Demo had fresh NXT in it.
I love the most random frame - Pro Kennex Kinetic Pro 7g
- Thread starter bluetrain4
- Start date
Demo had fresh NXT in it.
Jst received my 5g demo. It too has a pretty fresh string job of NXT demo string in there so could be a pretty direct comparison of it with the 7g. The only main difference I can really tell just from holding is the grip on the 7g is obviously longer (1/2"). Also--def like the RED pj on the 7g compared to the YELLOW 5g--but won't care too much about that if it plays well. We shall see--hope it can hit the slice FH---LOL (That was for you Mikeler!):razz:
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Awesome..can't wait to see how it goes for you. I am pretty sure the 7G is going to punish the ball more just from looking at specs.
mikeler
Moderator
With B5E mains I get about 12 hours out of the MCS crosses. More like 5 hours with a full job.
KCraig, that will be a good comparison. I've had a few opponents curse at me when I hit my Federer forehand squash shot for a winner. I only use it on that shot or for low approach shots/droppers. I prefer to shank the ball with a topspin forehand whenever possible though.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
12 hours? I like this. I already know the feel is great, so this will be fun.
mikeler
Moderator
It works out well since you should probably be cutting out most polys around that time anyways.
With B5E mains I get about 12 hours out of the MCS crosses. More like 5 hours with a full job.
KCraig, that will be a good comparison. I've had a few opponents curse at me when I hit my Federer forehand squash shot for a winner. I only use it on that shot or for low approach shots/droppers. I prefer to shank the ball with a topspin forehand whenever possible though.
I love the shank winner--followed by a big ole' FISTPUMP!!! Yeah baby in your FACE
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mikeler
Moderator
I love the shank winner--followed by a big ole' FISTPUMP!!! Yeah baby in your FACE
Throw in a net cord line shot with a bad bounce and now you have a Mikeler special.
5g vs 7g specs
Here are the specs on the 2 frames. Both are strung with Wilson NXT demo string and hv Pacific Xtack OG and Sampras O dampner:
7g--341g
5g--336g--think a little lead (4g) around 3.5/9.5 position would add some stability to it.
Will not be able to really play with the 5g till Sunday, but initial hitting against garage wall--5g feels "quicker", but 7g def more "stable" and powerful.
Here are the specs on the 2 frames. Both are strung with Wilson NXT demo string and hv Pacific Xtack OG and Sampras O dampner:
7g--341g
5g--336g--think a little lead (4g) around 3.5/9.5 position would add some stability to it.
Will not be able to really play with the 5g till Sunday, but initial hitting against garage wall--5g feels "quicker", but 7g def more "stable" and powerful.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
I was hitting some longballs today until I remembered to move my feet and set up for the shot. Once I did that, I realized how accurate this racquet is. Wow..very precise for the amount of power it puts out. A shot I worked a lot was the sharp angle forehand that bounces off the court before crossing the service box line. I could hit that one real well with the pure storm, and there does not seem to be much drop off.
I also have been hitting very consistently off the backhand side, and that is huge. Also hit some sharp angled winners from that side, which is something I usually don't go for as much..with this racquet, it is pretty effortless.
I also have been hitting very consistently off the backhand side, and that is huge. Also hit some sharp angled winners from that side, which is something I usually don't go for as much..with this racquet, it is pretty effortless.
mikeler
Moderator
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Yeah..he's sold out so I may just buy one from TW. I mean, it's $115 for a new stick. Thats a steal.
I need 2 since I can tell my hybrid setups could go anytime.
I need 2 since I can tell my hybrid setups could go anytime.
5g vs 7g
Well I finally had the chance to take the 2 frames out to test/compare last night. For reference, both demos are strung with the same Wilson NXT "demo" string and have Pacific XTack pro OG and Sampras O dampner. I did add about 3.5g to the 5g at 10/2 to bring static weight to same as 7g--at 340g/12.0oz. Well, hate to diappoint, but this won't be too long of a review/comparison--cause the 7g BLOWS the 5g out of the water!!!!!
