Blade 100L v8 (or v9) as a power/control platform frame

[Trip]

I'm looking for feedback on the Wilson Blade 100L v8 (285g, 22+mm beam, 70RA, 16x19 w/ 8 throat mains), specifically as a customization platform for as much power as you can manage to stuff into a sub-23mm constant-beam player/pleener stick.

I know select members here have pretty good experience with it, specifically (alphabetical by username): @Blade_X, @ChanterRacquet (for your kids at least), @Cowboy, @Mark-Touch, @tennisintheeighties, and I'm sure more of you that I've missed. I'm curious to get your thoughts on how it compares relative to other frames you've played with, specifically regard the following:

- Precision Level - How precise/controlled is it; can you reference other 100's, hopefully 98-99's that it can hang with in the precision department?
- Power Potential - Spec'd up, how powerful do you think it would be
- Feel - How direct/crisp/raw/connected is it
- Grip Size - I usually play a Head TK-82S size 4 (thick grips on top) or 5 (thin grips on top); would a Size 4 in the 100L be the right move (they don't offer a 5, but I've also heard that weirdly, the 100L grip sizes have come out very large, in some markets at least)

And anything else you have to offer, I'd very much appreciate. Thanks in advance for anyone's insights.

 

[Cowboy]

I'm looking for feedback on the Wilson Blade 100L v8 (285g, 22+mm beam, 70RA, 16x19 w/ 8 throat mains, 70RA), specifically as a customization platform for as much power as you can manage to stuff into a sub-23mm constant-beam player/pleener stick.

I know select members here have pretty good experience with it, specifically (alphabetical by username): @Blade_X, @ChanterRacquet (for your kids at least), @Cowboy, @Mark-Touch, @tennisintheeighties, and I'm sure more of you that I've missed. I'm curious to get your thoughts on how it compares relative to other frames you've played with, specifically regard the following:

- Precision Level - How precise/controlled is it; can you reference other 100's, hopefully 98-99's that it can hang with in the precision department?
- Power Potential - Spec'd up, how powerful do you think it would be
- Feel - How direct/crisp/raw/connected is it
- Grip Size - I usually play a Head TK-82S size 4 (thick grips on top) or 5 (thin grips on top); would a Size 4 in the 100L be the right move (they don't offer a 5, but I've also heard that weirdly, the 100L grip sizes have come out very large, in some markets at least)

And anything else you have to offer, I'd very much appreciate. Thanks in advance for anyone's insights.

There is a reason the Blade is so popular. I can't remember the last time I went to a match and didn't see at least one of them. I have played around with lead in the head, throat, and handle. Most of my weight is in the throat as to minimize the change in balance point.

Do it!

- Precision Level - How precise/controlled is it; can you reference other 100's, hopefully 98-99's that it can hang with in the precision department?
I've never had an issue with precision. It's a pretty point-and-shoot frame.

- Power Potential - Spec'd up, how powerful do you think it would be
This is more string specific to me. It's not rated as a power frame, but I do feel that it has more power than the Pure Strike 100 16x20. Power is not lacking, IMO.

- Feel - How direct/crisp/raw/connected is it
This is actually why I purchased it in the first place. I demo'd it alongside a Clash. At the time, I had no knowledge of stiffness or other factors. I've since dove/dived/diven head first into the world of specs and options. People I played with when demoing told me that I should put the Clash down and never pick it up again. The Blade just seemed to impose its will on the ball as opposed to the clash that seemed to have the ball impose its will on the frame. My experience with different frames is pretty limited in comparison to most people on the forum, but this is one of the best. Again, there is a reason it is so popular.

- Grip Size - I usually play a Head TK-82S size 4 (thick grips on top) or 5 (thin grips on top); would a Size 4 in the 100L be the right move (they don't offer a 5, but I've also heard that weirdly, the 100L grip sizes have come out very large, in some markets at least)
I can't really comment here. Get the biggest one you can and wrap a fat overgrip on it.

 

[Trip]

@Cowboy - Appreciate the feedback buddy, thank you!

Regarding power level, yeah, I realize string setup will make a world of difference, but just looking at the frame itself, I would have to think that 100" + 22.5-ish mm + 70RA will equal a pretty good ratio of power to hitting weight, meaning it will hopefully hit harder at a lower swing weight, than many (most?) softer, sub-22mm player/pleener sticks will. And your endorsement of the 100L being higher than the Strike 100 16x20 (which I have two of) is encouraging, as the Strike has a nice ratio power-to-hitting-weight, but if I could get a bit more power without loosing precision, I'd very much take it.

