Please recommend me a new racquet

[Roland G]

Hi, looking to change racquets soon and was looking for a few recommendations. Unfortunately I'm unable to demo so will be relying on some sound advice from the knowledgeable guys here at TT!

About my game - around 4.0, baseliner/counterpuncher, SW forehand, 2 hander, big weapon is forehand, like to hit with depth, pace and spin ie HEAVY BALL. Usually just come to the net to put away easy volleys. Like to attack short balls, either as an outright winner or approach shot.

Racquets I've owned in the last 12 months -

Pro Staff 97 - liked this but found it a little tinny and erratic
Blade 18x20 - loved the feel of this but struggled with spin and low power
Graphene Extreme Pro - really disliked this. Thick, clunky giant lollipop
Prince LS 100 - bought this as nod to my old o3,s... can't get on with the ports anymore
Dunlop f3.0 - loved this but launch angle quite low
Dunlop bio 400 Tour (customized) - almost perfect, just a tad more power and spin please
Yonex AI 100 - a little too light, too thick and not enough control for me

Racquets I'm considering (But obviously I'm open to suggestions) -

Blade 98S - I would likely weight this up
Blade 98 16x19
Pure Strike 16x19 2017
Yonex SV 98
Yonex Duel G 310
Yonex DR 98
Wilson Ultra 100 - although I'm concerned I won't like the thickness or power level

What I'm looking for -

Power, spin, comfort and control- all are important to me so a nice blend of all would be good. I know no frame will do every thing well.

Anyhow, that is where I am, any comments welcome and thanks in advance

 

[Sambuccashake]

After reading the Angell thread from start to finish I would say the TC95 (63RA) version could make a serious contender.

 

[fuzz nation]

I've had similar experiences with both the PS 97 and the Blade 98. The rigs in my bag are heavier than those, but also have significant head-light balance (after tuning) for improved handling.

One frame that might be able to check off several of the boxes on your wish list could be the Volkl V-Sense 10 325g or even the previous model, the Super G 10 325g, which is on sale at TW. I have the first generation of these - the Organix 10 325g, though mine are also tuned to my liking with some lead tape.

My O10's have given me everything I wasn't getting with my Volkl C10's, especially spin and control. While my C10's are more fun for slugging workouts and heavy singles, I generally have come to prefer the all-court performance I get with my O10's. I grew up a serve and volleyer and still go to the net on a regular basis. Comfort? Absolutely!

 

[Roland G]

I've had similar experiences with both the PS 97 and the Blade 98. The rigs in my bag are heavier than those, but also have significant head-light balance (after tuning) for improved handling.

One frame that might be able to check off several of the boxes on your wish list could be the Volkl V-Sense 10 325g or even the previous model, the Super G 10 325g, which is on sale at TW. I have the first generation of these - the Organix 10 325g, though mine are also tuned to my liking with some lead tape.

My O10's have given me everything I wasn't getting with my Volkl C10's, especially spin and control. While my C10's are more fun for slugging workouts and heavy singles, I generally have come to prefer the all-court performance I get with my O10's. I grew up a serve and volleyer and still go to the net on a regular basis. Comfort? Absolutely!

Thanks, I hadn't considered Volkl. I'll look into that so

 

[Roland G]

I've had similar experiences with both the PS 97 and the Blade 98. The rigs in my bag are heavier than those, but also have significant head-light balance (after tuning) for improved handling.

One frame that might be able to check off several of the boxes on your wish list could be the Volkl V-Sense 10 325g or even the previous model, the Super G 10 325g, which is on sale at TW. I have the first generation of these - the Organix 10 325g, though mine are also tuned to my liking with some lead tape.

My O10's have given me everything I wasn't getting with my Volkl C10's, especially spin and control. While my C10's are more fun for slugging workouts and heavy singles, I generally have come to prefer the all-court performance I get with my O10's. I grew up a serve and volleyer and still go to the net on a regular basis. Comfort? Absolutely!

Do you mean the O10 Super G 320?

 

[loosegroove]

I think a Yonex Ai98 or DR98 should be on your list, based on what you said about the rackets you've demoed.

 

[loosegroove]

............

 

[TennisHound]

Hi, looking to change racquets soon and was looking for a few recommendations. Unfortunately I'm unable to demo so will be relying on some sound advice from the knowledgeable guys here at TT!

