Diary of a Racketaholic

PrinceYonex

Semi-Pro
Yep. But it is not for the faint of swing. You've got to play 'up' to the racquet even more so than with a UT. Move the feet, rotate, meet the ball out in front. If you do come up to the frame's level, then the frame will pat you on the shoulder and say, "I'll take it from here my boy."
This is just right. In match play, I sometimes find that I go through phases where, if/when I tighten up a bit, I start dropping forehands short, as if the racquet is telling me to wake up. More commonly, I find that the PT really encourages me to swing out aggressively, and that feeling is completely addictive.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
It's interesting that you mention this because I think this will be my route moving forward as well. Playing this last non-USTA league with more evenly matched players made me think that UTR is probably the better way to go. But with the way that Spring looks, I won't be able to compete in anything until April or May.

Yeah USTA will probably drop me to 3.0 by the time I use it again. And then I will bathe in the sandbagging goddess of it all. Meanwhile UTR appears to grow more and more here. I think one reason is nobody here wants a 5.0 or sometimes even a 4.5 rating. So they tank matches to stay at their rating and stay on their current team. It's a whacky system that doesn't really seem accurate in terms of gauging talent. I have seen ex college guys at 4.0 serving 115 and being people to death. Meanwhile, UTR appears to be more accurate. I will know more after more matches. My rating right now is just getting going since I just started it.
 

ryushen21

Legend
Yeah USTA will probably drop me to 3.0 by the time I use it again. And then I will bathe in the sandbagging goddess of it all. Meanwhile UTR appears to grow more and more here. I think one reason is nobody here wants a 5.0 or sometimes even a 4.5 rating. So they tank matches to stay at their rating and stay on their current team. It's a whacky system that doesn't really seem accurate in terms of gauging talent. I have seen ex college guys at 4.0 serving 115 and being people to death. Meanwhile, UTR appears to be more accurate. I will know more after more matches. My rating right now is just getting going since I just started it.
That's what I've taken away from it too. USTA is really more social than it is competitive. I think that's why I got so frustrated with it in the past. UTR seems to be the best path for those that want to push themselves and find actual competition.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
That's what I've taken away from it too. USTA is really more social than it is competitive. I think that's why I got so frustrated with it in the past. UTR seems to be the best path for those that want to push themselves and find actual competition.

My focus will be UTR and tourneys. I am playing on a 4.0 mens USTA team as well which is more social, but we have some guys who climbed to top 10 national ranking and then got bumped to 4.5 and we all play matches on the side. So it's a lot of tennis all over the ratings spectrum.
 

tim-ay

Legend
The good news is, frap with grip changed to syntec pro and trimmed OG is 333g and 325 SW and it doesn't feel laborious. This is more maneuverable but i only managed to get in about 20mins yesterday with the other frames i wanted to try. UT is as i expected overall i would say maybe even a bit pleasantly surprised it is not as seemingly anemic as sometimes described. I added weight 2, 10 and 12 with stock grip and OG. Its around 332g and 329SW. Strung with TS @47lbs and i was hitting deep with nice full rich cream feel. Serves are not blistering by any means and require more placement to get the most out of it. Yes, i don't see it as my match stick but happy to have it in the bag for just hitting around sessions.

I think i still prefer BK in my zeus over big spin. Felt a bit less consistent with it yesterday. Missed a few kick serves just wide on the ad side and wasn't as assured on ground strokes. Maybe it was just me being rusty and finding a string to blame. A friend wants to hit outdoor later but i don't know brrrrr
ZUS arrives tomorrow. USPS baby.... lol. At least I have my fingers crossed.

UT is solid, I could have seen myself sucked in hard last year at this time when I was fooling myself with the BP in December. It will not be my match stick either, but a fun hit nonetheless.

Rad MP is a great racket, I'm still enjoying mixing that in. I play some great tennis with it, wish it was just a tad less vibe-y. Damn good frame though.

Dopes, TB's, 7Gs are resting. Except a little bit of Dope hitting. So I guess not full resting.

Totally dig the Limoncello, but it's more in the UT "fun hit" bag for me. I might like it better than the UT, but I need a bit more lead on the UT to get the SW up over 330 next time out. Limoncello needs more time.

Clash 98 made a surprise appearance on the court last night, I still really like that frame.... especially in mid 50's temps. Man, i hate cold weather more than I hate hot, humid weather. At least when it's cold out. maybe not when it's hot out.

Probably should put up Christmas lights, but I'd rather play tennis.

And that's Dec 1st 2021 roundup.
 

topspn

Legend
ZUS arrives tomorrow. USPS baby.... lol. At least I have my fingers crossed.

UT is solid, I could have seen myself sucked in hard last year at this time when I was fooling myself with the BP in December. It will not be my match stick either, but a fun hit nonetheless.

Rad MP is a great racket, I'm still enjoying mixing that in. I play some great tennis with it, wish it was just a tad less vibe-y. Damn good frame though.

Dopes, TB's, 7Gs are resting. Except a little bit of Dope hitting. So I guess not full resting.

Totally dig the Limoncello, but it's more in the UT "fun hit" bag for me. I might like it better than the UT, but I need a bit more lead on the UT to get the SW up over 330 next time out. Limoncello needs more time.

Clash 98 made a surprise appearance on the court last night, I still really like that frame.... especially in mid 50's temps. Man, i hate cold weather more than I hate hot, humid weather. At least when it's cold out. maybe not when it's hot out.

