Bob and Brad C2 Pro Massage Gun Review (with Comparisons to the Q2 Mini)

As an experienced triathlon coach, I rely on effective recovery tools to keep my athletes (and myself) in peak form, so I was excited to try the new Bob and Brad C2 Pro Massage Gun, especially because of its unique heat and cold head attachment.

I’ve been a long-time user of the Bob and Brad Q2 Mini, which I love for its portability and ease of use, so I was curious to see how the C2 Pro would compare and if it could add value to my recovery toolkit.

Here’s an in-depth look at the C2 Pro and how it stacks up against the Q2 Mini, including practical tips on how and where to use each, as well as safety tips, and pros and cons.

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Bob and Brad C2 Pro: What’s Inside the Box

The Bob and Brad C2 Pro comes with a range of accessories designed to enhance your recovery experience. Here’s what you’ll find inside the box:

1. Massage Gun – C2 Pro massage gun with a solid, ergonomic design.
2. Five Attachments:
• Heat and Cold Head – Unique to the C2 Pro, adds versatility to your recovery options. For all body parts.
• Ball Head – Great for general use on larger muscle groups like quads and glutes.
• Air Cushioned Head – For relaxation of sensitive body parts but I use it a lot for all forms of massage and muscles.
• Bullet Head – Targeted for deeper trigger point release in specific areas plus small muscles like feet and wrists but used with care.
• U-Shaped Head – Good for areas like the spine, neck and shoulder. For sensitive muscles and soft tissues.

1. Rubber Sleeves – Eash massage head is pre-installed with a rubber sleeve but if it gets damaged over time you can replace it.

4. Charging Cable – USB-C cable, making it easy to charge with common chargers.
5. Carrying Case – A robust case to keep the gun and attachments organized.

Here’s my Bob and Brad C2 Pro unboxing video:

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Key Features and Comparison: C2 Pro vs. Q2 Mini

C2 Pro on Amazon UK

Q2 Mini on Amazon UK

Bob and Brad C2 Pro Portability and Use Cases

The Q2 Mini is a clear winner for portability—it’s small enough to fit in a gym bag or even a coat pocket, making it ideal for on-the-go relief. I often use the Q2 Mini at training sessions or after races for quick, convenient muscle relief. It’s especially useful for travel, as it’s light and easy to use in small spaces.

In contrast, the C2 Pro is more suited for at-home recovery or for use at the training ground where you may have a chair, massage table or back massage chair. It’s larger and heavier than the Q2 Mini, making it less portable, but it delivers a deeper, more intense massage that’s better suited for thorough muscle work after intense training. With the heat and cold head you can work more extensively on larger muscle groups to alleviate muscle tightness and soreness.

Bob and Brad C2 Pro massage gun alongside the Q2 mini massage gun

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C2 Pro Attachment Heads and Their Uses

Here’s a guide on the best ways to use the different attachment heads with the C2 Pro (and Q2 Mini where applicable):

1. Heat and Cold Head (C2 Pro only) – Great for soothing sore muscles and enhancing circulation with heat, while cold can help with inflammation. I find the heat function especially useful for loosening up the quads and hamstrings after heavy leg workouts, while the cold setting is perfect for post-run recovery on sore calves.

1. Ball Head – Best for large muscle groups like the glutes, quads, and back. It provides a balanced massage and is easy to control, making it a versatile go-to. It can be used on the sides of the head or the top of the head depending on the area being massage.
2. Air Cushioned Head – This is my favourite head and generally used for relaxation and sensitive body parts, but I use it as my initial head to assess soreness. It’s usually good enough for all forms of massage.

4. Bullet Head – Designed for targeted work, this head is excellent for trigger points in small areas like the forearms, lower back, and feet. Be cautious with pressure here, as it can be intense.
5. Fork Head – Useful for areas like the spine, neck and shoulders. It’s less versatile than the others but useful for relieving tension along the spine without too much direct pressure. This is not one I use regularly but there if you need it.
6.  

