Are you looking for a pickleball paddle from a reputed brand that has its variants? If yes, then you are at the right place. We have one brand which offers pickleball paddles and has other variants of pickleball paddles, and that brand is “Bison.” Bison Pickleball Paddles has its variants, which are Mountain Bison Pickleball Paddle, Summit Bison Pickleball Paddle, and Rampage Pickleball Paddle. If you want to purchase a Bison Pickleball Paddle, it is crucial to have sound knowledge about this paddle.
In this article on “Bison Pickleball Paddle Review,” we are going to discuss regarding an overview of the Bison Pickleball Paddle, with it’s features, performance, pros & cons, and the comparison of a Bison Pickleball Paddle with it’s three variants. Additionally, we are going to discuss the tips for choosing a Bison Pickleball Paddle and taking care & maintaining this paddle after buying and some information about the variants of a Bison Pickleball Paddle with their pros & cons.
Overview of the Bison Pickleball Paddle
The Bison Graphite Pickleball Paddle features a stylish design and is available in two color options: black or white. The paddle is made from sturdy graphite material and has a textured surface that helps to add spin to shots. With an approximate weight of 7.8 oz, the Bison Pickleball Paddle is regarded as a lightweight choice suitable for various players.
Adhering to USAPA regulations, the Bison pickleball paddle has a total length of 15.75 inches and a width of 7.75 inches. The handle of this paddle measures 4.75 inches in length, and it has a grip circumference of 4.25 inches. The paddle’s design includes a combination of a polymer honeycomb core and a carbon graphite face, which aims to provide a balanced mix of power, control, and responsiveness.
The Bison pickleball paddle is designed for intermediate players and is allowed for use in official USA Pickleball tournaments. It comes with a 6-month limited warranty, providing added assurance to buyers. Priced at $49.99, the Bison Pickleball Paddle is considered an affordable option among composite pickleball paddles. You can also buy Bison Pickleball Paddles(Bundles) at $89.99, which offers Bison Pickleball Paddles in bundles containing 2 Bison Pickleball Paddles and 2 Pickleballs with a convenient carry case.
Features of the Bison Pickleball Paddle
After looking at a short overview of a Bison Pickleball Paddle, let’s see its features which are given below:
Polymer Honeycomb Core:
The Bison pickleball paddle has a unique internal honeycomb core made of polymer, which is different from the usual materials like nomex or aluminum. Bison states that the polymer core provides better consistency and control than the other materials typically used in pickleball paddles, like nomex or aluminum. The honeycomb design is well-known for its ability to increase power and enlarge the sweet spot by effectively dampening vibrations. The use of polymer in the core provides a good balance of power and control, making it ideal for intermediate players.
Textured Graphite Face:
The hitting surface of the paddle is made from textured graphite, which improves the feel of hitting the ball and creates a noticeable “pop” sound when striking the pickleball. The textured carbon graphite face also enables players to add spin to their shots, making it especially beneficial for those with more advanced skills.
Graphite is a widely used and effective material for paddle faces due to its durability and ability to withstand different weather conditions. The textured finish adds a bit of friction to the surface, enabling players to put a spin on the ball while still maintaining enough smoothness for precise control over their shots.
Ergonomic Non-Slip Grip:
The Bison pickleball paddle features an ergonomic non-slip grip that ensures a comfortable and secure hold. The handle has a contoured shape and is covered with a perforated soft cushion material, providing a comfortable feel during gameplay. The grip’s ergonomic ridge design promotes better wrist alignment and reduces strain on the hand.
The perforations in the grip aid in keeping the hand cool and dry, especially on hot days. Additionally, the non-slip texture of the grip prevents the paddle from rotating or sliding in your hand upon impact, offering better control and stability. The grip’s size and shape play a crucial role in making the Bison paddle easy to maneuver during play.
Durable Construction:
Bison Pickleball Paddles are created with a strong emphasis on durability, taking inspiration from the tough bison animal. The paddle’s graphite face is designed to resist chips and scratches effectively, ensuring it remains sturdy and can endure wear and tear even with prolonged use.
To provide additional protection, the paddle is equipped with a shock-absorbing edge guard, which safeguards the paddle in case it accidentally hits the ground or fencing. This emphasis on durability ensures that the Bison Pickleball Paddle offers excellent value for money, as it will last longer and withstand the rigors of frequent play.