On that note, vs the Strike 100 16x20, I'm wondering a two things:
- Does the 100L feel more like a "single unit" between grip and hoop, like you're able to impart finer-grained control over the racquet face? I ask because with the Strike, I think I'm coming to conclusion that it feels just a bit more flexy/floppy in the throat than I want, which somewhat disconnect the handle from the hoop. So then, when you get the racquet moving, the hoop is more apt to just kind of ride through the motion and do its thing, with less fine-grained adjustability mid-swing, than I'm used to with the likes of my Prestige MP-L's. I'm curious if the 100L acts more like a true thinner-beamed player still in that sense?
- Further on that point, how does the 100L move through the air in general? Does the lower weight and thinner beam (in the mid-hoop, at least) a bit more "D"-shaped cross-section move through the air faster and/or more effortlessly than the Strike? Any info there would be HUGE as well.

Lastly, I added another point in the OP on real-world vs. advertised spec. I'll paste it here, rather than rewrite it all out:
- Real-world vs advertised spec - What are the actual strung swing weights people are seeing on these? I've seen them advertised at 308-315, but I've also seen reports here in the forum of mid-320's, with no lead... Obviously, for my purposes of full customization, I would prefer the lower the better. So what gives here? Where is the real-life spec actually at?

Any more info you could lend is always appreciated. Thanks man!

 

[danbrenner]

You shouldn’t need it. The 100 standard is already a platform frame. It’s light enough as is.

 

[Trip]

You shouldn’t need it. The 100 standard is already a platform frame. It’s light enough as is.

I care less about starting lightness, and more about the end result. In this case, I'm after the 100L's firmer flex. The 100 has a fairly noodle-y 60-ish RA. The 100L has a firm and crisp 70-ish RA. Higher power per unit hitting weight. Get them to the same strung spec, and the 100L should deliver more bludgeoning force. That's one of the main things I'm trying to max out.

 

[maksp]

I care less about starting lightness, and more about the end result. In this case, I'm after the 100L's firmer flex. The 100 has a fairly noodle-y 60-ish RA. The 100L has a firm and crisp 70-ish RA. Higher power per unit hitting weight. Get them to the same strung spec, and the 100L is should deliver more bludgeoning force. That's one of the main things I'm trying to max out.

Angell 100 is 70RA and 21mm

 

[Trip]

Angell 100 is 70RA and 21mm

Appreciate the mention, although the 100L potentially trumps it on power with a 1+mm thicker beam, and the 100L tends to be easier to come by. That said, I appreciate Angell in general!

 

[maksp]

Appreciate the mention, although the 100L potentially trumps it on power with a 1+mm thicker beam, and the 100L tends to be easier to come by. That said, I appreciate Angell in general!

I have 100L, it has a low trajectory like ezone. But my ezone 98 has more power...if you like high over the net shots then ezone98 or blade 100L is not it. . I'm always reaching for the aero98 cause 90% of time I'm playing like sh.. my aero98 has bigger head size then EZ98 ... ezone is 97 or aero is really a 99 in her... 2019 prince tt 100p is my favorite 100 cause of the power n lift over the net that is effortless. .aero98 is better at serve is reason its my #1

 

[Trip]

I have 100L, it has a low trajectory like ezone. But my ezone 98 has more power...if you like high over the net shots then ezone98 or blade 100L is not it. . I'm always reaching for the aero98 cause 90% of time I'm playing like sh.. my aero98 has bigger head size then EZ98 ... ezone is 97 or aero is really a 99 in her... 2019 prince tt 100p is my favorite 100 cause of the power n lift over the net that is effortless. .aero98 is better at serve is reason its my #1

Already have several 2019 TT100P's - great frame, need to spend more time with it to try and dial it in. Prob need to string it lower than I have been. Going to try Atomos at 42/40 next. Prob should demo the PA98 at some point as well.

 

[maksp]

Already have several 2019 TT100P's - great frame, need to spend more time with it to try and dial it in. Prob need to string it lower than I have been. Going to try Atomos at 42/40 next. Prob should demo the PA98 at some point as well.

