Extended length vs. standard length

[fretstain]

I'm not entirely sure that I understand all the pros and cons of an extended length racquet vs. a standard length racquet, I think I need some clarification.

I've been playing tennis for a couple years now and the only racquet I've ever owned is a 28 inch prince precision 730 so I really don't have the issue of adjusting to the extra length. I use a two handed backhand and its always felt really awkward ( I think its due to the extra length). When I choke up a bit it feels less awkward so I've been thinking about shortening my racquet by an inch...

I don't want to ruin my racquet but would it be worth doing? Thanks in advance.

 

[Z-Man]

I play with a 28in stick, and the extra inch is great on the serve, two handed backhand, topspin forehand, and for covering the court. It's not good for flat forehands and volleys, but you can always choke up an inch. A shorter stick will have more touch and control, but you may find the backhands you hit on the run are hard to reach and lack depth.

I used to play with a prestige, and it was great when I was playing people I could dominate, but against better players, I found that defensive shots I hit on the run lacked depth.

Everybody's game is different. If you're a big person with long arms, you might not need the extra inch. If you're a clay court baseliner, a longer racquet really helps cover the court and generate topspin. If you serve and volley or play a lot of doubles, the extra length might be a hindrance.

 

[fretstain]

I play hardcourt doubles mostly, however I've been thinking about playing on clay this year.

If I were to take off an inch, would it drastically change the balance? I don't really know if it would become head heavy enough to make a difference

 

[Gaines Hillix]

A lot depends on how the racquet was extended. Some racquets, like the Prince Graphite Michael Chang had all of the extra length added to the handle, so it was no big deal to cut off .5-1" as long as the racquet was rebalanced with lead tape afterward. If you are a baseliner with a 2-handed bh, I'd leave it alone.