Bob and Brad C2 Pro massage gun with heads, charge cable and case

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The Bob and Brad C2 Pro Heat and Cold Head

The most striking feature about the C2 Pro is the heat and cold head. The cold setting for muscle soothing after a hard training session and the heat setting for loosing tight muscles.

The hot and cold settings both have two levels. I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly the head went either hot or cold and even switching between the settings was a quick change. For large muscles either setting is effective, and you can experiment with what works best for you.

I found the coldest setting really soothing on for my Plantar Fasciitis without the massage function switched on. The head got really cold, quickly so was perfect for this application.

The heat head was great during cold weather and on tight muscles where hot therapy with the massage function turned on loosened my quads and calf’s effectively.

Interestingly you could buy a heat and cold had separately for about €50 so buying it with the gun is a more cost effective option.

Cold Therapy Temperature: Green LED lights:10C (50°F) (default), Blue LED light: 15C (59°F)

The Bob and Brad C2 Pro massage gun head and cold head in cold mode

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C2 Pro Stall Force and Display Settings

The stall force of a massage gun refers to the amount of pressure it can withstand before the motor stops or "stalls."

For the Bob and Brad C2 Pro, the stall force is impressive, designed to handle significant pressure before shutting off. This is ideal for athletes and users who need deep tissue relief, as it allows for intense, targeted massage without easily stalling, even on dense muscle groups like the quads, glutes, and hamstrings. The C2 Pro’s high stall force means that users can apply more pressure for a deeper massage, making it well-suited for advanced recovery needs or working through sore, tight muscles.

C2 Pro Display Colours

The LED display on the Bob and Brad C2 Pro serves as a helpful indicator, not just for speed settings but also for monitoring battery life and stall force pressure levels:

1. Speed Levels – The display number will change as you adjust the intensity. Each speed level has a specific number (1 to 5), making it easy to identify the setting at a glance. This is especially useful if you're moving between speeds quickly or if multiple users have different preferences.
2. Battery Status – The display also shows the battery life through coloured indicators, allowing users to see quickly when it’s time to recharge. This feature is essential for planning long sessions or taking it to events where charging options may be limited. When the LED1 flashes this means that the battery is low (less than 10%), and you should charge after use.
3. Stall Force Indication – The display alerts you when you’re approaching the stall threshold, changing colour as you apply more pressure. This helps prevent the motor from stalling mid-session and allows you to adjust your pressure to stay within the device's optimal performance range. Blue is less than 5KGF, Yellow is 5-8KGF, Orange is 8-12KGK and Red 12-15KGF.

1 KGF (kilogram-force) is roughly equivalent to the force exerted by the weight of a 1-kilogram mass in Earth’s gravity. For example, if a massage gun has a stall force of 15 KGF, this means you can apply up to 15 kilograms of pressure before the device stalls.

This metric is useful for understanding the gun’s power and ability to provide deep tissue massage. A higher KGF rating indicates that the massage gun can withstand greater pressure, making it ideal for users who want to work through dense or tight muscles without worrying about the gun stalling.

The combination of these colour-coded and numerical indicators makes the C2 Pro easy to use, helping you track power, intensity, and pressure without breaking focus on your massage. This thoughtful design detail enhances the user experience, ensuring safe, effective sessions every time.

The Bob and Brad C2 Pro massage gun gives you instant visual feedback on the pressure you are applying

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General Massage Use for the C2 Pro and Q2 mini massage guns

The massage gun was very capable, and I could tell that it had higher speed settings than my trusty Q2 Mini massage gun. It’s heavier than the Q2 mini so more difficult to get into places like my neck which I could massage with the smaller gun.

The Q2 is great to use on other people with more options to relief muscle knots and tightness.

As with the Q2 mini I found I did not need to go above level 2 with the C2 Pro to get the right setting for effective massaging, but others may need the full range up to 5 for their muscle conditions.

Overall, a very capable, robustly made piece of kit which exuded quality which would make it an ideal gift or a useful addition to your home treatment armoury.

