Can a stick just flat out lose it's pop?

[skyscrape 5]

If so, what is the usual signs.

I am not trying to blame equipment, but when I first bought my one85 I barely had to do anything to get it to load and release and boy did I feel it happen! Now it feels like all that is gone! I am a big boy 300 .lbs and it is a 102 flex. I have been using it since early february and play with it at least 4 times a week plus a couple stick times a week. Lots of slap shots have been fired off the stick. I do not want to start messing with mechanics because everything has been dialed up until recently, but if I have to I will, no questions asked. So, I figure before doing that I would ask you guys for advice on this one.

Maybe I am just sub-consciously convincing myself to buy a new stick! :lol:

[uclahockey707 1]

Sticks can definitely become soft in the blade, as well as just plane worn out feeling after repeated use. Usually, for me this takes some serious time (4-5 months) and a ton of shooting, but you being a bigger guy could definitely wear sticks down much quicker.

Also, I'd never shy away from an opportunity to buy a stick, I mean, this one is "broken" right? :)

[sickwilly 37]

I usually break my sticks before they get to this point, but I have noticed this happen to some of the sticks/shafts that I've had for longer periods.

Time to start shopping for a new stick ;)

[TheEdge27 2]

I dont break many shafts, but I find that after a long period they almost "flex too easy" and dont kick back as much and my shots lose too much speed. Then I know its time to pass them down to the younger kids at the rink.

[TBLfan 25]

Depends on whom you ask. I say yes.. I have friends that have used the same stick for years and don't care how it feels.

[skyscrape 5]

Thanks for the replies! I guess it is time for a new stick! I was hoping it wasn't just me! :D

[Stonewall35 1]

I certainly think so. . . I had a ONE90 that was cut a little lower than the 96 line, but one day I realized the thing had become a wet noodle. Comparing it to a new One95 cut at the same spot, the thing flexed like an intermediate- at least into the 70's. The stick was a tank and the blade was still strong, but the flex and kick point were definitely shot.