Paddle Comparison
APL Starion vs Holbrook Arma Metallic
The APL Starion and Holbrook Arma Metallic are nearly identical in swing weight (116.4 vs 116.89), making build quality, surface feel, and brand preference the deciding factors. The Holbrook Arma Metallic also has the wider sweet spot — TW 6.51 versus 5.93 — meaning more forgiveness on off-center hits.
Who wins on what
Power
Holbrook Arma Metallic
Higher Swing Weight (power) (116.4 vs 116.89, +0.49)
Hand Speed
APL Starion
Lower Swing Weight (hand speed) (116.4 vs 116.89)
Sweet Spot / Forgiveness
Holbrook Arma Metallic
Higher Twist Weight (forgiveness) (5.93 vs 6.51, +0.58)
Value
Holbrook Arma Metallic
Lower effective price ($179.99 vs $169.99, with PLAYBOOK)
Side-by-side specs
Brand
Model
Shape
Thickness
Weight
Swing Weight
Twist Weight
Play Style
Retail Price
Discount
Effective Price
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Which paddle should you buy?
Pick the APL Starion if…
- You've already decided this is your brand or build preference.
Pick the Holbrook Arma Metallic if…
- You want a bigger sweet spot — TW 6.51 is more forgiving on off-center hits.
- You're price-conscious — about $10 cheaper after PLAYBOOK discount.
Frequently asked questions
Is the APL Starion or the Holbrook Arma Metallic better for power?
The Holbrook Arma Metallic generates more power — SW 116.89 vs 116.4 on the APL Starion, a 0.49-point gap that adds mass and momentum at contact. If you prioritize hand speed and maneuverability over raw power, the Starion's lower swing weight is the advantage.
Which paddle is more forgiving — the APL Starion or the Holbrook Arma Metallic?
The Holbrook Arma Metallic is more forgiving with a twist weight of 6.51 vs 5.93 on the APL Starion. Higher twist weight reduces energy loss on off-center hits, which matters most for kitchen-heavy players who take a lot of dinks and resets.
What is the price difference between the APL Starion and the Holbrook Arma Metallic?
With the PLAYBOOK discount code, the APL Starion is $179.99 and the Holbrook Arma Metallic is $169.99. The Holbrook Arma Metallic is $10.00 cheaper. Apply PLAYBOOK at checkout on either brand's site to get the discount.
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