Soft shaped poly 1.20mm at 42 pounds worked best....+25,+38 hyper g soft

 

[danbrenner]

I think you’re all making a mistake. The 100 standard is no noodle, I own it. One of the greatest gems of a racket I have ever used. Plus, I have been down this road before many years ago. I picked up a 100 L at the end of the day, it turned out just to be a complete waste of time. Again, I will tell you with certainty, you are not doing yourselves any favors by going this route. Suck it up go back to the standard 100 and if you want tinker with it, but it is one of the best new releases I have seen in many years.

 

[ChanterRacquet]

Unfortunately, I can’t chime in despite the tag. Daughter continues to use the v8 100L going into senior year of HS; she’s a toothpick. The 100L is still the softest 69 RA you’ll ever find, don’t know how they do it.

Son quit Blade 100 over a year ago for the FX 500 because slightly lower swingweight, but primarily for the more open string pattern. They might be something he goes back to, or maybe not. Nothing but positives for the 500.

I’ll never have the opportunity to trial anything with the 100L as my daughter has a lock on them. Only thing I’d say is, when dad (me) was looking to help her with spin, I got her a Shift 99L to try and she said, “I can’t tell a difference”. So I dunno, the reg Shift 99 might be a better starting point for weight and desired stiffness?

 

[TennisCJC]

I care less about starting lightness, and more about the end result. In this case, I'm after the 100L's firmer flex. The 100 has a fairly noodle-y 60-ish RA. The 100L has a firm and crisp 70-ish RA. Higher power per unit hitting weight. Get them to the same strung spec, and the 100L should deliver more bludgeoning force. That's one of the main things I'm trying to max out.

I don't think stiffness compensates for heft. I think stiffness might add maybe a small amount of power on off center hits but if you hit near the center, stiffness doesn't do much for power. Different strokes for different folks, but I wouldn't go near a 70RA frame. Swing weight also adds comfortable stable power, while light, stiff frames are harsh, not very stable and uncomfortable FOR ME. I don't know the science but my intuition tells me stiffness doesn't compensate for a decent swing weight, and you pay a price for the stiffness in the form of instability and lack of comfort. I have the Blade100V9 with 2.5 grams under the bumper and it's one of the better rackets I've played over last 4 decades.

 

[Trip]

Thanks to all of you for your latest feedback -- @maksp, @danbrenner, @ChanterRacquet and @TennisCJC. Appreciate your insights.

I think you’re all making a mistake. The 100 standard is no noodle, I own it. One of the greatest gems of a racket I have ever used. Plus, I have been down this road before many years ago. I picked up a 100 L at the end of the day, it turned out just to be a complete waste of time. Again, I will tell you with certainty, you are not doing yourselves any favors by going this route. Suck it up go back to the standard 100 and if you want tinker with it, but it is one of the best new releases I have seen in many years.

Absolutely appreciate this view point, Dan. Can you expand a bit as to why the 100L fell short for you vs the 100? Keep in mind, my intent here is full customization to my strung spec (typically 335-345g, 31.5-32ish cm, upper 320's to low 330's sw), I'm seasoned at doing it and I've had good success with it (Exhibit A being my customized Prestige MP-L's). Even so, I get that often, there's no substitute for extra mass bolted on from the start, so if that's your stance, then I appreciate to hear that, too.

Unfortunately, I can’t chime in despite the tag.

No worries. I appreciate the references as per how your daughter enjoyed it, nonetheless!

I don't think stiffness compensates for heft. I think stiffness might add maybe a small amount of power on off center hits but if you hit near the center, stiffness doesn't do much for power.

Indeed. Swing weight (more precisely, hitting weight) is the mother of all power generating characteristics on a frame, but that said, extra stiffness can certainly help.

Different strokes for different folks, but I wouldn't go near a 70RA frame.

Fair enough, but remember, I have specific aims here, which is namely to use it as a platform frame, that I would probably be spec'ing up to a healthy recoil weight (for me, in the 170's), which does a huge amount to increase comfort, in higher RA frames included. So, I won't be playing the frame in a "hollow" state with no guts; far from it.

Swing weight also adds comfortable stable power, while light, stiff frames are harsh, not very stable and uncomfortable FOR ME. I don't know the science but my intuition tells me stiffness doesn't compensate for a decent swing weight, and you pay a price for the stiffness in the form of instability and lack of comfort. I have the Blade100V9 with 2.5 grams under the bumper and it's one of the better rackets I've played over last 4 decades.

