Alternate method for racquet balance

[tennisace23]

I recently came across a way to measure the balance of a racquet without using a balance board or yard stick (not a new method, but new to me). I tried it on multiple racquets, and it seemed to be as accurate if not more accurate than any other method. I was wondering if someone can confirm the accuracy of this method:

The method involves first measuring the total weight of the racquet, then measuring the weight of one end of the racquet, and then the other end (propping up the non-measured end and also using a level to make sure the racquet is perfectly balanced). The two end weights should equal the total weight (I did this, and was within 1 gram). Then you multiply the weight of the head by the length of the racquet, dividing that total by the total weight (keeping units consistent). Can anyone else who has used this method confirm its accuracy? Thank you.

 

[fuzz nation]

Not looking to derail your thread - hopefully someone will offer some input concerning your method - but you might find it interesting to also see how the "tip weight" of a racquet, the reading at the top of the hoop, can quantify the right amount of "plow through" that you like in your frame. It's a not-too-scientific number I've looked at with different racquets I use and I've found that unless that end of the frame weighs maybe 5.6 oz. or more, it's too unsteady for me.

Just something you might have some fun with if you're already measuring the weight at that end of your racquets.

 

[cellofaan]

Theoretically it's a valid method (support reactions and stuff).

The only practical problem is, you would need to support the racket at the very end, which is quite difficult, as the hoop tends to rest on a spot a few mm lower than the very end.

You can also support it at other points, and instead of the entire length of the racket, and use the distance between both supports (and then divide by the total weight and multiply with the partial weight) and then add that to the distance of one of the supports.

So as far as accuracy goes, there are 2 measurements that can go wrong, but overall, I feel it's as good as using a balance board or using the edge of a table.

 

[tennisace23]

Theoretically it's a valid method (support reactions and stuff).

The only practical problem is, you would need to support the racket at the very end, which is quite difficult, as the hoop tends to rest on a spot a few mm lower than the very end.

You can also support it at other points, and instead of the entire length of the racket, and use the distance between both supports (and then divide by the total weight and multiply with the partial weight) and then add that to the distance of one of the supports.

So as far as accuracy goes, there are 2 measurements that can go wrong, but overall, I feel it's as good as using a balance board or using the edge of a table.

Well there is a built in check--you measure the total weight first, and if the sum of both ends do not equal the total weight, then something is wrong. I tried this with 3 racquets, and was either on the money, or within 1 gram.

 

[tennisace23]

here's a pic of me measuring the head weight...i have the other end propped up and a level on the racquet (i used the tare function to account for the weight of the level itself, or it can simply be removed before noting the weight).

 

[JackB1]

I dont understand why you would use this method, when the proper method is so easy? How hard is it to balance the racquet on a straight edge, like a ruler?

 

[tennisace23]

I dont understand why you would use this method, when the proper method is so easy? How hard is it to balance the racquet on a straight edge, like a ruler?

Hello--to answer your question, I find this method very easy, and personally found it more accurate than other methods, and I am simply looking for feedback from people who have tried it, that's all.

 

[mdjenders]

i have always used this method, and i get very accurate, very repeatable balances.

 

[Winky]

It was within about 1/16th of an inch for me. But my scale only rounds to the nearest 2g, so it's well within available tolerance. However, it was more difficult than simply finding the balance point and measuring.

 

[tennisace23]

i have always used this method, and i get very accurate, very repeatable balances.

thanks for the info, i appreciate it!

 

[Povl Carstensen]

I use this method to compare and tweak rackets. The tip weight give you an indication of the swingweight, and the difference between tip and butt end weight relative to the total weight give you an indication of the balance, which you can use to match and customize rackets. "Serious" swingweight for me start at about 160 grams tip weight. I think my K90 is about 165.

 

[tennisace23]

I use this method to compare and tweak rackets. The tip weight give you an indication of the swingweight, and the difference between tip and butt end weight relative to the total weight give you an indication of the balance, which you can use to match and customize rackets. "Serious" swingweight for me start at about 160 grams tip weight. I think my K90 is about 165.

cool, thanks for the insight