About my game - around 4.0, baseliner/counterpuncher, SW forehand, 2 hander, big weapon is forehand, like to hit with depth, pace and spin ie HEAVY BALL. Usually just come to the net to put away easy volleys. Like to attack short balls, either as an outright winner or approach shot.

Racquets I've owned in the last 12 months -

Pro Staff 97 - liked this but found it a little tinny and erratic
Blade 18x20 - loved the feel of this but struggled with spin and low power
Graphene Extreme Pro - really disliked this. Thick, clunky giant lollipop
Prince LS 100 - bought this as nod to my old o3,s... can't get on with the ports anymore
Dunlop f3.0 - loved this but launch angle quite low
Dunlop bio 400 Tour (customized) - almost perfect, just a tad more power and spin please
Yonex AI 100 - a little too light, too thick and not enough control for me

Racquets I'm considering (But obviously I'm open to suggestions) -

Blade 98S - I would likely weight this up
Blade 98 16x19
Pure Strike 16x19 2017
Yonex SV 98
Wilson Ultra 100 - although I'm concerned I won't like the thickness or power level

What I'm looking for -

Power, spin, comfort and control- all are important to me so a nice blend of all would be good. I know no frame will do every thing well.

Anyhow, that is where I am, any comments welcome and thanks in advance

You could buy a couple of used ones cheaper and then decide what you like, and what responds well to modifications.

 

[Christian Olsson]

Do you mean the O10 Super G 320?

No. Thats the mid. That ones stiff. I second volkl. I got the Super G 10 295 with 10 gr lead inside the handle and a few grams in the hoop. The new 295's are stiffer The ones he have is the organix 325. Volkls have a great build quality that I don't feel is so common today in the big three. Play test and you will see if they are for you or not. Some love them, some don't.


----------------------------
Volkl super g 10 midplus

 

[Roland G]

No. Thats the mid. That ones stiff. I second volkl. I got the Super G 10 295 with 10 gr lead inside the handle and a few grams in the hoop. The new 295's are stiffer The ones he have is the organix 325. Volkls have a great build quality that I don't feel is so common today in the big three. Play test and you will see if they are for you or not. Some love them, some don't.


----------------------------
Volkl super g 10 midplus

Where would you put the power level of the 295 Super G?

 

[Christian Olsson]

Where would you put the power level of the 295 Super G?

Let's put it like this: it hits as hard as my head radical tour unleaded at 340 SW and 345 gr strung. So my setup at 325-328 SW, 320 mm balance and 325 gr (333gr W og and dampener) makes me hold back a bit not to overhit but put in a poly at 23 kg and it's probably ok power for most players supplying their own power. It's not a overly powerful tweener but definitely more power than the older head racquets. But it's got in my opinion fantastic control. When my footwork works I can really place my shots. And it feels as solid on impact IMO as older plush heavy players sticks.


----------------------------
Volkl super g 10 midplus

 

[Roland G]

I've had similar experiences with both the PS 97 and the Blade 98. The rigs in my bag are heavier than those, but also have significant head-light balance (after tuning) for improved handling.

One frame that might be able to check off several of the boxes on your wish list could be the Volkl V-Sense 10 325g or even the previous model, the Super G 10 325g, which is on sale at TW. I have the first generation of these - the Organix 10 325g, though mine are also tuned to my liking with some lead tape.

My O10's have given me everything I wasn't getting with my Volkl C10's, especially spin and control. While my C10's are more fun for slugging workouts and heavy singles, I generally have come to prefer the all-court performance I get with my O10's. I grew up a serve and volleyer and still go to the net on a regular basis. Comfort? Absolutely!

The new V Sense 10's do look interesting. The specs on the 325 look good. Heavier than unusually hit with buy quite headlight. Curious to see the TW reviews

 

[RGT]

If you know your preferred spec you can look into Angell. There are few threads on these sticks and the good folks seem to be liking these alot

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[sma1001]

Looks like you want an open pattern to get a higher launch angle. So 16/19 or 16/18. It also looks like you can handle a decent amount of weight (315 unstrung) but don't necessary need it, and a higher swingweight, 320 plus. Finally your sweetspot in terms of head size appears to be the 97/98 class and relatively thin beam.

