18x20 Wilson Shift prototype

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

Have you also tried the 300 with a couple of grams at noon? The angles you can make are amazing.

I got the 315 in my demo pack, liked it a lot... then didn't want to wait another month for the 300 demo to arrive for me to see which one I liked better. I wasn't prepared to take a punt on buying the 300 without demoing, as I would have added silicone in the handle and probably brought it up to the 315-320g mark unstrung, so I just went for the one I tried and liked already.

The Pro Labs versions were on sale, plus I like the specs more compared to the 99 Pro v1 (the SW is supposed to be a little lower, which gives me room to add small amounts to areas and improve things further, the TW is quite a bit higher according to TW University - giving greater stability, and supposedly they upped the vertical stiffness on the 99 Pro v1 version from around 65 RA to 68 RA - which to me would diminish the "technological innovation" of the Shift concept as it would make it stiffer in both vertical and horizontal planes). I also felt that since the Pro Labs racquets were supposedly made in smaller numbers (as they were a prototype), they may end up being "rarer" in the future than the retail versions, so I bit the bullet now.

The last factor, was that many of the reviews stated that the 315 was more stable and solid, and one of the things I really liked about it when I demoed, was the fact that it was really good on the stretch when hitting the defensive dig out the the corners. So I went with the Shift I know... rather than the unknown 300.

 

[TypeRx]

ke the specs more compared to the 99 Pro v1 (the SW is supposed to be a little lower, which gives me room to add small amounts to areas and improve things further, the TW is quite a bit higher according to TW University - giving greater stability, and suppo

The Pro Labs version of the 315 measured a 65 RA vs. the production 68 RA?? Was there any documentation of this change?

I have 2 Pro Labs 315s and it looks like the grommets are a bit flimsy...already have to replace them due to some splitting. No biggie...maybe my only complaint about the racket other than it being quite a bit stiffer than my v7 blades....

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

The Pro Labs version of the 315 measured a 65 RA vs. the production 68 RA?? Was there any documentation of this change?

I have 2 Pro Labs 315s and it looks like the grommets are a bit flimsy...already have to replace them due to some splitting. No biggie...maybe my only complaint about the racket other than it being quite a bit stiffer than my v7 blades....

All the reviews mention small changes from the Pro Labs prototypes to the retail version v1s... but this guy (review below) mentioned an actual figure in his review (not sure of the accuracy but it sounds like he put it on a Baiardo machine and measured the Prototype Vs the Retail v1). The Pro Labs versions supposedly had a vertical stiffness of 65 RA (mentioned in other reviews).

In the second video he just confirms that the vertical bending was changed slightly... and I presume that they did the same thing with the 99 and 99 Pro Vs the Pro Labs versions.

 

[Fintft]

I got the 315 in my demo pack, liked it a lot... then didn't want to wait another month for the 300 demo to arrive for me to see which one I liked better. I wasn't prepared to take a punt on buying the 300 without demoing, as I would have added silicone in the handle and probably brought it up to the 315-320g mark unstrung, so I just went for the one I tried and liked already.

The Pro Labs versions were on sale, plus I like the specs more compared to the 99 Pro v1 (the SW is supposed to be a little lower, which gives me room to add small amounts to areas and improve things further, the TW is quite a bit higher according to TW University - giving greater stability, and supposedly they upped the vertical stiffness on the 99 Pro v1 version from around 65 RA to 68 RA - which to me would diminish the "technological innovation" of the Shift concept as it would make it stiffer in both vertical and horizontal planes). I also felt that since the Pro Labs racquets were supposedly made in smaller numbers (as they were a prototype), they may end up being "rarer" in the future than the retail versions, so I bit the bullet now.

The last factor, was that many of the reviews stated that the 315 was more stable and solid, and one of the things I really liked about it when I demoed, was the fact that it was really good on the stretch when hitting the defensive dig out the the corners. So I went with the Shift I know... rather than the unknown 300.

I got 2 Prolabs 300 and love them, especially for the spinny 16M.

 

[Blade_X]

The shift 315 i am currently testing with OG/sampras dampener and 1.20mm tour byte soft is 333gr. I will measure it next Thursday on the RDC but can anyone guess if i have an underspec one ?

It plays amazingly well!!! My first playtest was like:wtf is that ? It really is that good.

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

The shift 315 i am currently testing with OG/sampras dampener and 1.20mm tour byte soft is 333gr. I will measure it next Thursday on the RDC but can anyone guess if i have an underspec one ?

