Personal percussive therapy continues to grow in popularity, which has caused an explosion within the market and plenty of competition. One of this space’s latest trends is compact or mini massage guns, which make it easier to transport to the gym, office, or when traveling. The battle between using a full-massage gun or a mini version is to find the balance of not sacrificing as much power and functionality. Ekrin Athletics is no stranger to these massage guns, as they currently have four different models on their website. Today, we are looking at their newest and smallest design, the Ekrin Bantam.
With portability being such a significant aspect of the Bantam, trimming down the size and weight is vital, and Ekrin did not disappoint. Bantam is billed as having a 3″ handle, which is 2.5″ shorter than some of their other options, but in terms of pure size, it’s no taller than the iPhone Pro Max, all while only tipping the scales at 1.1 lbs. Combining all those attributes with an ergonomic design, a 15° angled handle, and soft-touch materials make Bantam comfortably maneuverable for durations ranging from 1 to 10 minutes.
Another essential factor for being a device designed to be on the go is battery life. Bantam states it has a 6-hour battery after a full charge. On the bottom of the device, next to the power button, is an indicator light that will let users know whereabouts the current charge level is. A blue light means that the battery is between 80%-100% charged. Purple indicates 60%-80%, while red signifies 20%-60%. With the most extensive range, I’d suggest finding that charging cable once you see that red light. For those who like to live dangerously, a flashing red light is not a subtle reminder that your Bantam massage gun carries a charge of less than 20%.
Every Ekrin Bantam comes with a travel case that is nicely laid out. One can tell that Ekrin pays attention to the little details by including a ribbon that helps lift the Bantam out of its surroundings. Yes, it’s a slight touch but provides an excellent first impression. Also included in this carrying case are four attachments, each with its own molded section so they aren’t loose and jostling around while in transit. A mesh pocket on the upper portion of the case houses the USB A to USB C charging cable. Sadly, no charging brick is included, which is the trend in the technology space these days.
As mentioned above, four different massage head attachments are included, helping to ensure that the Bantam is ready to treat all your muscle therapy needs. Below is a quick overview of each attachment.
Round: Easily the most recognizable percussion massager attachment, as it’s become the standard across the industry. Works well for treating large muscle groups.
Bullet: The smallest attachment of the group offers the most pinpoint control over your target muscle group. Those looking for a deep massage or fighting tension knots will enjoy this one.
Flat: Similar to the Round, this attachment type has become commonplace as it works well across various muscle groups.
Fork: This U-shaped accessory works excellently for areas along the spine and around the Achilles tendon. For those battling a sore back, this could quickly become your favorite.
One thing to note is that while Ekrin does currently offer three other massage guns, these attachments will only work for the Bantam. Therefore, know these are not interchangeable if you have one of the other Ekrin massagers. Also, if you need a replacement for any of these massage heads, they can be purchased individually for $15 or as a group for $40.
Using the Bantam is relatively easy, although finding the perfect combination of speed and massage head might take a bit of trial and error. There are three speeds that users can choose from, 2000, 2600, and 3200 RPM. Just press the power button to change speeds and find your preferred setting.
After having the Bantam in my possession for several weeks, I kept finding time throughout my day to use it. Having that fork massage head worked wonders on my neck and lower back. While the bullet didn’t get much usage time for me, it is worth noting that it is constructed of relatively rigid plastic, so it’s best to start on the low setting, especially if you are using it in a particular bone area of your body. Some lessons you learn the hard way.
Overall, my favorite attachment was the round ball. I can hear it now, “Dean, you are boring!” While that may be true, let me explain why this one works well. Some other massage guns use a round attachment that is foam based with no give to it, whereas this one is hollow and silicone. This combination creates a much softer feel while providing plenty of kneading to complete the job.
Finally, these personal percussion units are great, but sometimes the noise could be more of a nuisance. I have another massage gun I’ve used in the past, and the Bantam is significantly quieter. While not overly scientific, we tested the decibel levels on each setting to see just how intrusive the Ekrin Bantam is. My office, already producing a level of 26db, saw the charts top off at 73db when the Bantam ran at its highest speed.
With the Bantam, Ekrin Athletics has developed a mini massage gun that is well worth a look for those in the market for one. Knowing that it comes with a carrying case, four massage heads, plenty of power, operates at a comfortable noise level, and has strong battery life, it would be an easy recommendation for the athlete on the go, especially at the $149 price point.
Have you ever used a massage gun? Does this one fit your needs? Join the conversation surrounding the Ekrin Bantam with the rest of our THP Community!
For more information on this or any of the Ekrin Athletics products, check out their website at www.ekrinathletics.com.
