Federer's racquet - my attempt to replicate it

I know that the frame is NOT the exact frame that he uses (as some of the top players use custom molds).

That was from BP and a few other people. I'm starting to learn to not read his posts anymore.
How do you KNOW that? "as some of the top players use custom molds" is not really proof enough I would say. Not trying to be inpolite, just wondering.
 
Since then, he may or may not use the stock version (handpicked to specs) of whatever Wilson Tour 90 was in production (it's likely he uses the stock version).
I for one do not find it likely that Federer would change from K to BLX, with its slightly different composition, and on to the newer version, just because Wilson needs to market a new model.
 
http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showthread.php?t=476154

Use the search tab on your screen to look at the previous threads in the Pro Racquets and Gear section. This has been discussed multiple times.
Of course it has. And I know "some of the top players use custom molds". But apart from that, to my recollection there has been many indications that Federer uses the K, and no proof of the opposite. Among the "few other people" you mention, were Nate Ferguson of P1.
 
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Overdrive

Legend
I for one do not find it likely that Federer would change from K to BLX, with its slightly different composition, and on to the newer version, just because Wilson needs to market a new model.

As you know, Roger said that he will go back to testing the prototypes after the US Open. Shanghai starts on the last week of September, so I assume that he will use a blacked out frame.
 

Overdrive

Legend
Of course it has. And I know "some of the top players use custom molds". But apart from that, to my recollection there has been many indications that Federer uses the K, and no proof of the opposite. Among the "few other people" you mention, were Nate Ferguson of P1.

See, I asked if Federer was using the K90 or the Tour 90, and there are several pages just about my question. I'm going to stop providing insight on these types of threads because someone (either a gear head or a Federer fan) is going to start trolling me.

Anyways, I wonder what the PJ of the new frames will be. The 2012 PJ was horrible in my opinion. Hmmm... I'm going to guess a white and black trim.
 
See, I asked if Federer was using the K90 or the Tour 90, and there are several pages just about my question. I'm going to stop providing insight on these types of threads because someone (either a gear head or a Federer fan) is going to start trolling me.

Anyways, I wonder what the PJ of the new frames will be. The 2012 PJ was horrible in my opinion. Hmmm... I'm going to guess a white and black trim.

Yes, I am aware of that.

Here's the thread about the blacked out frame. Over 1,200 posts total. One of the reasons why I wait until I read/hear the official statement from Wilson.

http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showthread.php?t=470192
Sounds like you feel an urgent need to change the subject.
 

Wodz

Rookie
A few updates about the frame.

First, I would like to thank xFullCourtTenniSx for actually focusing on the topic and pointing out the tiny differences. You are spot on about the butt cap but I will not bother changing something like that. I assure you that the ties are identical as I studied many pics of Fed's frame up close from people like Fabfeb. I am not sure about the string savers but his do appear to be lighter than mine.. not something I care too much about.

This frame is worth a good $350. I bought it brand new back in the day and have an identical string setup as Fed.. which is expensive. There is no way to replicate his tension and attempting to do so would be stupid as no one else is Federer.

People were asking about how this plays compared to the retail frame.
(all of the notes can be found in my first post)

Custom ties: Absolutely pointless. Federer is VERY specific about his stringing and this is simply his preference. It has to do with tension quality on the gut mains and someone like Ron could back that statement up. This does not play any different nor would it play any different for Federer himself. It is simply a preference.

Strings: I have been using his string setup for years and absolutely love it but this is not for everyone. The racquet itself is a heavy beast and playing with gut is not for everyone. Stringing setups come down to your specific comfort and style of play.

Tension: What I can do with a tennis ball at 47/43 is simply incredible. I had been experimenting with various tensions over the years and this low tension is simply amazing FOR ME specifically. It has done wonders for my game and has reduced stiffness in my backhand. I have other (identical) frames setup with slightly different tensions for grass and clay..etc.

Power Pads: Common for wooden frames. Babolat has a built in system. Power pads are very helpful on this frame and I feel the difference in my hitting with these installed. My stringer recommended that I have them installed on the last string row on the left and right to help my gut across the sweet spot as well as improve vibration reduction.. I am considering it.

String savers: The frame will not "play" differently with these installed as they are simply meant to preserve the gut longer.

Stencil: Pointless as the ink just goes off onto the balls and P1 will not tell anyone how to fix this problem lol

Handle: I am using a stock L3 but looking into a shorter custom mold. I grip very low and use a one handed backhand so most of the handle is being wasted and I would benefit from a shorter handle. I would also be careful about what is inside of the handle as I want the frame to be top heavy.

Lead tape: The tape in the head @ 12 vastly improves RHS (racquet head speed) but this can only be felt with high level players.

It is my opinion that (virtually) no one from level 3.0 down could notice any difference in play with this frame compared to the stock frame. From maybe 5.0 to 7.0 the differences would be very apparent.

Keep in mind that if Federer himself handed his racquet to anyone that was idk.. below 5.0 it would be a nightmare for them. It would be like putting a newbie in a Ferrari at Suzuka and betting how long it takes them to crash into a wall.

My overall thought is that this racquet plays very differently from the stock K90 frame due to the RELEVANT changes.

I am looking into getting a few Pro Staff 90 BLX frames and working them over as well.

It is hilarious that every thread about a Fed racquet or setup turns into an argument about what he ACTUALLY uses.. stfu already!

In other news a source told me that Fed was in demo mode with his racquet changes and has not signed off on his new stick yet. My source told me that in order for Wilson to make the custom mold and get the units out to Federer he needs to sign a contract of ordering at least 1,000 units. Given that these players earn tens of millions that is not unreasonable. What I want to know is where are the discarded tens of thousands of sticks that Federer has used in the past.... my guess? In a secret government facility in Switzerland for a future museum in his name.
 

kanuna

Banned
I modified my K90 too. It was amazing to feel the extra power, RHS, stability and the extra ball pocketing sweetspot.
 
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