It plays amazingly well!!! My first playtest was like:wtf is that ? It really is that good.

I know!!! It's shocking, isn't it?
I was especially surprised by the serve and the defensive capabilities. Just needed to put my racquet behind the ball and it would shoot over the net (and the change of direction was awesome, even off the back foot). It has so much power and great spin and stability.

Not sure whether yours is underspec or not, sorry.

 

[alexsoin]

The shift 315 i am currently testing with OG/sampras dampener and 1.20mm tour byte soft is 333gr. I will measure it next Thursday on the RDC but can anyone guess if i have an underspec one ?

It plays amazingly well!!! My first playtest was like:wtf is that ? It really is that good.

It depends on OG, you are close to 315g unstrung specs though! I’m trying to find a replacement for my Shift Pros, something with a bit more control and possibly slightly lower sw. And basically nothing feels as comfortable nor provides such addictive feel as Shift frames. Shift Pros allowing you to be all-courter, play aggressively or defensively. I wish my rackets were on spec but they came a bit over especially in sw department. But definitely one kind of racket not requiring any mods, I don’t even use dampeners anymore. Shift’s response is just amazing and lacks annoying high pitched sounds most other rackets have w/o dumps.

 

[Blade_X]

I know!!! It's shocking, isn't it?
I was especially surprised by the serve and the defensive capabilities. Just needed to put my racquet behind the ball and it would shoot over the net (and the change of direction was awesome, even if the back foot). It has so much power and great spin and stability.

Not sure whether yours is underspec or not, sorry.

It’s a very weird feeling going into a demo session with literally zero expectations and being completely blown away by the performance of a racquet that I WOULD NEVER CONSIDER using and not even demoing it….. and also after my horrible experience with shift 300 which I disliked it with all my heart. Dude i am socked. It was better than a honeymoon demo session. But I don’t want to write my impressions yet. I ll give it 2-3 sessions more.

 

[Blade_X]

It depends on OG, you are close to 315g unstrung specs though! I’m trying to find a replacement for my Shift Pros, something with a bit more control and possibly slightly lower sw. And basically nothing feels as comfortable nor provides such addictive feel as Shift frames. Shift Pros allowing you to be all-courter, play aggressively or defensively. I wish my rackets were on spec but they came a bit over especially in sw department. But definitely one kind of racket not requiring any mods, I don’t even use dampeners anymore. Shift’s response is just amazing and lacks annoying high pitched sounds most other rackets have w/o dumps.

One of the best all around sticks i ve ever hit with. Most of the YouTubers made me to believe that this racquet does not require even a demo session. Kudos to @parasailing that changed my mind. I even felt shift pro easier to swing than the 300 version….. he also told me the same thing. My first session with shift pro went mostly with "WTF" thoughts.

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

It’s a very weird feeling going into a demo session with literally zero expectations and being completely blown away by the performance of a racquet that I WOULD NEVER CONSIDER using and not even demoing it….. and also after my horrible experience with shift 300 which I disliked it with all my heart. Dude i am socked. It was better than a honeymoon demo session. But I don’t want to write my impressions yet. I ll give it 2-3 sessions more.

I modified my Shift 99/300 by adding silicone to the handle and making it 315g unstrung.

It's as smooth as butter and strung with Toroline Wasabi Red/Caviar... it is playing very very well. I haven't tried any other strings in it so far, but it's impressed me as well.

I understand what you mean about the 315g version, I also put it in the Demo basket just to try and see if the "tech" was BS... and was shocked and amazed how well it played.

Keep enjoying and keep us posted on the progress and impressions.

 

[Blade_X]

I modified my Shift 99/300 by adding silicone to the handle and making it 315g unstrung.

It's as smooth as butter and strung with Toroline Wasabi Red/Caviar... it is playing very very well. I haven't tried any other strings in it so far, but it's impressed me as well.

I understand what you mean about the 315g version, I also put it in the Demo basket just to try and see if the "tech" was BS... and was shocked and amazed how well it played.

Keep enjoying and keep us posted on the progress and impressions.

Off topic: those toroline strings are everywhere this month. You can’t escape them

The guy who send me some samples of toroline sets is using shift 315.

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

Off topic: those toroline strings are everywhere this month. You can’t escape them

The guy who send me some samples of toroline sets is using shift 315.

