Hockey Stick Curves & Blades: The Complete Guide 2025
Which hockey stick curve is right for you? The Ultimate Guide to Hockey Stick Curves 2025
In this guide, we'll show you everything you need to know about curves on hockey sticks. We've created a detailed blade chart that compares the curves of all brands. Additionally, we measured all the curves and illustrated them with images and statistics. So, if you want to learn more about curves on hockey sticks, this is the right guide for you.
There are so many options when it comes to blades. How can you be sure you've chosen the right one? Actually, you're the best person to determine which is right for you. But you don't even know where to start? Let me give you some basic information, perhaps it will help narrow down your search. Your first stick will be your learning curve to discover what you like and dislike. On our product page or in the image, you can see which blades we have on offer.
Which curve is suitable for a center in hockey? Which curve is suitable for a winger in hockey? Which curve is suitable for a defender in hockey?
Introduction to Curves in Hockey Sticks
What hockey stick curves are available? 9 images per curve, including measurements:
1. P92 (Bauer), P29 (CCM), A92 (ABSHockey)
2. P92M (Bauer), P29M (CCM), A92M (ABSHockey) (M stands for Maximum Height)
3. P88 (Bauer, CCM), A88 (ABSHockey)
4. P28 (Bauer, CCM), A28 (ABSHockey)
5. P28M (Bauer, CCM), A28M (ABSHockey) (M stands for Maximum Height)
6. P90TM (Bauer, CCM), A90TM (ABSHockey)
7. P91A (Bauer), P06 / P15 (CCM), A91A (ABSHockey)
8. P02 (Bauer), A02 (ABSHockey)
9. P14 (Bauer), A14 (ABSHockey)
10. PM9 (Bauer), P34 (CCM), AM9 (ABSHockey)
11. P77 (Bauer / no longer available), A77 (ABSHockey)
12. Crazy Ovi P08 (Bauer), A08 (ABSHockey)
Curve Chart: A comparison table across all brands.
Pros & Cons of Different Hockey Stick Curves
Top 5 Mistakes When Choosing a Curve – And How to Avoid Them
Rounded vs. Square Curves: A breakdown of how blade shape affects control and puck contact.
How Many NHL Players Use My Curve: A diagram analyzing professional usage statistics.
Introduction to curves in Hockey Sticks
What kind of playing style do you have?
Your playing style can have a significant impact on which type of curve/blade you prefer. A forward who likes to dribble with the stick might prefer a different blade compared to a forward who likes to maneuver around the goalkeeper. Let's look at the individual positions:
Center: The center executes the majority of passes and serves as the quarterback in hockey. They take faceoffs, move within the zone, and are wherever they're needed. Often, they position themselves in front of the net for shots from higher in the slot and to be accessible from behind the goal line in the high slot. They frequently initiate plays and are often the creative force of a line.
Blades commonly chosen by centers include: A92, A92M, and A90TM. A flatter blade makes it much easier to win faceoffs and direct the puck accurately, especially on the backhand. Additionally, the curves mentioned above provide more surface area for tip-ins, making deflections in the air easier. However, this isn’t the only option. Perhaps you might prefer a larger toe curve (e.g., A28) if you're a technical player who often incorporates toe drags into your gameplay.
Winger: I think wingers have the most options when it comes to blades because there are several types of wingers. Wingers can use almost any blade they feel comfortable with. Some wingers, like Kucherov, are technicians, while others prefer dump-and-chase play, like Zack Hyman. Therefore, it depends more on your playing style than your position as a winger.
If you enjoy stickhandling or are a beginner, you should try a mid-curve or mid-toe curve blade (like the A88 or AM9). Patrick Kane uses the A88, and Steven Stamkos uses the AM9. These curves provide the greatest comfort for stickhandling as well as shooting on the forehand and backhand. They also offer high accuracy for passes and shots. For beginners, they’re forgiving and can compensate for occasional mistakes.
If you like shooting into the top corners, you should consider a blade with a mid-toe or toe curve (like the A92 or A14). Countless players, such as MacKinnon and Matthews, use the A92. The A14 is rarer, but for example, Jonathan Toews uses it. Many NHL wingers also opt for large toe hooks (e.g., A28), like Nikita Kucherov. A toe hook adds more speed and precision to shots without needing to fully load the stick. This toe-drag shot is now seen in every NHL game. The toe hook also allows you to flatten the puck on a shot, creating a smooth trajectory.
Defender: Lastly, we have defenders. Many defenders prefer a heel curve or a mid-heel curve. The large, flat surface makes it easier to control the puck and execute long, precise passes. Depending on the league, you might favor a powerful slap shot from the point. The heel curve allows for effective shooting from the blue line. It also helps you sink pucks from the blue line and lift them out of the zone with greater ease.