So with that in mind... Blade 16/19 is a possibility but it can come with a very high SW due to Wilson QC issues, so be wary of that. Volkl 10 series sits right there, the 295 plays a little lighter, but the 325 is great too, and actually plays lighter than the specs would suggest. I'd be wary of the Blade 98S as its pattern and weight do move it considerably away from the others. New Pure Strike and YY SV are new and i've not hit them, but in principle are in your ballpark too.

Angell TC97 might be interesting to you - you can customise specs. But lack of demo does mean it's more of a risk. So depends on your risk tolerance.

Wilson - other than the Blade i'm not sure you'll find joy there. PS97S maybe, but again the pattern is different. Maybe worth a demo though.

Prince - don't really have anything in their current line up. But 100P is perhaps closest. 18/20 pattern but more open. If in a demo mood you could throw one in.

Head - they are transitioning to the new Touch versions - i'd probably wait on the Radicals coming out before plumping for those. Speed could work but gets a little away from the specs above.

Hope this is of some help.

 

[Roland G]

Looks like you want an open pattern to get a higher launch angle. So 16/19 or 16/18. It also looks like you can handle a decent amount of weight (315 unstrung) but don't necessary need it, and a higher swingweight, 320 plus. Finally your sweetspot in terms of head size appears to be the 97/98 class and relatively thin beam.

So with that in mind... Blade 16/19 is a possibility but it can come with a very high SW due to Wilson QC issues, so be wary of that. Volkl 10 series sits right there, the 295 plays a little lighter, but the 325 is great too, and actually plays lighter than the specs would suggest. I'd be wary of the Blade 98S as its pattern and weight do move it considerably away from the others. New Pure Strike and YY SV are new and i've not hit them, but in principle are in your ballpark too.

Angell TC97 might be interesting to you - you can customise specs. But lack of demo does mean it's more of a risk. So depends on your risk tolerance.

Wilson - other than the Blade i'm not sure you'll find joy there. PS97S maybe, but again the pattern is different. Maybe worth a demo though.

Prince - don't really have anything in their current line up. But 100P is perhaps closest. 18/20 pattern but more open. If in a demo mood you could throw one in.

Head - they are transitioning to the new Touch versions - i'd probably wait on the Radicals coming out before plumping for those. Speed could work but gets a little away from the specs above.

Hope this is of some help.

Great help. And thanks buddy, much appreciated. Blade 98s off the list. Not sure about the balance of the PS97s. Heads don't do it for me at all. Prince 100p is a great frame, just not exactly what I'm looking for. Still considering Blade 16x19, o10 295 & 325, PS and SV98

 

[Crocodile]

Volkl V Sense 8 315

 

[RetroSpin]

I would say the Pure Strike was designed for you. Try different string if possible.

Personally I favor a Pure Drive Tour, but it might be more power than you are looking for.

 

[gino]

Hi, looking to change racquets soon and was looking for a few recommendations. Unfortunately I'm unable to demo so will be relying on some sound advice from the knowledgeable guys here at TT!

About my game - around 4.0, baseliner/counterpuncher, SW forehand, 2 hander, big weapon is forehand, like to hit with depth, pace and spin ie HEAVY BALL. Usually just come to the net to put away easy volleys. Like to attack short balls, either as an outright winner or approach shot.

Racquets I've owned in the last 12 months -

Pro Staff 97 - liked this but found it a little tinny and erratic
Blade 18x20 - loved the feel of this but struggled with spin and low power
Graphene Extreme Pro - really disliked this. Thick, clunky giant lollipop
Prince LS 100 - bought this as nod to my old o3,s... can't get on with the ports anymore
Dunlop f3.0 - loved this but launch angle quite low
Dunlop bio 400 Tour (customized) - almost perfect, just a tad more power and spin please
Yonex AI 100 - a little too light, too thick and not enough control for me

Racquets I'm considering (But obviously I'm open to suggestions) -

Blade 98S - I would likely weight this up
Blade 98 16x19
Pure Strike 16x19 2017
Yonex SV 98
Wilson Ultra 100 - although I'm concerned I won't like the thickness or power level

What I'm looking for -

Power, spin, comfort and control- all are important to me so a nice blend of all would be good. I know no frame will do every thing well.

Anyhow, that is where I am, any comments welcome and thanks in advance

In no particular order:

Angell TC95
Angel TC97
Wilson Pro Staff 97S
Pure Strike 2017
Blade 98
HEAD Graphene Prestige XT Pro

 

[Roland G]

I would say the Pure Strike was designed for you. Try different string if possible.