Probably should put up Christmas lights, but I'd rather play tennis.

And that's Dec 1st 2021 roundup.
So curious what you will think of the zeus haha. Keep in mind it is a thinner beam probably under 21 so I am now thinking of dropping tension to 50lbs. Buddy wants to hit outside after work and its already dark so under lights, no sun and it will be around 39 degrees brrr :X3:
 

tim-ay

Legend
So curious what you will think of the zeus haha. Keep in mind it is a thinner beam probably under 21 so I am now thinking of dropping tension to 50lbs. Buddy wants to hit outside after work and its already dark so under lights, no sun and it will be around 39 degrees brrr :X3:
Haven’t been as excited to hit a frame since….. well, the UT…. But yeah, I’m excited to hit it. That spec has really grown on me and the fiberglass ‘doping’ is crazy. And to think I can order in 27.25.

39 - that’s too cold! But it’s all getting used to temps I guess. 50’s in Florida is darn cold. People laugh at us, putting feather down puffy coats on at 58 degrees, but something about the humidity here and all the warm weather makes it feel frigid.

I was going to go BK @ 50 in the ZUS? What do you think? 48?

Edit - hahaha, I’m stupid, you said 50.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
Haven’t been as excited to hit a frame since….. well, the UT…. But yeah, I’m excited to hit it. That spec has really grown on me and the fiberglass ‘doping’ is crazy. And to think I can order in 27.25.

39 - that’s too cold! But it’s all getting used to temps I guess. 50’s in Florida is darn cold. People laugh at us, putting feather down puffy coats on at 58 degrees, but something about the humidity here and all the warm weather makes it feel frigid.

I was going to go BK @ 50 in the ZUS? What do you think? 48?

Edit - hahaha, I’m stupid, you said 50.

Yeah the humidity makes 50 feel colder than it is. Like 50 up here is a awesome for tennis. I can play into the low 40s before its too much.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
As long as there isn't wind, 40 and sunny in Denver is 'warm'. No one from east of the Mississippi would ever believe it, but it's true.

Yeah like its December here and the high is still 65-70 and sunny. Before I moved out here I thought it would be like the northeast in the winter but that is not the case.
 

Classic-TXP-IG MID

Hall of Fame
How about thinking you were tying a knot correctly only to find out you in fact were not.

I feel you on this one. The amount of time I spend on starting knots for the crosses sometimes... and the number I had to start again after thinking I did it right... oh, man!

Some of my knots look like mangled fists. :oops: ;) :giggle: :laughing::-D But they hold... so I guess that's good. We live and learn.
 

Vicious49

Legend
This is just right. In match play, I sometimes find that I go through phases where, if/when I tighten up a bit, I start dropping forehands short, as if the racquet is telling me to wake up. More commonly, I find that the PT really encourages me to swing out aggressively, and that feeling is completely addictive.

Thats what I used to love with the UT. Taking those full cuts and having the ball land exactly where I wanted it to. After playing with more arc with these more open frames I cant easily switch back and forth with the UT. Id have to start using it regularly again if i wanted to play with it effectively.
 

PrinceYonex

Semi-Pro
Thats what I used to love with the UT. Taking those full cuts and having the ball land exactly where I wanted it to. After playing with more arc with these more open frames I cant easily switch back and forth with the UT. Id have to start using it regularly again if i wanted to play with it effectively.
I hear you on that. I have a hard time moving between the PT and my Vcp310, because the launch angle is very different and the vcp is so whippy. Feels like my swing has to adjust, but also my mentality — how I go after the ball.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
Tennis Nerd says the Dunlop CX Tour 16x19 has a "slightly" larger sweet spot than the PT 2.0. That would be surprising to me. I am wondering if he strung the 2.0 too tight or if the PT will simply not be as tough to use as I was thinking prior. The sweet spot on the Dunlop is rather sizable and the frame is easy to use for a 95 control frame, imo.

I also will have to try the Cream/OGSM setup at some point. That will probably be my second string job in the PT 2.0
 

JGads

G.O.A.T.
Thats what I used to love with the UT. Taking those full cuts and having the ball land exactly where I wanted it to. After playing with more arc with these more open frames I cant easily switch back and forth with the UT. Id have to start using it regularly again if i wanted to play with it effectively.
I hear you on that. I have a hard time moving between the PT and my Vcp310, because the launch angle is very different and the vcp is so whippy. Feels like my swing has to adjust, but also my mentality — how I go after the ball.

I find that if I’m switching between frames in a session and plan on using both control sticks and my main sticks I really need to start with the control sticks and then gear up gradually fo the bigger boom sticks. It sort of locks me in at the start and I can go up in pop and forgiveness and it’s not really an issue, even quite fun to do this.. But if I start with my 100 inch PKs and then go down to the UT, let’s say, it’s more often a disaster.

@PrinceYonex , curious to get your take on PT vs the VCP 310.
 

PrinceYonex

Semi-Pro
I find that if I’m switching between frames in a session and plan on using both control sticks and my main sticks I really need to start with the control sticks and then gear up gradually fo the bigger boom sticks. It sort of locks me in at the start and I can go up in pop and forgiveness and it’s not really an issue, even quite fun to do this.. But if I start with my 100 inch PKs and then go down to the UT, let’s say, it’s more often a disaster.

