Wilson Shock Shield Hybrid Grip: GREAT!

T

TimothyO

Hall of Fame
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Wilson_Shock_Shield_Hybrid_Grip/descpageWILSON-WSSHG.html

I've just used this grip on my AG 4D 100 and Biomimetic 200 Lite. It's heavy and in a standard installation it seems to add about .4 oz to a racquet's strung weight but it's worth it the extra weight!

Other "comfort" grips feel mushy with a loss of feel and control. With this grip you still feel the bevels, there's excellent feel and control, and yet the comfort is on par with my Volkl's and their special Sensor grip system.

If you can take the extra weight and want a really comfy grip with no loss in feel or control then this is the PERFECT comfort grip. Traction is outstanding too and I sweat pretty bad.

For those with a one-hand back-hand try this: I cut my replacement grips down to 3/4 length so it fits my hand perfectly. I use a color-coordinated overgrip to cover the remainder of the handle. Looks great, you still have some texture for two-handed volleys, and you shave off some weight.
 
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T

tennisnoob3

Professional
TimothyO said:
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Wilson_Shock_Shield_Hybrid_Grip/descpageWILSON-WSSHG.html

I've just used this grip on my AG 4D 100 and Biomimetic 200 Lite. It's heavy and in a standard installation it seems to add about .4 oz to a racquet's strung weight but it's worth it the extra weight!

Other "comfort" grips feel mushy with a loss of feel and control. With this grip you still feel the bevels, there's excellent feel and control, and yet the comfort is on par with my Volkl's and their special Sensor grip system.

If you can take the extra weight and want a really comfy grip with no loss in feel or control then this is the PERFECT comfort grip. Traction is outstanding too and I sweat pretty bad.

For those with a one-hand back-hand try this: I cut my replacement grips down to 3/4 length so it fits my hand perfectly. I use a color-coordinated overgrip to cover the remainder of the handle. Looks great, you still have some texture for two-handed volleys, and you shave off some weight.
Click to expand...

thanks! unfortunately this subforum is pretty dead and most people dont try too many replacement grips. have you tried any of the other new wilson grips?

ever try syntec? can u compare if you had? im curious as to the actual weight of the grip as some have commented that dunlop grips are somewhat light and thin
 
T

Torres

Banned
Just what the doctor ordered.....I asked about this in the other thread but no one answered, so thanks.

I'm going to order a few, as I do like Wilson grips (and also the variety in their range) to try out.
 
T

tennisnoob3

Professional
Torres said:
Just what the doctor ordered.....I asked about this in the other thread but no one answered, so thanks.

I'm going to order a few, as I do like Wilson grips (and also the variety in their range) to try out.
Click to expand...

keep us updated!! which ones are you planning on getting?
 
JT_2eighty

JT_2eighty

Hall of Fame
Torres said:
TrueGrip, ShockShield, MicroDry (don't like that already because its not flat), and K-Grip.
Click to expand...

I'd be curious how the tack and thickness on this Shockshield compares to True Grip. A heavier synthetic grip is something I'm on the lookout for, so this sounds like a potential.
 
T

Torres

Banned
I'll let you know, though it probably won't be for a while though as I doubt that I'm going to be able to get through two replacement grips anytime quickly.

That said, the official specs are identical:

Shock Shield
Length 1100mm
Quantity per Package 1
Width 27mm
Material IsoZorb Gel, Polyurethane
Thickness 2.0mm
Category Replacement Grip

True Grip
Length 1100mm
Quantity per Package 1
Width 27mm
Material Microfiber Co-Polymer Composite Felt, Polyurethane
Thickness 2.0mm
Category Replacement Grip

The only thing that concerns me is that its noticeably thicker than the stock Pro-Hybrid grip, which with an OG added, is going to make it thicker still:

Pro-Hybrid
Length 1100mm
Quantity per Package 1
Width 27mm
Material Leather, Polyurethane
Thickness 1.6mm
Category Replacement Grip

Thickest is Comfort-Hybrid:

Length 1100mm
Quantity per Package 1
Width 27mm
Material Air Foam, Polyurethane
Thickness 2.2mm
Category Replacement Grip
 
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P

parasailing

Legend
TimothyO said:
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Wilson_Shock_Shield_Hybrid_Grip/descpageWILSON-WSSHG.html

.

