How to tame a rocket launcher?

MikeMechanic · Sep 23, 2017

What type of string (mono, multi), how thin (mm) and what tension should I give to a string-job to tame a rocket launcher like a Pure Drive , Pro No1 (295 gram) or any other power stick? I really want more control.

On the other hand, how to beef up a lifeless frame like the M Comp 95 (295 gram)?

toby55555 · Sep 23, 2017

String at max recommended tension for control.
X-one biphase 18 should liven up any frame, most powerful string I've used.

MikeMechanic · Sep 23, 2017

toby55555 said:
String at max recommended tension for control.

poly or synth gut?

X-one biphase 18 should liven up any frame, most powerful string I've used.

Is it a durable string? I see it is just 1.18 mm. Which tension?

toby55555 · Sep 23, 2017

MikeMechanic said:
poly or synth gut?

Is it a durable string? I see it is just 1.18 mm. Which tension?

For control poly is the normal route but from what I've read the PD is stiff and the combo could cause tennis elbow. Someone with experience of this racket can hopefully suggest a softer poly.

X-one isn't very durable. Another way to liven the racket up is to add some lead tape to the head but there is a danger with light weight rackets that are head heavy for power and again that is aggravating your elbow.

CosmosMpower · Sep 23, 2017

16 gauge stiff poly at 60 lbs

esgee48 · Sep 23, 2017

Use pre stretched polys in 15L at middle of tension range to tame the power of the PD frame. Or you can drop the tension in the mains, but keep the tension higher in the crosses.

For the M Comp 95, try a 17 Ga multi like NXT OS or NXT Dura at the low end of the tension range. If you have the $$, hybrid with 17 Ga NG and ZX, same tensions. You could also use SG 17 Ga to find a good tension, then switch to the other strings.

I have no suggestions for Pro No 1.

Dartagnan64 · Sep 23, 2017

Pure Drive I found tonic 15 at 58 with 4G soft 16 at 52 was adequate to tame it.

if you want cheaper then use a soft poly like Sigmum Pro Poly Plasma or MSV Co Focus or Luxilon Element. Run them 45-50 lbs.

If you want real cheap go Head RIP Control at 52.

MikeMechanic · Sep 23, 2017

The Pure Drive was just an example. I got a Pro No1 at 295 gram with an average string job, but I found out it launches missiles as well.

Dartagnan64 · Sep 23, 2017

MikeMechanic said:
The Pure Drive was just an example. I got a Pro No1 at 295 gram with an average string job, but I found out it launches missiles as well.

Well my answer for the PD would stand for any stiff frame. Sadly most of the answers are just asking for tennis elbow.

EdMcMush · Sep 23, 2017

get a pretty dead poly such as gosen polyon or Lux Alu Power (names are very misleading) and string it to mid to high 50s

Shroud · Sep 24, 2017

All my sticks are rocket launchers and the best way to tame:

1. High tensions- exceeding rated limits is key
2. Stiff strings- poly isnt stiff. Try kevlar
3. Locked string bed. Snapback helps launching

To make a racket into a launcher:

1. Add weight in the hoop and handle. Polarized setup
2. Lower tension
3. Slippery soft string like monogut zx

AgassiFan88 · Sep 26, 2017

MikeMechanic said:
The Pure Drive was just an example. I got a Pro No1 at 295 gram with an average string job, but I found out it launches missiles as well.

I had the same issue. Try something like Head Sonic Pro 16g. Offers exceptional spin for a 16g, has pretty good durability, and plenty of control. Of course I play with a lot of natural topspin on forehand, and a flatter OHBH, so what works for me may not be ideal for everyone else. Just a suggestion. I love that string. For even more spin and to really "shrink the court" try it in 17g. Nice soft feel as well.

Rabbit · Sep 26, 2017

You don't mention your current set up. My advice would be to bump your tension by 3 pounds with whatever string you're currently using. Rinse and repeat until you have the desired result. I sure wouldn't recommend poly at high tensions in any case.

