This paddle represents an excellent value for the money
924060
This paddle represents an excellent value for the money. It is solid, has 3 blade positions and two semi-hard foam grips. It also includes decent drip guards which offer a bit more protection than the standard fare. It has a small bit of flex in the middle with HARD paddling, but for 90% of the kayakers out there, it will do the job. If you need something that does not flex in the middle, then you are not shopping at this pricepoint anyway.

Now, my one gripe and the reason for the star loss. The label leaves horrid residue on the paddle. No excuse for that.
2270698
I bought this for a friend for Christmas who I play on occasion. I have the DHS #A6002 which is almost (3) time the price. They both have Hurricane-III on one side. We both play with what I refer to as a "Sling Shot" grip, using the same side of the paddle for both forehand and backhand. I would say that for our style of play, the #A4002 is every bit as good as the #A6002. I've compared it to Stiga paddles at twice the price and the Stiga paddles just seamed cheaper. This paddle is a real bargain.

The rubber is so tacky, out of the box, it will pick up the ball up-side-down. Spins are fantastic. This is a great paddle for the intermediate player who's not ready for a custom paddle yet. It's really that good. I've been playing for close to 50 years so I'm not a beginner. I use to hit in college with someone who was a competitive player so I've been exposed to custom paddles. I was really impressed with the quality and performance of this model. If your on the fence, just buy it!! You won't be disappointed.

One last point, there's been some chatter about DHS paddles smelling like fish. I would compare the smell to that "new tire" smell when you walk into a tire store. The smell dissipates pretty quickly so don't let that deter you.
2163898
Love this paddle. Extremely light and comfortable to grip for long periods of time. Great price for a well-rounded and quality product.
303777
Bought this as a second paddle. I typically paddle a tandem canoe solo but recently my girlfriend has become more interested in joining me. While I often find 60" paddles to be slightly to long this paddle is well balanced and the blade design is not overly cumbersome. At 6' 240 #'s this paddle fits me almost perfectly.  It is a discontinued design that has now evolved into the ranger X line which I really love. But this paddle has many of the same benefits. It is equally useful when power stroking on flat water and agile and tough enough to utilize on whitewater (Class III). The only drawbacks are that it seems to show scratches very easily and I hate the T-grip. It feels to small and disproportionate but those are just personal observations and I would definitely recommend this paddle to others.
4101861
Great price. Good feel to the paddle, very well made. Good buy!
4461524
Four stars only because this isn't a high-end carbon fiber or stiffened paddle worth $200. HOWEVER, for your money, youll never need anything better than what this paddle offers. The extra length makes it SO much easier to paddle/maneuver, and the shaft is plenty strong to give you good leaverage if you need to get your boat somewhere in a hurry. Not the worlds BEST paddle, but if you're looking for a high-end competition level paddle, you wouldnt be considering this one anyway. This will serve 99.9% of paddlers out there and will offer you better performance than anything you can buy from your local sporting goods store.
188381
This is a great paddle! I rated it four stars because of the durability. It's delicate on the edges but i can fix that with a little glue. the paddle is weighted at the head for more power. It also can create massive spins. All around this is a great paddle and I recomend it to everyone.
4922862
Works fantastic and easy to grip.  Have only used it for a few hours and seems great but time will tell about the durability. I would recommend this paddle to a beginner or seasoned player.
4765329
After a lot of research and comparing in this price range I purchased the PROTON. This was the first non-wood paddle I used after a month of playing Pickleball. It is well balanced and light and I was very happy with how it performed. Now that I've been playing approx. four months and my game continues to evolve and I am learning strategies I have switched to other paddles that will help improve all aspects of the game from drop shots, dinks, lobs, smashes to under cutting with lots of spin.
1868421
It just feels great, it catches the ball with great spin. Definitely a huge improvement from the starter paddles. I am definitely going to buy again.
3007374
The paddle works fine.  After trying another paddle made from a different material I'm p t oba by would have not purchased this wooden one.  It's a little bit heavier than the non-wooden I'm tried.
3330073
I'm so enjoying the game with my new paddle. I wanted one with a good balance of power and control, and I think I found it...without spending a fortune!
2528667
This is the third Stiga paddle I have ordered, and it - like the others - impresses me with it's quality and performance. The paddle is very well-constructed and has a great heft in your hand - not too light and not too heavy. The grip on both the handle and the striking surface are terrific. It won't slip around in your hand and it offers the user terrific ball control. For most casual players, you'll find this paddle to be a great step up from what you are used to playing with. I would highly recommend this product to those individual who are looking to take their ping pong games to the next level!
2146147
I broke my favorite paddle of 10 years pushing off from a rock and had to replace it.  I wanted something with a fiberglass shaft to fit my paddling style and this paddle from Carlisle met all the requirements I had.  I have used it for 20+ hours at this point and am not disappointed in the performance.  It is a little heavier than I would like, but that is to be expected at this price point.
3755434
Excellent paddle.  Price was great from this seller. Well balance and provides excellent control.
4178643
I have used this paddle once so far and am very satisfied. The paddle is significantly lighter than my previous one and makes for a much more enjoyable ride. I can also go much further now without being tired! Adjusting the size is very easy, and I was able to switch heights for several people with no issue. The price point is also fantastic! This paddle feels and acts like a $200+ paddle for about half the price! I highly recommend this paddle to anyone in the market for a higher end paddle at an affordable price!
1965170
I use this paddle against players who have paddles ranging from $40-80 and I can keep up with them.  The paddle won't put the degree of spin on the ball as those expensive paddles, but plays a tremendous defensive game for the price.  The handle is also incredibly nice to hold.  I would recommend this as a first paddle or for an experienced recreational player on a budget.