The Official Angell Users Club

My experience based on the second Gen TC 100 was that different grid shapes use different butt caps.
I just received a set of C pallets with a butt cap without a label as I want to replace the B grip pallets on my TC99. However I prefer to reuse the old butt cap with the Angell logo label.
Anyway then I'll measure my old and new butt cap properly first.
 
And what are your experiences in addition to the excellent review of moii?
Well, I have only played with it for about 6 hours now, and I did not like it so much with a multi/poly hybrid. Probably because I'm not very accustomed to such string setup. However, now that I swapped the strings out to my usual poly/poly combo (Solinco Tour Bite 1.10 mains / Weiss Cannon Silverstring 1.20 crosses), I am starting to like it more and more. It seems like a very versatile frame. It hits a nice linear stroke for flat hitters if you want to hit hard from the baseline, but you can hit loopy topspin shots to push your opponent back equally well. I like the feel on groundies and volleys. The only stroke that needs some more time to dial in is my serve. But that's only normal when you try out a new frame.
 
Well, I have only played with it for about 6 hours now, and I did not like it so much with a multi/poly hybrid. Probably because I'm not very accustomed to such string setup. However, now that I swapped the strings out to my usual poly/poly combo (Solinco Tour Bite 1.10 mains / Weiss Cannon Silverstring 1.20 crosses), I am starting to like it more and more. It seems like a very versatile frame. It hits a nice linear stroke for flat hitters if you want to hit hard from the baseline, but you can hit loopy topspin shots to push your opponent back equally well. I like the feel on groundies and volleys. The only stroke that needs some more time to dial in is my serve. But that's only normal when you try out a new frame.
Thanks a lot also for your report and input!
 
So I took out the new K7 100" for a hit last night! I have the React 18x19 295g and TC 99 18x19 300g also. So i am a 64 year old all court player who plays a mixture of singles and doubles average club standard these days lsot that sharpness i had a few years ago, but i would consider my fitness and speed is better than most at my age since i am 5'10" and 12.5 stone. So i have aprox 18 rackets and few the 50 years i have played this game i must got through lots of rackets ranging from PKs Wilsons, head Technifibres, Prince, Donnays etc. I have finally decided i need lighter bigger head size. In the lat 5 years must have bought at least 3 different rackets a year! Anyway here is my take on the new Angell!

The new K7 in stock form certainly feels very light in stock form. I have a prince 290 Tour which feels a lot heavier given their static weights and balance points are very similar! I added 2g at 2 & 10 and a over grip, it is strung with Angell comfort hybrid at 46 mains and 50 crosses, this is the same string and tension as in the TC 99 and React 18x19 so i can compare all 3. The K7 static weight with lead and over grip and string is 309g, the react in stock with same string 311g and the TC 315g in stock. The 18 x 19 adding a little more weight due to extra string in the mains which would be the heavier poly compared to the crosses Multi.

So first thing i noticed was the feel was different to the react, it felt, more comfortable and the sound was different when the ball came off the string bed than the react! The react sounds tinny and slightly more uncomfortable had to add a dampener to the react which is the only racket i have that requires it! The comfort for the TC 99 and K7 are similar with the react being the least comfort. The slice on the react and TC were a little better than the k7. Serves I found all 3 were accurate, however because the SW on the TC 99 was higher than the other 2 for me a little hard to manoeuvre and generate power consistently, i suspect that for you younger fit guys this would not be a problem so it i would say it probably generally going to be more powerful, unfortunately give my physical state i couldn't utilise it as well. Power wise similar maybe a little more power than my React (spec 295g) All can hit a good accurate flat shot. again my double hander ( my biggest weapon) all good and very accurate. Feel React probably has more however in spite of the more muted feel from the K7 and TC 99 i could still play my touch and angled shot well with the K7 and TC 99. For top spin difficult for me to asses since i don't play with a lot of spin. The K7 with the added lead felt fairly whippy, however the React seemed to be the most whippy! That said again with the right specs on the TC99 and the K7 98 would probably be ok for most. The launch angle of both the react and TC 99 seemed slightly less than the K7. I am guessing the React 16x19 would probably be better for top spin!