If you can take the extra weight and want a really comfy grip with no loss in feel or control then this is the PERFECT comfort grip. Traction is outstanding too and I sweat pretty bad.
Click to expand...


I have tried out Wilson Aire Contour, Wilson Kgrip, Dunlop Gecko Grip, Prince Resin Pro, and Babolat Skin Feel replacement grip and I like the Aire Contour mainly because it has good cushioning and helps me not grip the handle so tight. How does the Wilson Shock Shield compare?
 
T

TimothyO

Hall of Fame
scotus said:
TimothyO,

Is Shock Shield long enough to wrap a longbody racquet handle?
Click to expand...

I'm not certain. After installing all the way up my AG 4D 100 (my wife uses this racquet on occasion and uses a 2HBH) I did have some extra length to trim off (maybe 3"-4"?). Enough for a longbody? Perhaps, I just can't say for certain.

I only wrapped my B200 Lite 3/4 of the way up the handle as I use a 1-hand backhand and wanted to save weight if possible and this is a heavy grip. I covered the remainder of the handle with a lime green Wilson overgrip...looks really cool!
 
T

TimothyO

Hall of Fame
tennisnoob3 said:
thanks! unfortunately this subforum is pretty dead and most people dont try too many replacement grips. have you tried any of the other new wilson grips?

ever try syntec? can u compare if you had? im curious as to the actual weight of the grip as some have commented that dunlop grips are somewhat light and thin
Click to expand...

For the B200 Lite I first tried a 3/4 install of a replacement Biomimetic grip with some lead underneath to push the balance even more HL...they're darn thin! Maybe the same as two over grips?

Didn't like the result and went to the Wilson with no lead and the result was far more comfy and just as HL.

One more bit of advice...I noticed on my AG 4D 100 it took the grip up a full size. Not a problem for me as I'm easily 4-5/8 to 4-3/4 using the TW measurement methods. But if you're existing grip is already stretching your hand do know this is a VERY thick grip.
 
T

tennisnoob3

Professional
TimothyO said:
For the B200 Lite I first tried a 3/4 install of a replacement Biomimetic grip with some lead underneath to push the balance even more HL...they're darn thin! Maybe the same as two over grips?

Didn't like the result and went to the Wilson with no lead and the result was far more comfy and just as HL.

One more bit of advice...I noticed on my AG 4D 100 it took the grip up a full size. Not a problem for me as I'm easily 4-5/8 to 4-3/4 using the TW measurement methods. But if you're existing grip is already stretching your hand do know this is a VERY thick grip.
Click to expand...

hmm, thats interesting to note. would you say the grip size runs small compared to others, say babolat again?
 
S

scotus

G.O.A.T.
TimothyO said:
I'm not certain. After installing all the way up my AG 4D 100 (my wife uses this racquet on occasion and uses a 2HBH) I did have some extra length to trim off (maybe 3"-4"?). Enough for a longbody? Perhaps, I just can't say for certain.

I only wrapped my B200 Lite 3/4 of the way up the handle as I use a 1-hand backhand and wanted to save weight if possible and this is a heavy grip. I covered the remainder of the handle with a lime green Wilson overgrip...looks really cool!
Click to expand...

How heavy is this grip?

I use Kevlar grips. One model is 1.2 oz and anther 1.6 oz.

Surely, there is no grip heavier than these....
 
JT_2eighty

JT_2eighty

Hall of Fame
Torres said:
The only thing that concerns me is that its noticeably thicker than the stock Pro-Hybrid grip, which with an OG added, is going to make it thicker still:
Click to expand...

Oh, didn't realize you are using an OG as well. IME, the True Grip is very soft... I've never used an OG on it as that would be too squishy for my tastes. You should try them w/o OG since you are currently using WPH + OG, as you say, the other two + OG could be too thick...
 
T

Torres

Banned
Just in installed my Shock Shield grip.

