Trigger Finger: Is there a better Racquet than a POG OS?

I'm using a POG OS 4 stripe model with Ashaway Liberty 16 at 55-58 lbs. If I use a stiffer string or a tighter tension, my trigger finger comes back.

Is there another racquet I can try that will give me the same comfort, but in a lighter frame and with more power? Maybe the O3 Hybrid Shark or O3 Tour?

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marklbucla said:

I'm using a POG OS 4 stripe model with Ashaway Liberty 16 at 55-58 lbs. If I use a stiffer string or a tighter tension, my trigger finger comes back.

Is there another racquet I can try that will give me the same comfort, but in a lighter frame and with more power? Maybe the O3 Hybrid Shark or O3 Tour?

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Can't get around the physics of it all. If you want more power and less weight you want stiffer, but that means less comfort. It's all a tradeoff. The POG 4 stripe is a wonderful frame, BTW. I still have one from the 1980s(old doubles partner's frame). Use a softer string, gut hybrid or all-gut and your trigger finger may subside...

I went from POGOS to Kniessl Black Star. Was also seeking a lighter weight racquet than POGOS. I used the TT Warrior OS for a while and it was a nice option. The Kniessl Black Star, in spite of the dense string pattern and extra length, is even better. I'd suggest giving this racquet a playtest if you are seeking a great playing lighter weight alternative to the POGOS.

s far as an OS, I have played with the heads, pog 4 stripes (very nice), and a bunch more and currently choose the Donnay OS. Seems every bit as plush with a more flexi feel than the princes (current or old) and just a hair easier to manuever. I like it best. I cut the bumpers and put on head tape and I have one at 11.9 oz abd 12.2 oz both around 8 pts headlight. If I play OS, this is the one.

What is trigger finger?

Thanks...I have not heard the term

A trigger finger is inflammation of the tendon sheath as it passes through the pulley system in your hand. I have had this in the past and went through several injections (two fingers) to get relief. As for racquets that exascerbate this condition, you don't want anything that is too stiff. I would not use anything more than an RA 65. Soft multifilaments are a must. I would also consider something that as a physician would never have believed would have worked: magnet bracelet. I purchased one last year at the Pacific life open and have not had any further problems in my hand. My next step should that not have occured would have been a small orthopedic procedure. Does the magnet work... I don't really know but the only time I remove is just before I operate.

As for racquets, I am a racquet junkie. Initially fueled by the need to find a racquet that would not bring this on again. I play with a PT 280, Yonex RDS 001 (new colors) and the aerogel 200. All are extremely soft. I have been flirting with the kblade tour although I think I'm playing with fire. The racquet is just too fun.

Hope this helps.

I have had trigger finger for about 20 years. It is now under control.

In addition to using an arm-friendly racquet and natural gut string, I went down a grip size and built it back up by applying extra overgrips. This gives you more cushion and dampens the shock and vibration.

I also try to minimize the flexion of fingers and do a lot of extensions. I purchased a nifty device designed for finger extension workouts.

I'm glad you explained the "trigger finger" condition. I thought you were referring to the urge to "pull the trigger" on a new frame

If you're looking for a POG type frame with more power and less weight, you may want to look into the Radical Oversize series from Head. They are fine sticks and fit the criteria you require.

Good luck on your racquet hunt.

The Head grip shape could help (or hurt) your finger condition, so it is probably worth a try just because of that.