The best thing to do to enhance control is take a lesson or two. Changes to faulty technique can really enhance your game. Finally, those may just be bad frame choices for you. Demoing extensively with the plethora of other models will help figure that out.

abhimawa · Sep 26, 2017

MikeMechanic said:
What type of string (mono, multi), how thin (mm) and what tension should I give to a string-job to tame a rocket launcher like a Pure Drive , Pro No1 (295 gram) or any other power stick? I really want more control.

On the other hand, how to beef up a lifeless frame like the M Comp 95 (295 gram)?

on rocket launcher: try upping the tension by 5 lbs, use thicker string (if you currently use 17g, try 16g); based on personal experience, poly like Babolat RPM Blast on main is good for power taming without being harsh
on lifeless frame: lowering the tension by 5lbs, use thinner string; natural gut or multi on main

Can't possibly recommend specific tension, gauge, type of string, unless it's my racquet. It's personal taste

BlueB · Sep 26, 2017

AgassiFan88 said:
I had the same issue. Try something like Head Sonic Pro 16g.

Or just use the Isospeed Baseline, at half the price, which is basically the same thing...

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LocNetMonster · Sep 27, 2017

on rocket launcher:

ditto on upping the tension by 3-5 lbs. if that doesn't cut it back repeat. when the new tension exceeds 20% time to switch string.
try same string up one gauge. if you are using a 17g, go to a 16g
use a low power string like Prince XC as a cross and keep your other string.
change the racket balance and make it 3pt head lighter, repeat until you got it under control

on lifeless frame:

drop tension in 3# increments until you get the depth
use a shaped poly like Tier 1 FireWire in the mains and their RIP in the crosses. Start at the bottom recommended tension and work your way down. In my Pure Controls the launch angle and power increases as tension drops with this string.
increase the mass of the racket. add a 1/2 oz to the head and butt, play and repeat until you get the added umphf.
switch Wilson NXT Power, play, restring until you get the results you want (don't mix NXT and FireWire).
do any or all of the four above until you get the desired playability.

coloskier · Sep 28, 2017

Dartagnan64 said:
Pure Drive I found tonic 15 at 58 with 4G soft 16 at 52 was adequate to tame it.

if you want cheaper then use a soft poly like Sigmum Pro Poly Plasma or MSV Co Focus or Luxilon Element. Run them 45-50 lbs.

If you want real cheap go Head RIP Control at 52.

Soft poly is an oxymoron........ RIP control is a great string. Multi....

BlueB · Sep 28, 2017

coloskier said:
Soft poly is an oxymoron........ RIP control is a great string. Multi....

Rip at the tension where it plays good, is harsher then Sonic Pro at tension where that one plays well. It's also enhanced by the fact that Sonic slides and snaps back a lot more then somewhat locked Rip.

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WestboroChe · Sep 29, 2017

Re: Rocket Launcher

Not to seem glib but if you're having this much trouble controlling the shot perhaps you need a softer, less powerful frame. I have hit with the Pure Drive and it is definitely a stiff, powerful frame.

But if you don't want to switch pick a premium multi-filament Technifibre NRG or X one or Gamma Live Wire XP and string it as tight as you like. Those strings are very comfortable and offer reasonably good hitting time if you're not too picky about tension loss. Or, if you want spin, go with a nice textured poly like Solinco Bite or RPM Blast and play it as loose as you can (to avoid arm pain).

But like I said, while the strings make a difference,the frame makes a big difference too.

Don't have any advice for you on the lifeless frame, my problem was always keeping them in the court!

NLBwell · Sep 29, 2017

To tame?
Kevlar! Cross with gut if you want a little more comfort.
I don't think it would be very comfortable in a Pure Drive, but then, to me, nothing is comfortable in a Pure Drive.

BlueB · Sep 30, 2017

NLBwell said:
To tame?
Kevlar! Cross with gut if you want a little more comfort.
I don't think it would be very comfortable in a Pure Drive, but then, to me, nothing is comfortable in a Pure Drive.

Wouldn't gut lock the bed and actually make it less comfortable then Zyex?
Buy yeah, locked bed will have lower launch then sliding mains...

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