I quickly realized that while games are fun, drills have been crucial for improving my pickleball skills and overall enjoyment. I even find them fun! Drills let you focus on specific skills, especially solo drills where you control the variables. They’re convenient, too—you can practice anywhere, anytime, without needing a court or partner. A good pitching machine also helps.
In August, I reviewed the Furlihong pitching machine – model 3802PBH (full review here), giving it 4 out of 5 balls for value. Recently, I tested their 681PBH model with the NT01 recycling net, which feeds balls back for continuous practice.
After a few weeks of using this setup by my garage, I’m impressed. It’s easy to set up, with adjustable speed and auto swing, so I’m rating it 4.25 out of 5 balls.
This Furlihong pickleball machine releases a ball every 4 seconds, with adjustable height from 3.6ft ~ 7.0ft , and distance from 13.5ft ~ 18ft. Perfectly suited for solo drills.
The Furlihong Recycling System Net offers seamless ball return for nonstop practice, with a stable, lightweight net that’s easy to transport and compatible with select Furlihong machines—no more chasing balls!
Pitching Machine: Model 681PBH
By The Numbers
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 29″ tall x 11.4″ x 9″ base |
| Ball Capacity | Holds 19 balls |
| Pitching Speeds | 4 speeds |
| Height Angles | 3 adjustable angles |
| Pitching Interval | Every 4 seconds |
| Height Range | 3 to 8 feet |
| Distance Range | 18 to 22 feet |
| Warranty | 12 months |
| Price | $119.00 |
Nuts And Nolts
- Made primarily of durable plastic
- Auto swing control base
- Powered by D batteries, AC power (included), OR a rechargeable power bank (sold separate)
- Includes all power cords
- Additional feeding tracks available to increase ball capacity (sold separately)
Recycling Net: Model NT01
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 7′ tall x 6.2′ wide x 3.5′ deep |
| Weight | 8 lbs |
| Warranty | 180 days |
| Price | $112.99 |
Nuts And Bolts
- Powder coated steel frame
- Poly net with buffer net
- Storage/carry case
Game On… the Play Testing
Unboxing the 681PBH: First Impressions
When I opened the box for the Furlihong 681PBH pitching machine, I was curious to see how it compared to the 3802PBH model I reviewed over the summer. The size and performance specs were similar, but I noticed one immediate difference: this model uses a pitching paddle instead of pitching wheels to launch the balls.
It retained other familiar features like speed, vertical angle, and auto horizontal swing controls, as well as the versatile power options (battery, AC power, charging bank) and a spiral track that holds 19 balls. Unlike the 3802PBH, though, the 681PBH doesn’t have spin control—not a big deal for me.
Set-Up: Recycling Net for Efficient Drills
A Furlihong representative recommended pairing the 681PBH with their recycling net, which better suits the 681PBH’s shorter pitching range, making it easier to accurately aim into the net. The net setup was quick and intuitive: it took about five minutes to assemble the steel poles and attach the poly net. I appreciated the vertical buffer net, designed to slow down balls as they hit, and the entire setup was light and easy to move around.
Next, I connected the machine to the net by aligning it with the net’s feeding collar, adjusting the spiral track to match the collar’s height, and plugged it into an extension cord. I was ready to test it out.
Performance: Speed, Control, and Realistic Play
I loaded the track with seven balls and started the machine on its lowest speed. Within seconds, the first ball launched, with a loud “thunk” from the paddle—about as loud as a real paddle-ball impact. While the sound was a bit distracting, the machine reliably pitched balls at consistent intervals.
Over the next half hour, I tried different speeds, distances, and heights for a variety of shots. The recycling net caught each ball and fed it back into the collar, allowing continuous practice without stopping to reload. The machine also handled lobs, dinks, and volleys well, and the auto swing feature added challenge by requiring lateral movement, simulating real-game scenarios.
A Few Adjustments for Optimal Use
The pitching paddle was a bit loud, and I also noticed the machine slowly slid forward on the concrete after repeated pitches, eventually losing alignment with the feeding collar. A quick fix: I secured the machine with a rubber tie-down around the net pole, and it stayed in place.
Using the height and side-to-side swing adjustments, I found it easy to adjust the machine for specific shots, although it took a few tries to position it optimally on the court.
Great for Extended Drills, with Some Trade-offs
After two weeks and over 400 hits, I’m impressed with the 681PBH and recycling net setup. Two other players tried it as well and enjoyed the realistic reps, although the paddle noise was noted as a potential drawback for home use.
The recycling net is a big bonus, allowing for uninterrupted, extended practice sessions without the hassle of reloading after every 19 balls. This setup offers consistent, effective practice for a variety of shots, making it a valuable training tool.
The Final Score
| Category | Rating (Out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Design/Build | 4.25 |
| Assembly and Operation | 4.25 |
| Performance | 4.25 |
| Price Point/Value | 5 |
| Overall | 4.25 |
Much like the 3802PBH, the 681PBH delivers strong performance for budget-conscious players, beginners, and intermediates looking to get in quality drill reps. When paired with the recycling net, it becomes a solid practice system that’s easy to transport and use, thanks to its flexible power options (batteries, charging bank, or AC).
I’d rate it a perfect 5 balls if not for the noise—though a bit loud, it’s comparable to the sound of balls popping off paddles, and because it has some limitations on variety of shots. Overall, minor trade-offs for reliable practice at a great price.
Pickle on my friends, pickle on…