Again, absolutely. Stiffness alone isn't a substitute for swing weight. 100% agreed. But again, the intent here it to utilize the 100L as a platform, to bring it up to spec, with that extra stiffness enhancing the amount of easy power on tap at equivalent spec.

I really do appreciate the continued discussion from everyone, and although I may have some presumptions, my aims at this point it to try and remain inquisitive and just gather info. I could just as easily leave both the 100 and 100L alone, but figured now would be a good time to dig deeper on them, since there are a good amount of v8's on a pretty steep discount at this point. If I was to toy with one or the other, now (or soon) would probably be the time.

 

[Cowboy]

On that note, vs the Strike 100 16x20, I'm wondering a two things:
- Does the 100L feel more like a "single unit" between grip and hoop, like you're able to impart finer-grained control over the racquet face? I ask because with the Strike, I think I'm coming to conclusion that it feels just a bit more flexy/floppy in the throat than I want, which somewhat disconnect the handle from the hoop. So then, when you get the racquet moving, the hoop is more apt to just kind of ride through the motion and do its thing, with less fine-grained adjustability mid-swing, than I'm used to with the likes of my Prestige MP-L's. I'm curious if the 100L acts more like a true thinner-beamed player still in that sense?
- Further on that point, how does the 100L move through the air in general? Does the lower weight and thinner beam (in the mid-hoop, at least) a bit more "D"-shaped cross-section move through the air faster and/or more effortlessly than the Strike? Any info there would be HUGE as well.

This is a bit of a tough one to elaborate on. I feel very "in control" of the ball when hitting with any of the Blades. The Pure Strike definitely feels softer/flexier/flopier. I actually bought a Blade 100 after the Pure Strike playtest because I wanted Blade like feel and a little more comfort (as I hurt my elbow during the K Flash playtest). I believe the PS and Blade 100 share similar RA stiffness ratings. So yes, the Blade 100L is going to feel more solid and firm as compared to a the Pure Strike.

Launch angle on the Blade is higher than the Pure Strike too, for whatever that is worth. For a point of reference, when I started the Pure Strike playtest, I had just come off using RPM Rough mains w/ Xalt crosses. Felt like I played my best tennis with that setup in the 100L. So I put the same strings in the PS and hit WAY too many balls into the net. Like, cost-me-the-match levels of balls in the net. It's a minor adjustment, but something to be cognizant.

Lastly, I added another point in the OP on real-world vs. advertised spec. I'll paste it here, rather than rewrite it all out:
- Real-world vs advertised spec - What are the actual strung swing weights people are seeing on these? I've seen them advertised at 308-315, but I've also seen reports here in the forum of mid-320's, with no lead... Obviously, for my purposes of full customization, I would prefer the lower the better. So what gives here? Where is the real-life spec actually at?

I never took swingweight measurements before customizing mine. I could get you swingweight now, but that wouldn't do you any good with my customizations.

 

[Trip]

Thanks again @Cowboy !

 

[Cowboy]

Thanks again @Cowboy !

It's a shame you aren't closer. I'd gladly loan you one to test. Any shops have one around that you can demo? Anyone selling a lightly used one on marketplace?

My only real complaint on the 100L is the lack of plow through. The weight in the throat helps solve that though.

 

[maksp]

1. You can add weight where you want , but you cannot add RA.
2. I PLAY with soft flexible strings at Low tension so I don't need a soft flexible racket.
3. ANYTHING at or above 23mm beam feels like a unwieldy club..
4. Need help with lift above the net cause of my style( that won't change after 30 years of muscle memory) so a closed string pattern is a NOGO
5. SO FAR , aero98 and blade 100L and 2019 prince tt 100p is what has made tennis easy n simpler for me. All 3 are completely different brands,rackets,feel,and string patterns. But they all have above 65RA and open string patterns. So for me FEEL don't mean sh..

 

[Trip]

It's a shame you aren't closer. I'd gladly loan you one to test. Any shops have one around that you can demo? Anyone selling a lightly used one on marketplace?

Appreciate the offer. I've identified of online retailers that have plenty of v8's in my grip size for right around $160 a pop. That isn't too bad.

My only real complaint on the 100L is the lack of plow through. The weight in the throat helps solve that though.

