Hunter Johnson plays the HIT Hand Cannon HC-01, the signature paddle from HIT Pickleball — a brand-new label he and twin brother Yates joined after leaving Paddletek. It has had limited retail availability, so buyable alternatives are below.
Hunter Johnson — one of the top singles players in the world, and the 2026 PPA National Championships men’s singles winner in Cary — is one of the most-asked “what paddle does he use” names on tour. The answer changed in 2026.
I’m Jason Regan, a USA Pickleball Ambassador for North Central Massachusetts, tracking the pro tours.
What is Hunter Johnson’s paddle?
Hunter left Paddletek to sign with HIT Pickleball — a new brand founded by streamer Turner “Tfue” Tenney and Brandon Anandan — and now plays the signature HIT Hand Cannon HC-01, a power paddle with a 3D-printed carbon-fiber handle and a raw carbon-fiber face. He and his twin brother Yates were the brand’s first pro signings.
The catch
HIT is brand new, and its paddles have had limited retail availability — so unlike most pro paddles, you may not be able to simply buy the exact one Hunter plays. Pro sponsorships also move fast, so treat any pro’s paddle as a snapshot and verify current availability before buying.
Should you use Hunter Johnson’s paddle?
The Hand Cannon is built for Hunter’s power-singles game. If you want that style from a paddle you can actually buy today, match your game with our Paddle Finder (try the Power preset), or see the tournament-ready power options in our best paddles guide.
See the full pro paddle list for who plays what.
— Jason Regan, USA Pickleball Ambassador, North Central Massachusetts. Last updated September 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What paddle does Hunter Johnson use?
The HIT Hand Cannon HC-01, his signature paddle from HIT Pickleball. He switched from Paddletek in 2026.
What brand does Hunter Johnson play for?
HIT Pickleball, a new brand co-founded by Turner Tenney (Tfue).
Can I buy the HIT Hand Cannon?
Availability has been limited because the brand is new. Check HIT’s site for current stock, and see our best-paddles guide for buyable power alternatives.