Definitely unusual.....things I noticed:-

- the Wilson BLX racquets have a plastic cutout in the butt cap to slip the start of the replacement grip into
- the stock Wilson Pro Hybrid grip (removed straight from the handle of my racquet) weighs 20g exactly
- the Head Xtreme overgrip I had on top weights 6.5g with securing tape.
- the Shock Shield weights 28.6g out of the packet, though that will reduce with a small amount of trimming.
- the 'spongy' part of the Shock Shield grip is a strip of bright blue gel with an odd smell.
- the grip overlaps with edges, so if you don't like overlapping grips with edges.....
- grip is quite thick. It's thicker than the stock Pro Hybrid and Head Overgrip. Will increase the grip size slightly.
- grip is quite spongy
- actual grip surface material feels a little bit abrasive to me. Maybe it will be get better with use, grime etc
- putting the Shock Shield grip on is likely to alter the balance of the racquet from stock form given the extra weight unless you are used to having an overgrip on your original racquet.
- with my setup, my overall racquet weight increased by 5.1g in the handle
- mutes the degree of feedback you get from the racquet on impact with the ball

Overall, it 'does what it says in tin' ie thick, spongy grip but it is a bit of an acquired taste.
 
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T

Torres

Banned
The weights of these Wilson grips are all over the place.

The [K]ontrol grip is 18.6g
MicroDry Comfort 18.6g

I wish they would put the weight on the packet.
 
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Fedace

Fedace

Banned
TimothyO said:
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Wilson_Shock_Shield_Hybrid_Grip/descpageWILSON-WSSHG.html

I've just used this grip on my AG 4D 100 and Biomimetic 200 Lite. It's heavy and in a standard installation it seems to add about .4 oz to a racquet's strung weight but it's worth it the extra weight!

Other "comfort" grips feel mushy with a loss of feel and control. With this grip you still feel the bevels, there's excellent feel and control, and yet the comfort is on par with my Volkl's and their special Sensor grip system.

If you can take the extra weight and want a really comfy grip with no loss in feel or control then this is the PERFECT comfort grip. Traction is outstanding too and I sweat pretty bad.

For those with a one-hand back-hand try this: I cut my replacement grips down to 3/4 length so it fits my hand perfectly. I use a color-coordinated overgrip to cover the remainder of the handle. Looks great, you still have some texture for two-handed volleys, and you shave off some weight.
Click to expand...

Can't be any heavier than Gamma pro RX grip. but i wonder if it is better than that on absorbing shock ? and do you feel that you lose too much ball feel with this grip ?
 
B

bmtx

New User
just wanted to add my 2 cents.

i installed these shock shields to my head ytpmp, and i love the feel i get from the rackets. it definitely mutes the vibration by a lot. i am very pleased.

before with the stock hydrosorb, i could feel the vibration soar through my arm on my forehands. now with the shock shields, its toned down a lot.

i have to say, it does increase the grip size but a noticeable amount (noticeable.. not a lot though)., you do lose a little bit of the bevel... noticeable, but not a lot. and you do lose bit of "raw feel" if you will, when making contact with the ball.

hmm.. one thing that i found annoying, is the application of it. here's my best to create an accurate description, lets say hypothetically the grip is 1 inch wide, the gel portion of the grip, is centered against the outer grip, and measures only roughly .8 inches wide. therefore, it leaves a little bit of the outer grip without gel portion. i wanted to make sure that the gel portion was consistent throughout the entire grip, so i made sure i did the right overlapping, but the outer grip (the extra bit on the outside) tends to fold in, and creates an uneven job...

also, i didn't like the look of it after it was done. it looked kinda like michelin man. but it doesn't matter to me, because i was planned to put an overgrip over it.

i hardly think those things mentioned are that much of a compromise compared to what was gained for me.

i have slight tennis elbow, and this helped a lot. definitely rec'd for those with elbow issues.
 
JT_2eighty

JT_2eighty

Hall of Fame
Recently tried this one as my beloved True Grip seems to be on the exit. Not bad at all, but almost twice the weight. It is in fact almost as heavy as leather, my leather grip weighed about 1 oz, Wilson Shock Shield about 0.9 oz, Wilson True was 0.7 oz (no longer on TW, but still at competitors). Wilson Comfort Hybrid is the lightest and tackiest, yet thickest, of the four, at 0.45 oz.