I started off warming up with the 5g for a 4.5 singles match/hit and could tell right off the bat I was really struggling with "depth." I usually like "low pwered" frames, but this was very low powered. Also--maybe cause I was hitting higher in the hoop than normal, the 5g did not feel near as "plush" as the 7g. Serves with 5g--not GOOD at all!! Started off with 4 dubs in 2 service games-all were well short in the net!!! I was quickly down 0-3--that was enough for me. Pulled out the 7g! Ended up winning the set 7-5 and was up 3-2 in 2nd when we had to stop for our doubles match--
Played GREAT with 7g all through dubs--I have gotten so comfortable at net now with this stick as its stability is just wonderful. It can take the nastiest, hardest hit return and just hit a nice crisp deep volley. Won both sets in dubs--3 and1.
My only dilemma now is whether to order the 3/8s grip or go up to a 1/2? The PK 43/8s just feels a little small to me--my thoughts are if I go to a 41/2 and if feels too big, I could just use the ultra thin replacement grip--Bab Skin Feel (sounds so dirty!):twisted: Thoughts??
Well I finally had the chance to take the 2 frames out to test/compare last night. For reference, both demos are strung with the same Wilson NXT "demo" string and have Pacific XTack pro OG and Sampras O dampner. I did add about 3.5g to the 5g at 10/2 to bring static weight to same as 7g--at 340g/12.0oz. Well, hate to diappoint, but this won't be too long of a review/comparison--cause the 7g BLOWS the 5g out of the water!!!!!
I started off warming up with the 5g for a 4.5 singles match/hit and could tell right off the bat I was really struggling with "depth." I usually like "low pwered" frames, but this was very low powered. Also--maybe cause I was hitting higher in the hoop than normal, the 5g did not feel near as "plush" as the 7g. Serves with 5g--not GOOD at all!! Started off with 4 dubs in 2 service games-all were well short in the net!!! I was quickly down 0-3--that was enough for me. Pulled out the 7g! Ended up winning the set 7-5 and was up 3-2 in 2nd when we had to stop for our doubles match--
Played GREAT with 7g all through dubs--I have gotten so comfortable at net now with this stick as its stability is just wonderful. It can take the nastiest, hardest hit return and just hit a nice crisp deep volley. Won both sets in dubs--3 and1.
My only dilemma now is whether to order the 3/8s grip or go up to a 1/2? The PK 43/8s just feels a little small to me--my thoughts are if I go to a 41/2 and if feels too big, I could just use the ultra thin replacement grip--Bab Skin Feel (sounds so dirty!):twisted: Thoughts??
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Power Player
Bionic Poster
KCraig..great review. That helps me out a lot since I need to order another stick as I just have 1 with synth gut crosses that could go anytime. My shoulder has been fine so far, so I think serving is going to be ok. Let's face it, the XL gives you some real big advantages, and the main adjustment to make is spacing.
I do get jammed sometimes, but it's not too bad and really is worth it when you look at the extra power and reach you can get. I have really no complaints about this racquet.
I do get jammed sometimes, but it's not too bad and really is worth it when you look at the extra power and reach you can get. I have really no complaints about this racquet.
Yep--you really helped me out alot with concentrating on footwork and spacing. Was actually surprised the 5g did not do better--I mean i had to kill it to get behind the service line and serves were just pitiful. I was hitting the sweetspot much more on the 7g too which made it feel "plusher". Also--with defensive shots, the 7g is much better. The running 1hb stretch shots and the blocked returns of serves quickly go form being "defensive to offensive" real quick! If swinging and hitting confidently with this stick, you can REALLY punish the ball--which is damn FUN
Yep--you really helped me out alot with concentrating on footwork and spacing. Was actually surprised the 5g did not do better--I mean i had to kill it to get behind the service line and serves were just pitiful. I was hitting the sweetspot much more on the 7g too which made it feel "plusher". Also--with defensive shots, the 7g is much better. The running 1hb stretch shots and the blocked returns of serves quickly go form being "defensive to offensive" real quick! If swinging and hitting confidently with this stick, you can REALLY punish the ball--which is damn FUN
ALSO--the RED 7g paintjob is MUCH better than the yellow of the 5g--especially being a GAMECOCK!!!:twisted:
Power Player
Bionic Poster
haha..yeah the red PJ is nice..nothing special compared to the mainstream sticks, but it just looks nice and doesn't attract attention or look cheap.
And of course, we'd also look like Iowa fans or something with the 5g.haha. I'm a Nole, sorry about that bowl game, but you caught us on our upswing back to prominence (finally).