@PrinceYonex , curious to get your take on PT vs the VCP 310.
I’m using a couple of the old VCP310s (2018/2019)— frames I still really love. I have them set up with swingweights at 323, both with statics around 330. So they are really very different types of frames than the PT, and I tend to appreciate one for precisely what the other lacks. The PT has that amazing plow and thump that I just can’t get from the vcp without adding a ton more weight to it. The VCP has a fantastic degree of whippiness and maneuverability that encourages me to go for more crafty angles and try to put more shape on the ball. The vcp has a much higher launch that gives me much easier depth. That easy depth is a great help in match play— until I miss deep, something I rarely do with the PT.
In terms of serves— again the contrast is the main thing here. I have an easier time rolling loopy spin serves with the vcp, but I have much more control over straight flat serves with the PT.
Lastly with volleys, I like both frames but for whatever reason I just find volleying to feel sublime with the PT. Not just more control but a feeling of just soaking up the pace of the incoming shot, and never feeling like I’m trampolining a volley back (which can sometimes happen with the vcp).
I’ve been going back and forth with the two frames for many months now, which has been challenging because they really encourage me to play differently.
I’ve also been messing around with a TF40, which is sort of a happy medium but without really seizing the strengths of either.
 
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Power Player

Bionic Poster
I’m using a couple of the old VCP310s (2018/2019)— frames I still really love. I have them set up with swingweights at 323, both with statics around 330. So they are really very different types of frames than the PT, and I tend to appreciate one for precisely what the other lacks. The PT has that amazing plow and thump that I just can’t get from the vcp without adding a ton more weight to it. The VCP has a fantastic degree of whippiness and maneuverability that encourages me to go for more crafty angles and try to put more shape on the ball. The vcp has a much higher launch that gives me much easier depth. That easy depth is a great help in match play— until I miss deep, something I rarely do with the PT.
In terms of serves— again the contrast is the main thing here. I have an easier time rolling loopy spin serves with the vcp, but I have much more control over straight flat serves with the PT.
Lastly with volleys, I like both frames but for whatever reason I just find volleying to feel sublime with the PT. Not just more control but a feeling of just soaking up the pace of the incoming shot, and never feeling like I’m trampolining a volley back (which can sometimes happen with the vcp).
I’ve been going back and forth with the two frames for many months now, which has been challenging because they really encourage me to play differently.
I’ve also been messing around with a TF40, which is sort of a happy medium but without really seizing the strengths of either.

How much net clearance are you getting with the PT? Like is there any forgiveness there or is it pretty ruthless? That is one feature with the 16x19 Dunlop that really works for me. I firmly expect the PT to be tougher work there, but sometimes there are surprises. Also my 18x20s (Blades, UT) were balanced at 4 pts HL where the PT will be at a whippier 6, which does help.
 

JGads

G.O.A.T.
I’m using a couple of the old VCP310s (2018/2019)— frames I still really love. I have them set up with swingweights at 323, both with statics around 330. So they are really very different types of frames than the PT, and I tend to appreciate one for precisely what the other lacks. The PT has that amazing plow and thump that I just can’t get from the vcp without adding a ton more weight to it. The VCP has a fantastic degree of whippiness and maneuverability that encourages me to go for more crafty angles and try to put more shape on the ball. The vcp has a much higher launch that gives me much easier depth. That easy depth is a great help in match play— until I miss deep, something I rarely do with the PT.
In terms of serves— again the contrast is the main thing here. I have an easier time rolling loopy spin serves with the vcp, but I have much more control over straight flat serves with the PT.
Lastly with volleys, I like both frames but for whatever reason I just find volleying to feel sublime with the PT. Not just more control but a feeling of just soaking up the pace of the incoming shot, and never feeling like I’m trampolining a volley back (which can sometimes happen with the vcp).
I’ve been going back and forth with the two frames for many months now, which has been challenging because they really encourage me to play differently.
I’ve also been messing around with a TF40, which is sort of a happy medium but without really seizing the strengths of either.

Nice, nice. The older VCPs I’ve never hit except for the HD. My friend now has the TF40 and I must say - that’s a really good racquet. It really doesn’t overwhelm in any category yet it does everything well. That was the other frame I mainly hit with last night (frames in my own bag were mostly napping) at the very end of the session to get a better feel of what my friend has been vibing with of late and immediately saw its charm (this was my second ever hit with it). Nice full foam filled feel and any shot I went for I could hit, but as I said, and what you seem to be saying, it doesn’t make you go “oh god” like the PT or give you crazy ease of use. But it’s reliable.
 

Vicious49

Legend
I find that if I’m switching between frames in a session and plan on using both control sticks and my main sticks I really need to start with the control sticks and then gear up gradually fo the bigger boom sticks. It sort of locks me in at the start and I can go up in pop and forgiveness and it’s not really an issue, even quite fun to do this.. But if I start with my 100 inch PKs and then go down to the UT, let’s say, it’s more often a disaster.

Will give that a try next time.

How much net clearance are you getting with the PT? Like is there any forgiveness there or is it pretty ruthless? That is one feature with the 16x19 Dunlop that really works for me. I firmly expect the PT to be tougher work there, but sometimes there are surprises. Also my 18x20s (Blades, UT) were balanced at 4 pts HL where the PT will be at a whippier 6, which does help.

Slightly more than the UT but not much.
 

JGads

G.O.A.T.
How much net clearance are you getting with the PT? Like is there any forgiveness there or is it pretty ruthless? That is one feature with the 16x19 Dunlop that really works for me. I firmly expect the PT to be tougher work there, but sometimes there are surprises. Also my 18x20s (Blades, UT) were balanced at 4 pts HL where the PT will be at a whippier 6, which does help.

