Diary of a Racketaholic

BBender716

Professional
Oops good catch. Meant the Blade Pro. Blade Pro is just so solid feeling. Reminds me of the solidness of a PC2.0 or 6.1, but in a more modern (aka less heavy) package.
I have been loving my BP V8 with leather grip. I honestly find the heft forces me to be looser and swing loose since it feels too heavy for me to arm the ball or fall back into the habit of "pushing" the ball. The flatter serves are absolute bombs.

Today I had a lightbulb turn on and I just started figuring out connecting rotating my torso to start "skipping the rock"and just letting my arm fly after dropping it into the slot position. I just need to start letting it rip like that in clinic and matches because it was shockingly consistent.
 

Soundbyte

Hall of Fame
I have been loving my BP V8 with leather grip. I honestly find the heft forces me to be looser and swing loose since it feels too heavy for me to arm the ball or fall back into the habit of "pushing" the ball. The flatter serves are absolute bombs.

Today I had a lightbulb turn on and I just started figuring out connecting rotating my torso to start "skipping the rock"and just letting my arm fly after dropping it into the slot position. I just need to start letting it rip like that in clinic and matches because it was shockingly consistent.
I find it lets me just let go with the serve and forehand. But as much as it's helps my serve, it's the backhand where it really shines for me. It's solid without being wobbly on off center hits.

I remember the V8 blade pro feeling clubby, but I didn't put leather on that one
 

mmazzinin1

Semi-Pro
Don't like it much in a Head TGT 293.1 as I've lost spin, but adapted, more or less. Plus my elbow still hurts a bit, but it could be dead balls, wet weather, technique...
Reverse hybrid with natural gut and poly on my PT 630 or iPrestige is the best possible combo in terms of playability, by far. However, it does at times irritate my elbow...i dont think the culprit are the dead balls, but they might be an aggravating factor.
 

Fintft

G.O.A.T.
Reverse hybrid with natural gut and poly on my PT 630 or iPrestige is the best possible combo in terms of playability, by far. However, it does at times irritate my elbow...i dont think the culprit are the dead balls, but they might be an aggravating factor.
Took the dampener off and no more elbow pains. Or the string gave in a bit after the first hour.
 

Nadal15thslam

Hall of Fame
I've played with the i Radical Mp that I got for 10 euros and it surprised me. It's so solid and it's 90% the pt113b, it flexes a little differently but it's surprisingly close. You really can't beat them for the money. For those who want to try Nole's racquet and don't have the money for it I highly recommend it.
 

TwinCinema

Professional
Had an extremely fun hit this morning with @JOSHL and of course we backed up the truck. Look at all these weapons of minor destruction.

temp-Image-MHa-Bbz.avif


Mine are all the ones with white overgrips; his are all the blues. No match play today, so we just test-drove rackets for fun, and here were my impressions of the new ones I hit:

1) 2021 VCore 95: extremely tempting! I'd venture to say it has a bigger sweet spot than the Strike VS; swings nice, easy to control. It makes you forget that you're using a Yonex spin-line stick because it's so precise, so I had to remind myself to fully swing in exaggerated topspin motion to get the full VCore effect. The feel is a little odd; maybe too muted? It isn't too soft but there's something missing. Regardless, it has me really keen to check out the 2023. Probably the best VCore I've used.

2) Percept 100: much better than the 100D in my opinion; easy to maneuver for a 100", solid power level, good access to spin. Not sure I like it better than the 97 310g version, although it has more substantial swing weight and better stability. But I think the control and whip of the 97 is more my speed, and I'd use that one instead and lead it up to get more swing weight out of it.

3) Boom Pro 2024: sucks balls. Wide-open 16x19 pattern means high launch (the only time this was a benefit was when I dumped shots into the net but somehow they hit the tape and went over because they launched so high), and for a stick this "heavy" (it isn't heavy but it isn't light) and a beam this thick, it has much less power than you'd think. I looked at my notes from the 2022 Boom Pro and I found that one a little low-powered too, but I still liked it better than this turd.

I also tried a couple Prestige pro stocks that felt great but just weren't my specs and were a tad difficult for my level.