Indeed. With an average stock unstrung swing weight in the low-to-mid 280's (so, 315-ish strung), I wouldn't expect it to have much plow, either. But again, I'm eyeing this as a customization platform, and envision adding, say, 20-30g in/around the handle/neck and 5-6g in the hoop, to bring the spec up to a healthy 335-345g, mid-upper 31.x cm balance, and swing weight up into the high 320's - low-mid 330's -- exactly like I've done with my Prestige MP-L's, which have shined with that kind of weight added. And, adding that much recoil weight effectively drops the RA another point or two and makes the racquet even more comfortable. My hope is that the added stiffness of the 100L would allow me to play it at slightly lower/faster spec, while achieving an equally big ball as my MP-L's, with perhaps even better precision.

1. You can add weight where you want , but you cannot add RA.

Bingo. Thus, my curiosity with the 100L. I really do like a more firm response. I find it especially helps my 1HBH and my flat first serve, which is my biggest strength.

2. I PLAY with soft flexible strings at Low tension so I don't need a soft flexible racket.
3. ANYTHING at or above 23mm beam feels like a unwieldy club..
4. Need help with lift above the net cause of my style( that won't change after 30 years of muscle memory) so a closed string pattern is a NOGO
5. SO FAR , aero98 and blade 100L and 2019 prince tt 100p is what has made tennis easy n simpler for me. All 3 are completely different brands,rackets,feel,and string patterns. But they all have above 65RA and open string patterns. So for me FEEL don't mean sh..

All excellent points, which I largely agree with. I would love to find a stick who's mid/upper beam thickness is at/above 23mm, that doesn't feel too clubby, but so far, haven't found it, either. Ironically enough, the Prince CTS Syngergy Midplus models from the 90's come the closest for me, but they're ultimately too biased towards flatter, older-school tennis to be usable enough today (the 97" CTS 26 Midplus comes close though!). And thanks for notes on those three frames -- I agree: consistent but accessible string patterns paired with mid-upper 60's RA layups just makes tennis easier and more consistent for me as well (I probably should try the PA98 as some point as well, too; I quite enjoyed several aspects of the PA100...).

 

[maksp]

Appreciate the offer. I've identified of online retailers that have plenty of v8's in my grip size for right around $160 a pop. That isn't too bad.


Indeed. With an average stock unstrung swing weight in the low-to-mid 280's (so, 315-ish strung), I wouldn't expect it to have much plow, either. But again, I'm eyeing this as a customization platform, and envision adding, say, 20-30g in/around the handle/neck and 5-6g in the hoop, to bring the spec up to a healthy 335-345g, mid-upper 31.x cm balance, and swing weight up into the high 320's - low-mid 330's -- exactly like I've done with my Prestige MP-L's, which have shined with that kind of weight added. And, adding that much recoil weight effectively drops the RA another point or two and makes the racquet even more comfortable. My hope is that the added stiffness of the 100L would allow me to play it at slightly lower/faster spec, while achieving an equally big ball as my MP-L's, with perhaps even better precision.


Bingo. Thus, my curiosity with the 100L. I really do like a more firm response. I find it especially helps my 1HBH and my flat first serve, which is my biggest strength.


All excellent points, which I largely agree with. I would love to find a stick who's mid/upper beam thickness is at/above 23mm, that doesn't feel too clubby, but so far, haven't found it, either. Ironically enough, the Prince CTS Syngergy Midplus models from the 90's come the closest for me, but they're ultimately too biased towards flatter, older-school tennis to be usable enough today (the 97" CTS 26 Midplus comes close though!). And thanks for notes on those three frames -- I agree: consistent but accessible string patterns paired with mid-upper 60's RA layups just makes tennis easier and more consistent for me as well (I probably should try the PA98 as some point as well, too; I quite enjoyed several aspects of the PA100...).

Pa100 was uncontrollable with my 1hbh...aero98 with 20 crosses is excellent. I've gone through dr98, gravity pro 1 n auxetic, 18x20 prestige, dr100, vcore 95 n 98, artengo 960ct, blade sw102, vcore pro97,n couple others I forget .. this only in past 3 years to find out 3 totally different brands n string patterns that make me not think of my swing while I'm swinging. Don't get me started on the 100plus different string setups to find out I like soft shaped poly at low 40pound tension at 1 20mm

 

[Trip]

Yeah, I ultimately found the PA100 to pretty much be a 2HBH only frame (and an excellent one at that). The extra twist weight and lateral rigidity is really meant to pair with the extra twisting/flipping strength of having the second hand/arm. Would be curious to see if the PA98 is more usable for the 1HBH in that regard. From your assessment, sounds like it is.