Bob and Brad C2 Pro Massage Gun with heads, charge cable and case

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Using Massage Guns Safely

To get the most out of a massage gun while staying safe, keep these tips in mind:

1. Limit Session Time – Stick to 1-2 minutes per muscle group, especially when first starting out, to avoid soreness or bruising. As mentioned early I tend to use the air cushioned head first to assess the area and a lot of the time it can be used for the full massage.
2. Use the Correct Speed and Pressure – Let the gun do the work; pressing too hard can lead to discomfort or even strain.
3. Avoid Bone and Joints – Use the gun only on soft tissue, as hitting bones can be painful and cause irritation.
4. Be Cautious with the Bullet Head – This head is intense and should be used with caution on tender or small areas.

Pros and Cons of the Bob and Brad C2 Pro Massage Gun

Pros:

• Heat and Cold Head – Adds versatility, especially for recovery from hard training sessions.
• Powerful Massage – Deeper percussion compared to the Q2 Mini, great for serious recovery needs.
• Durable Build – Solid and well-built, feels substantial in hand.
• Multiple Attachment Heads – Provides a range of options for different recovery needs.

Cons:

• Less Portable – It’s bulkier than the Q2 Mini, so it’s not ideal for carrying to races or training sessions.
• Noise – Slightly louder than the Q2 Mini, which might be distracting in quiet environments.
• Heads Not Interchangeable – It would be a huge benefit if the heat/cold head could be used on the Q2 Mini for portable recovery.

The Bob and Brad C2 Pro heat and cold head in heat mode

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Best Use Scenarios for Each Gun: C2 Pro vs Q2 Mini

• C2 Pro – Ideal for home or gym-based recovery sessions. Use it for more intense recovery work after long runs, bike rides, or strength training. The heat and cold head is a great addition for targeted post-workout muscle relief.
• Q2 Mini – Perfect for quick relief during training sessions, races, or travel. It’s ideal for athletes who want fast access to massage without the bulk.

Conclusion: Bob and Brad C2 Pro Massage Gun

The Bob and Brad C2 Pro Massage Gun is a powerful tool for serious muscle recovery, with a unique heat and cold head attachment that can enhance recovery in a way the basic Q2 Mini can’t. Its power and versatility make it a valuable addition to any recovery setup, though it’s best suited for home or gym use due to its size and weight.

While I still love my Q2 Mini for portability and convenience, the C2 Pro has earned a spot in my routine for more intense, post-training recovery sessions. If you’re looking for a massage gun with the extra benefits of temperature therapy, the C2 Pro is a solid choice. But if portability is your priority, the Q2 Mini is hard to beat.

I was hoping that the C2 Pro heat and cold head could be used with my Q2 mini massage gun, but the attachment is not compatible. You can however get the Q2 mini with head and cold head for £79.99 on Amazon. So, if you want portability and heat/cold functionality this is a great option.

Karen Parnell is a Level 3 British Triathlon and IRONMAN Certified Coach, 8020 Endurance Certified Coach, WOWSA Level 3 open water swimming coach and NASM Personal Trainer and Sports Technology Writer. 

Karen is currently studying for an MSc in Sports Performance Coaching at the University of Stirling.

Need a training plan? I have plans on TrainingPeaks and FinalSurge:

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I also coach a very small number of athletes one to one for all triathlon and multi-sport distances, open water swimming events and running races, email me for details and availability. Karen.parnell@chilitri.com

Bob and Brad C2 Pro massage gun in it's robust carrying case

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Bob and Brad C2 Pro Massage Gun – FAQ

1. What makes the Bob and Brad C2 Pro Massage Gun unique?

The C2 Pro stands out due to its heat and cold head attachment, which offers temperature-based recovery options. This attachment provides soothing heat to relax tight muscles and cold therapy to help reduce inflammation. It’s ideal for enhancing recovery, especially after intense workouts.