I was surprised by the racket I ended up using most of the time, though, because I hit the best with it -- it was the Bab Storm Team. (shoutout to @Humbi_HTX and @Power Player). Very strange experience with it: it was very light (308g strung), so I had some weight added to the butt so I could put some more lead in the hoop. I first tried 4g at 12, and the racket seemed to die. I wasn't timing shots well and when I did, I had no depth (opposite of what I expected would happen with tip weight). So I took the 4g and moved it down, splitting it at 3 and 9. Suddenly that unlocked the stick and I was nailing most of the shots I went for. I've fallen back in love with this thing again -- it's giving me more forgiveness than the PSVS, with just as much stability now that I've upped the twist weight, and with razor code white in it, I get all the spin and power and confidence I need. Sweet frame. I still slightly prefer the extra weapons I get from the backhand side with the PSVS, not to mention the touch at the net it has, but the Storm is very much in the same family DNA and will continue to stake a spot in my bag.
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
Storms rule! Glad you like it.

I finally found an orthopedic so hopefully I should know what’s going on with my arm next week. Epic injury. Has kept me from full time singles play for close to 3 months now.

Been doing doubles and some sessions but the last 2 weeks I just shut it down to see if I would heal. So far that’s not happening. I really must have done something to it.
 

TwinCinema

Professional
What a beautiful bench!

PStorms are (IMO) the best feel Babolat. I am happy you are enjoying it, the frame was just hanging on the wall (only because the handle was now 1 size too big for me)

It definitely found a good home. Hope your dad is getting a chance to play with the Strike!
 

Soundbyte

Hall of Fame
Had an extremely fun hit this morning with @JOSHL and of course we backed up the truck. Look at all these weapons of minor destruction.

temp-Image-MHa-Bbz.avif


Mine are all the ones with white overgrips; his are all the blues. No match play today, so we just test-drove rackets for fun, and here were my impressions of the new ones I hit:

1) 2021 VCore 95: extremely tempting! I'd venture to say it has a bigger sweet spot than the Strike VS; swings nice, easy to control. It makes you forget that you're using a Yonex spin-line stick because it's so precise, so I had to remind myself to fully swing in exaggerated topspin motion to get the full VCore effect. The feel is a little odd; maybe too muted? It isn't too soft but there's something missing. Regardless, it has me really keen to check out the 2023. Probably the best VCore I've used.

2) Percept 100: much better than the 100D in my opinion; easy to maneuver for a 100", solid power level, good access to spin. Not sure I like it better than the 97 310g version, although it has more substantial swing weight and better stability. But I think the control and whip of the 97 is more my speed, and I'd use that one instead and lead it up to get more swing weight out of it.

3) Boom Pro 2024: sucks balls. Wide-open 16x19 pattern means high launch (the only time this was a benefit was when I dumped shots into the net but somehow they hit the tape and went over because they launched so high), and for a stick this "heavy" (it isn't heavy but it isn't light) and a beam this thick, it has much less power than you'd think. I looked at my notes from the 2022 Boom Pro and I found that one a little low-powered too, but I still liked it better than this turd.

I also tried a couple Prestige pro stocks that felt great but just weren't my specs and were a tad difficult for my level.

I was surprised by the racket I ended up using most of the time, though, because I hit the best with it -- it was the Bab Storm Team. (shoutout to @Humbi_HTX and @Power Player). Very strange experience with it: it was very light (308g strung), so I had some weight added to the butt so I could put some more lead in the hoop. I first tried 4g at 12, and the racket seemed to die. I wasn't timing shots well and when I did, I had no depth (opposite of what I expected would happen with tip weight). So I took the 4g and moved it down, splitting it at 3 and 9. Suddenly that unlocked the stick and I was nailing most of the shots I went for. I've fallen back in love with this thing again -- it's giving me more forgiveness than the PSVS, with just as much stability now that I've upped the twist weight, and with razor code white in it, I get all the spin and power and confidence I need. Sweet frame. I still slightly prefer the extra weapons I get from the backhand side with the PSVS, not to mention the touch at the net it has, but the Storm is very much in the same family DNA and will continue to stake a spot in my bag.
Surprised by your Boom Pro review. But I honestly never hit mine stock. Always needs lead at 10&2.

But hey, rackets are personal. I agree with your Vcore 95 review though!
 

gino

Legend
I've played with the i Radical Mp that I got for 10 euros and it surprised me. It's so solid and it's 90% the pt113b, it flexes a little differently but it's surprisingly close. You really can't beat them for the money. For those who want to try Nole's racquet and don't have the money for it I highly recommend it.
Retweet, having used the 113b and 346 I can say I.rad is the closest for me. That’s why I did a custom PJ on those. Considering doing the Novak string job on them too
 

gino

Legend
Had an extremely fun hit this morning with @JOSHL and of course we backed up the truck. Look at all these weapons of minor destruction.

temp-Image-MHa-Bbz.avif


Mine are all the ones with white overgrips; his are all the blues. No match play today, so we just test-drove rackets for fun, and here were my impressions of the new ones I hit:

1) 2021 VCore 95: extremely tempting! I'd venture to say it has a bigger sweet spot than the Strike VS; swings nice, easy to control. It makes you forget that you're using a Yonex spin-line stick because it's so precise, so I had to remind myself to fully swing in exaggerated topspin motion to get the full VCore effect. The feel is a little odd; maybe too muted? It isn't too soft but there's something missing. Regardless, it has me really keen to check out the 2023. Probably the best VCore I've used.