The QC and build quality of all 3 rackets are top notch (as tennis nerd would say) i work in a lab so i can weigh the rackets very accurately and have a balance board, only thing i cant measure is SW! I can tell you the specs are virtually spot on! The very slight deviation is so small you would notice we are talking mms in balance = or - 1 or2 and in grams weight again we are talking 1g! Indeed 2 of them came spot on!

So which is the one for me based on where i am at, well the new k7 customised! That said i also like the Prince 290 tour 16x18 which shouldn't work for my game but some how does! Also got to say the New speed MP also seems to work even though it SW is 296 but strung has a weight of 315g but 5 hl makes it easy to swing and is very comfortable!
 
¡Anoche saqué la nueva K7 de 100" para darle un golpe! También tengo la React 18x19 de 295 g y la TC 99 de 18x19 de 300 g. Soy un jugador de 64 años que juega en todas las canchas, con una combinación de individuales y dobles, y que actualmente tiene un nivel de palo promedio. Perdí la agudeza que tenía hace unos años, pero considero que mi estado físico y mi velocidad son mejores que la mayoría a mi edad, ya que mido 1,78 m y peso 62 kg. Tengo aproximadamente 18 raquetas y, en los 50 años que llevo jugando a este juego, debo haber usado muchas raquetas, desde PK hasta Wilson, Head, Technifibres, Prince, Donnay, etc. Finalmente, decidí que necesitaba un tamaño de cabeza más grande y más liviano. ¡En los últimos 5 años debo haber comprado al menos 3 raquetas diferentes al año! De todos modos, ¡aquí está mi opinión sobre la nueva Angell!

La nueva K7 en su forma original ciertamente se siente muy liviana en su forma original. ¡Tengo una Prince 290 Tour que se siente mucho más pesada dado que sus pesos estáticos y puntos de equilibrio son muy similares! Agregué 2 g en 2 y 10 y un overgrip, está encordada con Angell Comfort Hybrid en 46 cuerdas principales y 50 cruces, esta es la misma cuerda y tensión que en la TC 99 y React 18x19, así que puedo comparar las 3. El peso estático de la K7 con plomo y overgrip y cuerda es de 309 g, la React en su forma original con la misma cuerda 311 g y la TC 315 g en su forma original. La 18x19 agrega un poco más de peso debido a la cuerda adicional en las cuerdas principales, que sería la poli más pesada en comparación con las cruces Multi.

EspañolLo primero que noté fue que la sensación era diferente a la de la React, se sentía más cómoda y el sonido era diferente cuando la pelota salía del encordado que la de la React. La React suena metálica y ligeramente más incómoda, ¡tuve que agregar un amortiguador a la React, que es la única raqueta que tengo que lo requiere! La comodidad de la TC 99 y la K7 es similar, siendo la React la menos cómoda. El slice en la React y la TC fue un poco mejor que el de la K7. En cuanto a los servicios, encontré que los 3 eran precisos, sin embargo, debido a que el SW en la TC 99 era más alto que los otros 2, para mí un poco difícil de maniobrar y generar potencia de manera constante, sospecho que para ustedes, los chicos más jóvenes y en forma, esto no sería un problema, así que diría que probablemente en general será más potente, desafortunadamente dado mi estado físico no podría utilizarlo tan bien. En cuanto a la potencia, similar, tal vez un poco más de potencia que mi React (especificación 295 g). Todas pueden realizar un buen tiro plano preciso. Nuevamente, mi doble mano (mi arma más grande), todas buenas y muy precisas. La sensación de React probablemente sea mejor, pero a pesar de la sensación más apagada de la K7 y la TC 99, aún podía jugar bien mi toque y tiro en ángulo con la K7 y la TC 99. Para el top spin, me resulta difícil evaluarlo, ya que no juego con mucho spin. La K7 con el plomo añadido se sentía bastante flexible, ¡sin embargo, la React parecía ser la más flexible! Dicho esto, nuevamente, con las especificaciones correctas en la TC99 y la K7 98 probablemente estaría bien para la mayoría. El ángulo de lanzamiento tanto de la React como de la TC 99 parecía ligeramente menor que el de la K7. ¡Supongo que la React 16x19 probablemente sería mejor para el top spin!