Visually Appealing Design:
In addition to its impressive performance, the Bison Pickleball Paddle stands out for its visually appealing design. This paddle boasts a clean and modern look, highlighted by the distinctive Bison logo.
Available in stylish color combinations of black and white or black and gray, the paddle’s aesthetics add to the overall enjoyment and motivation to play. The attractive appearance of the Bison Pickleball Paddle enhances the playing experience and adds an extra touch of excitement while on the pickleball court.
Performance of the Bison Pickleball Paddle
The Bison Pickleball Paddle boasts impressive performance features that cater to players seeking power, control, touch, maneuverability, spin potential, durability, and value for money. Let’s explore each aspect in detail:
Power
With its honeycomb polymer core and graphite face, the Bison pickleball paddle delivers excellent power for strong drives and smashes. The responsive core generates decent ball speed and distance, maintaining a well-balanced combination of power and control. The textured hitting surface adds a satisfying pop and responsive feedback, while the paddle’s solid feel and weight contribute to powerful swings. Even players with less power will discover that the Bison pickleball paddle provides enough power for their shots.
Control
The Bison pickleball paddle stands out in its ability to achieve excellent control and finesse during shots, all thanks to the vibration dampening properties of its polymer core. This feature is particularly beneficial for executing touch shots around the net. Additionally, the paddle’s face has a moderate level of friction, enabling players to apply precise spin to the ball and place their shots accurately.
The paddle weighs 7.8 ounces, providing an ideal balance between maneuverability and weight, which allows for smooth wrist action and precise control. Overall, the Bison paddle offers excellent control that complements its power capabilities.
Touch
The Bison pickleball paddle comes with a honeycomb core, which results in a larger sweet spot that ensures consistent ball contact across the paddle face. With the addition of a comfortable grip, the paddle provides outstanding touch and feel, allowing for sensitive and precise execution of soft shots and volleys near the net. This well-balanced combination of power, control, and touch makes the Bison pickleball paddle an excellent choice for intermediate players seeking to enhance their all-round playing abilities.
Maneuverability
Despite its size, the Bison pickleball paddle is agile and smooth in handling, offering a lightweight feel at 7.8 ounces. The grip contour of the Bison pickleball paddle allows for effortless wrist rotation and angles, resulting in excellent maneuverability for quick and reactive shots. Moreover, the comfortable grip of the Bison paddle allows you to play for extended periods without experiencing discomfort or fatigue. It effectively reduces wrist strain, enabling you to handle more shots on the court with ease.
Spin Potential
The Bison pickleball paddle’s textured graphite face offers excellent spin potential, enabling players to apply topspin or backspin on the ball. The rough surface of the paddle effectively grabs and pushes against the ball upon contact, allowing the players to strategically vary their shots and keep opponents off balance. Additionally, the paddle’s shape and balance further contribute to its spin capabilities, making it an ideal choice for intermediate and advanced players aiming to enhance their game.
Durability
Durability is a crucial factor when selecting pickleball gear, and the Bison paddle is designed to address this concern. Built with quality materials like graphite and polymer, the paddle is inherently durable and weather-resistant. The paddle’s tough face is meant to withstand chipping and wear, which could otherwise affect how well it performs.
According to some user reviews, there have been minor issues with the graphite face chipping or peeling after short-term use. However, with proper care and maintenance, the paddle’s lifespan can be extended. Moreover, the edge guard adds protection against cracks and dents in case of accidental drops during play, making the paddle more durable overall.
Value For Money
The Bison Pickleball Paddle is priced at $49.99, offering exceptional value for money. It comes with features and performance that can be compared to more expensive paddles found in the market. This paddle is highly sought after due to its polymer core, graphite face, comfortable grip, and attractive design. It proves to be an outstanding choice for players who want to enjoy casual games or participate in tournaments.
Additionally, the affordable price of the Bison Pickleball Paddle makes it a viable option for beginners who want to invest in a quality paddle without spending too much. Intermediate players looking for a paddle that is both affordable and high-quality will find the Bison’s value proposition undeniably compelling.