Personally I favor a Pure Drive Tour, but it might be more power than you are looking for.

I'm seriously tempted by the Pure Strike. It does sound ideal for me. I had vowed however never to play a Babolat lol! I've never been a fan of PD or APD etc

 

[gino]

Hi, looking to change racquets soon and was looking for a few recommendations. Unfortunately I'm unable to demo so will be relying on some sound advice from the knowledgeable guys here at TT!

About my game - around 4.0, baseliner/counterpuncher, SW forehand, 2 hander, big weapon is forehand, like to hit with depth, pace and spin ie HEAVY BALL. Usually just come to the net to put away easy volleys. Like to attack short balls, either as an outright winner or approach shot.

Racquets I've owned in the last 12 months -

Pro Staff 97 - liked this but found it a little tinny and erratic
Blade 18x20 - loved the feel of this but struggled with spin and low power
Graphene Extreme Pro - really disliked this. Thick, clunky giant lollipop
Prince LS 100 - bought this as nod to my old o3,s... can't get on with the ports anymore
Dunlop f3.0 - loved this but launch angle quite low
Dunlop bio 400 Tour (customized) - almost perfect, just a tad more power and spin please
Yonex AI 100 - a little too light, too thick and not enough control for me

Racquets I'm considering (But obviously I'm open to suggestions) -

Blade 98S - I would likely weight this up
Blade 98 16x19
Pure Strike 16x19 2017
Yonex SV 98
Wilson Ultra 100 - although I'm concerned I won't like the thickness or power level

What I'm looking for -

Power, spin, comfort and control- all are important to me so a nice blend of all would be good. I know no frame will do every thing well.

Anyhow, that is where I am, any comments welcome and thanks in advance

And trust me, if you hated the HEAD extreme, youll hate the Wilson ultra

 

[gino]

I'm seriously tempted by the Pure Strike. It does sound ideal for me. I had vowed however never to play a Babolat lol! I've never been a fan of PD or APD etc

I wanted to pick one up too. I've heard it's a nice modern players frame. If Chris swears by it, I'll try it

 

[RafaBabolat]

Maybe try the Pure Aero VS tour when it comes out. Also, RF97 might be a good try. It should be more plush than the regular ps97

 

[Roland G]

And trust me, if you hated the HEAD extreme, youll hate the Wilson ultra

Thanks man. It's off the list. Not sure what it was even on to be honest.

 

[Roland G]

Maybe try the Pure Aero VS tour when it comes out. Also, RF97 might be a good try. It should be more plush than the regular ps97

I foind the RF97 just a shade too heavy. A little tiring to swing at the end of a long hitting session. VS Tour could be interesting

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

 

[PhxRacket]

YY DR100. Mod to your preferred weight.

 

[fuzz nation]

Do you mean the O10 Super G 320?

Sorry I didn't check back, but I think our pal Christian Olsson gave you some good input. I don't have experience with the 295g versions of the more recent Volkl 10's, but he certainly does. I play with heavier frames like the C10's and the 325g's, but several of our pals here have found success with the 295g models. Some love them stock, but some have also done a little lead tape tuning and struck upon a great fit with them.

Oh - if you consider any of the Wilson Ultras, I'd say consider the Ultra 97. While it's not an old school Prestige mid by a long shot, it's also not quite as uber modern light and powerful as the others in that line. My boss at the club where I teach in the summers just switched into this Wilson after playing the Six.One 95 for many generations.

I bought a PS 97 this summer for the sake of experimentation and it's been frustrating in terms of getting it to behave for me. After noodling with some different string layouts and tuning with some lead tape, I didn't get a particularly consistent response using different beds of synthetic gut at different tension. I did just restring with a poly hybrid (syn. gut crosses) and first impressions were more composed and predictable, but I'm not in a hurry to replace my Volkls, especially with this model. I'll check back with my progress though...

 

[RetroSpin]

I'm seriously tempted by the Pure Strike. It does sound ideal for me. I had vowed however never to play a Babolat lol! I've never been a fan of PD or APD etc

The Pure Strike is like a very plush Pure Drive. I would advise demo'ing it side by side with a PD to see what you are giving up versus getting. I think it is a very good stick for a 4.0/4.5 with decent strokes, or for a big hitter looking for control. My experience was the Pure Drive Tour hits a heavier, more penetrating ball, provided you have the technique to control it.