El control de calidad y la calidad de fabricación de las 3 raquetas son de primera categoría (como diría un nerd del tenis). Trabajo en un laboratorio, así que puedo pesar las raquetas con mucha precisión y tengo una tabla de equilibrio, ¡lo único que no puedo medir es el peso! ¡Puedo decirte que las especificaciones son prácticamente exactas! La ligera desviación es tan pequeña que te darás cuenta de que estamos hablando de mms en equilibrio = o - 1 o 2 y en gramos de peso, ¡de nuevo estamos hablando de 1 g! ¡De hecho, 2 de ellas llegaron exactamente en el momento justo!

Entonces, ¿cuál es la adecuada para mí en función de mi nivel? Bueno, ¡la nueva K7 personalizada! Dicho esto, también me gusta la Prince 290 Tour 16x18, que no debería funcionar para mi juego, pero de alguna manera lo hace. También tengo que decir que la nueva Speed MP también parece funcionar, aunque su peso encordado es de 296, pero tiene un peso de 315 g, pero 5 hl facilitan el swing y son muy cómodas.
Muchas gracias por la reseña...yo tengo 51 años buena forma física pero parado seis meses por epicondilitis..ahora busco raqueta maniobrable pero con algo de potencia y comodidad..cree me podría ir bien la k7 100..pues dudo entre esta y la nueva volkl vostra v9 290..pues veo especificaciones parecidas..con swing medio rápido va bien la raqueta?Un saludo desde España y nuevamente gracias
 
Recently bought a gently used, in almost perfect condition Angell TC100 v4 71RA 305g 320mm balance (7pt headlight) L3(B) with leather.

This is my 2nd time owning the 100, and I have to say that this time I am honeymooning big time. The first one I had started at 320g and I modified it down to 305g but the balance was likely not there. Plus, I felt like I never found the right string to tame the huge power potential that was always on tap.

This time around, I think these specs are stone cold perfect for me put of the box. And it is strung with Grapplesnake Tour M8 1.25 at 50lbs, which i don't think I strung this high in tension last time either. M8 is a great string for the 100, and I will try 1.30 in it because I think it'll be even better.

This total package makes tennis a lot of fun. Able to play relaxed and still hit balls with plenty of depth, spin, and pace. I also have great touch with it on volleys. And the 100 still keeps enough juice at the very top of the stringbed to make miss hits always have a chance of still getting over the net.
 
Thank you very much for the review... I am 51 years old and in good physical shape but have been out of action for six months due to epicondylitis... now I am looking for a maneuverable racket with some power and comfort... do you think the K7 100 would be good for me... because I am undecided between this one and the new Volkl Vostra V9 290... because I see similar specifications... is the racket good for a medium-fast swing? Greetings from Spain and thanks again
Certainly in stock form it swings very fast! Like I said i added weight! I wouldn't say its the most powerful, i am presuming you play heavy topspin since you are in Spain on clay courts presumably? I would dem the Prince 290 tour if you can before you go for the Angell. Without knowing your style difficult to say. like i said i am assuming you play with lots of spin?
 
¡Sin duda, en su forma original se mueve muy rápido! Como dije, ¡le agregué peso! No diría que es la más potente, supongo que juegas con un efecto liftado fuerte, ya que estás en España, en canchas de arcilla, ¿no? Te recomendaría la Prince 290 Tour si puedes antes de optar por la Angell. Sin conocer tu estilo, es difícil decirlo. Como dije, supongo que juegas con mucho efecto, ¿no?
S así es..suelo ir tierra batida
 
I guess you're telling me the latest model, the Prince ATS Tour
Yes, the 290 tour! I find this also a very comfortable racket! for clay the 16x18 will probably give you more spin, the SW is higher than the stock k7 and it has a little more power! Its hard because you can't demo the Angell K7 I suspect you can demo the prince from a supplier in Spain or TWE! unfortunately i can't demo using TWE because in the UK bloody Brexit! LOL
 
I demoed the aero 98 dunlop fx500 Tour and percept 100d and went ahead and bought a couple of angell tc99. Didnt care much for the dunlop and yonex and the aero was good but Not as good as my angell tc100. And the aero 98 Has a similarly open string pattern which is the only reason i want to make a switch from the tc100 in the first place.