I’m liking the net clearance. Feel like it would be lower if I look at the bed but the thing has a lot of plow so the ball really carries. To contrast, the UT perhaps feels more like a slap and if you don’t slap it just so, I can clip the tape a lot more. The PT is a driving thunk that carries the ball a little more. The same plow that’s carrying the ball deep is also lifting it over the net rather well, I must say. But I doubt it’ll have the net clearance of your 16/19.

I’ve literally been counting the amount of “netters” or “dumpers” - balls you hit into the net when it’s really all on you, just an unforced mistake. Because these irk me more than any other mistake, much worse than going long. And the PT has been doing well there. Surprisingly.
 

PrinceYonex

Semi-Pro
How much net clearance are you getting with the PT? Like is there any forgiveness there or is it pretty ruthless? That is one feature with the 16x19 Dunlop that really works for me. I firmly expect the PT to be tougher work there, but sometimes there are surprises. Also my 18x20s (Blades, UT) were balanced at 4 pts HL where the PT will be at a whippier 6, which does help.
The PT has a very dense 18/20. I find the launch lower than the TF (also an 18/20). So you do have to work for clearance and depth, but you also feel like you just can’t shoot long.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
I’m liking the net clearance. Feel like it would be lower if I look at the bed but the thing has a lot of plow so the ball really carries. To contrast, the UT perhaps feels more like a slap and if you don’t slap it just so, I can clip the tape a lot more. The PT is a driving thunk that carries the ball a little more. The same plow that’s carrying the ball deep is also lifting it over the net rather well, I must say. But I doubt it’ll have the net clearance of your 16/19.

I’ve literally been counting the amount of “netters” or “dumpers” - balls you hit into the net when it’s really all on you, just an unforced mistake. Because these irk me more than any other mistake, much worse than going long. And the PT has been doing well there. Surprisingly.

Yes, this is what I do as well. Nothing more painful then clipping the tape for me. So I really focus on shaping the ball a little more, and if I can do that consistently I seem to play rather consistent tennis in all areas. Funny how it all connects out there.

I tend to hit long more than short and what I love about the Dunlop is it gives me the control to keep the ball right in the lines and swing fast. It's not a really open 16x19, super similar to Yoko in that regard, but it does give me a little more which I appreciate.

I think one way to help with that on the PT is to string my poly in the mid 40s. I think I will still have the control and also get some extra lift on the ball. I will be interested if I get as confident to use it in singles matches. For Doubles, game on.I dont care anymore about dubs, especially since I have had some weak partners who have tanked my USTA rating..lol. That guilt of missing shots or DF'ing is gone, and now I am in pure enjoyment mode for that. Hell, I may bust out the P93 as well, and really take things up a notch.

The PT has a very dense 18/20. I find the launch lower than the TF (also an 18/20). So you do have to work for clearance and depth, but you also feel like you just can’t shoot long.

I too hit with the TF40, and was impressed at how consistently I could hit with it. I didn't love it, or didn't love the feel.

The feeling of not missing long is what I love though. So that sounds like it will be right up my alley, even if it's just a backup to my Dunlop.
 

Classic-TXP-IG MID

Hall of Fame
I find that if I’m switching between frames in a session and plan on using both control sticks and my main sticks I really need to start with the control sticks and then gear up gradually fo the bigger boom sticks. It sort of locks me in at the start and I can go up in pop and forgiveness and it’s not really an issue, even quite fun to do this.. But if I start with my 100 inch PKs and then go down to the UT, let’s say, it’s more often a disaster.

Interesting. It makes sense in a way. I just approach it from a different place. I see how I'm going on that particular day, I start with a racquet I would like to hit with (from the available freshly strung batch), then see how my game is... am I hitting long or short, am I producing enough power or too much, am I feeling the ball or not... and then dial it up or down based on the racquet I started playing with. It might also be related to what stage of the match/ session I'm at. If I've been playing for a while with the PT 2.0 or UT or a similar racquet, and I'm getting tired and lower on "free power"... I might pull out the Dunlop SX 300 Tour and get that additional power doing the same thing as with the PT or UT, but with less RHS and more loop to my shots.

Hope that makes sense.
 

Classic-TXP-IG MID

Hall of Fame
Yes, this is what I do as well. Nothing more painful then clipping the tape for me. So I really focus on shaping the ball a little more, and if I can do that consistently I seem to play rather consistent tennis in all areas. Funny how it all connects out there.

I tend to hit long more than short and what I love about the Dunlop is it gives me the control to keep the ball right in the lines and swing fast. It's not a really open 16x19, super similar to Yoko in that regard, but it does give me a little more which I appreciate.

I think one way to help with that on the PT is to string my poly in the mid 40s. I think I will still have the control and also get some extra lift on the ball. I will be interested if I get as confident to use it in singles matches. For Doubles, game on.I dont care anymore about dubs, especially since I have had some weak partners who have tanked my USTA rating..lol. That guilt of missing shots or DF'ing is gone, and now I am in pure enjoyment mode for that. Hell, I may bust out the P93 as well, and really take things up a notch.

With the PT/UT and such, like you I tend to focus on shaping the ball, bending the legs more and getting down to the ball and making sure I get my racquet face under and behind the ball to allow me to them shape my shot and impart the desired amount of spin and work on the ball. I also tend to change my grips slightly based on the height of the ball coming at me. I also make sure I string the mains and crosses with a 3 lbs differential, which allows for more launch angle and loop to my shots.