2) Percept 100: much better than the 100D in my opinion; easy to maneuver for a 100", solid power level, good access to spin. Not sure I like it better than the 97 310g version, although it has more substantial swing weight and better stability. But I think the control and whip of the 97 is more my speed, and I'd use that one instead and lead it up to get more swing weight out of it.

3) Boom Pro 2024: sucks balls. Wide-open 16x19 pattern means high launch (the only time this was a benefit was when I dumped shots into the net but somehow they hit the tape and went over because they launched so high), and for a stick this "heavy" (it isn't heavy but it isn't light) and a beam this thick, it has much less power than you'd think. I looked at my notes from the 2022 Boom Pro and I found that one a little low-powered too, but I still liked it better than this turd.

I also tried a couple Prestige pro stocks that felt great but just weren't my specs and were a tad difficult for my level.

I was surprised by the racket I ended up using most of the time, though, because I hit the best with it -- it was the Bab Storm Team. (shoutout to @Humbi_HTX and @Power Player). Very strange experience with it: it was very light (308g strung), so I had some weight added to the butt so I could put some more lead in the hoop. I first tried 4g at 12, and the racket seemed to die. I wasn't timing shots well and when I did, I had no depth (opposite of what I expected would happen with tip weight). So I took the 4g and moved it down, splitting it at 3 and 9. Suddenly that unlocked the stick and I was nailing most of the shots I went for. I've fallen back in love with this thing again -- it's giving me more forgiveness than the PSVS, with just as much stability now that I've upped the twist weight, and with razor code white in it, I get all the spin and power and confidence I need. Sweet frame. I still slightly prefer the extra weapons I get from the backhand side with the PSVS, not to mention the touch at the net it has, but the Storm is very much in the same family DNA and will continue to stake a spot in my bag.
Sweet bunch of sticks mate. Happy hitting !
 

JOSHL

Hall of Fame
Had an extremely fun hit this morning with @JOSHL and of course we backed up the truck. Look at all these weapons of minor destruction.

temp-Image-MHa-Bbz.avif


Mine are all the ones with white overgrips; his are all the blues. No match play today, so we just test-drove rackets for fun, and here were my impressions of the new ones I hit:

1) 2021 VCore 95: extremely tempting! I'd venture to say it has a bigger sweet spot than the Strike VS; swings nice, easy to control. It makes you forget that you're using a Yonex spin-line stick because it's so precise, so I had to remind myself to fully swing in exaggerated topspin motion to get the full VCore effect. The feel is a little odd; maybe too muted? It isn't too soft but there's something missing. Regardless, it has me really keen to check out the 2023. Probably the best VCore I've used.

2) Percept 100: much better than the 100D in my opinion; easy to maneuver for a 100", solid power level, good access to spin. Not sure I like it better than the 97 310g version, although it has more substantial swing weight and better stability. But I think the control and whip of the 97 is more my speed, and I'd use that one instead and lead it up to get more swing weight out of it.

3) Boom Pro 2024: sucks balls. Wide-open 16x19 pattern means high launch (the only time this was a benefit was when I dumped shots into the net but somehow they hit the tape and went over because they launched so high), and for a stick this "heavy" (it isn't heavy but it isn't light) and a beam this thick, it has much less power than you'd think. I looked at my notes from the 2022 Boom Pro and I found that one a little low-powered too, but I still liked it better than this turd.

I also tried a couple Prestige pro stocks that felt great but just weren't my specs and were a tad difficult for my level.