The New tc99s arrived yesterday after only 4/5 days and all 3 are within 0.45g and the exact Same Balance point. That's Some crazy good quality Control!
Specs are 310g, 315mm Balance, L2A grip.
Very excited to test Them out.
From pictures I didnt really like the Orange Black paint Job, but in Person it looks pretty nice actually. glossy af :)
 
I’ve been enjoying the speed mp 2024 as of late and it really zeroes in on the blend of power and control! If I were to try an Angell, any opinions on which would be the most similar?
 
That is going to be difficult to find a combination of power, spin and comfort that TC100 has. You might want to start looking for OS racquets
I’m not getting that old yet!

Been looking at speed mp, extreme tour and Pa98, sx 300 tour as alternatives.
 
Maybe 70ra is also an Option. Its still very comfy
Tc100 is a beast. Maybe fiddle around with extending your tc100, strings like multi hybrids, nat gut etc, lower tensions... tc105maybe?
I have both 63 and 70 RA and use them interchangeably. I actually shortened my extended tc100 back to regular length because I couldn’t handle the swing weight anymore.

Tc100 is beastly but needs full swing to unlock its full potential. Its thin beam doesn’t help with reflex volleys/otr shots. Hence the search.
 
I have both 63 and 70 RA and use them interchangeably. I actually shortened my extended tc100 back to regular length because I couldn’t handle the swing weight anymore.

Tc100 is beastly but needs full swing to unlock its full potential. Its thin beam doesn’t help with reflex volleys/otr shots. Hence the search.
What extended length and swingweight did you have before you shortened your frame to standard length?

Maybe you should try one of the react MP custom frames or K7 100 that have a lower swingweight than the TC ones.
 
What extended length and swingweight did you have before you shortened your frame to standard length?

Maybe you should try one of the react MP custom frames or K7 100 that have a lower swingweight than the TC ones.
Sw was around 340 now 327.

How does the React play compared to the TC?
 
Tc100 is a beast. Maybe fiddle around with extending your tc100, strings like multi hybrids, nat gut etc, lower tensions... tc105maybe?
I ended up buying an extreme pro and tested it next to the TC 100. The EP had lead in the head to get the SW up closer to the Angell.

I don’t know what Paul Angell was smoking when he designed the D beam TCs but it just had more of everything compared to the EP. More spin more power, that buttery feel compared to the modern tweener feel (although I don’t mind either).

I would say though the EP was more stable and as a result volleys were better, and also when I had to slow down RHS to guide the ball I could do it easier.

With the TC you have to swing.
 
I demoed the aero 98 dunlop fx500 Tour and percept 100d and went ahead and bought a couple of angell tc99. Didnt care much for the dunlop and yonex and the aero was good but Not as good as my angell tc100. And the aero 98 Has a similarly open string pattern which is the only reason i want to make a switch from the tc100 in the first place.

The New tc99s arrived yesterday after only 4/5 days and all 3 are within 0.45g and the exact Same Balance point. That's Some crazy good quality Control!
Specs are 310g, 315mm Balance, L2A grip.
Very excited to test Them out.
From pictures I didnt really like the Orange Black paint Job, but in Person it looks pretty nice actually. glossy af :)
I think the new pj looks great on the website, glad to hear it looks great in person and better than you expected.
 
Still really curious to try K7 100 with that 16x20
pattern. Anyone have one they’re interested in selling?
Not sure where you're located but there's been one on the big auction site in the UK for a few weeks. Has anyone tried the new K7 98? I've recently gone back to my Extreme Tour (Graphene 360+) and am really liking the extra control. Does anyone have experience comparing the K7 Red to the Extreme Tour?
 
I think I saw 46% off on the K7 somewhere today…..

Edit. Apologies, it is actually 40% off, but for the K7 squash racquets only. lol.
 
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Hi everyone, I’m looking for some help/advice from the experts!

I’m in the market for a new racket, I’ve cycled through a few recently (RF01 Pro, Blade v8 98 16 x 19, Prestige MP - the older 320g model, V-Core, E-Zone… the list goes on) and haven’t found one that I love. I’ve demoed the Shift Pro and have a Boom Pro and Speed Pro on demo currently. However, I’ve been looking at Angell rackets for some time and think that maybe now is the time to take the plunge since I seemingly can’t find anything from the modern ranges that resonates with me and my game. I’d class myself as an aggressive basliner with a OHBH. I play to a good level and a mixture of singles and doubles, although prefer singles.