I find as long as I'm able to do that, I can impart any amount of spin and loop to my shots... and the net is not as much of an issue. It's more making sure I'm working the ball enough in order not to drop it short and allow my opponent to pounce and take the advantage. If that happens... the PT becomes a lot more work.

Hope that makes sense.
 
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TimePlease

Semi-Pro
Nice, nice. The older VCPs I’ve never hit except for the HD. My friend now has the TF40 and I must say - that’s a really good racquet. It really doesn’t overwhelm in any category yet it does everything well. That was the other frame I mainly hit with last night (frames in my own bag were mostly napping) at the very end of the session to get a better feel of what my friend has been vibing with of late and immediately saw its charm (this was my second ever hit with it). Nice full foam filled feel and any shot I went for I could hit, but as I said, and what you seem to be saying, it doesn’t make you go “oh god” like the PT or give you crazy ease of use. But it’s reliable.
Which TF40 was it? I find there's a world of difference.
The 315 is meh - far too light in the head, not enough plow - doesn't excel at anything.
The 305 has extreme linear accuracy and consistency for flat hitters - laser-like with good technique. Truly deadly in the right hands. I've only ever strung it with AK Pro CX for its touch and depth control for the flatter game. I think it requires a totally different playing style and that's something that I've only very recently clicked with.
 

JGads

G.O.A.T.
Interesting. It makes sense in a way. I just approach it from a different place. I see how I'm going on that particular day, I start with a racquet I would like to hit with (from the available freshly strung batch), then see how my game is... am I hitting long or short, am I producing enough power or too much, am I feeling the ball or not... and then dial it up or down based on the racquet I started playing with. It might also be related to what stage of the match/ session I'm at. If I've been playing for a while with the PT 2.0 or UT or a similar racquet, and I'm getting tired and lower on "free power"... I might pull out the Dunlop SX 300 Tour and get that additional power doing the same thing as with the PT or UT, but with less RHS and more loop to my shots.

Hope that makes sense.

Yeah, I hear that. We all have to find what works for us. I just find that these control sticks get me into a nice rhythm of both feeling the ball well and getting me locked into a all-systems-necessary to produce depth and solidity - weight shift, rotation, etc. With the more powerful sticks I can get maybe a touch slap happy from time to time. Of course the warm up and finding your way into a hitting session should be the same no matter what stick you're hitting with, revving up and working on fundamentals. But I never claimed I wasn't an idiot, and on occasion it can be easier to warm up 'smart' and disciplined with the control sticks.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
With the PT/UT and such, like you I tend to focus on shaping the ball, bending the legs more and getting down to the ball and making sure I get my racquet face under and behind the ball to allow me to them shape my shot and impart the desired amount of spin and work on the ball. I also tend to change my grips slightly based on the height of the ball coming at me.

I find as long as I'm able to do that, I can impart any amount of spin and loop to my shots... and the net is not as much of an issue. It's more making sure I'm working the ball enough in order not to drop it short and allow my opponent to pounce and take the advantage. If that happens... the PT becomes a lot more work.

Hope that makes sense.

Makes total sense. Whats great is I found a legit competition frame in this Dunlop so I can measure it against the PT2.0 and have an honest answer on how I can compete with it. The Dunlop really lets me shape shots that stay low on the court and I would have had to probably slice back with other frames. I think the 16x19 pattern helps but it also helps to have some nice whip to it from the thin beam and smaller head. So in that aspect, I believe the PT could be similar as well.
 

JGads

G.O.A.T.
Which TF40 was it? I find there's a world of difference.
The 315 is meh - far too light in the head, not enough plow - doesn't excel at anything.
The 305 has extreme linear accuracy and consistency for flat hitters - laser-like with good technique. Truly deadly in the right hands. I've only ever strung it with AK Pro CX for its touch and depth control for the flatter game. I think it requires a totally different playing style and that's something that I've only very recently clicked with.

305. I didn't even realize there was a 315. And yes it is rather laser-like, and my buddy who's digging it is a flatball guy more than spin. I hit with more spin than flat but I was hitting some darts when going for that kind of kill shot. Slice was also great.
 

JGads

G.O.A.T.
Makes total sense. Whats great is I found a legit competition frame in this Dunlop so I can measure it against the PT2.0 and have an honest answer on how I can compete with it. The Dunlop really lets me shape shots that stay low on the court and I would have had to probably slice back with other frames. I think the 16x19 pattern helps but it also helps to have some nice whip to it from the thin beam and smaller head. So in that aspect, I believe the PT could be similar as well.

My money is hard on the Dunlop as a competition frame. As I said, even I don't see the PT as a legit for-all-the-marbles contender. Yet I have so much fun with the racquet. And I'm going to keep toying around with it until I crash into that wall.
 

Classic-TXP-IG MID

Hall of Fame
Which TF40 was it? I find there's a world of difference.
The 315 is meh - far too light in the head, not enough plow - doesn't excel at anything.
The 305 has extreme linear accuracy and consistency for flat hitters - laser-like with good technique. Truly deadly in the right hands. I've only ever strung it with AK Pro CX for its touch and depth control for the flatter game. I think it requires a totally different playing style and that's something that I've only very recently clicked with.

So, are you saying that the TF40 305 would be better than the TF40 315 if you made the balance the same (I know the weights would be different)?