Pros and Cons of the Bison Pickleball Paddle
The Bison Pickleball Paddle comes with both pros and cons that are worth considering. Let’s explore the pros and cons of this paddle:
- Provides excellent value for money
- Lightweight with a comfortable grip
- Powerful polymer core for balanced play
- Textured graphite face allows effective spin
- Well-balanced choice for intermediate players
- Visually appealing design adds attractiveness
- Some concerns about durability
- May not reach high-end tournament performance level
- Lacks premium branding appeal
- Spin potential may not satisfy advanced players
How to Choose a Bison Pickleball Paddle?
Here are some tips for choosing a Bison Pickleball Paddle:
Know Your Skill Level: Bison pickleball paddles are best suited for intermediate players. If you’re a beginner or advanced player, explore other paddle options that match your skill level.
Consider Weight: When choosing a Bison pickleball paddle, take into account its weight, which is approximately 7.8 ounces. This weight allows for quick and easy maneuverability on the court. Make sure that the paddle’s weight feels comfortable for you, as it will enable swift reactions during gameplay.
Seek Balanced Feel: When choosing a Bison pickleball paddle, it is crucial to consider its balance. You can check this by holding the paddle horizontally in your hand. An ideal Bison Pickleball paddle will be characterized by having an even weight distribution on both the top and bottom parts. Having proper balance in the paddle enhances your control and improves your performance on the court.
Check Grip Size: Before selecting a Bison pickleball paddle, it is vital to check its grip size. The grips on these paddles are smaller, measuring around 4.25 inches in circumference. Ensure that the grip comfortably fits your hand size. If you find the grip to be too small, you have the option to use an overgrip. Adding an overgrip can help to achieve a better fit, providing improved comfort during your games.
Consider Your Budget: When selecting a pickleball paddle, remember to consider your budget. Instead of spending extra money on unnecessary upgrades, focus on essential factors like the proper weight, grip size, and balance. Additionally, ensure that the paddle you choose matches your skill level for optimal performance on the court.
Even cheaper Bison models come with great features, such as durable graphite faces. If you have enough money to spend, consider checking out bundle deals to get the best value, as they might include extra items along with the paddle. By focusing on the essential aspects and keeping your budget in mind, you can make a smart and satisfying choice.
Consider The Aesthetic Appeal: When selecting a Bison Pickleball Paddle, choose a design and color option that you find visually pleasing. The aesthetics of the paddle can enhance your enjoyment and overall experience while playing on the court.
By considering these factors, you can confidently select the ideal Bison pickleball paddle that complements your playing style, skill level, and requirements on the court.
How to Maintain and Take Care of the Bison Pickleball Paddle After Buying?
Here are some tips to follow for maintaining and taking care of your Bison Pickleball Paddle after buying and using it:
- After playing, wipe the paddle down with a damp cloth to remove dirt, sweat, and ball marks. Avoid using cleaners, as they might damage the paddle.
- Store the paddle away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prevent warping and maintain its shape.
- It is important to regularly inspect the graphite face of your paddle for any cracks or chips. If you notice small chips on the paddle’s surface, you can use sandpaper to smooth them down. However, it is essential to avoid using a paddle with significant cracks, as playing with it can make the damage worse.
- If the grip becomes slick, consider using an overgrip or replacing the grip tape to improve your hold on the paddle. It is recommended to re-wrap the handle over time.
- Check the edge guard for any dents or cracks since it acts as a safeguard for the border of the paddle. If you see any damage, make sure to replace the edge guard to preserve the paddle’s integrity.
- If you notice that the graphite surface of the paddle is extremely worn out, consider getting it professionally refaced. This process will help to keep your paddle in excellent condition, ensuring that you can continue to play with the best performance and consistency during your games.
- If you experience any damage due to manufacturer defects, contact Bison support to inquire about the 6-month warranty coverage and potential solutions.
Comparison of Bison Pickleball Paddle With Its Other Variants
The Bison Pickleball Paddles has three variants: (a) The Mountain Bison Pickleball Paddles, (b) The Summit Bison Pickleball Paddles, and © The Rampage Bison Pickleball Paddles. Before making a comparison of a Bison Pickleball Paddle with its variants, we are going to explain about these three variants with their pros and cons. Then we will explain the comparison of a Bison Pickleball Paddle with its three variants in tabular format:
The Mountain Bison Pickleball Paddle:
The Mountain Bison Pickleball Paddle is Bison’s affordable option, perfect for recreational and beginner players who want reliable performance without spending a lot. You can choose from sleek black or white colors, which cost only $59.99. This paddle provides an excellent balance of power and control, helping to enhance your pickleball game.