I was surprised by the racket I ended up using most of the time, though, because I hit the best with it -- it was the Bab Storm Team. (shoutout to @Humbi_HTX and @Power Player). Very strange experience with it: it was very light (308g strung), so I had some weight added to the butt so I could put some more lead in the hoop. I first tried 4g at 12, and the racket seemed to die. I wasn't timing shots well and when I did, I had no depth (opposite of what I expected would happen with tip weight). So I took the 4g and moved it down, splitting it at 3 and 9. Suddenly that unlocked the stick and I was nailing most of the shots I went for. I've fallen back in love with this thing again -- it's giving me more forgiveness than the PSVS, with just as much stability now that I've upped the twist weight, and with razor code white in it, I get all the spin and power and confidence I need. Sweet frame. I still slightly prefer the extra weapons I get from the backhand side with the PSVS, not to mention the touch at the net it has, but the Storm is very much in the same family DNA and will continue to stake a spot in my bag.
The percept 100 was the star of the day for me for sure. I am wondering if it’s the gut/alu in there that is influencing that choice. The vcore95 v6 ain’t bad either but yes pretty muted, maybe even more than the current gen. I was hoping the extra stiffness in the v6 would provide easier power vs the v7 but they are pretty similar in that regard. It was a fun time. Thanks for coming out @TwinCinema
 

Nadal15thslam

Hall of Fame
Retweet, having used the 113b and 346 I can say I.rad is the closest for me. That’s why I did a custom PJ on those. Considering doing the Novak string job on them too
Dr used to say that the flexpoint radical mp is actually the closest, I have one but didn't try it yet. It's the one that someone painted all black for me.
 

Ryebread

Hall of Fame
quiet here today.

question.

2024 extreme pro (replaced the tour)
it's been my main since launch
it's a very nice update.
really good for low launch angle control frame with some pop
I'm at 51/49 lbs, pure rush

Just bought a 2022 Ez 98 from a mate here.
should I string at the same tension?
I think they are very close in power, correct?

cheers
 

RF_PRO_STAFF

Hall of Fame
2024 extreme pro (replaced the tour)
it's been my main since launch
it's a very nice update.
really good for low launch angle control frame with some pop
I'm at 51/49 lbs, pure rush
I tried it first time yesterday, really liked it too. The conditions were crappy so it was hard to feel the ball on the strings, but still nice.
 

Alcawrath

Professional
I'm watching a replay of the Zhang match from earlier today in Shanghai and that special radical pj looks cool. Too bad he's out already!
 

DJ-

Hall of Fame
The carve 100 takes weight like a champion from what I can see so far. It plays way better than in stock form and enhances the defensive features like any aero does but with better feel and comfort. The whippy feeling is still there, and the fibreglass magic remains the same. I used Tw tungsten instead of lead as I find it more suitable for sensitive paint jobs. It was really put through the test against hard hitters last night, one being a popular YT figure.
 

topspn

G.O.A.T.
The carve 100 takes weight like a champion from what I can see so far. It plays way better than in stock form and enhances the defensive features like any aero does but with better feel and comfort. The whippy feeling is still there, and the fibreglass magic remains the same. I used Tw tungsten instead of lead as I find it more suitable for sensitive paint jobs. It was really put through the test against hard hitters last night, one being a popular YT figure.
What are your specs like? I'm at 333g, 296SW and thinking of going up SW a bit
 

DJ-

Hall of Fame
What are your specs like? I'm at 333g, 296SW and thinking of going up SW a bit
I'm at 328gr,326sw,32.7cm strung... I would also like to take it to 333g as I have liked that weight in my apd2013 pro stock and tc100 frames. I would go up to 336sw, but feel it would not be needed. Another experiment I want to try is remove the tungsten and extend to 27.25. I think these in xl would.be amazing. The syntec team grips enhance the feel of the frame but you lose about 5 grams vs the c100 stock grip. Once I get my go to strings will measure more accurately via a briffidi
 

tim-ay

Legend
I'm at 328gr,326sw,32.7cm strung... I would also like to take it to 333g as I have liked that weight in my apd2013 pro stock and tc100 frames. I would go up to 336sw, but feel it would not be needed. Another experiment I want to try is remove the tungsten and extend to 27.25. I think these in xl would.be amazing. The syntec team grips enhance the feel of the frame but you lose about 5 grams vs the c100 stock grip. Once I get my go to strings will measure more accurately via a briffidi
Both of mine are around 330 SW. I’ve thought about going further also, but agree it’s not needed. I just like that mid 330’s in my 19 SXT’s and I think the Carves would be even better due to the feel. 27.25 tho….hmmm.. that’s food for thought.
 

