Best stick

[Phelan96]

What's everyone's choice for the best stick out there.
Having broken 3 or 4 sticks in the past 2 months I'm most interested in the most durable...but it still has to be light.

[patb16]

well when you weigh 175-200 lbs and you use intermediate sticks... you're gonna break alot of sticks...lol

use senior sticks...hahaha

Bauer sticks always seem to last for me. Easton sticks always seem to break really quickly at the blade.

[Phelan96]

well when you weigh 175-200 lbs and you use intermediate sticks... you're gonna break alot of sticks...lol

use senior sticks...hahaha

Bauer sticks always seem to last for me. Easton sticks always seem to break really quickly at the blade.


I knew you or Sherwood would of said something about that......I finally bought a Sr stick last night, Bauer Vapor XXXX. We'll see how long this one last's...

[showtime89]

I love the Synergy's with the Shanahan curve. I bought all I could find/afford when they stopped making that curve. I have a nice little stockpile in the garage. There might be a better stick for me out there (there probably is), but right now, it's the curve that sells me. Maybe once I run out of my Shanahan curve I'll try something else, but with my stockpile, that's many years down the line. That's my 2¢.

[Mlrhnorthfan]

synergy shanny is the best curve.
myself and a couple guys on our team bought almost 20 a couple years ago when they announced they woudlnt make them any more.

Last one broke almost six months ago.

The Reebok Datsyuk is the same exact curve. only problem is that unless you are using the 7K prolite or higher, the stick is blade heavy and with a wierd kick point.


shanny curve.....by far the best....

if you ahve any that youd like to part with send me a PM

[Mlrhnorthfan]

Easton is the best stick hands down but durability-wise they are awful.

I like some of the warrior sticks too but again durability is an even bigger issue with them.

playing 4 or 5 nights a week most sticks last less than a month.

Reebok seems to be getting better

[RichardGraham]

Hey Ron,

Do you know why Easton stopped making the Synergy with the Shanahan curve? If it was so popular, why couldn't they bring it back? Or was it just a few die-hards that liked that combo? ;)

[onetimer48]

I guess I'm the only one (so far) that is obsessed with the Dolomite line from Warrior. I'm still using my Innovative (now Warrior) Axiom and can't find a better feel. The Dolomite has given me a good result though.

[Stampede#11]

They claimed it was demand for the curve ... but I know loads of guys that liked it.

Sherwood will make custom blades or RM19 sticks with the curve and I managed to get 3 x Mission pro stock ones a while back to go in tapered shafts.

Really annoying having to search high and low for them though.

All companies seem to be going for the standard 4 curves, forsberg/sakic/lidstrom/drury ... then the odd bits of other types.

I have said for a while that the smaller manufacturers should offer the other curves as a differentiator on the shelves for them over the big boys.

[Stampede#11]

Oh and the TPS XN10 is the best stick ever made ... RIP

XN10 with a Shanny would be stick heaven.

[quick_dry]

Vapor XXX lite... if only they were still available :(

the XXXX is nice, but, it just doesn't handle as quick as the XXX lite.
Easton S17 looks nice, I'm looking at getting one in a Sakic curve (looks about the same as a Bauer P92/Naslund).
The Rbk O-stick is ugly as hell, but has a great flex and feel - I just hate the curve on the one I have.

(Any of you guys have any local shops still stocking XXX lites? or the tapered replacement blades? nowhere online sems to have anything)

[showtime89]

Well, there's also the point that Shanahan switched to Warrior shortly there after, so maybe Easton lost the rights to the name/curve (not sure how all that legal stuff works). Though, Warrior doesn't have the curve available.
I've got two synergy shafts and one stealth shaft cut and flipped over with Shanahan RBZ Carbon Focus Flex blades in them that I am using now. I've got 4 brand new blades just sitting around. In the stick bag is 3 Orange Synergy Si-Core Shanahans, 1 Yellow Synergy Grip and 1 Red Synergy Si-Core Grip. Like I said, I have a good stockpile, but I am not willing to part with them. Sorry. I've also heard that if you don't use them, they cure, making them stronger. Maybe just a wives tale, but it's not like I need them at the moment.

[quick_dry]

I'm trialing the idea of using sticks fairly hard in the first 30 days - if there is a flaw in the stick it'll usually show in that, and I'll be able to still send it back for warranty. If it doesn't die quickly, it'll likely last OK since there aren't any apparent faults from the manufacturer.

[Stampede#11]

Curve's on retail sticks are not what the players actually use. They just stick a pro's name on it to help it sell more. Not sure of all the legality but I am pretty sure no pro player signs anything that says they must use that manufacturers sticks/equipment.