Best bevel feel is Wilson Shock Shield. If you pull it tightly it doesn't add grip size or feel spongy at all, giving a bevel feel that rivals straight leather. Very solid grip with average tack and mediocre sweat absorption, but amazing ball feel and comfort.
 
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corbind

corbind

Professional
Hmmm, this makes me want to order a Wilson Shock Shield Hybrid Grip. My Becker London Tours are very comfortable now so not sure if they have gel in them already. I don't mind mushy and no bevels.
 
ChicagoJack

ChicagoJack

Hall of Fame
One thing about the Shock Shield grips, I love em but they tear easily. Perfect for installing once and leaving them there. But if you pull them off just once, the edges/bevels tear and wrinkle really easily.
 
Fuji

Fuji

Legend
ChicagoJack said:
One thing about the Shock Shield grips, I love em but they tear easily. Perfect for installing once and leaving them there. But if you pull them off just once, the edges/bevels tear and wrinkle really easily.
Click to expand...

I find that with any synthetic grip however. Any time I'm messing around my handle I need a new replacement grip haha!

-Fuji
 
R

Ramon

Legend
Sounds like something I can use. It's heavy, comfortable, and apparently you can still feel the bevels. What seals the deal is that TW has the white color on sale. I just ordered 3 for $2.99/each!
 
corbind

corbind

Professional
I installed the Wilson Shock Shield Hybrid a couple of month ago and love it. Yes it adds weight which I like.

Weight of WSSH installed (cut): 0.84 ounces = 23.7 grams
Weight of my old grip installed (cut): 0.51 ounces = 14.4 grams

Estimated weight added: 0.33 ounces = 9.3 grams

So basically 1/3 of an ounce added which also made my racquet more headlight and that's much appreciated. The installation was slow but I did a good job the second time I did it (threw the first one out because I did a bad job). I've been quite pleased with the feel that I'll install another WSSH on another racquet tonight or tomorrow.

100_2097.jpg


WilsonShockShieldgrip.jpg
 
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T

Torres

Banned
I've gone back to using TrueGrip. I just prefer its balance of characteristics. For me, it just has the right amount of thickness, weight, feel etc. And it just works well with overgrips without increasing the grip size too much.

ShockShield is useful if you want to add weight to the handle, damp out some of the feedback and don't mind slightly increased thickness.

Good to have different options really, but I guess everyone's looking for slightly different things.
 
3fees

3fees

G.O.A.T.
I'm looking into gel replacement grips,,might try wilson shock shield or gamma hi tech gel contour.



:-|
 
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robbo1970

robbo1970

Hall of Fame
I'm going to give this a go on one of my rackets.

I really love the feel of leather under an overgrip when I'm playing, but being a mere mortal weekend warrior, my hand does ache a bit afterwards, so if this Shock Shield grip will be about the same weight and bevel feel of leather, but with a bit more comfort I could very well be swayed.
 
S

scotus

G.O.A.T.
I have a Shock Shield grip over a Gosen Sorbothane Grip. Of course, there is a Yonex overgrip on top of all that.

Grips alone weigh well over 60 grams!
 
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robbo1970

robbo1970

Hall of Fame
And I'm presuming you feel little in the way of vibration with two gel based grips and an overgrip.

I just need the one grip, but want to replicate the weight/balance I get with leather and a firm feel on the grip so I retain the feel of the bevels and not too squishy a feel, but I want to lose aching in my hand after Ive been playing for a few hours.
 
T

TimothyO

Hall of Fame
Torres said:
I've gone back to using TrueGrip. I just prefer its balance of characteristics. For me, it just has the right amount of thickness, weight, feel etc. And it just works well with overgrips without increasing the grip size too much.

ShockShield is useful if you want to add weight to the handle, damp out some of the feedback and don't mind slightly increased thickness.

Good to have different options really, but I guess everyone's looking for slightly different things.
Click to expand...

This is a perfect analysis of the Shock Shield.

I love it but have not been able to use it on my 200s as they're already heavy. Had to use the Comfort Hybrid instead.