 

[PRS]

I care less about starting lightness, and more about the end result. In this case, I'm after the 100L's firmer flex. The 100 has a fairly noodle-y 60-ish RA. The 100L has a firm and crisp 70-ish RA. Higher power per unit hitting weight. Get them to the same strung spec, and the 100L should deliver more bludgeoning force. That's one of the main things I'm trying to max out.

Appreciate the mention, although the 100L potentially trumps it on power with a 1+mm thicker beam, and the 100L tends to be easier to come by. That said, I appreciate Angell in general!

I wasn't going to chime in as I've got with the Blade 100 but not 100L, but I'm curious... if you're starting with a light, 100-inch, stiff frame, why the Blade? I would think that you'd basically be building a Pure Drive, Ezone, Ultra-type racquet, so why not start with one of those as the base instead? Maybe even the Blackout 285? Why the Blade and Prestige as your base models?

Not saying you should do something different, just genuinely curious.

P.S. I think I wanted a little more control than what you're looking for, but my Percept 100D at 355 static weight and 329 swing weight is fantastic.

 

[maksp]

I wasn't going to chime in as I've got with the Blade 100 but not 100L, but I'm curious... if you're starting with a light, 100-inch, stiff frame, why the Blade? I would think that you'd basically be building a Pure Drive, Ezone, Ultra-type racquet, so why not start with one of those as the base instead? Maybe even the Blackout 285? Why the Blade and Prestige as your base models?

Not saying you should do something different, just genuinely curious.

P.S. I think I wanted a little more control than what you're looking for, but my Percept 100D at 355 static weight and 329 swing weight is fantastic.

Most 100 inch rakets you entioned have 25+ mm thickness

 

[PRS]

Most 100 inch rakets you entioned have 25+ mm thickness

But if you look at the second of the two posts of his I quoted, he was saying he wanted a thicker beam for the power. And while I appreciate your response, I'd really like to hear from him. You may be right, but I'd still like to hear from him.

 

[Trip]

@PRS - Because I'm trying for a racquet that doesn't feel overly chunky, and most stuff over 23mm does. It's hard to find thinner-beamed but more crisp/firm options these days.

 

[Fed Kennedy]

You shouldn’t need it. The 100 standard is already a platform frame. It’s light enough as is.

Dan whats your thoughts on Blade 100 vs Eurostaff vs Pro Staff X

 

[danbrenner]

Dan whats your thoughts on Blade 100 vs Eurostaff vs Pro Staff X

So the eurostaff was too long ago. I can’t comment.
The X like most sticks that are 7 pts hl and are at a high static weight to begin with has my hands tied. Meaning I put on a Babolat syntec grip on mine and I’m at 12 oz strung and 10 pts head light. Those are not my favorite specs. So it’s just not customizable And it’s a lot to wield. That being said, I need to take it out on court again and get a final opinion. I only used it once, but the ease of use and the joy of the Blade 100 trumps it
Which then brings me to the B100 , the best stick I have used in a long time. The ease of use, the directional control, really make it a Goldilocks frame and totally customizable to fit anyone’s needs. I have been using mine bone stock and it has been incredible. But the static is 11.56 ounces strung at six points headlight, which make it totally customizable any which way. The blade 100 is my current stick of choice and has been for the past month or so that I have owned it And I want to make a special notation saying that the blade 98 version nine is the best blade 98. I have lay my hands on since V5. So if anybody wants a players frame, there really is no need to go to a blade Pro because it is exactly one point extra Head heavy than the standard blade and there is really no need for that. Anyway, back to the winner winner chicken dinner the blade 100 is not only whippy has that rounded head shape for spin lovers, but he’s also at the perfect weight for ultimate customization That’s why earlier in this thread. I was trying to convince these guys not to Frankenstein the lighter version because that truly is a complete waste of time. Wilson have truly nailed it with this one. if you need a little bit more power than slap 2 g of lead on each side of three and nine. And maybe counter weight 4 g in the butt

 

[Cowboy]

Dan whats your thoughts on Blade 100 vs Eurostaff vs Pro Staff X

You didn't ask me, but I found the PS X to be cumbersome. Felt like there was too much lag in my motion. I've heard many say that it's a great stick, but a single demo session and it was apparent that it was not the missing key to my game.

