Hey guys, it’s Kip. I’ve got a brand-new paddle to review from the Honolulu Pickleball Company—the Sword and Shield J2 TI. I’m really excited about this paddle. Honolulu Pickleball Company has been putting out some great products ever since they started, and it just keeps getting better. They’re a solid company with a lot of cool stuff.
Paddle Specifications
Let’s jump into the attributes of the Sword and Shield J2 TI:
- Length: 16.2 inches
- Width: 7.8 inches
- Grip Length: 5.5 inches
- Grip Circumference: 4.8 inches
- Weight: 8.0 oz (before customization)
I’ve already added some lead tape to adjust the weight to my preference. The paddle has a swing weight of 111–115 and a twist weight of 7.0, making it light and customizable. It features a 16 mm polycore and G2 thermoform construction.
The surface is where this paddle stands out. It uses carbon fiber polyethylene teraphy electroplated fiber, giving it a blue, metallic, almost titanium-like appearance.
Detailed Performance Review
Power
This paddle delivers good power. My usual serving speed is 48–50 mph, and with this paddle, I clocked in at 48.6 mph—right in the middle. While it’s not an elongated paddle, its 16.2-inch length keeps the swing balanced without extra torque at the end, which worked well for me.
Accuracy, Control, and Consistency
The Sword and Shield J2 TI shines in accuracy, control, and consistency. It’s incredibly fun to hit with and allows you to place the ball exactly where you want it.
Spin
I wasn’t sure how the unique surface would affect spin, but I was pleasantly surprised. The surface feels rough and abrasive, but not overly so. Unlike some non-carbon surfaces, it provides excellent spin performance. The paddle’s dwell time—how long the ball stays on the paddle—really enhances spin and control.
Sweet Spot and Feel
This paddle has a large sweet spot, typical of second-generation designs. Despite its advanced technology, it feels soft and forgiving, making it easy to transition from defense to offense. At the net, it’s quick and responsive, even after I adjusted the weight.
Minor Drawbacks
My only small complaint is that I wish this paddle came in a 16.5-inch length option. The current 16.2-inch length is fine, but I prefer the added reach of a longer paddle.
Price and Value
The Sword and Shield J2 TI is priced at $155 USD, which I think is very reasonable given its performance and quality.
Final Thoughts
After spending a few weeks with the Sword and Shield J2 TI, I can confidently say it met my expectations. It’s a fantastic paddle, especially for players looking for control, spin, and consistency.
I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried this paddle or any others from the Honolulu Pickleball Company? Share your thoughts in the comments.
