypropylene Core (Dagger/MTEN-style). These offer a significant upgrade in spin and control, usually at a lighter weight (though the Dagger remains heavy). I recommend this type for intermediate players who need to start implementing spin and want a more composite feel without jumping to the premium price point.

The third type is the Advanced Composite Core with Specialized Grit (Pilot Series). These are lightweight (7.7–8.2 oz), feature specialized surfaces like MaxGrit, and offer the best blend of speed, touch, and spin within the Franklin brand. I recommend this type for competitive intermediate players who are ready for a truly quick, specialized paddle optimized for high-level play.

Final Verdict

My comprehensive testing reveals that Franklin successfully maintains its position as the premier brand for accessible, entry-level equipment, largely driven by the extreme durability and excellent initial power provided by the franklin jet pickleball paddle series. While the aluminum Jet paddles sacrifice touch and spin for longevity and power, they fulfill their intended purpose perfectly—they get people playing pickleball immediately and reliably.

However, I highly recommend that players progressing beyond the first few months look immediately towards Franklin’s composite offerings, such as the Pilot. The difference in touch, spin, and maneuverability provided by polypropylene and textured fiberglass is simply necessary for developing an effective short game. Franklin offers excellent value across its entire spectrum, providing a clear upgrade path as skill improves.

Key Strengths I Discovered:
* Unrivaled Durability: The aluminum Jet series is virtually indestructible, offering excellent longevity for recreational or institutional use.
* Exceptional Power for Beginners: The heavy weight of the aluminum core naturally generates significant speed on drives and serves.
* High Value Sets: Franklin’s starter sets consistently package official USAPA balls with the paddles, offering the best “ready-to-play” value on the market.
* Clear Upgrade Path: The Pilot model provides a strong, specialized composite option that keeps intermediate players within the brand.

Limitations I Found:
* Poor Touch/Spin on Aluminum: The base franklin jet pickleball paddle is severely limited in spin potential and requires significant skill adjustments for effective dinking.
* Heavy Weight: Most aluminum models are well over 10.5 ounces, leading to arm fatigue during long matches.
* Thin Composite Cores: Even Franklin’s advanced models (like the 10mm Pilot) lag behind industry leaders who frequently use 14mm or 16mm cores for optimal dampening.

I recommend the franklin jet pickleball paddle and its related sets for: Budget-conscious buyers, beginners, recreational parks, schools, and anyone prioritizing simple power and longevity over finesse and competitive spin. If you are starting out or buying equipment for large groups, the Jet line is an excellent choice.

Common Questions About Franklin Jet Pickleball Paddle

Is the Franklin Jet Pickleball Paddle Approved for Tournament Play?

Yes, the Franklin Jet Pickleball Paddle models that utilize the aluminum core are officially approved by USA Pickleball (USAPA) for sanctioned competitive and tournament play, making them suitable for use at all levels where USAPA guidelines are followed.

What is the Main Difference Between Aluminum and Composite Franklin Paddles?

The main difference I observed is performance feedback and weight. Aluminum paddles (like the Jet) are heavier and provide hard, dense, powerful feedback with minimal spin potential. Composite paddles (like the Pilot or Dagger) are generally lighter, offer a softer feel for better control and touch, and feature textured surfaces (fiberglass or carbon) for superior spin generation.

How Does the Heavy Weight of the franklin jet pickleball paddle Affect Play?

In my experience, the heavy weight (around 11 ounces) of the franklin jet pickleball paddle affects play in two ways: positively, by offering high stability and passive power on drives; and negatively, by reducing hand speed at the net and increasing the risk of forearm or wrist fatigue during prolonged matches.

Does the Aluminum Core of the Jet Paddle Create More Noise?

Yes, I found during testing that the dense aluminum core tends to produce a louder, higher-pitched “ping” sound upon impact compared to the dampened “pop” or “thud” sound of a thick polymer or carbon core paddle. This is typical of solid metal core construction.

Should Beginners Start with the Franklin Jet Aluminum Paddle or a Lighter Composite Paddle?

I generally recommend the Franklin Jet Aluminum Paddle for true beginners due to its low cost, extreme durability, and the passive power it provides, which helps new players get the ball over the net consistently. However, if the beginner player has prior racquet sport experience or wrist issues, I would recommend starting with a lighter, composite option like the Franklin Pilot for better control and maneuverability.