Just bought a Pure Storm GT and the Shock Shield with OG will work perfectly adding about 0.5 to 0.6 oz together. Leaves plenty of room to customize further with lead in the head or under the handle before hitting my weight limit.
 
corbind

corbind

Professional
Over the past six weeks or so I've been switching back and forth between these two grips to see which works best for me. I bought 3 of each for testing.


Wilson Shock Shield Hybrid
UNCUT: 27.2 g (0.96 oz)
CUT installed: 24.2 g (0.85 oz)
Thickness = 2.0 mm (eyeballed with ruler on thickest side)


Wilson Comfort Hybrid
UNCUT: ?
CUT installed: 10.4 g (0.37 oz)
Thickness = 2.5 mm (eyeballed with ruler on thickest side)

The cut/installed figure is the one you should be concerned with as that will be the real weight on the handle. Although the Comfort grip is thicker, being essentially foam, it will compress more than the Shock Shield so will yield a thinner grip. I own both and have been toying with them for a month or so.

Shock Shield is way heavier and more has a more solid feeling when hitting. It seems to increase grip size a little but that's not a biggie for me. The Comfort grip is squishier as it's really air but it doesn't seem to be as comfortable as the Shock Shield. So for comfort go for Shock Shield. For lower weight go with Comfort.

Of the two I definitely prefer the Shock Shield. It does decrease the frame shock considerably which could be due to sheer weight or maybe the gel stuff. Either way it's effective. Somehow it's more substantial weight works to my advantage making the stick more head light. At least now I'm satisfied and put them on all my sticks.
 
R

Ramon

Legend
bmtx said:
just wanted to add my 2 cents.

i installed these shock shields to my head ytpmp, and i love the feel i get from the rackets. it definitely mutes the vibration by a lot. i am very pleased.

before with the stock hydrosorb, i could feel the vibration soar through my arm on my forehands. now with the shock shields, its toned down a lot.

i have to say, it does increase the grip size but a noticeable amount (noticeable.. not a lot though)., you do lose a little bit of the bevel... noticeable, but not a lot. and you do lose bit of "raw feel" if you will, when making contact with the ball.

hmm.. one thing that i found annoying, is the application of it. here's my best to create an accurate description, lets say hypothetically the grip is 1 inch wide, the gel portion of the grip, is centered against the outer grip, and measures only roughly .8 inches wide. therefore, it leaves a little bit of the outer grip without gel portion. i wanted to make sure that the gel portion was consistent throughout the entire grip, so i made sure i did the right overlapping, but the outer grip (the extra bit on the outside) tends to fold in, and creates an uneven job...

also, i didn't like the look of it after it was done. it looked kinda like michelin man. but it doesn't matter to me, because i was planned to put an overgrip over it.

i hardly think those things mentioned are that much of a compromise compared to what was gained for me.

i have slight tennis elbow, and this helped a lot. definitely rec'd for those with elbow issues.
Click to expand...

I had a similar experience. It's hard to make it look like a professional job. I think both of my grips had blemishes. However, it does provide better comfort and shock absorption than my stock synthetic grips. I use an overgrip anyway, so the blemishes don't matter.

I noticed that it made the grip size larger, but it compresses as you play more with it, and the difference is hardly noticeable after a while.
 
robbo1970

robbo1970

Hall of Fame
I just wanted to bump this thread because I have a few questions.

I have considered using this grip. I currently use leather because I prefer the extra weight in the handle, but Ive noticed over the past few weeks that my hand and wrist really ache.

Is Shock Shield the way to go in keeping that same weight and firm feel, but reducing the pain i'm getting in my hand and wrist?

Many thanks
 
maxpotapov

maxpotapov

Hall of Fame
robbo1970 said:
I just wanted to bump this thread because I have a few questions.

I have considered using this grip. I currently use leather because I prefer the extra weight in the handle, but Ive noticed over the past few weeks that my hand and wrist really ache.

Is Shock Shield the way to go in keeping that same weight and firm feel, but reducing the pain i'm getting in my hand and wrist?

Many thanks
Click to expand...