And of course, we'd also look like Iowa fans or something with the 5g.haha. I'm a Nole, sorry about that bowl game, but you caught us on our upswing back to prominence (finally).
Uggggh--the bowl game was horrible!! Lattimore knocked out and Garcia was still drunk!!! I'm still celebrating the back 2 back National Champion baseball team and giving Mikeler crap any time I can--especially seeing he went to Clempsum and Florida---aaaaaaahhhh--best of both worlds!!!!!
Read em all Scotus--good stuff!! You still playing this frame I assume?
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Yep, I read them all too and took a shot. Glad I did..not only can I play tennis with far less pain, but I can combine amazing feel and huge power with control again. Last time that happened was with the PSGt, but that was a much more sluggish racquet for me.
Also helps to have an extra .5 since I'm not tall.
KCraig, still can't believe Reid smacked Lattimore that hard. Wow. Lattimore is a god too..I love that guy. Total stud runningback.
Reid had a 20yd head start when he saw Garcia "loft" it up to Marcus--I thought he was dead!! That's called getting "blowed up!"
Decided to go with the 41/2 grip as I feel the PK grip is a tad small compared to most 3/8s. Plus, with the GE issues think it is better to have the slightly bigger grip as to not grip too tight. Plus, the Xtack grip is pretty thin too--
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Yep, and like you said the Skin Feel is always an option if you want more bevel feel.
mikeler
Moderator
Just wanted to add again how good and solid this stick is on volleys. Did not think the extra length would be good for volleys upon the very first hit, but have now gotten so used to the stability, pop and directional control with volleys that I find myself looking for any chance to come into net. Playing a lot more doubles this summer as it's so HOT out! Keeping the racquet out front and ready and no swinging action needed--the frame does all the work!!!
Power Player
Bionic Poster
I was never that sure about XL, but the shorter tour players seem to use them a lot. It has been making more and more sense for me as well now that I have gotten used to it.
I agree about the volleys. This racquet is as stable as the Donnay Platinum and Pure Storm at net..possibly more to be honest. It really punches through the ball with minimal effort.
I agree about the volleys. This racquet is as stable as the Donnay Platinum and Pure Storm at net..possibly more to be honest. It really punches through the ball with minimal effort.
"minimal effort" being the key--you nailed it. After playing for so long with the leaded Prince Diablo MP (a very low powered/realtively unstable frame), I have found myself smiling after hitting some volleys with the 7g and saying "damn--how did I do that!"
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mikeler
Moderator
It's better than the PST at the net for sure. Last night I had 6 or 7 backhand volley winners, two were off heavy dipping topspin shots for drop volley winners. One was on a lob that I could barely reach that clipped the net for a drop volley winner. The other 3 or 4 were hard punch backhand volleys. The only volley I missed was on the forehand side and that was about 3 inches wide.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Another good thing is the touch is there. I love the classic Fed forehand inside out dropper to finish a point sometimes, and I'm getting these to drop and die rather fast.
Received my new PK7g yesterday! Had it strung with full Bab Xcel 16 (black) at 58lbs--weighed in at a perfect 330g! Got home and added the standard blue Pacific Xtack Pro and Sampras O dampner and final static weight is 338g/11.9oz which is right in my "perfect" zone. Had a few hits against the garage and the Xcel feels really nice and plush. Slightly softer/plusher than the NXT. Really looking forward to taking it out soon and playing---heading out for vaca at beach, but will try and get out atleast a couple times to hit. Good stick--especially one that is close to 10yrs old!
Power Player
Bionic Poster
Just ordered my 2nd from TW.
AG, the XL gives us shorter dudes an advantage. You will just need to get your spacing and footwork adjusted, but it won't take long. You will notice that flatter serves will be easier for you as well to hit consistently in.
AG, the XL gives us shorter dudes an advantage. You will just need to get your spacing and footwork adjusted, but it won't take long. You will notice that flatter serves will be easier for you as well to hit consistently in.
AG--PowerPlayer nailed it, its all about spacing and footwork. I'm 6'2" so dont really "need" the extra length, but it definitely helps on the 2hb and defensive stab shots. Took me about 2hrs to get dialed in. Also--find myself hitting the sweetspot more as I used to hit consistently higher in the hoop with std length and even my Diablo MPs which were 27.25". Main adjustment for me was not the length as much as the slight SW bump--but it's so HL that it can be whipped around pretty easily. Def take a demo spin.
mikeler
Moderator
As stated previously, it will take you a few hours to adjust your spacing on ground strokes. Yes you will get jammed slightly easier but the tradeoff for the extra pace and spin on the serve is well worth it especially for the under 6' crowd.
