Best Tension For RPM Blast?

[Nate]

Hey TW Staff Im using a Babolat APD and Im thinking about trying rpm blast. I like a lively feel to my strings so what would be the best tension for rpm. Also I am a string breaker so what effects does a thicker gauge such as 16 have on your game?

 

[esgee48]

The pros generally seem to string their APDs with this string in the low 50's. But that's what they like. The only way you can determine what tension you like is to try the string at various tensions. Just don't start off at 60# unless you're a ranked Jr or a really strong player. Your best attempt will probably be in the low 50's initially. As far as gauge, thicker will last longer than thin, so the 16 Ga will last longer than the 17 Ga. Also depending on your style of swing/grip, you may get just as much spin from the 16 as the 17 Ga. But generally, the 17 Ga will bite the ball better. How long they last will depend on your hitting style. There is a BIG HOWEVER; this poly plays really well for about 4-5 hours after break in; then it falls off a cliff.

 

[TW Staff]

Nate,

esgee48 is pretty much right on the money. The TW playtesters like to string RPM Blast between 48-52 lbs in their racquets. However, the best way to determine the right tension for you will be to test out a couple different tensions. We recommend stringing one racquet up at mid tension then adding (for more control) or subtracting (for more power) a couple pounds as you feel necessary. Keep repeating this until you find your ideal tension. Generally speaking as far as gauges are concerned, thinner strings offer improved playability while thicker strings offer enhanced durability.

Hope that helps!
Brittany, TW