Are you looking for a reliable and affordable batting tee to enhance your practice sessions? The Franklin Pro Porta batting tee might be the perfect solution. This review dives deep into the features, performance, and overall value of this popular tee, comparing it to both basic rubber tees and the higher-end Tanner Tee. We'll explore its ease of assembly, adjustability, durability, and suitability for different skill levels, helping you determine if it's the right choice for your needs.This in-depth analysis covers everything from the initial unboxing and setup to its performance during actual batting practice. We’ll examine the sturdiness of the base and post, the effectiveness of the height adjustment mechanism, and the durability of the rubber tee topper. We'll also discuss potential drawbacks based on user reviews and offer a balanced perspective on its value compared to other options on the market, helping you decide whether the Franklin Pro Porta is the right batting tee for you.
Pros And Cons
- Compact and easy to store.
- Height adjustable (27" - 42").
- Easy to adjust height with twist-and-lock mechanism.
- Replaceable rubber tee topper.
- Comparable to higher-priced Tanner tees in performance.
- Click-and-lock system may fail based on some reviews.
- Not recommended for beginners who consistently miss the tee by more than 6 inches; risk of damaging the base.
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Unboxing and Assembly
The Franklin Pro Porta batting tee arrives in a simple box. Inside, you'll find the base, post, and a rubber tee topper. Assembly is straightforward; the post screws into the base, and then the topper screws onto the post. It's a quick and easy process, requiring no special tools.
The instruction sheet is minimal, almost unnecessary. The whole setup is incredibly intuitive and easy to understand, even for someone completely unfamiliar with batting tees.
Design and Features
The base is a heavy-duty molded plastic, weighing approximately 5 lbs. Its dimensions are around 7-8 inches wide and 7-8 inches long. This provides excellent stability, preventing tipping even during vigorous swings.
The metal post is sturdy, easily adjustable, and extends into a composite plastic post section. The rubber tee topper is replaceable, a big plus if it gets damaged from repeated use.
Height Adjustment and Usage
Height adjustment is a simple twist-and-lock mechanism. The tee adjusts from 27 inches at its lowest setting to 42 inches at its highest. This wide range accommodates players of all ages and heights.
The reviewer, who is 6ft tall, demonstrates the height adjustments, showing how it reaches the top of the strike zone at the highest setting and sits just above the knees at the lowest. The ease of adjustment makes it user-friendly.
Performance and Durability
The reviewer demonstrates hitting both slow-pitch softball and baseballs. The tee topper provides around 6 inches of give, protecting it from damage from slightly off-center hits. However, consistently hitting outside this margin could damage the tee.
While generally durable, some reviews mention the click-and-lock system failing. This is a point to consider before purchasing.
Comparison with Other Tees
A comparison is made with a standard rubber tee and the higher-end Tanner Tee. Rubber tees are better for beginners due to their superior shock absorption. The Franklin Pro Porta offers better height adjustability and a more compact design than the rubber tee.
Compared to the Tanner Tee, the Franklin is more affordable but equally performs. While both have similar tee toppers, the Franklin's allows for easier replacement. The Tanner Tee has multiple adjustment points, while the Franklin utilizes a single twist-and-lock system.
Conclusion
The Franklin Pro Porta batting tee offers a good balance between price and performance. It's a solid option for intermediate or advanced batters who need a durable and easily adjustable tee, without breaking the bank. The compact design is a significant advantage.
However, it's not ideal for complete beginners due to the potential for damage from off-center hits. Those new to batting practice should opt for a rubber tee. While comparable to the more expensive Tanner Tee, the Franklin's replaceable topper and simpler adjustment mechanism are advantageous. Whether the added cost of the Tanner Tee is justified depends on individual needs and preferences.