As the 5x or do you mean the std length 5g? If so--I did demo both extended 7g vs 5g but it was a short lived comparison as I found the 5g to less stable, very low pwered (especially on serves) and actually a tad "harsh"--mainly due to hitting in upper hoop.
I thought that is the name for the newer line's extended length version/the current version of the 7g.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
KCraig has hit with the 5g and stuck with the 7g.
I have gone through my share of sticks, but the 7g is a winner. There is no universal stick that everyone will like, but PK sure crammed a ton of awesome things into 1 stick. Here is my little list:
* comfort - most comfort I have ever had. Currently saving my wrist from pain.
* Bigtime power - I can hit through my opponents a lot more with less effort than possibly any stick I have used before. Only other one that did this was the Pure Drive Roddick Plus
* Incredible control - usually a power stick sprays shots, but the string pattern on this racquet is perfection. It is 16x20, but it gets nice and tight on the sweet spot like an 18x20 and this results in incredible accuracy from a 100.
* The feel. This racquet feels like a top player's stick. Very crisp and plush. I loved the Pure Storm and Prestige feel a lot, and this racquet keeps me from missing those.It also sounds quite loud and I love that. I like a loud racquet that tells my ears when I'm hitting clean.
* Buttcap. Nitpicking, but the buttcap on this racquet is perfectly flared. This means I can hold the racquet loosely on serve and groundstrokes and use the full length of the stick on groundies without choking up. Since I have broken a racquet due to it flying out my hand before, this little trait gets a huge plus from me.
* ease of stringing. This is the easiest racquet I have ever strung in my life. Literally no headaches at all. since I string my own, this is another little detail that I really appreciate.
Anyone is welcome to add to that list, but I would say to anyone considering a demo, these are some key reasons I really love this racquet.
AG, from all accounts most people prefer the old 7G that we use and consider the newer ones a step back. I will stay with tried and true.
I have gone through my share of sticks, but the 7g is a winner. There is no universal stick that everyone will like, but PK sure crammed a ton of awesome things into 1 stick. Here is my little list:
* comfort - most comfort I have ever had. Currently saving my wrist from pain.
* Bigtime power - I can hit through my opponents a lot more with less effort than possibly any stick I have used before. Only other one that did this was the Pure Drive Roddick Plus
* Incredible control - usually a power stick sprays shots, but the string pattern on this racquet is perfection. It is 16x20, but it gets nice and tight on the sweet spot like an 18x20 and this results in incredible accuracy from a 100.
* The feel. This racquet feels like a top player's stick. Very crisp and plush. I loved the Pure Storm and Prestige feel a lot, and this racquet keeps me from missing those.It also sounds quite loud and I love that. I like a loud racquet that tells my ears when I'm hitting clean.
* Buttcap. Nitpicking, but the buttcap on this racquet is perfectly flared. This means I can hold the racquet loosely on serve and groundstrokes and use the full length of the stick on groundies without choking up. Since I have broken a racquet due to it flying out my hand before, this little trait gets a huge plus from me.
* ease of stringing. This is the easiest racquet I have ever strung in my life. Literally no headaches at all. since I string my own, this is another little detail that I really appreciate.
Anyone is welcome to add to that list, but I would say to anyone considering a demo, these are some key reasons I really love this racquet.
AG, from all accounts most people prefer the old 7G that we use and consider the newer ones a step back. I will stay with tried and true.
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jorel
Hall of Fame
agree sux that i sold mine a few years backKCraig has hit with the 5g and stuck with the 7g.
I have gone through my share of sticks, but the 7g is a winner. There is no universal stick that everyone will like, but PK sure crammed a ton of awesome things into 1 stick. Here is my little list:
* comfort - most comfort I have ever had. Currently saving my wrist from pain.
* Bigtime power - I can hit through my opponents a lot more with less effort than possibly any stick I have used before. Only other one that did this was the Pure Drive Roddick Plus
* Incredible control - usually a power stick sprays shots, but the string pattern on this racquet is perfection. It is 16x20, but it gets nice and tight on the sweet spot like an 18x20 and this results in incredible accuracy from a 100.
