When I first received the Terra TC-14 Pro, I was struck by its lightweight feel. However, upon weighing it, I found it to be 8.0 ounces, which falls into the midweight category. Despite this, I was pleasantly surprised by its impressive power during play. The paddle’s swing weight is 105, which is on the lower end for most paddles, including some that retail for over $200. Yet, the power it delivered was remarkable.
Let’s talk about swing weight. The higher the swing weight number, the heavier the paddle will feel in your hands. A higher swing weight provides more power but can be harder to maneuver. Conversely, a lower swing weight is easier to swing but offers less power. However, a faster swing with a lower swing weight can sometimes compensate for the power lost in swing weight.
In practice, when do you need maximum power? For serves, I prefer hitting softer, deeper shots with a lot of topspin, so power isn’t a primary concern. The same goes for groundstrokes and return of serve. Drop shots and dinks? Power is not an issue there either. So, for me, a lower swing weight is not a disadvantage and, in fact, a big advantage when you are involved in a firefight.
Analyzing the paddle face geometrically reveals that its shape, because of the 4 rounded corners, contributes to a very balanced paddle. If you are ambitious, and want to calculate the sweet spot on the paddle, use these numbers: total length = 16.25 inches, handle length = 5.25 inches, paddle width = 7.68 inches, handle circumference = 1.3 inches (not the width), weight = 8.0 ounces (my paddle), and corner arcs ~ 2 inches. It is a complicated process, but the design of the paddle makes the sweet spot smack dab in the middle of the paddle, and that is a good thing.
Here are the specs for the Terra TC-14 Pro:
- Static weight: 7.8 – 8.2 oz.
- Swing weight: 105
- Twist weight: 5.7
- Thickness: 14 mm
- Length: 16.25”
- Width: 7.68”
- Handle length: 5.25“
- Handle circumference: 4.125″ – 4.25″
A word about twist weight: the higher the twist weight, the more resistance the paddle has to rotating on off-center hits, indicating a larger sweet spot. Twist weight numbers range from 5 to 8. The TC-14 has a relatively low twist weight of 5.7, yet I experienced no off-center hits. I attribute this to the paddle’s rounded edges.
Finally, the handle length is excellent for two-handed backhands as well as one-handed backhands. After my shoulder surgery, I had to learn how to play left-handed and, therefore, developed a two handed backhand. I am trying to get back to my one-handed backhand, but still use two hands, especially in firefights. I found the handle length to be ideal for either method of backhand.
In summary, the Terra TC-14 Pro offers a unique blend of power, balance, and precision, making it an excellent choice for players looking for a versatile and reliable paddle.
So, who is this paddle intended for? Advanced players will like the power of the 14 MM face as well as the control, but newer players will also benefit from the control. I believe the paddle is best suited for advanced players, but players on the move upward would benefit from it.
A note about TMPR. All of TMPR’s equipment is made and manufactured at our its factory in Buchanan, Michigan. If you like, you can actually visit the manufacturing facility and meet with the owners. One of our club members did that and purchased a slightly blemished paddle (we are still unable to find the blemish).
The price of the paddle is $169, which puts it in line with other Gen 2 paddles. If, after reading this review, you are interested in this paddle, use the discount code LUCKY10, to get $10 off a paddle (and backpacks) and use this link: https://tmprsports.com?aff=170
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