At $3.50 a pop, you can maintain it fresh and soft much longer than $10 leather grip at exactly the same weight. It compresses over time but never becomes dry and hard like worn out leather.
But all this is probably irrelevant to the pain in your wrist and hand. Heavy handle and larger grip size stress out hand/wrist with certain grip and swing styles. Even with relaxed swing, these might cause problems if you don't provide enough angular acceleration for racquet head.
 
robbo1970

robbo1970

Hall of Fame
I actually am one of those who uses a fairly small grip and I have noticed I do tend to use my wrist a lot on my forehand shots when I try and whip it.

I put the pain down to the fact that there is little to no shock absorbancy on the handle.

So do combat this hand pain, does anyone have any suggestions or should I try one of these shock shield grips as opposed to the firm leather?
 
maxpotapov

maxpotapov

Hall of Fame
robbo1970 said:
I actually am one of those who uses a fairly small grip and I have noticed I do tend to use my wrist a lot on my forehand shots when I try and whip it.

I put the pain down to the fact that there is little to no shock absorbancy on the handle.

So do combat this hand pain, does anyone have any suggestions or should I try one of these shock shield grips as opposed to the firm leather?
Click to expand...

Oh yes, it absorbs shock quite well, due to its mass if not gel elasticity. I'm using it constantly. And like I said, at $3.50 per grip (white ones are on sale) you don't have to wait until it compresses.
 
mikeler

mikeler

Moderator
robbo1970 said:
I actually am one of those who uses a fairly small grip and I have noticed I do tend to use my wrist a lot on my forehand shots when I try and whip it.

I put the pain down to the fact that there is little to no shock absorbancy on the handle.

So do combat this hand pain, does anyone have any suggestions or should I try one of these shock shield grips as opposed to the firm leather?
Click to expand...

That smaller grip size may be encouraging you to have bad technique. I've been pulling off the ball on my forehands lately trying to create too much topspin and I think that has been causing me wrist pains.
 
robbo1970

robbo1970

Hall of Fame
mikeler said:
That smaller grip size may be encouraging you to have bad technique. I've been pulling off the ball on my forehands lately trying to create too much topspin and I think that has been causing me wrist pains.
Click to expand...

You make a good point. Its only since I started really trying to whip my wrist around on these forehands that I have had wrist pain. I'm tempted to try an extra overgrip to increase the size and almost force and train myself not to do that.

Either that or just concentrate on not doing it.

Ive recently noticed that there is a Shock Shield overgrip now available.....I wonder what thats like?
 
mikeler

mikeler

Moderator
robbo1970 said:
You make a good point. Its only since I started really trying to whip my wrist around on these forehands that I have had wrist pain. I'm tempted to try an extra overgrip to increase the size and almost force and train myself not to do that.

Either that or just concentrate on not doing it.

Ive recently noticed that there is a Shock Shield overgrip now available.....I wonder what thats like?
Click to expand...

Interesting about the overgrip. I might have to get that one a shot.
 
robbo1970

robbo1970

Hall of Fame
mikeler said:
Interesting about the overgrip. I might have to get that one a shot.
Click to expand...

Ive ordered one so I will report back. But rather than remove my beautifully wrapped leather grip, I may try two overgrips and see if that helps with shock absorbancy and over working the wrist first.
 
corbind

corbind

Professional
Only God knows what is causing you hand pain. Yet, from a logical standpoint, it would seem a heavy (or thick grip) with some gel in it would dampen some vibration.

All I know is I've been pleased with the three I've installed thusfar. They are HEAVY compared to any regular grip but reasonable compared to leather. These things are selling for $7 so a cheap thing to try.

If you buy let us know your thoughts both good and bad.
 
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S

scotus

G.O.A.T.
corbind said:
Only God knows what is causing you hand pain. Yet, from a logical standpoint, it would seem a heavy (or thick grip) with some gel in it would dampen some vibration.

All I know is I've been pleased with the three I've installed thusfar. They are HEAVY compared to any regular grip but reasonable compared to leather. These things are selling for $7 so a cheap thing to try.

If you buy let us know your thought both good and bad.
Click to expand...

$7?

Check the price for the white version.
 
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