Yeah... I loaded up on them when they had the Black Friday and Boxing Day sales (35% off), so I'm stocked up (and even ordered some of the new strings they just released).

Excited to try them in other racquets and to hybrid them with other brands.

 

[alexsoin]

I really enjoy Toroline Wasabi mains at 53 with Wasabi X crosses at 55 lbs on my Shift Pros. I jumped on Toro hype train like 5-6 months ago but haven’t had a chance to try it until Dec. This Toroline hybrid is a perfect match for Shifts!

 

[parasailing]

Let me know how these strings compare to Hyper G 17 or 18G .

 

[Blade_X]

I really enjoy Toroline Wasabi mains at 53 with Wasabi X crosses at 55 lbs on my Shift Pros. I jumped on Toro hype train like 5-6 months ago but haven’t had a chance to try it until Dec. This Toroline hybrid is a perfect match for Shifts!

Which where you 2 fav strings on shift before toroline ? Have you measured the SW of your shift with toroline in it compared to your previous strings ?

The marketing guy from Wilson suggested alu power for 315 and eco power for 300 version.

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

Which where you 2 fav strings on shift before toroline ? Have you measured the SW of your shift with toroline in it compared to your previous strings ?

The marketing guy from Wilson suggested alu power for 315 and eco power for 300 version.

The demo that I had of the Shift 99/315 had Alu Power in it... and it played really well. The sticker on the racquet said 53 lbs... but I had no idea when it was strung before it got to me.

 

[alexsoin]

Which where you 2 fav strings on shift before toroline ? Have you measured the SW of your shift with toroline in it compared to your previous strings ?

The marketing guy from Wilson suggested alu power for 315 and eco power for 300 version.

I tried many stringed but liked 3-4 different string on Shift Pro prior trying Wasabi/Wasabi X hybrid. The hybrid of Hyper G and Technifibre Ice Code played really well but lost tension too quickly. Medvedev’s Technifibre Razor Soft was pretty good but you gotta drop 3-4lbs of your typical poly tension it’s quite jarring off-center despite the name. Lastly, the string I’ve been using for over 3 years and went thru 2 reels of it is Tourna Silver 7 Tour. Great string, awesome tension maintenance but a bit stiff so use lower tensions. All strings are 1.25mm and all hands down beat by Toroline Wasabi/Wasabi X hybrid! I don’t think SW will change much if all strings are polys and 1.25mm. My frames are 337 and 338 but I also use a strip of bumper tape, nearing “tough to swing” pro level 340 territory!

 

[Blade_X]

I tried many stringed but liked 3-4 different string on Shift Pro prior trying Wasabi/Wasabi X hybrid. The hybrid of Hyper G and Technifibre Ice Code played really well but lost tension too quickly. Medvedev’s Technifibre Razor Soft was pretty good but you gotta drop 3-4lbs of your typical poly tension it’s quite jarring off-center despite the name. Lastly, the string I’ve been using for over 3 years and went thru 2 reels of it is Tourna Silver 7 Tour. Great string, awesome tension maintenance but a bit stiff so use lower tensions. All strings are 1.25mm and all hands down beat by Toroline Wasabi/Wasabi X hybrid! I don’t think SW will change much if all strings are polys and 1.25mm. My frames are 337 and 338 but I also use a strip of bumper tape, nearing “tough to swing” pro level 340 territory!

Those torolines are so many. Did you try all of them before settling in? I would consider 1.15 hyper g for shift pro.

 

[alexsoin]

Those torolines are so many. Did you try all of them before settling in? I would consider 1.15 hyper g for shift pro.

I tried Enzo Pro and didn’t reallly like it. There’s no that crazy snapback that Wasabi (and especially Wasabi crossed with Wasabi X) has. Hyper G is a good string but tension maintenance is really terrible. I only played with 1.30 and 1.25 and both lasted maybe 5h of hitting for me before turning into trampoline. And I was starting low to mid 50 and with 10% pre-stretch. You’ll have better luck with Solinco’s Confidential or even Tour Bite at these 18-19-20 gauges, especially if you can play in 40s range. Both strings are a bit better tension maintenance wise. As for Torolines I want to try Caviar and two other hybrids they offer K-pop and K-pro. So far really happy with Wasabi/Wasabi X and got 5 more sets couple days ago with a big discount.