That said, not all defenders are the same. If you're the type of defender who enjoys stickhandling and actively joining the play, you might opt for a neutral or mid curve instead of a heel curve. As you can see, different curves offer distinct advantages for various positions. However, these are just guidelines, not set rules. You could be a forward who prefers a deep heel curve or a defender who feels most comfortable with a toe curve. The key is finding what works for you.
I’m sure many of you already know your position and are familiar with its demands. But if you’re new to hockey and unsure about positions, check out this article from the NHL. It provides a detailed explanation of the roles of different players.
What types of hockey stick curves are there? 9 images per curve, including measurements.
1. P92 (Bauer), P29 (CCM), A92 (ABSHockey)
Players: Matthews, Backström, Sakic
Curve: Mid-Toe
Face: Open
Toe: Round
Length: Medium
LIE: 6
A92 Forehand
A92 from above angle 1
A92 from above angle 2
A92 Backhand
A92 Height Toe, 75mm
A92 Height Heel, 63mm
A92 Width Toe, 4mm
A92 Width Heel, 7mm
A92 Length, 27cm
2. P92M (Bauer), P29M (CCM), A92M (ABSHockey) (M stands for Max Height)
Note: Same curve as A92 with slightly more height.
Players: Pettersson, Tkachuk
Curve: Mid-Toe
Face: Open
Toe: Round
Length: Medium
LIE: 6
A92M Forehand
A92M from above angle 1
A92M from above angle 2
A92M Backhand
A92M Length, 27.5cm
A92M Height Toe, 77mm
A92M Height Heel, 71mm
A92M Width Toe, 5mm
A92M Width Heel, 7mm
3. P88 (Bauer, CCM), A88 (ABSHockey)
Players: Patrick Kane
Curve: Mid
Face: Slightly Open
Toe: Round
Length: Medium
LIE: 6
A88 (Backhand)
A88 from above angle 1
A88 from above angle 2
A88 Forehand
A88 Length, 27cm
A88 Height Toe, 72mm
A88 Height Heel, 63mm
A88 Width Toe, 5mm
A88 Width Heel, 8mm
4. P28 (Bauer, CCM), A28 (ABSHockey)
Players: Jack Eichel, Claude Giroux
Curve: Toe
Face: Open
Toe: Round
Length: Medium
LIE: 5
A28 Forehand
A28 from above angle 1
A28 from above angle 2
A28 Backhand
5. P28M (Bauer, CCM), A28M (ABSHockey) (M steht für Maximale Höhe)
Note: Same curve as A28 with slightly more height.
Curve: Toe
Face: Open
Toe: Round
Length: Medium
LIE: 5
A28M Backhand
A28M from above angle 2
A28M from above angle 2
A28M Backhand
A28M Length, 28.5cm
A28M Height Toe, 78mm
A28M Height Heel, 71mm
A28M Width Heel, 5mm
A28M Width Toe, 7mm
6. P90TM (Bauer, CCM), A90TM (ABSHockey)
Players: Connor McDavid, John Tavares, Jamie Benn
Curve: Mid
Face: Open
Toe: Round
Length: Medium
LIE: 5.5
A90TM Forehand
A90TM from above angle 1
A90TM from above angle 2
A90TM Backhand
A90TM Length, 27cm
A90TM Height Toe, 75mm
A90TM Height Heel, 64mm
A90TM Width Toe, 5mm
A90TM Width Heel, 7mm
7. P91A (Bauer), P06 / P15 (CCM), A91A (ABSHockey)
Curve: Mid-Heel
Face: Open
Toe: Round
Length: Medium
LIE: 6
A91A Backhand
A91A from above angle 1
A91A from above angle 2
A91A Forehand
A91A Length, 27.5cm
A91A Width Toe, 5mm
A91A Width Heel, 7mm
8. P02 (Bauer), A02 (ABSHockey)
Curve: Heel
Face: Open
Toe: Square
Length: Lang
LIE: 7
A02 Backhand
A02 from above angle 1
A02 from above angle 2
A02 Forehand
A02 Length, 28cm
A02 Height Toe, 74mm
A02 Height Heel, 62mm
A02 Width Toe, 3mm
A02 Width Heel, 6mm
9. P14 (Bauer), A14 (ABSHockey)
Players: Jonathan Toews
Curve: Mid-Toe
Face: Slightly Open
Toe: Round
Length: Medium
LIE: 6
A14 Backhand
A14 from above angle 1
A14 from above angle 2
A14 Forehand
A14 Length, 26.5cm
A14 Height Toe, 67mm
A14 Width Toe, 4.5mm
A14 Width Heel, 7mm
10. PM9 (Bauer), P34 (CCM), AM9 (ABSHockey)
Players: Steven Stamkos
Curve: Mid-Heel
Face: Slightly Open
Toe: Round
Length: Medium
LIE: 5
AM9 Backhand
AM9 from above angle 1
AM9 from above angle 2
AM9 Forehand
AM9 Length, 26.5cm
AM9 Height Toe, 72mm
AM9 Height Heel, 63mm
AM9 Width Toe, 5mm
AM9 Width Heel, 7mm
11. P77 (Bauer / nicht mehr verfügbar), A77 (ABSHockey)
Players: Paul Coffey
Curve: Mid
Face: Open
Toe: Round
Length: Lange
LIE: 5.5
A77 Backhand
A77 from above angle 1
A77 from above angle 2
A77 Forehand
A77 Length, 25cm
A77 Height Toe, 73mm
A77 Height Heel, 62mm
A77 Width Toe, 4mm