The Mountain Bison Pickleball Paddle is skillfully crafted, featuring a Polymer Honeycomb Core that perfectly blends power and finesse without being excessively thick or thin. Additionally, its Carbon Fiber Face provides a textured surface, enabling decent spin potential, while the paddle’s robust construction ensures exceptional durability over time.
This paddle ensures comfort during play with its cushioned grip, which remains comfortable even during extended matches. It effectively absorbs sweat, providing a better grip for players. The paddle’s wider face expands the sweet spot, offering more forgiveness on off-center hits and making it easier for beginners to generate power.
The Mountain Bison Pickleball Paddle weighs only 8 oz, making it a lightweight option that minimizes strain on your arm compared to heavier paddles. Additionally, the paddle features edge guarding to protect its rim, ensuring overall durability and longevity. You can also purchase the Mountain Bison Pickleball Paddle(in bundles) also for $99.99, which contains 2 Mountain Bison Pickleball Paddles and 2 Pickleballs with a carry case.
Pros And Cons Of The Mountain Bison Pickleball Paddle:
- Exceptional affordability for budget-conscious players
- Lightweight design for a comfortable playing experience
- Durable construction promising longevity and reliability
- Wider sweet spot enhances performance for beginners
- Commendable power and spin for its class
- Less “pop” on shots compared to more advanced paddles
- Decent control, but may not fully satisfy advanced players
- Slightly less pronounced grip texture affecting grip feel and control
- Edge guarding may show signs of wear over time (normal for the price range)
The Summit Bison Pickleball Paddles:
The Summit Bison Pickleball Paddle, Bison’s advanced model priced at $99.99, is tailored for players searching for a competitive edge. With its premium features and materials, this paddle greatly enhances your performance on the court.
The Summit Bison Pickleball Paddle guarantees a superb blend of power, control, and reactivity thanks to its 14mm Polymer Core. Furthermore, while maintaining a strong and durable design, its “Gritty” Carbon Fiber Face gives shots a fantastic amount of spin. This paddle ensures excellent comfort and reduces fatigue with its cushioned 5.5″ Grip, especially during 2-handed strokes. Additionally, the reinforced edge guarding not only provides optimal protection for the paddle rim but also enhances the paddle’s durability by preventing cracks and dents over time.
With its 16.5″ Length, The Summit Bison Pickleball Paddle allows for a wider reach on the court, granting you access to more shots. Moreover, the paddle’s lightweight construction improves agility and reduces the risk of arm issues, ensuring a comfortable playing experience.
Pros And Cons Of The Summit Bison Pickleball Paddles:
- Impressive power and spin on the court
- Extended 5.5″ grip for exceptional comfort
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance
- 16.5″ length improves court coverage
- Excellent control around the net
- Higher price may be a concern for some players
- Mastering touch shots may require practice
- Carbon Fiber Face’s rough texture may require grip accessories for comfort
- Less forgiveness on off-center hits, requiring precision in shots
The Rampage Bison Pickleball Paddles:
The Rampage Bison Pickleball Paddles, priced at $99.99 and positioned as the pinnacle of Bilson’s lineup, are specially designed to meet the performance demands of advancing intermediate players up to competitive levels. This paddle has a sturdy 16mm Polymer Core, ensuring excellent control and finesse around the net and a significant spin generated by its “Gritty” Carbon Fiber Face.
The paddle’s durable construction, cushioned non-slip grip, and fortified edge guarding combine to create a comfortable and long-lasting playing experience. Additionally, with an 8″ wider face, it expands the sweet spot, providing extra forgiveness and power generation. The paddle’s lightweight design not only enhances quickness and mobility but also reduces strain on the arm.
Pros And Cons Of The The Rampage Bison Pickleball Paddles:
- Provides exceptional control for finesse shots and precise dinking on the court
- Produces substantial spin for aggressive shots
- The paddle’s extremely durable construction guarantees a long-lasting investment
- Expanded sweet spot enhances performance for all skill levels
- Cushioned non-slip grip provides maximum comfort during extended games
- Higher price may be a drawback for players seeking a premium experience.