What I'm saying is what would play better, a TF40 305 with the balance of the TF40 315, or a TF40 315 with added weight in the hoop to give the head more oomph and weight?

Cheers
 

taylor15

Hall of Fame
Yeah like its December here and the high is still 65-70 and sunny. Before I moved out here I thought it would be like the northeast in the winter but that is not the case.
That’s not the norm though is it? I spent a winter out there in college and the highs in December I feel like we’re under 50 most of the month.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
That’s not the norm though is it? I spent a winter out there in college and the highs in December I feel like we’re under 50 most of the month.

Its been the norm since i have been here. Well last year may have been more mid 50s but i'm not sure. I just greatly appreciate the plentiful supply of sunny days. The worst cold is typically feb/march.
 

Classic-TXP-IG MID

Hall of Fame
Makes total sense. Whats great is I found a legit competition frame in this Dunlop so I can measure it against the PT2.0 and have an honest answer on how I can compete with it. The Dunlop really lets me shape shots that stay low on the court and I would have had to probably slice back with other frames. I think the 16x19 pattern helps but it also helps to have some nice whip to it from the thin beam and smaller head. So in that aspect, I believe the PT could be similar as well.

I understand. With the PT 2.0, you just have to let the weight and inertia do some of the work and focus on the core and the kinetic chain working, then control the contact point and approach angle for the desired shot execution... and make sure to follow through and let the elbow finish up high (give yourself a hug, as they say).

I can see how the CX 200 Tour 16x19 might allow for more shape and a sharper drop compared to the PT 2.0 (or at least for it to be executed more easily). I do that more easily with my VC95, when comparing with the PT 2.0. The ball goes up and down more acutely, but I find that the ball also bounces more up rather than through (like it does with the PT 2.0). So, depending on the opponent, one can be better than the other.
 

Classic-TXP-IG MID

Hall of Fame
My money is hard on the Dunlop as a competition frame. As I said, even I don't see the PT as a legit for-all-the-marbles contender. Yet I have so much fun with the racquet. And I'm going to keep toying around with it until I crash into that wall.

I think it also comes down to the opponent you are facing. If the person is not as fit and doesn't get into position as well, using the PT 2.0 to get them moving and digging out low skidding balls might make their day tough. Whereas, producing a ball that bounces a bit higher gives some people time to hit the ball. I faced that when using my UP 16x19 Vs my UT/UP 18x20. People where getting to the more loopy higher bouncing balls that I was producing with the UP 16x19, and I was being pulled into longer more gruelling rallies. They were handling my shots and pace more easily as I felt the bounce was giving them more time. Whereas, with the UT/UP 18x20, the balls were shooting more through the court, they were not as loopy, and I was penetrating the court more, giving them less time, and making them have to dig more shots out... which resulted in shorter rallies and better results.

Now, don't get me wrong, I had a blast with the UP 16x19 and all the creativity and nuance I could create... but the results were not as good. If I want to have a great workout and an extremely fun session, it probably doesn't get much better than the UP 16x19. If I want to get the job done, it's the UT/UP 18x20 (at least out of those two).
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
I think it also comes down to the opponent you are facing. If the person is not as fit and doesn't get into position as well, using the PT 2.0 to get them moving and digging out low skidding balls might make their day tough. Whereas, producing a ball that bounces a bit higher gives some people time to hit the ball. I faced that when using my UP 16x19 Vs my UT/UP 18x20. People where getting to the more loopy higher bouncing balls that I was producing with the UP 16x19, and I was being pulled into longer more gruelling rallies. They were handling my shots and pace more easily as I felt the bounce was giving them more time. Whereas, with the UT/UP 18x20, the balls were shooting more through the court, they were not as loopy, and I was penetrating the court more, giving them less time, and making them have to dig more shots out... which resulted in shorter rallies and better results.

Now, don't get me wrong, I had a blast with the UP 16x19 and all the creativity and nuance I could create... but the results were not as good. If I want to have a great workout and an extremely fun session, it probably doesn't get much better than the UP 16x19. If I want to get the job done, it's the UT/UP 18x20 (at least out of those two).

Yeah this interesting. The dunlop is special for me since I can flatten out and drive the ball for clean winners, or shape it more when I need to grind.

I think for me the bigger thing will be about defense. How is the touch for hitting back deep lobs on the run, for example. I am quite sure that the defensive slice shot will be there.

The biggest issue may be the sweet spot size. I will see for myself which is the beauty of all of this. Worst case I have a god tier feel frame I can use in doubles. I'd much rather drop $170 for a good specced PT 2.0 then play the Wilson Lottery again for $250 with the UP. That's how I came to this decision.

So now the Bablat Pure Strike Ltd looms a few months down the road.
 

JGads

G.O.A.T.
I think it also comes down to the opponent you are facing. If the person is not as fit and doesn't get into position as well, using the PT 2.0 to get them moving and digging out low skidding balls might make their day tough. Whereas, producing a ball that bounces a bit higher gives some people time to hit the ball. I faced that when using my UP 16x19 Vs my UT/UP 18x20. People where getting to the more loopy higher bouncing balls that I was producing with the UP 16x19, and I was being pulled into longer more gruelling rallies. They were handling my shots and pace more easily as I felt the bounce was giving them more time. Whereas, with the UT/UP 18x20, the balls were shooting more through the court, they were not as loopy, and I was penetrating the court more, giving them less time, and making them have to dig more shots out... which resulted in shorter rallies and better results.

