Franklin Signature Pro vs Paddletek Bantam TS-5: Which Should You Buy?
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Comparison table
| Signature Pro 16mm | Bantam TS-5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Beginner 16mm upgrade | Lightweight value upgrade |
| Skill level | Beginner–intermediate | Beginner–intermediate |
| Surface | Fiberglass / MaxGrit | Fiberglass epoxy hybrid |
| Thickness | 16mm | 12.7mm |
| Weight | 7.9–8.3 oz | 7.0–7.5 oz |
| Price range | $70–$100 | $80–$100 |
| Buy | Check price | Check price |
Budget reality
Both can land near the same price band. The real decision is thickness and weight, not prestige.
Who should win for most readers
If this is your first intentional paddle purchase and you want forgiveness, Franklin is the lower-risk recommendation. If your current paddle already feels heavy or slow at the kitchen, look harder at the Bantam.
Troxgo Editors
Research & editorial
We research manufacturer specs, compare paddles against consistent criteria, and explain who each product actually makes sense for—without fabricated “we tested it” claims.
Published 2026-03-20 · Updated 2026-09-10