DJ-

Hall of Fame
Both of mine are around 330 SW. I’ve thought about going further also, but agree it’s not needed. I just like that mid 330’s in my 19 SXT’s and I think the Carves would be even better due to the feel. 27.25 tho….hmmm.. that’s food for thought.
Enjoying it too much at 27" for the moment to start getting those bottle tops ready :) All this bourbon talk is making me get some out and have one whilst thinking about the c100 and it's glory. I really want to put this frame through the tests before those kind of mods... those sxt's are gems, did you keep them ?
 

topspn

G.O.A.T.
I'm at 328gr,326sw,32.7cm strung... I would also like to take it to 333g as I have liked that weight in my apd2013 pro stock and tc100 frames. I would go up to 336sw, but feel it would not be needed. Another experiment I want to try is remove the tungsten and extend to 27.25. I think these in xl would.be amazing. The syntec team grips enhance the feel of the frame but you lose about 5 grams vs the c100 stock grip. Once I get my go to strings will measure more accurately via a briffidi

Mine is 333g, 32.5 cm, 326SW. I have a 2nd I haven’t strung yet but very close specs except a bit more HL in balance. I’ll string it up this weekend. So far only tried durafluxx @50lbs but really like it this frame
 

tim-ay

Legend
Enjoying it too much at 27" for the moment to start getting those bottle tops ready :) All this bourbon talk is making me get some out and have one whilst thinking about the c100 and it's glory. I really want to put this frame through the tests before those kind of mods... those sxt's are gems, did you keep them ?
oh yeah, I have 4 of the 19 SXT’s. I’ll never get rid of them. Such a unique frame and a shame Dunlop moved away from the design so quickly.

But the Carve is really great too. I would have to buy a 3rd to play around with the 27.25. Right now, I’m also quite happy with them as is.
 
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tim-ay

Legend
Mine is 333g, 32.5 cm, 326SW. I have a 2nd I haven’t strung yet but very close specs except a bit more HL in balance. I’ll string it up this weekend. So far only tried durafluxx @50lbs but really like it this frame
DF is great in the Carve. I think it’s still the best string in a 100 type power frame. Lots of great strings out there these days though, we are very lucky
 

DJ-

Hall of Fame
Mine is 333g, 32.5 cm, 326SW. I have a 2nd I haven’t strung yet but very close specs except a bit more HL in balance. I’ll string it up this weekend. So far only tried durafluxx @50lbs but really like it this frame
Sorry if i missed it... what guage for df?
 

Power Player

Bionic Poster
Mine is 333g, 32.5 cm, 326SW. I have a 2nd I haven’t strung yet but very close specs except a bit more HL in balance. I’ll string it up this weekend. So far only tried durafluxx @50lbs but really like it this frame

I play the same setup on my Bab 100s. It is awesome. I also set up the Carve the exact same. That one is headed to Franky now.
 

tim-ay

Legend
I've been liking pure rush/wasabi x in the C100s but I have a reel of DF. Ill be trying that next
Pure rush and pure rush hybrids are pretty awesome also. It’s a bit of a coin flip, but I think I can string just a shade lower with DF and get a shade more pocketing and spin. But really am happy either way. Great strings!
 

jlouie

Rookie
Latest rabbit hole is trying to get my custom painted i.radical MPs as close to the Djoko spec as possible. String aside, I’ll try and get the static/SW in his ballpark. Will emulate the lead placement before I get them strung up. Love a glossy black frame

g78SlUz.jpeg


MODjSu8.jpeg


UkXnA4X.jpeg


Given the latest rabbit hole, mulling over getting off of my ti.radical MPs I had previously specd up to the djoko ballpark spec. They are super clean and absolute gems, but feeling redundant given I have the cooler custom ones now. This paint is just stunning even 20+ years later, what a timeless cosmetic

iytab9m.jpeg


HwV2UG6.jpeg
These are beautiful, man! It really got me interested in seeing if I could get some of my Radicals painted, but they told me the Titanium ones have a clearcoat they could not sand. I have an i.Radical that is just in storage that will hopefully work out, but will need to verify w/ Curtis. He had indicated that not all the i.Radicals or Microgel Radicals (don't own any of these) could be painted. I have one of the later ones w/o the rubber paint.
 

JFrijhoff

Rookie
I play almost every Friday morning with a friend, about 2-3 hours. He got me hooked into trying (many) different rackets, he has like ~100 at home, against my ~15 or so at the moment.
Last two weeks we’ve been doing themed sessions. Last Friday it was ‘Gravity’, hitting different editions of the Gravity MP, Tour, and Pro. This morning we did Technifibre: TF-40, T-fight, Iga, different editions as well. Next week, Pro staffs!
Should have made some pictures of the rackets on display…
 
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