Now, don't get me wrong, I had a blast with the UP 16x19 and all the creativity and nuance I could create... but the results were not as good. If I want to have a great workout and an extremely fun session, it probably doesn't get much better than the UP 16x19. If I want to get the job done, it's the UT/UP 18x20 (at least out of those two).

Yeah. In my brief time with the UP (16m) I couldn’t get the same shooting ball as I could with my UT. Plus the feel was richer on the latter. So I gave up on that UP dream. The hitting partner has said the PT ball off my racquet is the toughest he’s faced because the ball is driving and shorthopping him, just pushing him back. Keeps saying “it’s so heavy” and we both keep laughing that I keep clipping lines. But again this is hitting. When I transition into point play with this thing, I am just about positive i will crash into the wall. But in these hitting sessions we’ve had I’ve been testing many things, working the ball around, hitting on the run, defensive block backs, improvisation, squash shots and slices of course, and I’ve been hitting cleaner and more viciously than with my UT when I’m comparing the control sticks even though the UT the “easier” specs. Don’t know. Just enjoying the buttery ride for now. This stick is threatening to knock the UT out of the right side of the bag. (Left side for trusty PKs)
 

Classic-TXP-IG MID

Hall of Fame
I think for me the bigger thing will be about defense. How is the touch for hitting back deep lobs on the run, for example. I am quite sure that the defensive slice shot will be there.

As long as you get into position/ behind the ball in time and have a full stroke on the lob shot, you should be fine. If you're off, the PT 2.0 will let you know, the ball will go short, and you will get obliterated by the smash coming at you. I found the UT 18x20 excellent in this regard... maybe it was the 98 Vs 95... not sure... but lobs were one of the guilty pleasures if I saw people coming in full pelt.

So now the Bablat Pure Strike Ltd looms a few months down the road.

Do you mean the Pure Strike Ltd or the Pure Strike VS? Or are both coming out shortly?
 

Vicious49

Legend
I think it also comes down to the opponent you are facing. If the person is not as fit and doesn't get into position as well, using the PT 2.0 to get them moving and digging out low skidding balls might make their day tough. Whereas, producing a ball that bounces a bit higher gives some people time to hit the ball. I faced that when using my UP 16x19 Vs my UT/UP 18x20. People where getting to the more loopy higher bouncing balls that I was producing with the UP 16x19, and I was being pulled into longer more gruelling rallies. They were handling my shots and pace more easily as I felt the bounce was giving them more time. Whereas, with the UT/UP 18x20, the balls were shooting more through the court, they were not as loopy, and I was penetrating the court more, giving them less time, and making them have to dig more shots out... which resulted in shorter rallies and better results.

Now, don't get me wrong, I had a blast with the UP 16x19 and all the creativity and nuance I could create... but the results were not as good. If I want to have a great workout and an extremely fun session, it probably doesn't get much better than the UP 16x19. If I want to get the job done, it's the UT/UP 18x20 (at least out of those two).

From the folks i play with ive found that most under 4.0 have a tougher time hitting balls that bounce higher. They are not as comfortable hitting balls on the rise and dont like anything that gets near shoulder height so they have to back up and wait for it to drop back down below waist height. They usually mistime the shots or lack any real power since their weight is going backwards.

4.0-4.5 seem to have a harder time with the lower skidding shots as it throws off their rhythm. They can still return them but they prefer the more spinny shots that bounce up.
 

Classic-TXP-IG MID

Hall of Fame
Yeah. In my brief time with the UP (16m) I couldn’t get the same shooting ball as I could with my UT. Plus the feel was richer on the latter. So I gave up on that UP dream. The hitting partner has said the PT ball off my racquet is the toughest he’s faced because the ball is driving and shorthopping him, just pushing him back. Keeps saying “it’s so heavy” and we both keep laughing that I keep clipping lines. But again this is hitting. When I transition into point play with this thing, I am just about positive i will crash into the wall. But in these hitting sessions we’ve had I’ve been testing many things, working the ball around, hitting on the run, defensive block backs, improvisation, squash shots and slices of course, and I’ve been hitting cleaner and more viciously than with my UT when I’m comparing the control sticks even though the UT the “easier” specs. Don’t know. Just enjoying the buttery ride for now. This stick is threatening to knock the UT out of the right side of the bag. (Left side for trusty PKs)

I know the feeling. I've had the same feedback about the weight of my shots and the difficulty I'm causing. My regular hitting partner still claims that of all my racquets, the PT630 with Syn Gut (from Prince I think) produced the heaviest ball.

Keep it up and keep enjoying the frame. It is truly amazing, and I'm so happy TW convinced Head to put it out. Hopefully, they had a great response and now see a reason to keep it and maybe add a 16x19 version.
 

JGads

G.O.A.T.
I know the feeling. I've had the same feedback about the weight of my shots and the difficulty I'm causing. My regular hitting partner still claims that of all my racquets, the PT630 with Syn Gut (from Prince I think) produced the heaviest ball.

Keep it up and keep enjoying the frame. It is truly amazing, and I'm so happy TW convinced Head to put it out. Hopefully, they had a great response and now see a reason to keep it and maybe add a 16x19 version.

I’m waiting on the incoming ones like a bloodhound. So intrigued to see how the uncapped version plays compared to the real beast. If they land tomorrow it would be epic because I’d get a taste during my hit tomorrow night before I leave town for the weekend.

