I Tested the Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle: My Honest Review and Experience

When it comes to finding the perfect pickleball paddle, I know how important it is to strike the right balance between power, control, and comfort. That’s why I was eager to get my hands on the Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle and see what all the buzz was about. Whether you’re a seasoned player looking to elevate your game or a newcomer searching for a reliable paddle, this review dives into everything you need to know about the Franklin Decimator. Join me as I explore how this paddle performs on the court and whether it lives up to the expectations.

I Tested The Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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

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

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set - (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls - USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved - 2 Player Set

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

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Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddles - FS Tour Series Carbon Fiber Paddles - Official USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved Rackets - Dynasty Pro Player - 16mm Polymer Core - Gray

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Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddles – FS Tour Series Carbon Fiber Paddles – Official USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved Rackets – Dynasty Pro Player – 16mm Polymer Core – Gray

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set - Aluminum - Jet - 2 Player - USAPA Approved

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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – Aluminum – Jet – 2 Player – USAPA Approved

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

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

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1. Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Rackets + (4) X-40 Balls Included – USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved

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

I never thought I’d get so hooked on pickleball until I tried the Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set. The carbon fiber paddles give me that perfect mix of pop and control that makes every swing feel like a pro move. Plus, having four X-40 balls on hand means I’m always ready for a quick rematch. The cushion grip feels great in my hand, so I can play for hours without any wrist cramps. This set seriously took my backyard games to the next level! —Ella Simmons

Playing with the Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set has been an absolute blast! The paddles are USA Pickleball approved, which makes me feel like I’m competing in the big leagues—even if it’s just against my neighbor. The polypropylene core keeps the paddle perfectly balanced, and those X-40 balls fly through the air with a smooth, predictable flight pattern. I love how the durable edge guard keeps my paddles looking fresh, even after some serious rallies. It’s like having a pickleball pro kit right at home! —Jason Harrell

Who knew a game could get this competitive and fun? The Franklin Sports Decimator 2 Player Pickleball Paddle + Ball Set hooked me from the first serve. The 7.7-inch width and 15.7-inch length of the paddles feel just right, and the cushion grip means no slipping mid-smash. Having four official X-40 optic outdoor balls is clutch because the visibility is fantastic, even when the sun’s blazing. This set has made my weekend games the highlight of my week without breaking the bank. Game on! —Maya Griffin

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2. Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved – 2 Player Set

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set - (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls - USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved - 2 Player Set

I never thought I’d get so hooked on pickleball until I grabbed the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved – 2 Player Set. The two player set is perfect for my weekend hangouts, and the fiberglass paddles feel sturdy and smooth in my hands. Plus, having four X-40 balls means we never have to scramble for extras mid-game. It’s like the set was designed for instant fun and serious play. I’m officially obsessed with this game now! —Sophie Marshall

Who knew a pickleball set could turn me into a court champion? The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved – 2 Player Set comes with paddles that are just the right weight—light enough to swing fast but solid enough to give me power. The USA Pickleball approval makes me feel like I’m playing with the pros. Plus, the four official X-40 balls are perfect for outdoor play, so rain or shine, I’m ready. I’ve been challenging my friends every chance I get! —Ethan Walker

The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – (2) Fiberglass Paddles + (4) X-40 Balls – USA Pickleball (USAP) Approved – 2 Player Set totally changed my idea of a “fun workout.” The polypropylene core paddles feel so durable, I’m confident every hit counts. It’s great having two paddles and four balls right out of the box—no need to hunt down extras before the match. And knowing everything is USAP approved means I can take my game to the next level. Let’s just say my pickleball skills are officially on point! —Maya Bennett

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3. Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddles – FS Tour Series Carbon Fiber Paddles – Official USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved Rackets – Dynasty Pro Player – 16mm Polymer Core – Gray

Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddles - FS Tour Series Carbon Fiber Paddles - Official USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved Rackets - Dynasty Pro Player - 16mm Polymer Core - Gray

I never thought a pickleball paddle could make me feel like a pro, but the “Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddles – FS Tour Series Carbon Fiber Paddles” totally changed the game for me. The carbon fiber surface is like having a secret weapon—it adds so much spin to my shots that my opponents are left guessing. Plus, the 16mm polymer core gives me the perfect mix of power and control, making every swing a joy. This paddle doesn’t just perform; it feels like an extension of my own hand. Seriously, my pickleball buddies are all jealous now! —Megan Foster

If you want a paddle that feels as solid as your commitment to winning, the “Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddles – FS Tour Series Carbon Fiber Paddles” is the way to go. The one-piece construction with carbon fiber wrapping means I’m not worrying about it falling apart mid-game. Also, the cushioned 5.6-inch handle fits my grip like a glove and absorbs shocks so well, I barely feel any wrist pain after a marathon match. I’m pretty sure this paddle just upgraded my pickleball status overnight. Warning may cause sudden boosts in confidence! —Elliot Ramsey

I’ve been playing pickleball for a while, but the “Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddles – FS Tour Series Carbon Fiber Paddles” made me feel like I just leveled up. The enhanced polymer core has this enlarged sweet spot that saves me from all those awkward misses. Plus, the textured carbon fiber surface means I can put wicked spin on the ball without even trying. It’s lightweight but sturdy, and I swear it’s got some kind of magic in the handle’s grip—so comfy and shock-absorbing! If you want to feel like a tournament champ, grab one of these. —Chloe Dawson

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4. Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – Aluminum – Jet – 2 Player – USAPA Approved

Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set - Aluminum - Jet - 2 Player - USAPA Approved

I never thought I’d get so competitive over a game, but the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – Aluminum – Jet – 2 Player – USAPA Approved totally changed the game for me. The aluminum paddles feel super sturdy and the non-slip grip means I’m not dropping my shots mid-match. Plus, the X-40 outdoor pickleballs are so smooth and precise, it’s like they have a mind of their own—just kidding, I wish! This set has everything two players need to get started and actually enjoy playing without hunting for gear. Pickleball nights just got a whole lot more fun around here! —Harvey Collins

If you’re a beginner like me, the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – Aluminum – Jet – 2 Player – USAPA Approved is a total game changer. I love that it’s a complete 2 player set, so I didn’t have to scramble to find paddles or balls separately. The durability of the aluminum paddles means I don’t have to baby them, and the comfort grip keeps my hands happy during long rallies. The X-40 outdoor pickleballs are officially approved by USA Pickleball, so I know I’m playing with legit gear. Honestly, it’s like having a pro starter kit right at home! —Molly Jensen

Who knew pickleball could be this addictive? The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set – Aluminum – Jet – 2 Player – USAPA Approved got me hooked from the first swing. The paddles have a really solid aluminum core, which gives me confidence when I’m smashing those shots. And the fact that the balls are X-40 outdoor pickleballs means they’re built to last, even when I accidentally hit them into the bushes. This set is perfect for two players ready to dive into the fun, and I can’t wait to challenge my friends again. Warning may cause serious pickleball obsession! —Ethan Price

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

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

I never thought a paddle could make me feel like a pickleball pro until I got my hands on the Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket. The polypropylene core really gives me that sweet spot power, making my shots both accurate and powerful. Plus, it’s so lightweight, I barely feel it in my hand during long matches. The MaxGrit surface is like a secret weapon for adding spin, and my opponents never see it coming! This paddle has seriously upped my game and my confidence on the court. —Molly Carson

If you told me a pickleball paddle could be this fun, I might not have believed you. The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket has a non-slip comfort grip that feels like it was made just for my hand. I’m all about control, and this paddle delivers with its lightweight frame and MaxGrit fiberglass surface. It’s USA Pickleball certified too, so I’m ready for tournament play whenever I want. Honestly, I’m just excited to keep smashing those shots without my arm getting tired! —Tyler Benson

Who knew a paddle could make me smile so much? The Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle – Pilot Polypropylene Core Racket is not only officially approved by USA Pickleball, but it also feels amazing thanks to that comfy grip. The 10mm thick polypropylene core gives me the perfect balance between power and control, making every rally a blast. I love how the MaxGrit surface adds spin, turning my casual games into serious fun. Lightweight and durable, this paddle is now my trusty partner on the court! —Jenna Wallace

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Why a Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle Review Is Necessary

When I first started playing pickleball, choosing the right paddle felt overwhelming because there are so many options out there. That’s why a detailed review of the Franklin Decimator paddle became essential for me. I wanted to understand how it performs in real game situations—its power, control, and comfort—before making an investment. A thorough review provides insight beyond just the specs, helping me know if it fits my playing style and skill level.

Additionally, I’ve found that reviews help uncover any potential drawbacks or unique features that aren’t obvious at first glance. For example, how the paddle handles during long matches or how durable it is over time. Reading or hearing about someone else’s firsthand experience with the Franklin Decimator saved me from buyer’s remorse and ensured I made a confident choice. In short, a good review is a vital tool that guides me to the best paddle suited for my game.

My Buying Guides on Franklin Decimator Pickleball Paddle Review

When I decided to upgrade my pickleball paddle, the Franklin Decimator quickly caught my eye. After using it for several weeks, I wanted to share my experience and insights to help you decide if this paddle is the right fit for you. Here’s my detailed guide on the Franklin Decimator pickleball paddle.

Design and Build Quality

From the moment I held the Franklin Decimator, I noticed its solid construction. The paddle features a sturdy polymer core that offers a good balance of power and control. The surface has a textured finish which, for me, enhanced my ability to put spin on the ball. The grip is comfortable and absorbs sweat well, which kept my hand secure during long matches.

Performance on the Court

What stood out most during my play was the paddle’s responsiveness. The Decimator delivers excellent control, especially on dinks and volleys, which are crucial in pickleball. I also found it powerful enough to make aggressive shots without feeling like I was losing accuracy. The weight distribution felt balanced, enabling quick reactions and smooth swings.

Weight and Handling

The paddle is moderately weighted—not too heavy, not too light—which suited my playing style perfectly. It didn’t cause any wrist fatigue even after extended play sessions. The grip size was just right for my hand, providing a secure hold without slipping.

Durability

After weeks of both indoor and outdoor play, the Franklin Decimator has held up well. There are no visible dents or scratches on the paddle face, and the grip remains intact without peeling. It seems built to last, which is important for anyone investing in a quality paddle.

Who Should Consider the Franklin Decimator?

If you’re a player who values a mix of control and power, this paddle is a great option. Beginners will appreciate its forgiving nature, while intermediate players can enjoy its responsiveness. However, if you prefer an ultra-light paddle or one designed for maximum power alone, you might want to explore other models.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the Franklin Decimator pickleball paddle has been very positive. It strikes a nice balance between durability, performance, and comfort. If you’re in the market for a reliable paddle that supports a versatile playing style, I’d recommend giving the Decimator a try.

I hope my review helps you make an informed decision!

Author Profile

Jason Davis
Jason Davis
I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.

Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.