- Mastering touch shots may require practice
- Rough “Gritty” surface can cause discomfort on bare hands
- The slightly heavier weight may impact some players’ preferences
Here is a comparison table showing the comparison between Bison Pickleball Paddle, The Mountain Bison Pickleball Paddle, The Summit Bison Pickleball Paddles, and The Rampage Bison Pickleball Paddles:
Feature | Bison Pickleball Paddle | Mountain Bison Paddle | Summit Bison Paddles | Rampage Bison Paddles |
| Price | $49.99 | $59.99 | $99.99 | $99.99 |
Skill Level | Intermediate | Recreational/Beginner | Advanced | Advanced/ Competitive |
Material | Graphite/ Polymer Core | Graphite/ Polymer Core | Polymer Core/ Carbon Fiber Face | Polymer Core/ Carbon Fiber Face |
Weight | 7.8 oz | 8 oz | 7.8 oz | 7.8 oz |
Paddle Length | 15.75 inches | 15.75 inches | 16.5 inches | 15.75 inches |
Width | 7.75 inches | 8.125 inches | 7.5 inches | 8 inches |
Grip Length | 4.75 inches | 4.75 inches | 5.5 inches | 5.25 inches |
Grip Circumference | 4.25 inches | 4.25 inches | 4.25 inches | 4.375 inches |
Core Type | Polymer Honeycomb Core | Polymer Honeycomb Core | 14mm Polymer Core | 16mm Polymer Core |
Face Material | Graphite | Graphite | “Gritty” Carbon Fiber Face | “Gritty” Carbon Fiber Face |
Spin Potential | Moderate | Decent | Excellent | Heavy |
Power | Balanced | Decent | Impressive | Impressive |
Control | Good | Decent | Excellent | Excellent |
Touch | Good | Good | Excellent | Good |
Maneuverability | Smooth | Agile | Agile | Agile |
Durability | Good | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
Sweet Spot | Moderate | Wider | Wider | Expanded |
Grip Comfort | Good | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
Forgiveness on Off-Center Hits | Moderate | More | Less | Less |
Additional Bundle Options | 2 paddles, 2 balls, carry case | 2 paddles, 2 balls, carry case | N/A | N/A |
FAQs
The Bison Pickleball Paddle performs well in terms of power and control. It’s responsive polymer core and graphite face provides a good balance, offering power for drives and control for finesse shots. The textured face of the Bison Pickleball Paddle allows players to create a spin on the ball during gameplay.
The Bison Pickleball Paddle has a few potential downsides to consider. Firstly, its durability could be a concern if it is not properly cared for and maintained. Secondly, some players might notice that it lacks the premium branding appeal commonly found in more renowned paddle brands. Lastly, while the paddle offers decent spin potential, it may not match the exceptional spin capabilities of higher-end, more expensive paddles.
Some key features of the Bison Pickleball Paddle include the polymer honeycomb core, which improves consistency and control, the textured graphite face for added spin potential, an ergonomic non-slip grip for comfort and stability, and a durable construction designed to withstand frequent play.
The original Bison pickleball paddle is designed to prioritize balance and control, offering an affordable option compared to the higher-priced model variants with more advanced features.
Conclusion
The Bison Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for intermediate players seeking a quality and affordable performance paddle. It offers a controlled blend of power, touch, and spin potential with its polymer honeycomb core and textured graphite face. The paddle features an ergonomic grip, durable build, and sleek design.
Despite lacking some premium features of high-end paddles, the Bison Pickleball Paddle offers exceptional value at an affordable price point of $49.99. It can be beneficial if you buy this same paddle in bundles at $89.99 because in that bundle, you will get 2 pickleball paddles of Bison brand, along with 2 pickleballs and a carry case.
Intermediate players will find the balanced playability of the Bison Pickleball Paddle enjoyable for both recreational games and sanctioned tournaments right out of the box. While purchasing this paddle, it is crucial to consider factors like skill level, paddle’s weight & grip size, budget, aesthetic appeal, etc.
With proper care and maintenance, the Bison Pickleball Paddle is poised to provide seasons of consistent and enjoyable performance on the court. You can also look for three other variants of the Bison Pickleball Paddle, but they are slightly more expensive than the standard Bison Pickleball Paddle. Overall, this paddle is a solid option for those focused on fundamentals rather than flashy upgrades. After writing the Bison Pickleball Paddle Review article, we hope you have understood in detail regarding overview, features, performance, and pros & cons of this paddle and will choose this paddle wisely and take care of it after buying.