E.g. Steve Yzerman's curve is known as a "YP" in pro stock patterns but is actually a Drury retail pattern.

Shanny curve is also the P10 from NikeBauer ID programme if you have any dealers in your area who do the programme and you like Bauer sticks.

[Superstar9]

when looking for a stick for me it's all about weight and BALANCE. My pick would have to be the Synergy Elite Grip. By far the most balanced stick I've used. Problem with it, it breaks within weeks if not sooner. On the other hand, if you want a little more durability go with the Nike Bauer ONE90. Its a lot more durable, about the same weight and price as the Synergy Elite but, it's not quite as balanced and is a little blade heavy. JMO, most of my friends think i'm crazy and can't feel the difference between the two.

[overridex]

I know it hasn't been around very long, but the 2008 CCM vector 10 catapult is pretty amazing. It has great feel, release and accuracy, and it's flex has stayed consistent even after a few months of use. Assuming it doesn't break on my next shot after saying this, I really can't find anything wrong with it.

[showtime89]

synergy shanny is the best curve.


The Reebok Datsyuk is the same exact curve. only problem is that unless you are using the 7K prolite or higher, the stick is blade heavy and with a wierd kick point.


Datsyuk is Close, but it's got a fatter heal which alters the curve and it's a heavier/thicker blade all around.

[showtime89]

I'm gonna pass on this one because of the size of the current stockpile, but here's a new Synergy Grip Shanahan, Right handed, 100 Flex ending today.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=300215201901&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=020

[-venom-]

Funny how my Shanny curve used to get knocked on non-stop, yet there are so many others who swear by it.

Branches used to let you pick *any* curve and they'd replicate it, not sure if they make sticks any more though.

I'll have to try that Datsyuk though, I've been trying to find a similar curve.

Square toe, 6 lie, mid-toe curve. It's like the holy grail, now.

[IDHockey]

I just started a custom hockey stick company. Check out the site...
identity hockey com. We can put any design on the stick. Feel free to contact me with any questions. One of the main differences with these sticks is the blades have three layers of kevlar on them, so they are three times as durable. We have junior, intermediate and senior one piece, shafts, and blades. My pro team is using them now and they love them!

[patb16]

I just tried to get to you're site but could not. I'd like to check it out. Please post the correct URL

[IDHockey]

Sorry I just joined the forums so I can't post a website link without having 10 posts. type in www then a period then type identityhockey then type a period then com, if that makes any sense. i must say it is tough to describe a website with using the real url address.

[smiller]

For durability, go with the bauer sticks. The one90 will be discontinued and replaced with the one95 as of august. Warrior makes great sticks. The new Easton S17 has some problems with breaking where they made the bottom of the shaft into an oval.

[PGHhockey]

The Branches sticks were awesome...I still have one of mine that I use for ball leagues. Real similar to the old Innovative (Warrior) sticks.

Can't go wrong with a CCM Vector stick...year after year, they're durable and high-quality.

[DCbullets14]

i have been using a warrior mac daddy grip federov 100 flex for awhile I like it alot. Im also a big fan of the original stealth (black and red) although they are almost impossilbe to find anymore.

Has anyone even seen the curve that adam oates used? I have a game stick of his and it has the strangest curve ive ever seen. Nearly flat blade but the bottom of the toe curves under really sharp.

[BAD SNaCKY]

i have been using a warrior mac daddy grip federov 100 flex for awhile I like it alot. Im also a big fan of the original stealth (black and red) although they are almost impossilbe to find anymore.

Has anyone even seen the curve that adam oates used? I have a game stick of his and it has the strangest curve ive ever seen. Nearly flat blade but the bottom of the toe curves under really sharp.


oates never had the same blade ever.
he would get them from the factory and cut part of the blade off.
then heat the blade and shove it under a door to bend it.

he said it was all "feel" and that it helped him on faceoffs, and in the corners.

[BAD SNaCKY]

as for best sticks....

it's pretty much what people on here are saying. easton or bauer.
i've used TPS, Easton, CCM, Bauer.

Easton is my favorite...the blades are hit or miss with durability. i feel they offer the best stick technology out there. pro's say the same; i can't blame them.

Bauer was very nice (very well balanced stick making it feel real light) but i broke them all in the same spot towards the bottom of the shaft.

[Mlrhnorthfan]

Easton is the best stick overall but the durability is spotty.

i like the warrior mac daddy except that all three I have had broke within a week about 6 inches up from the blade.

not worth the cost.

