Hockey Stick Review: CCM Ultra Tacks

Update August 31, 2017: CCM Ultra Tacks appears to be off the market at most sellers. Limited quantities are available of the intermediate and junior models.

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An upgrade on the original Tacks models, the CCM Ultra Tacks improves all aspects of the already-fine stick. Lighter, stronger, and more durable than ever, the “Ultra” in its name is well-justified.

From the Manufacturer

CCM Ultra Tacks: Construction

The CCM Ultra Tacks is a one-piece stick with a fused shaft and blade. The shaft features CCM’s Bumper Technology Reinforcement, four strips of material molded into the inside of the slightly-rounded corners, improving durability. The taper is slight and gradual.

The matte blade boasts CCM’s lightweight Ultra AttackFrame™ core with two reinforced bridges that run the length of the blade beneath a strengthened outer frame. Thus improved, the blade offers greater durability and shot velocity over previous Tacks models.

CCM Ultra Tacks: Specifications

• One piece
• Length:
  • Senior: 60-64 in (longer sticks come in higher flexes)
  • Intermediate: 57 in
  • Junior: 52 in
• Weight: 425 grams
• Flex: 75, 85, 95, and 105 (higher flex sticks are longer)
• Kick point: Mid
• Blade patterns and lies:
  • P15-Galchenyuk: heel curve, open face, round toe
  • P29-Crosby: mid curve, open face, round toe
  • P40-Hossa: heel curve, open face, square toe; Lie 7
  • P45-Tavares: mid curve, closed face, round toe; Lie 5
  • P46-Bergeron: toe curve, closed face, square toe; Lie 6
• Grip: Yes, with extra texture in various sections of the shaft

CCM Ultra Tacks: Our Take

Any occasion when an upgrade on an already good product comes along, which CCM did in 2015 with the Ultra take on its Tacks line, is to be celebrated. CCM hockey sticks got much better with Ultra Tacks. it is lighter and more durable, providing better value for the not-so-small price tag.

Goal scorers who require accurate shots, particularly wristers and snap shots, will appreciate the Ultra Tacks‘ mid-kick point, common to all the CCM Tacks models. The reinforcements in the shaft edges, with additional material that prevents the separation of graphite layers, boost resistance to slashes. The stronger shaft makes the stick feel sturdy while retaining lightness. The yellow accents on the black shaft lend the Ultra Tacks a recognizable, cutting-edge image; the placement of the accents helps you determine the ideal hand position at the kick point.

Reinforcements of the blade make it stiffer, which reduces torsion and twisting of the blade when shooting. The stiff blade, in turn, helps your shot in terms of reliability and consistency. Many players highlight the blade’s puck feel and responsiveness as superior to Ultra Tacks’ competitors. At the same time, the blade is several grams lighter than its predecessors (it is, in fact the lightest blade CCM has ever made).

The stronger shaft and blade jointly aid durability, providing the same feel throughout the stick’s lifespan. The CCM Ultra Tacks stick is one of the more durable composite sticks on the market, in CCM’s lineup anyway. As well, the strength of the stick’s shaft and blade combined with lower flexes make it a versatile piece of hockey equipment.

High-profile ice hockey players who have used the CCM Ultra Tacks stick include David Perron, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Filip Forsberg, and Pavel Datsyuk.

CCM Ultra Tacks blade.

CCM Ultra Tacks: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Durable
• Light
• Versatile

Cons

• Price

CCM Ultra Tacks: Verdict

Lighter, stronger, and more durable than its antecedents (as well as most composite sticks), CCM Ultra Tacks will impress all goal scorers with a few extra dollars to invest.

Check price and availability of CCM Ultra Tacks »

Can’t decide? Check out our guide to the best hockey sticks.