Agree that it’s so great Head put these out. In a podcast with TW awhile back they seemed to indicate more such special releases would be in the offing based on how well this one was received.
 

Classic-TXP-IG MID

Hall of Fame
From the folks i play with ive found that most under 4.0 have a tougher time hitting balls that bounce higher. They are not as comfortable hitting balls on the rise and dont like anything that gets near shoulder height so they have to back up and wait for it to drop back down below waist height. They usually mistime the shots or lack any real power since their weight is going backwards.

4.0-4.5 seem to have a harder time with the lower skidding shots as it throws off their rhythm. They can still return them but they prefer the more spinny shots that bounce up.

I'd say I fall into the latter category, as do most of my opponents that I would worry about.

They either step in or step back, but have enough power and creativity/ variety in their game to punish shots between hip and shoulder height. They are also fit enough and move/ anticipate well enough to track down the wide shots and angles... therefore, when they get there, they take advantage and get on the offensive.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
As long as you get into position/ behind the ball in time and have a full stroke on the lob shot, you should be fine. If you're off, the PT 2.0 will let you know, the ball will go short, and you will get obliterated by the smash coming at you. I found the UT 18x20 excellent in this regard... maybe it was the 98 Vs 95... not sure... but lobs were one of the guilty pleasures if I saw people coming in full pelt.



Do you mean the Pure Strike Ltd or the Pure Strike VS? Or are both coming out shortly?

Sorry - VS. I keep thinking old school pure storm LTD and mixing them up.
 

Crashbaby

Semi-Pro
I think it also comes down to the opponent you are facing. If the person is not as fit and doesn't get into position as well, using the PT 2.0 to get them moving and digging out low skidding balls might make their day tough. Whereas, producing a ball that bounces a bit higher gives some people time to hit the ball. I faced that when using my UP 16x19 Vs my UT/UP 18x20. People where getting to the more loopy higher bouncing balls that I was producing with the UP 16x19, and I was being pulled into longer more gruelling rallies. They were handling my shots and pace more easily as I felt the bounce was giving them more time. Whereas, with the UT/UP 18x20, the balls were shooting more through the court, they were not as loopy, and I was penetrating the court more, giving them less time, and making them have to dig more shots out... which resulted in shorter rallies and better results.

Now, don't get me wrong, I had a blast with the UP 16x19 and all the creativity and nuance I could create... but the results were not as good. If I want to have a great workout and an extremely fun session, it probably doesn't get much better than the UP 16x19. If I want to get the job done, it's the UT/UP 18x20 (at least out of those two).
The 16x19 vs 18x20 debate is very interesting and something I’m starting to think about.
The ultra tour/pro is a good opportunity to get some answers.
 

PrinceYonex

Semi-Pro
Nice, nice. The older VCPs I’ve never hit except for the HD. My friend now has the TF40 and I must say - that’s a really good racquet. It really doesn’t overwhelm in any category yet it does everything well. That was the other frame I mainly hit with last night (frames in my own bag were mostly napping) at the very end of the session to get a better feel of what my friend has been vibing with of late and immediately saw its charm (this was my second ever hit with it). Nice full foam filled feel and any shot I went for I could hit, but as I said, and what you seem to be saying, it doesn’t make you go “oh god” like the PT or give you crazy ease of use. But it’s reliable.
I like the feel of the tf. I don’t know if it’s the foam filling or something else. I have gut-ptp in mine right now, and it has a really lovely feel on contact. It doesn’t have quite the tremendous consistency or thump of the PT but I do feel like I can lean into the ball with confidence. It also doesn’t have quite the whippiness of the vcp310, but my tf actually has the same swingweight as the vcp (323). So it’s pretty swift thru the air.
 

tim-ay

Legend
The 16x19 vs 18x20 debate is very interesting and something I’m starting to think about.
The ultra tour/pro is a good opportunity to get some answers.
This is exactly the weakness of the UP16. Great serving frame, great consistency, great around the net. But didn’t hit enough of a penetrating ball. People can run that down, which is fine, except when you need to close.

The UT , from the very limited experience I have with it, is better in this regard. And the UT is the UP 18.
 

AA7

Hall of Fame
Nice, nice. The older VCPs I’ve never hit except for the HD. My friend now has the TF40 and I must say - that’s a really good racquet. It really doesn’t overwhelm in any category yet it does everything well. That was the other frame I mainly hit with last night (frames in my own bag were mostly napping) at the very end of the session to get a better feel of what my friend has been vibing with of late and immediately saw its charm (this was my second ever hit with it). Nice full foam filled feel and any shot I went for I could hit, but as I said, and what you seem to be saying, it doesn’t make you go “oh god” like the PT or give you crazy ease of use. But it’s reliable.
Yeah i second that. TF has a really good feel. Really solid racket.
 

StanAO14

Semi-Pro
So, are you saying that the TF40 305 would be better than the TF40 315 if you made the balance the same (I know the weights would be different)?

What I'm saying is what would play better, a TF40 305 with the balance of the TF40 315, or a TF40 315 with added weight in the hoop to give the head more oomph and weight?

Cheers
Doesn’t really matter I think. The 315 only has more handle weight than the 305. I have played with the 315 but that one was 324 (qc disaster). If you don’t make use of matching service I would go the 305 route, if you do however, I would choose the 315 and put a couple of grams at 12. It doesn’t need lead at the sides imo.

edit: refer to post below from Timeplease
 
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