ElongatedControl
Elongated18mmControl
Tested by Austin Hardy
5.5+ player · Independent reviewer
Kobo
Thunder Axe ∞ 18mm Pickleball Paddle Review
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Retail Price
$339.15$399.00
Promo Code
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Austin's Take
Austin Hardy
The Kobo Thunder Axe ∞ (Infinity) is built for one type of player: the control-obsessed pickleball purist who wants maximum feel at the NVZ and is willing to pay for it. The 18mm core is one of the thickest available in the market, and it shows in the way the paddle absorbs hard shots and returns them softly.
Read full reviewWeight & Balance
How this paddle compares to 105+ paddles in our database.
Swing Weight114.89
96.66avg 113.92124.18
Near average
Twist Weight5.21
2.36avg 6.187.41
Below average
Static Weight8 oz
7.5 ozavg 7.97 oz9.1 oz
Near average
Play StyleControl
Specifications
Dimensions
Core Thickness18mm
ShapeElongated
Weight8.0 oz
Swing Weight114.89
Twist Weight5.21
Classification
BrandKobo
Play StyleControl
Featured In Our Guides
Best Pickleball Paddles (2026) →Recommended Gear
Slyce Slydr Paddle Weights
$29.95 · 10% Off
VKTRY Carbon Fiber Insoles
$149.00 · 20% Off
Picklr
$30.00/mo · 15-Day Trial
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Who Thunder Axe ∞ Is For
Buy if
- You prioritize control, resets, and touch at the kitchen
- You like extra reach and leverage on groundstrokes
- Medium swing weight (114.89) offers a good balance of power and maneuverability
Skip if
- You prefer a wider face for easier contact on fast exchanges
- Low twist weight (5.21) means off-center hits lose more pace
- You're on a tight budget — more affordable options exist
- You want to overpower opponents with pace
Ready to buy? Use code PLAYBOOK for a discount.
Buy at KoboGear We Recommend
All Gear10% OffSlyce Slydr Paddle Weights
Adjustable clamp-on paddle weights. Fine-tune your swing weight in seconds.
$29.95
20% OffVKTRY Carbon Fiber Insoles
Carbon fiber insoles that boost performance and reduce fatigue on the court.
$149.00
15-Day TrialPicklr
Find courts, book lessons, and connect with players near you.
$30.00/mo
How Thunder Axe ∞ Compares
Paddles in the same category and price range.
ElongatedControl
ElongatedControl
ElongatedControl
Playing Feel
ControlThe Kobo Thunder Axe ∞ is a 18mm elongated paddle weighing 8.0 oz with a swing weight of 114.89 and twist weight of 5.21. Expect a soft, controlled feel that shines at the kitchen line. Dinks and resets feel plush, with excellent touch on drop shots.
Swing Weight114.89
96.66avg 113.92124.18
Near average
Twist Weight5.21
2.36avg 6.187.41
Below average
18mm CoreElongated8.0 oz
Written Review
Kobo Thunder Axe ∞ Review: 18mm Control Masterpiece at a Steep Price
The Kobo Thunder Axe ∞ (Infinity) is built for one type of player: the control-obsessed pickleball purist who wants maximum feel at the NVZ and is willing to pay for it. The 18mm core is one of the thickest available in the market, and it shows in the way the paddle absorbs hard shots and returns them softly.
Specs at a Glance
- Shape: Elongated
- Core: 18mm
- Weight: 8.0 oz
- Swing Weight: 114.89
- Twist Weight: 5.21
- Price: $399 — use code PLAYBOOK for 15% off
The 18mm Feel
An 18mm core is very thick. The result at the kitchen is a paddle that eats pace and makes resets feel almost effortless — the ball simply doesn't come off the face hot. For bangers and hard-drivers you're playing against, this is a genuine weapon. The tradeoff is that generating pace requires more intention; you can't accidentally hit winners.
Twist Weight Note
The TW of 5.21 is on the lower end for an elongated paddle. Off-center hits toward the edges will be noticeable — something control players need to be aware of despite the generous 18mm core. Keep the ball in the center of the face and this paddle is exceptional; stray to the edges and it reminds you.
Verdict
The Kobo Thunder Axe ∞ is a premium control instrument with a price to match. At $399 with 15% off using PLAYBOOK, it's a significant investment. Worth it for advanced control players who want the softest NVZ game possible.
Discussion
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the swing weight of the Kobo Thunder Axe ∞?
The Kobo Thunder Axe ∞ has a swing weight of 114.89, which is above the catalog average of 113.92.
Who should buy the Kobo Thunder Axe ∞?
The Kobo Thunder Axe ∞ is a elongated 18mm paddle best suited for control-focused players who want touch and precision at the kitchen.
Is there a discount code for the Kobo Thunder Axe ∞?
Yes! Use code PLAYBOOK at checkout to save 15% on the Kobo Thunder Axe ∞. This code is verified and active.
Get Early Reviews & Paddle Deals First
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Thunder Axe ∞
Kobo