P92 vs P28: Which Hockey Stick Curve Should You Choose?

Blade profile of an ICEFORGE ELITE hockey stick

Choose P92 if you want one curve for passing, receiving and shooting. Choose P28 if you pull the puck in close, use toe drags and want to lift it fast. If you have never played either one, P92 is the easier place to start. If you already like one of them, stay with it.

P92 P28
Where the curve sits Mid Toward the toe (mid-toe)
Lie (Bauer listing) 6 5
Face Open Open
Toe Round Round
Often chosen for Puck control, passing, wrist and snap shots Toe drags, quick release, lift from in close

Specs in this table come from Bauer's blade pattern guide. Curve names are shared across the market, but details can differ by brand. Retailers also vary: HockeyMonkey lists a lie of 5–6 for both. If you are switching brands, compare the two blades side by side.

The real difference: where the puck sits

A mid curve bends near the center of the blade. A toe curve bends closer to the end. That changes where the puck tends to live on your blade and how easily it comes up.

Choose P92 if

  • You want one curve that does a bit of everything
  • Clean passes and easy receiving matter most to you
  • You shoot mostly wrist and snap shots
  • You are not sure yet

Choose P28 if

  • You handle the puck toward the toe of your blade
  • You use toe drags and pull the puck in tight
  • You want to get pucks up quickly from close range
  • You are willing to spend time learning it

Weak spots to know about

P28 asks more from you. Pro Stock Hockey notes that toe curves can be less predictable on simple passes, and HockeyMonkey calls P28 one of the harder patterns to learn and control because of the lift it creates. P92 is less specialized, so a player who lives on toe drags may prefer P28.

Common questions

Is P28 better than P92 for shooting?

Neither is better for everyone. P28 suits quick, elevated shots from in close. P92 is a more balanced choice across wrist and snap shots.

Is P92 good for beginners?

It is a common starting point. HockeyMonkey describes it as a great starter pattern.

Is P28 good for defensemen?

It can be, but curve choice depends on the player more than the position. If you make a lot of passes and want predictable receiving, try P92 first.

ICEFORGE ELITE comes in both

ICEFORGE ELITE is available in P92 and P28, 75 or 85 flex, right or left hand. It is a full carbon senior stick with a mid-low kick, about 365–375 g, for $179.99 with free U.S. shipping from Colorado and a 30-day breakage warranty.

Not sure about the rest of your setup? Use the stick guide and our length guide, or see ICEFORGE ELITE.