Six Zero Black Diamond and Double Black Diamond Review

Overview

Six Zero's Black Diamond and Double Black Diamond are two closely related thermoformed paddles with foam-injected edges. The Black Diamond is the power-oriented model and uses a proprietary raw composite face. The Double Black Diamond is the control-oriented model and uses a Toray T700 raw carbon fiber face.

Cosmetically, the Black Diamond has a grayed-out logo on the grip tape and edge guard, while the Double Black Diamond has a white logo and extra geometric shapes etched into the face.

Design and Construction

Retailer and reviewer specs for the pair list a traditional shape about 16.3 inches long and 7.5 to 7.7 inches wide, with a roughly 5.3 to 5.5 inch handle, a 4.25 inch grip circumference and an average weight of around 8 ounces. The Double Black Diamond is sold with 14 mm and 16 mm cores. Check the exact core thickness of the version you are buying.

The longer handle suits players who like a two-handed backhand.

Power and Control

The Black Diamond is the more powerful of the two, with a feel some players describe as a firm wooden board with a soft pillow on top. The Double Black Diamond is softer and more forgiving, with a smoother surface than many raw carbon paddles. That makes touch shots such as hybrid drives, drops, dinks, resets and rolls easier to execute.

Spin and Sweet Spot

Both paddles give usable spin, but raw carbon faces such as the Double Black Diamond's are generally the more spin-friendly. The Double Black Diamond is the more forgiving of the two on off-center hits, while the Black Diamond rewards cleaner contact with more pop.

Attacking Play

The Black Diamond suits attacking players. In my impressions it produced good speed and spin on drives and put-aways. The main downside I noticed was some vibration on hard-hit balls.

Control Play

The Double Black Diamond suits control-minded players. I was able to place shots precisely, and the extra forgiveness helped with resets and blocks. It feels a little heavier than some paddles, but many players will like the stability.

Conclusion

If you want more power, the Black Diamond is the pick. If you want more control, forgiveness and touch, the Double Black Diamond is the better fit. Either one is a solid choice for a player who wants a thermoformed, foam-edged paddle with a firm feel.