A77 Width Heel, 7mm
12. Crazy Ovi P08 (Bauer), A08 (ABSHockey)
Players: früher Ovechkin (Crazy Ovi)
Curve: Toe
Face: Open
Toe: Round
Length: Medium
LIE: 6
(Pics coming soon)
ABSHockey Blade and Curve-Chart
| ABSHockey | CCM | Bauer | Warrior | True | Sherwood |
| A92 | P29 | P92 | W03 | TC2 | PP26 |
| A92M | P29M | P92M | M03 | PP92MX | |
| A28 | P28 | P28 | W28 | TC4 | PP28 |
| A28M | P28M | P28M | M28 | PP28MX | |
| A90TM | P90/P90TM | P90TM | |||
| A88 | P88 | W88 | MC | PP88 | |
| AM9 | P14 | PM9 | W01 | MC2 | PP96 |
| A91A | P15/P6/P38 | P91A | W05 | HCR | P20 |
| A02 | P20 | früher P02 | W02 | HCS | PP05 |
| A14 | P49 | P14 | W14 | ||
| A08 | P77 | P08 Crazy Ovi | W11 | TC3 | |
| A77 |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Hockey Stick Curves
A92 / P29 / P92 / W03 / TC2 / PP26
Advantages:
✔️ Versatile – great for passing, shooting, and stickhandling
✔️ Perfect for players who use both wrist shots and slap shots
✔️ One of the most popular curves due to its ease of control
Disadvantages:
❌ Less specialized – better options exist for specific shooting techniques ❌ Less suitable for extremely quick wrist shots compared to, for instance, the A28
A92M / P29M / P92M / M03 / PP92MX (Max-Version of P92)
Advantages:
✔️ Similar benefits to the A92, but with slightly more height for improved pass reception, better faceoff opportunities, and enhanced deflections
✔️ Good balance between passing, shooting, and stickhandling
Disadvantages:
❌ Balance shifts compared to the A92 due to increased surface area and blade weight
❌ Shooting and passing behavior changes compared to the A92
A28 / P28 / W28 / TC4 / PP28
Advantages:
✔️ Perfect for quick wrist shots and snapshots
✔️ Provides more leverage when shooting >
✔️ Ideal for players who frequently shoot from tight angles
Disadvantages:
❌ Requires solid puck control – more challenging for beginners
❌ Can be less accurate for backhand passes, as the puck tends to "slip away"
A28M / P28M / P28M / M28 / PP28MX (Max-Version of P28)
Advantages:
✔️ Even better for one-timers and wrist shots from tight angles
✔️ Slightly more control when passing compared to the standard A28
Disadvantages:
❌ Similar to the A28: Challenging for beginners
❌ Balance shifts compared to the A28 due to increased blade surface and weight
❌ Shooting and passing behavior changes compared to the A28
A90TM / P90 / P90TM / P90A
Advantages:
✔️ Even better for one-timers and wrist shots from tight angles
✔️ Slightly more control when passing compared to the standard A28
Disadvantages:
❌ Similar to the A28: Challenging for beginners
❌ Balance shifts compared to the A28 due to increased blade surface and weight
❌ Shooting and passing behavior changes compared to the A28
A88 / P88 / W88 / MC / PP88
Advantages:
✔️ Highly versatile – excellent for passing, stickhandling, and various shooting techniques
✔️ Lesser curve makes backhand passes and shots easier
✔️ Ideal for players who prioritize puck control
Disadvantages:
❌ Provides less support for quick wrist shots
❌ Not optimal for one-timers
AM9 / P14 / PM9 / W01 / MC2 / PP96
Advantages:
✔️ Perfect for playmakers who excel at precise passing
✔️ Very neutral – both forehand and backhand are easy to use
✔️ Controlled shot release
Disadvantages:
❌ Less optimal for powerful wrist shots or slap shots
❌ Offers limited support for one-timers
A91A / P15 / P6 / P38 / P91A / W05 / HCR / P20
Advantages:
✔️ Perfect for slap shots and powerful one-timers
✔️ Increased precision for hard shots
Disadvantages:
❌ Less effective for quick stickhandling
❌ Not ideal for tight game situations
A02 / P20 / früher P02 / W02 / HCS / PP05
Advantages:
✔️ Excellent for larger players with significant leverage
✔️ Suitable for power-forwards who play a physical game
Disadvantages:
❌ Less precise for quick wrist shots
❌ Backhand play is more challenging
A14 / P49 / P14 / W14
Advantages:
✔️ Supports wrist shots with good leverage
✔️ Precise for targeted shots
Disadvantages:
❌ Less convenient for quick passes
❌ Backhand play can be challenging
A77 (Exotische Biegung, nicht weit verbreitet)