 

[parasailing]

I usually string Hyper G 18G at 48lbs mains and 44lbs on my Blade v7 18x20 but assuming since this racquet has more power might have to go up a bit to say 52lbs mains and 48lbs crosses. Any suggestions?

 

[alexsoin]

I usually string Hyper G 18G at 48lbs mains and 44lbs on my Blade v7 18x20 but assuming since this racquet has more power might have to go up a bit to say 52lbs mains and 48lbs crosses. Any suggestions?

I hit only with Blade v8 18x20. I wouldn’t say that Shift Pro has more power, very similar levels imo. The difference is while Blade is a bit faster thru the air, Shift still produces more spin due to its vertical flex. Also 10g of extra static weight provide more stability and robustness to the shots. If you don’t hit super big and extremely flat I wouldn’t go 1-2lbs over to what you use currently in Blade. Besides I noticed that my Shift Pros respond better to the same tension in mains/crosses or even 1-2lbs higher in the crosses. I first heard it in a couple of Shift/Pro reviews, decided to try and it seem actually make difference! Just try something not to wildly extreme like 46lbs same tension on mains and crosses and see how that goes

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

I usually string Hyper G 18G at 48lbs mains and 44lbs on my Blade v7 18x20 but assuming since this racquet has more power might have to go up a bit to say 52lbs mains and 48lbs crosses. Any suggestions?

Due to the higher stiffness on the horizontal plane (the usual measure - forward and back), and the tighter string pattern (not extremely tight, but still 18x20 - certainly not an open 18x20), I'd still stay with your usual tension or not go too much higher.

I tried my demo Shift 99/315 with Alu Power 1.25mm, and it felt a little firmer on the flat shots and a little more crispy on off-centre shots than I'd prefer. So, I was going to drop the tension in the one I bought lower to try and increase the comfort. I just got caught up with customising the Shift 300g (silicone on handle to bring it to 315g unstrung), and strung it with Toroline K-POP (Wasabi Pink in the Mains, and Caviar in the Crosses) @ 48M/45C. The comfort is great, there is plenty of control, and the racquet plays great. The tension has dropped a bit, the control is still there, but it's not as precise in doubles, where you have the net player there to punish any higher/ more floaty ball (in singles it's still good though), so next time I might try 50M/47C (for the 16x20 Shift 300).

Therefore, I would still try 46M/43C in my Shift Pro (string type dependent - Poly, Muti, etc)... and then go from there based on the experience.

 

[Fintft]

Due to the higher stiffness on the horizontal plane (the usual measure - forward and back), and the tighter string pattern (not extremely tight, but still 18x20 - certainly not an open 18x20), I'd still stay with your usual tension or not go too much higher.

I tried my demo Shift 99/315 with Alu Power 1.25mm, and it felt a little firmer on the flat shots and a little more crispy on off-centre shots than I'd prefer. So, I was going to drop the tension in the one I bought lower to try and increase the comfort. I just got caught up with customising the Shift 300g (silicone on handle to bring it to 315g unstrung), and strung it with Toroline K-POP (Wasabi Pink in the Mains, and Caviar in the Crosses) @ 48M/45C. The comfort is great, there is plenty of control, and the racquet plays great. The tension has dropped a bit, the control is still there, but it's not as precise in doubles, where you have the net player there to punish any higher/ more floaty ball (in singles it's still good though), so next time I might try 50M/47C (for the 16x20 Shift 300).

Therefore, I would still try 46M/43C in my Shift Pro (string type dependent - Poly, Muti, etc)... and then go from there based on the experience.

Yeah, I'm at 47/44 myself.

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

Yeah, I'm at 47/44 myself.

Have you ever tried it at low 50s?

If so, is the comfort much better/improved at 47/44?
Cheers

 

[Blade_X]

Due to the higher stiffness on the horizontal plane (the usual measure - forward and back), and the tighter string pattern (not extremely tight, but still 18x20 - certainly not an open 18x20), I'd still stay with your usual tension or not go too much higher.

I tried my demo Shift 99/315 with Alu Power 1.25mm, and it felt a little firmer on the flat shots and a little more crispy on off-centre shots than I'd prefer. So, I was going to drop the tension in the one I bought lower to try and increase the comfort. I just got caught up with customising the Shift 300g (silicone on handle to bring it to 315g unstrung), and strung it with Toroline K-POP (Wasabi Pink in the Mains, and Caviar in the Crosses) @ 48M/45C. The comfort is great, there is plenty of control, and the racquet plays great. The tension has dropped a bit, the control is still there, but it's not as precise in doubles, where you have the net player there to punish any higher/ more floaty ball (in singles it's still good though), so next time I might try 50M/47C (for the 16x20 Shift 300).