[DCbullets14]

6 inches up from the blade..... that would be the exact spot where my warrior snapped this past weekend. I should mention that it didnt break in the game I walked into the locker room and found my stick destroyed. no idea how it happened just my ****ty luck.

[PGHhockey]

http://www.flaghouse.com/Prod_images/p7302.jpg

[fireants20]

i have been a fan of easton sticks for the past 4 years but this year switched to the warrior dolomite jovanowski at the stiffest flex, it lasted twice as long as the easton and im hesistant to go back to easton but when the synergys first came out they were very durable and im just afraid that warrior may do the same, they get you to trust the product and then the company makes changes much like misson skates when they first came out

[justin malone]

im 211 lbs 6 ft 2 and i use the easton s17 ingila curve /85 flex ive been using the same stick for3 house league seasons and and a piha season ive yet to break it the blade is finally startingto split after all this time witch can be attributed to all the house leage hacking and all the slap shots i take but bye far the best feeling best ballanced and the lightest ive ever used i also have the same flex and curve in the easton s11 its alot heavier of a stick but still well balanced and all the same desighn as the s17 easton is bye far the best way


justin malone

growl # 97

[jerseyroller09]

I love my Bauer Vapor XXXX Lite...got one and went right out two weeks later and bought another to replace my backup stick. The feel is phenomenal to me and the kick point is just right. I might look into trying the new One95 too just for comparison, the blade on that stick seems to lie better on the floor.

[Clever Name]

i currently use a Bauer Vapor XXXX Naslund curve as my main stick with a Synergy Iginla Curve as a back up.

[joisyan]

i think it all depends on how you play. for instance, when i used to shoot alot, slapshots specifically, my sticks would break almost every 4-5 games. just because of all of the stress. and i tried everything from easton to ballistik. and now i just went back to my cheap easton 200 synergy. it's lasted almost a year. mainly because i dont go around slamming the puck every chance i get. if i had the money though, i'd buy warrior. they were the best feel, IMO.

[Brooklynite10]

Brooklynite Almighty is hands down the best stick for the buck. It's a new company, but one of the best sticks out on the market. I'm not just saying because I am a rep for them. I was using the S17's previously, but I had a lot of trouble with the durability. I once broke 2 in 2 games, just from taking a few slapshots. I continued to use them because of the amazing feel of the puck with stick handling, great saucer passes and backhanders; but I even stopped taking slapshots with them in fear that they would just snap. The Brooklynite Almighty stick is just as light, the shaft is slightly thinner, but the strength of the stick is second to none. I have beatin the crap out of mine for 2 months, and there is no signs of any breaking down. The Redeemer is another model that is nice. It's a little heavier and meatier, for those that prefer that feel. Go on brooklynitehockey.com to check em out.

[RichardGraham]

Hi Guys,

You mention sticks breaking on slap shots fairly consistently. Question: What is your approximate goal-per-shot percentage on your slap shots? Might you not score more or gain more assists with a quick snap shot and save your sticks at the same time?

Goals scored on slap shots look great, but wouldn't wristers and passing up slap shots for a pass to a teammate conceivable get you more goals and assists AND save you money?

Just playing devil's advocate here. My slap shot is like a a cooked spaghetti noodle hitting a meatball fragment. :mad:

[Clever Name]

Hi Guys,

You mention sticks breaking on slap shots fairly consistently. Question: What is your approximate goal-per-shot percentage on your slap shots? Might you not score more or gain more assists with a quick snap shot and save your sticks at the same time?

Goals scored on slap shots look great, but wouldn't wristers and passing up slap shots for a pass to a teammate conceivable get you more goals and assists AND save you money?

Just playing devil's advocate here. My slap shot is like a a cooked spaghetti noodle hitting a meatball fragment. :mad:

i score a lot on the power play. I play left side (right if your the goalie) and slap quick one time cross passes. Thats where a lot can probably break.

[Tekkaman]

Well if you guys want to take slap shots, use a wooden stick.

[quick_dry]

Well if you guys want to take slap shots, use a wooden stick.

eek, and say hello to inconsistent flex and feel.

Clever Name - have you tried the sakic curve? i use a P92 (naslund) vapor XXXX and Sakic S17 and the curves match up nicely, I enjoy using the S17 over the vapor - nicer puckhandling feel and quicker to load in a snapshot than the XXXX, much like the XXX lite felt.

[joisyan]

one question i have, is that i use a very very short stick. i usually buy senior sticks and cut them down. but i read that it kills the flex in doing so. i.e. if i buy a 100 flex, when i cut it, it supposedly goes up to about a 120 flex. because i'm 5'11 and i use a stick that comes up to my chest on feet. on skates it's right above my stomache. so how bad would it be if i started using intermediate sticks and cutting them? would that turn a 65 into an 85?

