Ever heard of the Tomahawk shot? If you’ve been keeping an eye on the pro pickleball scene, you might have noticed this exciting new technique gaining traction. Popularized by the legendary Jeff Warnick and perfected by top pros like Zane Navratil, the Tomahawk shot is becoming a must-try move for serious players.
Let’s dive into why the Tomahawk is so special, who should use it, and how you can add it to your game.
The Origins of the Tomahawk
The Tomahawk shot was pioneered by Jeff Warnick, known for his unconventional playing style. Unlike the standard continental grip most players use, Jeff flips his paddle over with a semi-western grip, giving him better wrist snap and extra reach.
This led to the development of the Tomahawk shot—a powerful and creative way to handle high backhand shots with more control and force.
Take a look at how it’s done:
Who Should Use the Tomahawk?
The Tomahawk isn’t for every player, but if you often find yourself struggling with high backhand shots or need more reach to smash those floaters at the kitchen line, the Tomahawk could be your solution.
It’s perfect for players who are comfortable with quick grip changes and want to add more power and angles to their game.
It’s especially useful for:
- Players who find backhand overheads awkward
- Those looking for an extra offensive weapon at the net
- Anyone who wants to surprise opponents with unpredictable angles
When to Use the Tomahawk
This shot shines when you’re dealing with high, slow-moving balls that come to your backhand side. Instead of hitting a traditional backhand volley or overhead, the Tomahawk allows you to generate more power and create tricky angles.
You’ll want to use it sparingly, as it requires time to adjust your grip, but it can be devastating when timed right.
Best situations to use the Tomahawk:
- High balls near the kitchen line
- Backhand overheads that are tough to put away
- When you need to extend your reach for a better shot
Is the Tomahawk Right for Your Skill Level?
The Tomahawk shot is best suited for intermediate and advanced players (4.0+). At these levels, opponents are skilled enough to handle traditional backhand volleys, so adding the Tomahawk gives you an edge.
The extra reach and power can help you end points quickly. However, if you’re a beginner or just mastering the fundamentals, focus on getting comfortable with standard backhand shots before adding the Tomahawk to your arsenal.
How to Execute the Tomahawk
Now, let’s talk technique. Here’s how to pull off the Tomahawk like a pro:
1. Start in the backhand position: Prepare as if you’re about to hit a backhand volley or overhead.
2. Rotate your wrist inward: Imagine you’re checking the time on your watch—this wrist rotation shifts the paddle into position for the Tomahawk.
Extend your reach: You’ll notice an extra 3-5 inches of reach as you rotate your wrist, perfect for reaching deep into the kitchen.
Snap your wrist: Just before making contact with the ball, snap your wrist to add power and spin.
Smash the ball: Hit the ball with a strong, clean motion, aiming for sharp angles and placement.
Take a look as pro player Zane Navratil breaks down the Tomahawk shot—fully explained in under 3 minutes:
3 Key Tips for Mastering the Tomahawk
- Nail the grip change: Practice shifting from a continental grip to a semi-western grip and back again. It’s crucial to make this transition smooth and fast.
- Maximize your reach: The Tomahawk adds a few extra inches of reach, so use this to your advantage—especially at the kitchen line.
- Surprise your opponents: Because it’s not a widely used shot, the Tomahawk can catch your opponents off guard. Use it strategically to create difficult angles and end rallies.
What the Pros Say About the Tomahawk
Zane Navratil is a big fan of the Tomahawk, praising it for its ability to extend your reach and put more power into your backhand overheads. According to Navratil, the shot can give you an extra 4-5 inches of reach—something that makes a big difference in those tight rallies at the net.
Coaches agree that the Tomahawk is a great weapon to add to your game once you’ve mastered the basics. It’s not something you’ll use on every point, but when the opportunity presents itself, it’s a fantastic way to gain the upper hand.
Should You Add the Tomahawk to Your Game?
If you’re looking to take your game up a notch, the Tomahawk shot could be a powerful tool. It’s ideal for players who want to add more offensive firepower, especially in fast-paced net play. That said, it’s important to use it sparingly and only in the right situations—overusing the Tomahawk can make you predictable.
So, next time you’re on the court, give the Tomahawk a try. With a little practice, it could become your new go-to shot for winning those tough points!