2. How does the C2 Pro compare to the Bob and Brad Q2 Mini?

The C2 Pro is more powerful, with deeper percussion and multiple attachment heads, including the heat/cold head. However, it’s larger and less portable, making it better suited for home or gym use. The Q2 Mini is compact, quiet, and highly portable, making it perfect for quick relief on the go or during training sessions. The heads for these two models are not interchangeable.

3. What attachments come with the C2 Pro, and what are they used for?

The C2 Pro includes five attachment heads:

• Heat and Cold Head – For temperature-based recovery, good for relaxing or reducing inflammation in sore muscles.
• Ball Head – General-purpose head for large muscle groups like quads and back.
• Air Cushion Head – For relaxation of sensitive body parts.
• Bullet Head – Provides targeted deep tissue relief, ideal for trigger points (used carefully).
• U-shaped Head – Best for areas like the spine, neck and shoulder (used carefully).

4. What’s the best way to use each massage gun?

• C2 Pro: Use at home or in a gym for deep recovery sessions, particularly after intense workouts. Its power and heat/cold head make it ideal for focused recovery.
• Q2 Mini: Perfect for portable, on-the-go relief at races, during training, or when traveling. Its smaller size is convenient for quick muscle relaxation between workouts.

5. How long should I use the C2 Pro on each muscle?

Limit usage to 1-2 minutes per muscle group when starting out to avoid soreness or bruising. You can gradually increase time and pressure as your muscles adjust.

6. Can I use the C2 Pro massage gun on joints or bones?

No, avoid direct use on joints and bones. Massage guns are designed for soft tissue and applying them to bones or joints can lead to discomfort or irritation.

7. Are the heads for the C2 Pro and Q2 Mini interchangeable?

No, the heads are not interchangeable. It would be beneficial if the heat/cold head could be used on the Q2 Mini, but currently, each gun has its own compatible attachments.

8. How long does the battery last on the C2 Pro?

The C2 Pro has a battery life of up to 3 hours, depending on the intensity and attachments used. This is longer than the Q2 Mini, which typically lasts around 2 hours.

9. Is the C2 Pro loud?

The C2 Pro produces slightly more noise than the Q2 Mini due to its more powerful motor. It’s not overly loud, but it might be noticeable in quieter settings.

10. Who would benefit most from the Bob and Brad C2 Pro Massage Gun?

Athletes and individuals seeking a versatile, powerful recovery tool for home use will find the C2 Pro highly beneficial. Its temperature-based head, multiple attachments, and intense percussion make it suitable for post-workout recovery, reducing muscle soreness, and addressing tight muscle groups.

11. What are the main pros and cons of the C2 Pro Massage Gun?

Pros:

• Heat/cold head for versatile recovery options.
• Powerful, deep percussion for intense muscle work.
• Durable build and multiple attachments for various needs.

Cons:

• Less portable than the Q2 Mini.
• Slightly louder.
• Attachments are not compatible with other models like the Q2 Mini.

12. What’s in the box for the C2 Pro Massage Gun?

The box includes:

• The C2 Pro massage gun
• Five attachment heads (including the heat/cold head)
• USB-C charging cable
• Spare rubber sleeves
• A carrying case for storage and portability
• Instruction manual

13. Is the C2 Pro Massage Gun worth it?

If you’re looking for a powerful at-home recovery device with the unique feature of temperature-based therapy, the C2 Pro is a valuable addition to your routine. However, if you prioritize portability, the Q2 Mini might be a better fit.

14. How should I clean and maintain the C2 Pro Massage Gun?

To keep your C2 Pro in top condition, wipe down the gun and attachment heads with a clean, damp cloth after each use, especially if you use the heat and cold head, as temperature changes can cause a buildup of moisture. Avoid using harsh chemicals or submerging the attachments in water. Store the gun and accessories in the provided carrying case to protect them from dust and damage. Regular cleaning helps maintain hygiene and prolongs the life of the device.

The final words go to Bob and Brad who tell you more about the C2 massage gun. This does not cover the head and cold head. Adding this new head makes it even better!

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