Bauer vs. CCM Curves: What’s the Difference?
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Explaining P28, P29, P92, and other popular blade patterns with comparisons and advice.
What Is a Stick Curve?
The curve on a hockey stick refers to the shape of the blade — including where it curves, how much it curves, and the angle of the toe. This directly affects your shot release, puck control, passing, and stickhandling.
Both Bauer and CCM offer popular blade patterns with similar shapes but different names, which can be confusing for players and parents. This guide helps break it all down.
Quick Comparison: Bauer vs. CCM Curves
| Bauer Curve | CCM Curve | Curve Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| P92 (Backstrom) | P29 (Crosby) | Mid Curve | All-around play, snapshots, easy puck lift |
| P28 (McDavid) | P28 (McDavid) | Toe Curve | Quick release, toe drags, in-tight stickhandling |
| P88 (Kane) | P40 (MacKinnon) | Mid/Heel Curve | Balanced control, strong backhand, beginners |
| P91A (Staal) | P71 | Heel Curve | Slapshots, zone clears, physical play |
P92 / P29 – The Classic Mid Curve
This is the most widely used curve among players of all ages. It’s easy to lift the puck, great for quick shots, and works for nearly every position. The open blade face helps with lifting the puck on wrist and snap shots.
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Ideal for new players
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Excellent for shooting and passing
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Used by many pros and minor hockey players alike
P28 – The Toe Curve for Quick Hands
The P28 is designed for high-skill players who shoot quickly and handle the puck in tight. The aggressive toe hook makes it easy to toe-drag and snap the puck top corner — but it takes some practice to master.
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Great for toe drags and quick releases
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Not ideal for beginners due to its open face
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Favoured by players like McDavid
P88 / P40 – Balanced and Reliable
This curve has a more closed blade face, with a mid-to-heel curve that gives better control on the backhand and helps with accurate low shots. It’s a great all-around option for players who value balance over flair.
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Excellent backhand performance
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Easier for passing and flat shooting
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Ideal for two-way players or those learning fundamentals
P91A / P71 – Built for Power
The heel curve pushes the flex point toward the back of the blade, making it a good choice for defensemen or power shooters who love slapshots and clearing the zone. Not the best for quick puck movement or finesse.
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Best for slapshots and power shots
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Solid puck control along the boards
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Heavier and stiffer feel
Which Curve Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick guide based on player style:
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All-around / beginner: P92 (Bauer) or P29 (CCM)
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Quick shooter / dangler: P28 (Bauer/CCM)
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Strong passer / backhand user: P88 (Bauer) or P40 (CCM)
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Slapshot-heavy / defense-first: P91A (Bauer) or P71 (CCM)
Final Tips
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Try before you buy — if possible, borrow sticks with different curves from teammates or coaches.
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Stick flex and length impact how a curve performs, so always consider the full stick setup.
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Don’t choose based on a pro’s name — choose based on your actual play style and comfort.
Need Help Picking the Right Stick?
True North Sports offers expert advice and Canada-wide shipping. Whether you're just starting or upgrading, our team can help you find the perfect curve and flex for your game.