[Tammaro10]

i have gone through every brand of stick and i am currently using the synergy se16 and it feels great, i got it cause i loved the synergy se and it lasted me for months, prolly the longest i had a stick, even tho i hated the synergy sl these are two great sticks... the warrior dolomite is also a great durable stick and i'm looking forward to getting the dolomite spyne once i need a new one...


________________
Anthony Tammaro
New Jersey Nightmare
Brooklynite Hanuman
#10

[Jon Mosenson]

I go through a ton of sticks. By a ton of sticks, I averaged about 4 broken sticks per month. However, I have been using the one85 for 5+ months now and it has been the most durable and well balanced stick I have ever used. I still have not broken one. Not to mention for tall guys such as myself the stick comes a few inches longer. This is important bc I always used to put a plug in the end of my stick making my stick more flexy than the initial flex I had received it at. For those of you that care, I use a 102 flex with a gagne curve.

[MS&TMiners]

I've been usin RBK O sticks for awhile, those things are tanks. They have the new O stick and 10ks comin out soon too and from what I hear they feel great. I used Warriors for awhile too, in my opinion they have the toughest blades out there. The AK27 shaft and blade is probably the best 2 piece I've ever used. I have never been a fan of Easton until I felt the SE16, heads and tails better than the Elite, doesn't feel dead anymore. I use anything thats 80-90 flex with a Modano/Forsberg(now Zetterberg) pattern, prefferably a 4-5 lie.

Joe Altnether #12
MS&T Miners
Southside Snipers

[quick_dry]

I really liked the feel of the O-stick as well - but I use a P92 (naslund) curve and the Rbk curves didn't work for me.

Vapor XXX lite 102 flex (cut down about 4", 112 flex?), P92 blade. (wish they hadn't discontinued the XXX lites :( )

[Mlrhnorthfan]

the RBK 7K profeel is one of the best sticks i have used.

you can get the prostock version from hockeymonkey for 250 for 3 sticks...


the sk11 pattern is the datsyuk curve.

[R Bosco #32]

I have tried over 20 new sticks in the past 2 seasons. Everthing from Mission to RBK to Sherwood and Flite.

I have settled on 3 sticks that i rotate. 1 rbk 9k bergeron curve. 2 Bauer xxxx p88 and 3 the tour wave shaft with an easton composite blade. I like them in that order! Most durable is the tour but it is also the heaviest!

[Number25]

I've broken 3 7k profeels and a 7k sick kick, all in the middle of the shaft, I've been using easton sticks ever since

[CoachClipboard]

I love my Easton Synergy Elite No Grip. Great balance, super light weight and when you are old its nice to not travel with a heavy stick if you don't have the puck at the time. Has a great response with the puck in just about everything. Iginla or Forsberg curve.

HOWEVER!...In our proshop hands down, the best selling stick over the last 9 years without question is the Sherwood 5030 coffey model. That has to be the longest running model out there and obviously it is the beginner and intermediate level and weekend only players who are buying these, based on price and the wicked curve, but the sales totals dont lie. I am seeing more and more players of higher caliber making the move back to wood.

Just an observation.

[RichardGraham]

Hey Todd,

I've been blown away by the number of broken sticks I'm seeing in just about every NHL game I watch these days. I wonder how many potential goals were lost when someone's stick broke as someone was taking a shot, making a pass (I've seen 'em break even then) to an open man in the slot, etc. I think there should be a two-minute penalty for "littering." :D

[All Star Sieve]

I just wanted to put in my two cents about the best stick out there. I am going to have to put my vote in for a 100 flex Synergy ST with a Drury curve. The curve looks like a boat prop, its a heel curve with a wide open toe, but you can snipe top chester all night with it. It gives a pretty wicked slapper too. I had one (granted it was a pro stock) that lasted me for the better part of a year and I abused the snot out of it. The next stick I want to try is the CCM Unique with the HPSET technology... I don't know what it is, but it just sounds cool.

[quick_dry]

I wish they'd make a stick with the feel of an S17, but with eitehr an ABS insert, or a kevlar protective bottom layer so taht the thing didn't disintegrate when you use it for inline. I just had one of Vapor XXXX's go, the blade base wore out, water soaked into it udirng an ice training session and the foam core expanded so it looked like a snake that'd eaten a soccer ball.

(on the plus side, until it snapped, the bulge gave an early release point our import goalie couldn't read during the 1 on 0 shooting)