Was able to get in a quick one hour session with the Phantom today. By the time I added a worm dampener, some Babolat string savers and V-dry over grip the static weight was 341g or 12.03 ounces and a head light balance of 7.5. I beat my opponent today 6-1 but I’m not boasting much as he is no longer the tournament 4.5 proven player that he used to be. He was the only guy I could arrange a hit with today on short notice.
Maneuverability: Magnificent! I don’t think I’ve ever been able to swing a 12 ounce racquet so fast.
Groundstrokes: If you like to hit heavy topspin then this racquet can hit with more than adequate amount of pace. Not only did my opponent say I hit a heavier ball but he was surprised at the scarcity of balls I hit long. Once I was able to dial in my strokes most of the topspin shots were within a few inches from the back line. I did have some problems in flattening out on the ball as I found them lacking adequate power but towards then end of the session I was able to hit more pace. Therefore, I need more time to provide proper feedback. I did not have any problem with flat shots going long. I attribute that to the way I flatten out on my shots along with the racquet being able to produce a little topspin on flatter shots which prevented them from sailing long. Under spin shots were a pleasure to hit with this racquet as the swing weight just sliced through the ball like a sharp knife thru butter.
Stability: The guy I hit with does not hit with much pace but is a human backboard, therefore I was not able to see how well the racquet does with incoming pace. That being said, I had no problems with stability in hitting my groundstrokes or volleys. In fact, overall I’d say the racquet was very stable.
Return of serve: Once in a while my partner would hit a flat serve which the Phantom had no problem handling it. However, he does not possess a booming serve so I won’t be able to find out how well the racquet really does until this Thursday when I play my next opponent who does possess a booming serve.
Comfort: I’ve never hit with a more comfortable racquet in my life. That being said, it does take sometime to get used to playing with such an unfamiliar feel. Keep in mind, I’m coming from a RF Autograph which I love dearly but my arthritic shoulder can no longer handle it’s harsh feeling. While you might find it odd that a fan of the RF racquet would even attempt using the Phantom all I can tell you is that if you ever have chronic arthritis in your arm or shoulder and still want to play the game, you will have no choice. The point I’m making is that it’s still possible to play a high level of tennis and use an arm friendly racquet. The Phantom does possess a decent amount of heft as I believe the SW is around 328.
Volleys: This is where I was pleasantly surprised at not only how maneuverable the Phantom was but how stable the racquet was. Also, I used to get a high degree of vibration from most racquets when hitting a higher volley. No such problem with the Phantom.
Overall, the Phantom is a very unique racquet that could be very beneficial for those who have arm issues, possess a topspin oriented game and like to wear down their opponents from the baseline. Yet it can also be productive in hitting approach shots that set up the volley for the finishing kill.
This would also be an outstanding racquet for doubles as it is very adept at hitting sharp angles.
I've rated this racquet over the Volkl C10 Pro I just purchased which I'll be selling soon on the TW FS forum. The C10 Pro is not nearly as maneuverable or comfortable but still a good racquet overall.
Lastly, I believe those who have found the racquet to be lacking in power probably don't take full long strokes like Del Potro. This racquet won't generate much power with those who take short strokes.
All just my opinion of course.