Therefore, I would still try 46M/43C in my Shift Pro (string type dependent - Poly, Muti, etc)... and then go from there based on the experience.

Did you try shift pro with a softer string at lower tension to see if comfort improved ? For example a full bed of wasabi at 21kg.

 

[Fintft]

Have you ever tried it at low 50s?

If so, is the comfort much better/improved at 47/44?
Cheers

Mushy poly hybrid Big Spin M and Tour Hex C at 47 / 44.
I don't dare play higher and even at these low tensions I don't like HitPro full bed as much, nor Tour Hex. Especially since I usually go over 20h before cutting the poly.

 

[alexsoin]

We've got another ambassador, looks like legit Shift 300!

https://imgur.com/kWPik23

 

[alexsoin]

Did you try shift pro with a softer string at lower tension to see if comfort improved ? For example a full bed of wasabi at 21kg.

I haven't seen anyone using Wasabi below 50lbs. 21kg/46lbs probably should be okay in 18x20 of Shift Pro. Just use a full bed of Wasabi then instead of hybriding it with Wasabi X (which is softer and smooth poly). Also try same tension on mains and crosses thank me later

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

Did you try shift pro with a softer string at lower tension to see if comfort improved ? For example a full bed of wasabi at 21kg.

Not yet, but that's on the cards. I strung up and modified the Shift 99/300 first, and am playing that one first.

 

[Blade_X]

I haven't seen anyone using Wasabi below 50lbs. 21kg/46lbs probably should be okay in 18x20 of Shift Pro. Just use a full bed of Wasabi then instead of hybriding it with Wasabi X (which is softer and smooth poly). Also try same tension on mains and crosses thank me later

Tour byte soft has control and medium power level so even at 21 it plays with no issues. It only bothered my shoulder a little bit. Don’t know if it’s the racquets RA or the string not being that soft…..in general it’s not so much soft according to my experience… it’s only softer than the normal tour byte. So was thinking to try wasabi when i ll receive it….. does it add SW like a 1.25 string or it’s closer to 1.20 strings ? Otherwise i am gonna string it with hyper g soft 1.20 next.

 

[alexsoin]

Not yet, but that's on the cards. I strung up and modified the Shift 99/300 first, and am playing that one first.

Miss Sakkari, is this you

Tour byte soft has control and medium power level so even at 21 it plays with no issues. It plays great but i can still feel the stiffness of the racquet. It bothered my shoulder a little bit. So was thinking to try wasabi when i ll receive it….. does it add SW like a 1.25 string or it’s closer to 1.20 strings ? Otherwise i am gonna string it with hyper g soft 1.20 next.

Wasabi is 1.23 or 1.24 mm, obviously closer to 1.25. How much of a difference 1.20 vs 1.25 mm poly can create, maybe a couple sw points? Also consider smooth vs shaped, smooth would be heavier i.e. adding more to sw.

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

Miss Sakkari, is this you

Wasabi is 1.23 or 1.24 mm, obviously closer to 1.25. How much of a difference 1.20 vs 1.25 mm poly can create, maybe a couple sw points? Also consider smooth vs shaped, smooth would be heavier i.e. adding more to sw.

... I wish I had her physique and muscle tone. That girl is ripped!

I'm going to work on it though, as I'm installing a gym/callisthenics station in my shed this year. Knowing my luck though... I'll end up looking like a meat-head instead of a lean buff machine. Only time will tell.

 

[Blade_X]

I finished my two important sessions (hard and clay) where i evaluate a demo and this is how i feel with shift pro:

This racquet does some alien stuff.

 

[Fxanimator1]

I finished my two important sessions (hard and clay) where i evaluate a demo and this is how i feel with shift pro:

This racquet does some alien stuff.

What an awesome song!

 

[alexsoin]

There's definitely something alien at least feel-wise with Shift Pro-s! I don't think I've ever been so confident going for drop shots (the fun ones then I'm way behind the baseline), drop volleys or very-sharp angled ones, some nasty defensive slices, tricky serves or even banashots. Not to mention that "beans and rice" game, big serve/big forehand type is spot on as well. Saying me after 20+ years of hitting and trying 50+ rackets during that time

Just recently hit for 10 min with Solinco Whiteout 305 18x20 since specs were looking good on paper and based on a bunch of great reviews. There's nothing exciting to it really, feel is SO muted and no Shift magic whatsoever.

