Franklin C45 Dynasty Pickleball Paddle

Overview

Summary

The Franklin C45 Dynasty is a paddle for players who like to tinker. It is not the kind of model you pick up, play one game with and fall in love with instantly. Instead, it behaves like a platform: an elongated head, a standard weight of about 7.9 oz and a high swing weight of roughly 118, which add up to a paddle that carries plenty of momentum through the ball.

Straight out of the box, the Dynasty feels powerful and a little demanding. The swing weight helps you drive the ball deep and punish loose returns, but the twist weight sits near 6.05, which means the face can twist slightly on off-centre contact. Experienced players often solve that with lead tape, for example 8g placed at the four corners of the head, which widens the sweet spot and calms the face. Tuned that way, the paddle becomes firmer, more precise on counters and redirects, and gives honest feedback instead of a numb, over-damped feel.

Both a standard 14mm Dynasty and a 16mm Year of the Horse edition appear in listings, so check the thickness and finish before ordering.

Strengths

• Plenty of momentum. The high swing weight gives drives and put-aways serious weight behind them.
• Customisable. Lead tape can raise stability and reshape the feel to match your game.
• Honest feedback. The paddle transmits what happened on contact, helping players refine their technique.
• Good for counters. Once tuned, flick volleys and fast redirects are crisp and accurate.
• Collectible editions. Special colourways such as Year of the Horse add a bit of exclusivity.

Weaknesses

• Not beginner friendly. It asks for patience, timing and a willingness to experiment.
• Lower stock stability. With a twist weight near 6.05 the face can feel twitchy until it is tuned.
• Heavy swing. The swing weight can tire the arm over a long evening of fast hand battles.
• Requires added accessories. Lead tape is almost part of the setup process.

Who it is for

Experienced, analytical players who enjoy fine-tuning their equipment and who prefer a heavy-headed, power-and-counter style of play. If you have already used lead tape on a paddle, you will feel at home. If you want a paddle that is comfortable immediately, choose a more forgiving model.

Specifications

Buying note. Listings show both 14mm and 16mm versions under the Dynasty name. Confirm the thickness and edition you will receive, because weight and feel change between them.

Looking for more? Browse our Franklin pickleball paddles or the full range of pickleball paddles.