Pickleball Community Debates Best Slice Strategy: In the fast-evolving world of pickleball, players often find themselves caught between differing philosophies on the court. A recent post on Reddit highlights one such debate that has been generating plenty of buzz among players: the best way to handle a heavy slice return to the backhand. The original poster (OP) asked whether using a slice backhand drop in response is advisable, or if they should consider switching to a two-handed backhand drop.
The question touched a nerve, sparking a range of responses from the community. Many weighed in with advice based on their own experiences, with some firmly in favor of sticking to one strategy and others advocating for a more versatile approach. “Get the 2HBH,” one commenter suggested simply, advocating for a two-handed backhand as a more reliable return to a heavy slice.
Heavy Slice Return to my backhand, is it possible to use a slice backhand drop on these?
byu/CDRSkywalker1991 inPickleball
Another player shared their own struggles, admitting that many of their returns against a slice went straight into the net. “Instead of a topspin drive, I should try to reset,” they noted, reflecting a common challenge faced by players when dealing with a deep, heavy slice.
Several commenters agreed that responding to a slice with another slice is often less effective, unless the player is particularly comfortable with that technique. “You can slice a slice, but it’s just not optimal and can be the harder shot to pull off if they hit it deep to your backhand,” one player advised. “You need to account for their spin and the bite it has on your paddle face, so maybe give it some extra air underneath until you start getting a feel for it.”
The discussion didn’t end there. Some players argued in favor of using slice against slice, pointing out that it can provide more feel and control than a topspin backhand in certain situations. “I slice a slice a lot because it gives you more feel and control,” one commenter wrote, suggesting that the key lies in mastering the shot rather than avoiding it altogether.
Ultimately, the thread highlights a broader theme in pickleball strategy: the importance of flexibility and adapting to different styles of play. While some players swear by the two-handed backhand or a topspin response, others find that sticking with a slice offers them greater control and precision.
As pickleball continues to grow, these tactical debates are likely to become more frequent, with players constantly searching for the best ways to refine their skills. For now, the advice remains the same—try various approaches, understand the spin, and don’t limit yourself to just one option. Whether it’s a two-handed backhand, a topspin drive, or slicing a slice, finding what works best for your game is the key to staying competitive on the court.