 

[Blade_X]

There's definitely something alien at least feel-wise with Shift Pro-s! I don't think I've ever been so confident going for drop shots (the fun ones then I'm way behind the baseline), drop volleys or very-sharp angled ones, some nasty defensive slices, tricky serves or even banashots. Not to mention that "beans and rice" game, big serve/big forehand type is spot on as well. Saying me after 20+ years of hitting and trying 50+ rackets during that time

Just recently hit for 10 min with Solinco Whiteout 305 18x20 since specs were looking good on paper and based on a bunch of great reviews. There's nothing exciting to it really, feel is SO muted and no Shift magic whatsoever.

Tomorrow i am gonna measure my demo on the RDC. If it’s under-spec then ok there is one reason why i am enjoying a frame i would never otherwise. For example i cannnot play at all with sticks like isoflex 305, strike tour or even previous blade 18x20 v7 which had a SW between 328-340. I just can’t move these racquets and be competitive. Even gravity tour bothers me after an hour…… and shift pro was a plug n play experience. Seriously don’t know what’s going on…… what i know for sure is to bring out the middle finger to some YouTubers that made me not even to think of testing this stick because they found it low powered and demanding to swing. My level is sth between 4.0 and 4.5….. i swing shift pro easier than shift 300 and blade V8 18x20 and even 16x19! It doesn’t bother me at all.

To me Strike Tour is the best in strike line if you can handle it. On the other hand Speed Pro is very cumbersome and it doesn’t help nowhere your game but it is hyped like the next big thing on recreational pro level. I have the same difficulties with isoflex 305, v core 97 18x20, gravity pro, ezone 98 tour….. trust me those sticks cannot produce the heavy flat ball and penetration of shift pro. It’s unreal. Its massive. It’s alien. Can’t explain it.

I haven’t played with 18x20 WO but only with 16x19 and it was a cumbersome, stiff and head heavy muted experience.

 

[alexsoin]

Tomorrow i am gonna measure my demo on the RDC. If it’s under-spec then ok there is one reason why i am enjoying a frame i would never otherwise. For example i cannnot play at all with sticks like isoflex 305, strike tour or even previous blade 18x20 v7 which had a SW between 328-340. I just can’t move these racquets and be competitive. Even gravity tour bothers me after an hour…… and shift pro was a plug n play experience. Seriously don’t know what’s going on…… what i know for sure is to bring out the middle finger to some YouTubers that made me not even to think of testing this stick because they found it low powered and demanding to swing. My level is sth between 4.0 and 4.5….. i swing shift pro easier than shift 300 and blade V8 18x20 and even 16x19! It doesn’t bother me at all.

To me Strike Tour is the best in strike line if you can handle it. On the other hand Speed Pro is very cumbersome and it doesn’t help nowhere your game but it is hyped like the next big thing on recreational pro level. I have the same difficulties with isoflex 305, v core 97 18x20, gravity pro, ezone 98 tour….. trust me those sticks cannot produce the heavy flat ball and penetration of shift pro. It’s unreal. Its massive. It’s alien. Can’t explain it.

I haven’t played with 18x20 WO but only with 16x19 and it was a cumbersome, stiff and head heavy muted experience.

Once you go 18x20, you never go back to 16 mains. Nothing beats those nasty slices and insane control that only 18 mains in under 100 sq in frame can give. Hence not interested in Strike Tour with 16 mains and it's stiffness and Gravity/Speed with chunky 100 sq in.

I don't think your demo would be way under spec, should be at least 330. TW has tight QC on demo frames probably takes them quite a while to pick say 10 demos out of 100s of sticks from Wilson. Wilson QC is *sadface*
I ended up on a higher end of SW with my Shift Pros, they are at 337 and 338, lucky two frames are nearly identical though. Being about 5 sw points below would make them perfect imo and right on TW's strung specs.
Surprisingly it's not to cumbersome to swing even over spec Shift Pros, maybe due to its slightly rounded beam? And yes, pretty easy to produce massive flattish balls close to the lines (base and sides).

18x20 WO while kind of felt light at 324 sw but its squared beam, high flex and very low power levels felt too anemic/disconnected and asking for mods. That's why Solinco has 5g and 10g buttcaps and weigh sets, makes total sense.

