FAQs: CCM JetSpeed FT8 Pro Hockey Stick
Q: Who is the FT8 Pro best for?
A: Players who want a fast, versatile release without going full low‑kick. JetSpeed’s hybrid kick loads easily for snapshots/wristers and still handles controlled one‑timers. If Ribcor (low‑kick) felt too whippy and Tacks (mid‑kick) too power‑load, FT8 Pro sits in the sweet spot.
Q: What kick point does the FT8 Pro use?
A: Hybrid kick. It blends easy load in the lower shaft with stability up top, so you get a quick release that doesn’t feel twitchy. That balance is why many use FT8 Pro as a single do‑it‑all gamer across lines, rush shots, and point play.
Q: How does FT8 Pro feel vs FT6 Pro and Ribcor/Tacks?
A: Versus FT6 Pro, FT8 Pro is often described as similarly quick but a touch more stable/connected through the blade. Compared to Ribcor (faster toe pop), FT8 Pro is less twitchy; compared to Tacks (more power‑load), it’s quicker and easier to trigger.
Q: What’s the real weight and balance like?
A: Elite‑tier light with a neutral‑to‑slightly blade‑light feel that favors quick hands. Actual grams vary by length and year; balance shifts with big cuts. If weight matters, ask for scale photos and a balance‑point measurement from the butt‑end.
Q: Blade feel: dampened or pingy?
A: Most players describe a controlled, slightly dampened blade—clean receptions and predictable puck settle with enough pop for quick release. Tape pattern and curve change feel; thinner toe wraps feel “livelier,” full wraps feel more muted.
Q: What shaft shape does JetSpeed use?
A: The JetSpeed family uses CCM’s rounded‑corner “R‑geometry” style for comfortable hand transitions and quick loading. Many players coming from square shafts find R‑geometry easier for toe drags and quick pulls.
Q: Which curves are common on FT8 Pro (P28, P29, P90TM)?
A: The popular CCM patterns show up: P28 (toe, fastest release), P29 (balanced, Crosby‑style), and P90TM (P90 with a taller toe for control). Stick close to your current pattern for the smoothest transition; switching to P90TM usually shortens the learning curve from P29.
Q: What lies are typical on FT8 Pro curves?
A: Most retail CCM patterns ship in common lies (often 5 or 6, depending on the curve). Upright stance and narrow hands tend to prefer higher lies; deeper knee bend or wider hands often prefer lower lies. Verify the curve/lie code on the sticker.
Q: Is the FT8 Pro durable?
A: Feedback is strong for an elite composite: normal cosmetic wear, with longevity tied to flex choice, cut length, and play style (slappers/faceoffs = more stress). Inspect used sticks for shaft cracks, soft spots, and blade heel/toe separation.
Q: Does the FT8 Pro get “whippy” over time?
A: Any ultra‑light elite stick can feel softer with heavy use. Cutting several inches stiffens flex but may shift balance. If you lean on power‑loads, consider one flex up; if you value toe‑release speed, your current flex may be ideal.
Q: What flex options are available?
A: Common Senior flexes: ~75/80/85/95+, with Intermediate/Junior below. As a rule of thumb, every inch you cut adds roughly 3–5 flex points. Plan final length before choosing flex or test with an end plug first.
Q: Retail FT8 Pro vs Pro Stock—what’s different?
A: Pro stock can change construction, balance, or pattern codes and typically lacks retail warranty. Look for team codes and spec tags. Always confirm uncut length, flex, hand, and pattern from the label before you cut.
Q: Is FT8 Pro good for slapshots and one‑timers?
A: Yes—hybrid kick loads smoothly for controlled slappers and one‑timers without feeling sluggish. If your game is heavy one‑timers from the blue line, match a slightly stiffer flex; if you live off quick snaps in tight, standard flex works well.
Q: What should I check when buying a used FT8 Pro?
A: Verify hand, flex, curve, lie, and cut. Inspect:
- Shaft: cracks or “spongy” spots
- Blade: heel/toe separation or delam
- Hosel/toe: chips or splits Ask for close‑ups of stickers, hosel, and toe.