 

[SpinToWin]

I had a pretty negative impression of the Blade 98 16x19. Tinny yet muted feel, low power, low levels of spin, not especially forgiving or comfortable. I'd agree with Andy when he says that the 18x20 is the better offering. Accuracy/control was all it had going for it really.

I really think you should give a PS 97S a try rather than either of the Blades, I don't think you'll enjoy them based on my playtest experience. The 97S beats them in most areas as it is the more well balanced offering in my opinion. There also are quite a few samples out there with a lower swingweight.

The Angell TC 97 plays like a much better Blade though on that note (Geoff and BHBH likened it to a H22, a pro stock many pros use instead of a Blade).

 

[zaskar1]

Hi, looking to change racquets soon and was looking for a few recommendations. Unfortunately I'm unable to demo so will be relying on some sound advice from the knowledgeable guys here at TT!

About my game - around 4.0, baseliner/counterpuncher, SW forehand, 2 hander, big weapon is forehand, like to hit with depth, pace and spin ie HEAVY BALL. Usually just come to the net to put away easy volleys. Like to attack short balls, either as an outright winner or approach shot.

Racquets I've owned in the last 12 months -

Pro Staff 97 - liked this but found it a little tinny and erratic
Blade 18x20 - loved the feel of this but struggled with spin and low power
Graphene Extreme Pro - really disliked this. Thick, clunky giant lollipop
Prince LS 100 - bought this as nod to my old o3,s... can't get on with the ports anymore
Dunlop f3.0 - loved this but launch angle quite low
Dunlop bio 400 Tour (customized) - almost perfect, just a tad more power and spin please
Yonex AI 100 - a little too light, too thick and not enough control for me

Racquets I'm considering (But obviously I'm open to suggestions) -

Blade 98S - I would likely weight this up
Blade 98 16x19
Pure Strike 16x19 2017
Yonex SV 98
Wilson Ultra 100 - although I'm concerned I won't like the thickness or power level

What I'm looking for -

Power, spin, comfort and control- all are important to me so a nice blend of all would be good. I know no frame will do every thing well.

Anyhow, that is where I am, any comments welcome and thanks in advance

RG

i only stick with Wilson,as i have migrated from Prince about 5 yrs ago after being with them for 20 yrs
i am transitioning from 2015 Blade 98 16x19s to the PS 97s
found that i get more power, but less feel with the PS97
you might try the RF97, but its seemed to me to be headlight, when i put 15gms of lead tape on it at 12oclock
it was way to heavy for me, but played pretty good
tried the Blade 98S, but its way to head light, and i cant control anything, the ball just takes off

all of my racquets have about 12-15gms of lead tape
i know i changed the balance, but it gives me a more solid shot

z

 

[Roland G]

I had a pretty negative impression of the Blade 98 16x19. Tinny yet muted feel, low power, low levels of spin, not especially forgiving or comfortable. I'd agree with Andy when he says that the 18x20 is the better offering. Accuracy/control was all it had going for it really.

I really think you should give a PS 97S a try rather than either of the Blades, I don't think you'll enjoy them based on my playtest experience. The 97S beats them in most areas as it is the more well balanced offering in my opinion. There also are quite a few samples out there with a lower swingweight.

The Angell TC 97 plays like a much better Blade though on that note (Geoff and BHBH likened it to a H22, a pro stock many pros use instead of a Blade).

Thanks, I'll look into the PS97s

 

[Roland G]

I had a pretty negative impression of the Blade 98 16x19. Tinny yet muted feel, low power, low levels of spin, not especially forgiving or comfortable. I'd agree with Andy when he says that the 18x20 is the better offering. Accuracy/control was all it had going for it really.

I really think you should give a PS 97S a try rather than either of the Blades, I don't think you'll enjoy them based on my playtest experience. The 97S beats them in most areas as it is the more well balanced offering in my opinion. There also are quite a few samples out there with a lower swingweight.

The Angell TC 97 plays like a much better Blade though on that note (Geoff and BHBH likened it to a H22, a pro stock many pros use instead of a Blade).

Any experience with the 6.1 95s by any chance?

 

[SpinToWin]

Any experience with the 6.1 95s by any chance?

Hm... A short demo quite a while ago but that's all. I prefer the 18x17 string pattern, as I found the 95S to lack precision in regards to depth and I struggled with flatter drives. Also the stringbed was a bit too springy for my liking.