 

[Blade_X]

Once you go 18x20, you never go back to 16 mains. Nothing beats those nasty slices and insane control that only 18 mains in under 100 sq in frame can give. Hence not interested in Strike Tour with 16 mains and it's stiffness and Gravity/Speed with chunky 100 sq in.

I don't think your demo would be way under spec, should be at least 330. TW has tight QC on demo frames probably takes them quite a while to pick say 10 demos out of 100s of sticks from Wilson. Wilson QC is *sadface*
I ended up on a higher end of SW with my Shift Pros, they are at 337 and 338, lucky two frames are nearly identical though. Being about 5 sw points below would make them perfect imo and right on TW's strung specs.
Surprisingly it's not to cumbersome to swing even over spec Shift Pros, maybe due to its slightly rounded beam? And yes, pretty easy to produce massive flattish balls close to the lines (base and sides).

18x20 WO while kind of felt light at 324 sw but its squared beam, high flex and very low power levels felt too anemic/disconnected and asking for mods. That's why Solinco has 5g and 10g buttcaps and weigh sets, makes total sense.

To be more precise shifts 18x20 is sth unique unlike traditional 18x20 racquets. There is a secret sauce that makes all the difference. I ll try to explain it on my review

 

[Blade_X]

@alexsoin do you know what unstrung SW i should look for to have a strung one with 1.25mm below 330 ?

 

[Fighting phoenix]

@alexsoin do you know what unstrung SW i should look for to have a strung one with 1.25mm below 330 ?

You want something in the 295sw range - strings will add about 31g of sw, depending on the string (Lynx Tour and apparently Toroline Wasabi are heavier)

 

[Jouke]

Tomorrow i am gonna measure my demo on the RDC. If it’s under-spec then ok there is one reason why i am enjoying a frame i would never otherwise. For example i cannnot play at all with sticks like isoflex 305, strike tour or even previous blade 18x20 v7 which had a SW between 328-340. I just can’t move these racquets and be competitive. Even gravity tour bothers me after an hour…… and shift pro was a plug n play experience. Seriously don’t know what’s going on…… what i know for sure is to bring out the middle finger to some YouTubers that made me not even to think of testing this stick because they found it low powered and demanding to swing. My level is sth between 4.0 and 4.5….. i swing shift pro easier than shift 300 and blade V8 18x20 and even 16x19! It doesn’t bother me at all.

To me Strike Tour is the best in strike line if you can handle it. On the other hand Speed Pro is very cumbersome and it doesn’t help nowhere your game but it is hyped like the next big thing on recreational pro level. I have the same difficulties with isoflex 305, v core 97 18x20, gravity pro, ezone 98 tour….. trust me those sticks cannot produce the heavy flat ball and penetration of shift pro. It’s unreal. Its massive. It’s alien. Can’t explain it.

I haven’t played with 18x20 WO but only with 16x19 and it was a cumbersome, stiff and head heavy muted experience.

You make me want to buy this. Please report back with your specs; very curious

 

[Blade_X]

You make me want to buy this. Please report back with your specs; very curious

I am very curious too because even v8 18x20 with 1.20 string did not felt quick and easy to use like shift pro. The last racquet i purchased was speed mp auxetic 2 years ago. Still demoing everything out there but nothing close to make me switch away from my blade v5 2015.

 

[Blade_X]

You want something in the 295sw range - strings will add about 31g of sw, depending on the string (Lynx Tour and apparently Toroline Wasabi are heavier)

So 31g of SW for shift pro or you are speaking in general for 18x20 patterns ?

Yeah i know for Lynx tour. One of the reasons i moved away from this string.

 

[Fighting phoenix]

So 31g of SW for shift pro or you are speaking in general for 18x20 patterns ?

Yeah i know for Lynx tour. One of the reasons i moved away from this string.

Yeah I found in the shift pro it was like 31-33g added depending on the string, closer to around 30 on a 16x19 racquet. Part of the issue is that there could be some real variability in string weights that was more important than the string bed density.

 

[alexsoin]

@alexsoin do you know what unstrung SW i should look for to have a strung one with 1.25mm below 330 ?

I think at TW they use a few sticks, string them up and measure swing-weight and then post average number. They always use 1.25mm most likely Alu Power for Wilsons. So that average for Shift Pro is 332 considering horrible Wilson QC you can end up +_10 of this number easily!