Advantages:
✔️ Specifically tailored for unique playing styles
Disadvantages:
❌ Not widely used – challenging to adapt to this curve
A08 / P77 / P08 Crazy Ovi / W11 / TC3
(Image to follow)
Advantages:
✔️ Very open – perfect for extreme wrist shots
✔️ Excellent for players who often shoot from the side
Disadvantages:
❌ Extremely difficult to control for beginners
❌ Backhand play is nearly impossible
Top 5 Mistakes When Choosing a Hockey Stick Curve – How to Avoid Them
Choosing the right hockey stick curve is crucial for your shooting accuracy, puck control, and passing quality. However, many players – whether beginners or experienced – make mistakes that negatively affect their game. Here are the most common mistakes when selecting a curve and how you can avoid them.
Mistake 1: Curve too open for beginners – Shots often go over the net
Problem: While a large curve makes powerful shots easier, it can be challenging for beginners. Especially with slap shots or quick wrist shots, the puck often flies too high and misses the net.
Solution: Beginners should start with a moderate curve. This offers a good balance between shooting power and control. With more experience, they can switch to more aggressive curves.
Mistake 2: Incorrect Lie Angle – Puck control suffers
Problem: The lie angle (e.g., Lie 5 or Lie 6) determines how the blade rests on the ice. Choosing the wrong lie can result in the toe or heel constantly lifting off the ice. This hampers puck control and causes unnecessary mispasses.
Solution: Players with an upright stance should choose a higher lie (Lie 6). Players with a lower stance need a lower lie (Lie 5). A good test: Stand in your typical playing position and check if the entire blade lies flat on the ice.
Mistake 3: Curve too big for pass-oriented players – Less precise passes
Problem: An extreme curve (A28/P28) makes backhand passes more difficult, as the blade offers almost no contact point on the backhand. Many players struggle to make quick, precise backhand passes.
Solution: Players who focus on passing should opt for a moderate curve. If you still prefer an aggressive curve, practice backhand passes and puck handling on the backhand.
Mistake 4: Curve not suited to playing style
Problem: Many players choose a curve based on trends or because an NHL player uses it. However, the wrong curve can significantly hinder your game.
Solution: Choose a curve that fits your playing style, not that of your idol!
Mistake 5: Insufficient testing and adjustments
Problem: Many players order just any curve without trying out different options first. This can lead to the stick not being optimal for their playing style.
Solution: Test different curves during practice or with friends. Use ABSHockey's custom options to find the perfect curve for your game. If you're unsure, contact us – we’ll help you make the right choice!
Are you considering other blade features?
Square Blade vs. Round Blade?
Surely you've noticed that some blades have square curves while others are rounded. Have you ever wondered why? The round tip helps you perform the so-called toe drag and keeps more of the blade on the ice to guide the puck. If you like doing that, make sure you have a round tip on your stick. The square blade helps when picking up pucks along the boards. The square blade fits well and right angles to the boards, preventing the puck from slipping under or over the blade's edge. You'll also notice that most goalie sticks have very square blades for this reason. When the puck goes behind the goal, they can easily stop it. If you're struggling with losing the puck along the boards, consider a square blade on your stick.
How many NHL players use my curve (diagram)
Pie chart of the top 50 NHL point scorers in 2023
If you're interested in buying a stick that's tailored to you, visit our product page and configure your personal stick with size, blade, name, and everything else that goes along with it. A good source for further information on choosing blades, sticks, and models is www.thestickguru.com.