If you’ve ever used the P92 blade pattern, you already know it’s one of the most popular hockey stick curves of all time. But just because it’s popular doesn’t mean every player knows how to actually use it to its full potential—especially in ball hockey. The P92 is all about maximizing your shot mechanics, puck (ball) control, and release timing.
Let’s break down how to use it effectively, what kickpoint matters most for ball hockey, and my honest comparison of the latest stick models from Bauer and CCM.
What Makes the P92 Special?
The P92 has a mid-curve, open face blade with a slightly rounded toe. It’s a shooter’s curve. Great for:
- Snapshots and wristers
- Saucer passes
- Lifting the ball quickly from close range
- General puck control for toe drags and quick releases
But here’s the key: to fully unlock the P92, your body mechanics and timing need to be dialed in. In ball hockey, that means using your legs to generate torque, snapping your wrists, and understanding how the blade launches the ball differently than on ice.
P92 With Low Kick vs Mid Kick Sticks
This matters more than most players think. Ball hockey isn’t ice. You don’t glide into shots. You run. You plant. You need different energy transfer.
- Low Kick (e.g., Bauer Hyperlite, Trigger 10): Great for quick release shots. These sticks flex low near the blade, making it ideal for fast, deceptive snapshots. I find them perfect when I have no time and need to just get the ball off quickly. But for slapshots or heavy snap shots from your legs, the low kick sometimes feels too “whippy.”
- Mid Kick (e.g., Bauer Proto-R): Better for players who load up their stick with their legs. I personally like mid kicks when I want more power and control in my release. Especially when shooting from deeper in the zone or using a full windup. You can feel the stick load and recoil.
My Take: In ball hockey, I find a mid-kick works better for my shot style. It gives me more power without overflexing. But if you’re more of a quick release shooter or smaller player, a low kick might suit you better.
Bauer vs CCM P92 Options (2025)
I’ve tested almost every top-end stick for ball hockey. Here are the ones I’ve personally tried with a P92 (or similar) curve:
1. Bauer Proto-R
- Kick: Mid
- Feel: Light but solid
- Use: Great for players who like to load up
- Notes: I like this best for slapshots and deep-zone shooting. It’s a more balanced feel.
- https://ca.bauer.com/collections/proto-r-hockey-sticks
2. Bauer Hyperlite 2
- Kick: Low
- Feel: Extremely lightweight
- Use: Quick release specialists
- Notes: This is the lightest stick I’ve tried with a P92. Awesome for quick wristers but can feel flimsy when leaning into it.
- https://ca.bauer.com/products/vapor-hyperlite2-stick-senior
3. Bauer Flylite (new gen)
- Kick: Low
- Feel: Light and responsive
- Use: Snipers
- Notes: I liked this more than I expected. Solid for ball hockey if you keep your shots quick and compact.
- https://ca.bauer.com/products/bauer-vapor-flylite-grip-stick-senior
4. CCM Trigger 10
- Kick: Low
- Feel: Pingy
- Use: Snapshots only
- Notes: Super quick release, but not my favourite for ball hockey. A little too heavy for my style.
- https://ca.ccmhockey.com/en/Sticks/Shop-All-Sticks/Ribcor-Sticks/HSRC10P-SR.html
5. CCM FT8/9 Pro
- Kick: Hybrid
- Feel: Strong and stiff
- Use: Stronger players who like control
- Notes: Really good if you like leaning into your shot. But heavier than Bauer options.
- https://ca.ccmhockey.com/en/Sticks/Shop-All-Sticks/JetSpeed-Sticks/HSFT8PCB-SR.html
Final Thoughts
If you use a P92 and play ball hockey, it all comes down to how you shoot. Are you ripping wrist shots off the run? Go low kick. Are you loading up your legs and shooting through screens? Go mid kick.
For me personally, I lean Bauer because I like the lighter feel. The Proto-R is my go-to because I get that controlled mid kick with minimal weight.
But no matter what you use, make sure your blade stays flat on the ground (ball hockey isn’t as forgiving), and time your shot based on the kick point. That’s the real secret to making the P92 sing.