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

There's definitely something alien at least feel-wise with Shift Pro-s! I don't think I've ever been so confident going for drop shots (the fun ones then I'm way behind the baseline), drop volleys or very-sharp angled ones, some nasty defensive slices, tricky serves or even banashots. Not to mention that "beans and rice" game, big serve/big forehand type is spot on as well. Saying me after 20+ years of hitting and trying 50+ rackets during that time

Just recently hit for 10 min with Solinco Whiteout 305 18x20 since specs were looking good on paper and based on a bunch of great reviews. There's nothing exciting to it really, feel is SO muted and no Shift magic whatsoever.

Good to know, as I was trying to decide between those two... tried the Shift and loved it (Whiteout was very hard to source), now I don't have to even think about the Solinco. Awesome!

 

[Blade_X]

Mystery solved. Static weight is on spec. But balance off. As a result i have a very very low SW. So here are my specs:

Unstrung:313,5gr/ 284,5SW /30,8BL
TBS 1.20:330gr / 312SW / 31,8BL

I ditched 1.20 tour byte soft and string it with HyperG soft 1.25:
331,6 / 317,5SW / 31,9

I added the missing 1,5gr on 12:
333,1gr / 324SW / 32,1BL

So in conclusion:
1)1.20mm string adds to shift around 27points.
2)1.25mm string adds around 33 points.
3)In stock form with 1.20 TBS I had very fast reactions with the low 312SW but I noticed a minor instability at 3/9 on volleys which were out of the sweet spot. In general i did not have stability issues even against big hitters….. also i am amazed how much of a heavy ball i was producing with such low SW….maybe because the static weight is spot on ??

So for my playstyle i am looking for a shift with an unstrung SW in the range of 285-292!

My next phase of testing is to evaluate if my launch angle is shorter with 1.25 cause with 1.20 was just perfect. Also to evaluate if the increased SW affects my performance.

My stringer also told my that he hasn’t seen so many holes on the down side of the head (crosses) on a 18x20 pattern. I didn’t understand what he was telling me and didn’t bother to ask him to explain it to me ?

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

Mystery solved. Static weight is on spec. But balance off. As a result i have a very very low SW. So here are my specs:

Unstrung:313,5gr/ 284,5SW /30,8BL
TBS 1.20:330gr / 312SW / 31,8BL

I ditched 1.20 tour byte soft and string it with HyperG soft 1.25:
331,6 / 317,5SW / 31,9

I added the missing 1,5gr on 12:
333,1gr / 324SW / 32,1BL

So in conclusion:
1)1.20mm string adds to shift around 27points.
2)1.25mm string adds around 33 points.
3)In stock form with 1.20 TBS I had very fast reactions with the low 312SW but I noticed a minor instability at 3/9 on volleys which were out of the sweet spot. In general i did not have stability issues even against big hitters….. also i am amazed how much of a heavy ball i was producing with such low SW….maybe because the static weight is spot on ??

So for my playstyle i am looking for a shift with an unstrung SW in the range of 285-292!

My next phase of testing is to evaluate if my launch angle is shorter with 1.25 cause with 1.20 was just perfect. Also to evaluate if the increased SW affects my performance.

My stringer also told my that he hasn’t seen so many holes on the down side of the head (crosses) on a 18x20 pattern. I didn’t understand what he was telling me and didn’t bother to ask him to explain it to me ? The last bit of your

The last bit of your post is probably referring to the 10 Mains on the grommets in the throat (usually it's 8 Mains for an 18x20, or 6 Mains for a 16x19).

 

[alexsoin]

The last bit of your post is probably referring to the 10 Mains on the grommets in the throat (usually it's 8 Mains for an 18x20, or 6 Mains for a 16x19).

Yes, 10 mains in the throat is really rare and can feel a bit weird on OHBH takeback at first. However, it's better in terms of stringing at not extreme angles like then strings on the lower sides. BTW, I've seen 6 mains in a couple of 18x20s before like Dunlop/Prince but they were mid sized 90-93 sq in.

 

[Blade_X]

Yes, 10 mains in the throat is really rare and can feel a bit weird on OHBH takeback at first. However, it's better in terms of stringing at not extreme angles like then strings on the lower sides. BTW, I've seen 6 mains in a couple of 18x20s before like Dunlop/Prince but they were mid sized 90-93 sq in.

So that’s why you suggested 1kg up more strung in the crosses works better to you ?