* The feel. This racquet feels like a top player's stick. Very crisp and plush. I loved the Pure Storm and Prestige feel a lot, and this racquet keeps me from missing those.
* Buttcap. Nitpicking, but the buttcap on this racquet is perfectly flared. This means I can hold the racquet loosely on serve and groundstrokes and use the full length of the stick on groundies without choking up. Since I have broken a racquet due to it flying out my hand before, this little trait gets a huge plus from me.
* ease of stringing. This is the easiest racquet I have ever strung in my life. Literally no headaches at all. since I string my own, this is another little detail that I really appreciate.
Anyone is welcome to add to that list, but I would say to anyone considering a demo, these are some key reasons I really love this racquet.
AG, from all accounts most people prefer the old 7G that we use and consider the newer ones a step back. I will stay with tried and true.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
What are you using now? you can always buy more..
I forgot to add this to the list :
Cheap! - these sticks are under $120 new.
I forgot to add this to the list :
Cheap! - these sticks are under $120 new.
Correct---thought that could be what you were referring to as well after I posted--oops
Have not tested any of the "newer" ionic frames
mikeler
Moderator
Think you nailed it. One more thing I would add is that the specs look very similar to the PST. After hitting with both, the 7G seems significantly lighter in the head but just as stable. It has really helped me on volleys. Now the PST just seems a little sluggish when I swing it.
KCraig has hit with the 5g and stuck with the 7g.
I have gone through my share of sticks, but the 7g is a winner. There is no universal stick that everyone will like, but PK sure crammed a ton of awesome things into 1 stick. Here is my little list:
* comfort - most comfort I have ever had. Currently saving my wrist from pain.
* Bigtime power - I can hit through my opponents a lot more with less effort than possibly any stick I have used before. Only other one that did this was the Pure Drive Roddick Plus
* Incredible control - usually a power stick sprays shots, but the string pattern on this racquet is perfection. It is 16x20, but it gets nice and tight on the sweet spot like an 18x20 and this results in incredible accuracy from a 100.
* The feel. This racquet feels like a top player's stick. Very crisp and plush. I loved the Pure Storm and Prestige feel a lot, and this racquet keeps me from missing those.It also sounds quite loud and I love that. I like a loud racquet that tells my ears when I'm hitting clean.
* Buttcap. Nitpicking, but the buttcap on this racquet is perfectly flared. This means I can hold the racquet loosely on serve and groundstrokes and use the full length of the stick on groundies without choking up. Since I have broken a racquet due to it flying out my hand before, this little trait gets a huge plus from me.
* ease of stringing. This is the easiest racquet I have ever strung in my life. Literally no headaches at all. since I string my own, this is another little detail that I really appreciate.
Anyone is welcome to add to that list, but I would say to anyone considering a demo, these are some key reasons I really love this racquet.
AG, from all accounts most people prefer the old 7G that we use and consider the newer ones a step back. I will stay with tried and true.
jorel
Hall of Fame
yea i know but i hate spending more than 60 for a racquet
kinda ripoff for me to spend any more than that especially when i know it costs them a fraction of that to manufactur
using the 5 g now but it missese that nice 7g feel
I have 5 Dunlop M-Fil 200 Plus's - I keep 3 in Key West and 2 in Fort Lauderdale. I bought them all used from other posters' on TT for a grand total of $160 with a large 6-pack + bag.
With leather handle and lead tape, they weigh 336 grams, are about 8-10 points head light.
Had no plans to spend any $$ on frames but these sounds ideal
With leather handle and lead tape, they weigh 336 grams, are about 8-10 points head light.
Had no plans to spend any $$ on frames but these sounds ideal
Power Player
Bionic Poster
You shuffle between Key West and Lauderdale?
You are living the life!
You are living the life!
Agree with Mikeler--one of the most impressive areas for me and the 7g is volleys and stability!!!
You shuffle between Key West and Lauderdale?
You are living the life!
I am the resident TT'er in Key West. It is great although puts a lot of miles on the car. My goal ultimately is to be more in KW and less in Lauderdale but my office is in Lauderdale and until I convince my partners to allow me to telecommute on a more constant basis, the shuffle continues.
Power Player
Bionic Poster
I have some family moving to Key Biscane, so I hope to be in the Keys more often in a few months.