 

[ruud5]

Somebody a idea how the Blade100L vs de Boris Becker London is?

 

[Trip]

Somebody a idea how the Blade100L vs de Boris Becker London is?

Haven't played the 100L yet and no experience with the London, but judging from the specs alone, at equal strung spec, I would imagine the 100L to be noticeably more powerful, higher launch angle and slightly less precise than the London.

 

[slal1984]

Id get the v9 100 instead of the light version

 

[ChanterRacquet]

The 100L is not the racquet you think it is based on its specs, especially the RA which you wouldn’t believe if you had it with it beforehand.

 

[RF2017]

@Trip Have you tried the setup since the post. I have the percept 100 spec'd up to about 318 g, 31cm, 300SW, and 14.1 TW unstrung and completely love it. Only problem with it is that I find the beam a little too thick and would like something thinner that can move through the air a little quicker.

 

[tobi9008]

@Trip thanks for helping on my recent thread to find a replacement for my blade 100 v8 to achieve more inherent power and get help from the frame. Did you try the 100l yet? Even though the pure strike 100 came out as my favorite, I'm still addicted to the blade feel and hence tried blade 100l v9 with 5g lead at 12 and 12g in the handle. Coming out with 323 strung weight and 33 cm balance, with overgrip. The specs nearly matched the latest pure strike 100 test racket I had tried. My experience is that the pure strike still somehow has more punch but I like the ratio of power and quickness through the air and vollying a lot with the modified 100L. Any other experiences anyone can share in how to make it even better ? Maybe a good string recommendation?

 

[Trip]

@RF2017 - Apologies for the no-reply until now. Adding @tobi9008, for both of you: I still haven't tried a Blade 100 or 100L yet, no. Haven't been able to get in as much tennis as hoped over the past year, so additional frame testing has been at a minimum for me, unfortunately. I may look to try one this summer, we'll see.

@tobi9008 - To keep this thread on the rails, I'm going to jump back in and reply to your own thread on alternatives to the Blade 100 (link here).

 

[Tao69]

@RF2017 - Apologies for the no-reply until now. Adding @tobi9008, for both of you: I still haven't tried a Blade 100 or 100L yet, no. Haven't been able to get in as much tennis as hoped over the past year, so additional frame testing has been at a minimum for me, unfortunately. I may look to try one this summer, we'll see.

@tobi9008 - To keep this thread on the rails, I'm going to jump back in and reply to your own thread on alternatives to the Blade 100 (link here).

Have you had a chance to try your mods on a 100L yet? Curious to hear your thoughts if you have.

 

[Trip]

@Tao69 - I have not, only due to other testing frames taking precedence at this time (305S, M98P, CZ98D). I am keeping my eye out, though, and if a Grip 4 comes across my radar at a low enough price, then this experiment will be back on for sure.

 

[cg50]

@Tao69 - I have not, only due to other testing frames taking precedence at this time (305S, M98P, CZ98D). I am keeping my eye out, though, and if a Grip 4 comes across my radar at a low enough price, then this experiment will be back on for sure.

Heya, just wondering where you'd been looking and seen a Blade 100L in Grip 4?

Thanks!

 

[Tao69]

Heya, just wondering where you'd been looking and seen a Blade 100L in Grip 4?

Thanks!

I was wondering the same thing actually, I wasn’t even sure there was a G3 until I went to the Wilson site, a lot of retailers seems to only have G1 and G2.

 

[Trip]

Heya, just wondering where you'd been looking and seen a Blade 100L in Grip 4?

I was wondering the same thing actually, I wasn’t even sure there was a G3 until I went to the Wilson site, a lot of retailers seems to only have G1 and G2.

Woops. Sorry guys. It had been so long since I'd looked at the B100L, I forgot they only made them up to Grip 3. Will have to source one of those, then build the grip up somehow.

 

[cg50]

Ugh the curse of having big hands lol

 

[aaron_h27]

A frame always feels weird to me if I have to add too much weight (I've tried 285-290g unstrung frames and they always feel strange after adding 30+ grams of lead) so I generally aim for 310-315g options since I like my rackets to be 340+ strung and it only requires a few grams of lead. I think the Pro Staff X would be a good option for you Trip but maybe the beam is too thin? But it does have medium stiffness, head size and the final strung spec you're looking for. Keep us updated!