I’ve been toying with specs in the TC range and would love any advice you could give on the following:

- 95 or 97? These are the two frames I’m drawn to but I fear the 95 might be a little small? Also, a lot of people talk about the higher RA being better on the 95, but there’s only one option of 64RA when I go to build one now, would this provide enough stability?
- 16x19 vs. 18x20. I’ve historically used 16x19 just because that’s what a lot of the rackets I used over the years came in, but is there a better option for the 95/97 frames respectively? For example, if the 95 work best with 16x19 but the 97 with 18x20.
- 320 / 12pts HL or 315 / 10pts HL? I guess this just comes down to my ability or fitness/strength, but similarly to the above point, is there a better option for a particular frame in your opinion?

Sorry for all the questions, I’m really excited by the prospect of finally getting an Angell but want to be sure that I get the specs right, especially when it’s a custom racket that may be hard to sell if I don’t.

Really appreciate any advice you can give!
 
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Hi everyone, I’m looking for some help/advice from the experts!

I’m in the market for a new racket, I’ve cycled through a few recently (RF01 Pro, Blade v8 98 16 x 19, Prestige MP - the older 320g model, V-Core, E-Zone… the list goes on) and haven’t found one that I love. I’ve demoed the Shift Pro and have a Boom Pro and Speed Pro on demo currently. However, I’ve been looking at Angell rackets for some time and think that maybe now is the time to take the plunge since I seemingly can’t find anything from the modern ranges that resonates with me and my game. I’d class myself as an aggressive basliner with a OHBH. I play to a good level and a mixture of singles and doubles, although prefer singles.

I’ve been toying with specs in the TC range and would love any advice you could give on the following:

- 95 or 97? These are the two frames I’m drawn to but I fear the 95 might be a little small? Also, a lot of people talk about the higher RA being better on the 95, but there’s only one option of 64RA when I go to build one now, would this provide enough stability?
- 16x19 vs. 18x20. I’ve historically used 16x19 just because that’s what a lot of the rackets I used over the years came in, but is there a better option for the 95/97 frames respectively? For example, if the 95 work best with 16x19 but the 97 with 18x20.
- 320 / 12pts HL or 315 / 10pts HL? I guess this just comes down to my ability or fitness/strength, but similarly to the above point, is there a better option for a particular frame in your opinion?

Sorry for all the questions, I’m really excited by the prospect of finally getting an Angell but want to be sure that I get the specs right, especially when it’s a custom racket that may be hard to sell if I don’t.

Really appreciate any advice you can give!
I've owned many Angells over the last 3 years.

95 and 97 in both patterns and the 100.

Weights have varied from as low as 300g, 310g, 320g.

100 is the most powerful, very Pure Drive level frame but far more comfortable and "solid feeling"

The 97 18x20 is like a classic Prestige on steroids, stiffer and more powerful.

The 95 16x19 is the most unique. Monstruous ability to put action on the ball, but a higher launch angle that requires an adjustment period. Similar to the 100 in this regard.

I would classify all Angells as "string sensitive". Strings will always affect how anyone perceives any racket, but the is amplified in an Angell. So, keep this in mind if you get one. You may have to deviate from your normal go-to Strings depending on your initial hitting impressions.

But, the #1 thing to reflect on before making a purchase is your personal strength/swing speed. I highly recommend going with a static weight choice 10g less than your initial thoughts may be.

A persistent major complaint that many Angell owners make (and i have made as well) is that Angells feel sluggish when swinging. Well, they are foam filled - which distributes weight more evenly thru the entire body of the frame - and made of higher quality materials which means that compared to a hollow frame of thr same weight it may swing much differently than what you're used to.

So, the best thing to do, is to go lighter than what you think you want. I am my own best example. I am a strong 4.5, regularly play with equal or better players, and most all of my other frames are 315g or heavier unstrung. I need the mass to "win the collision" with heavy high quality rallying.

My latest honeymoon with with thr Angell 100 71RA at 305g unstrung. Out the door it's around 330g. And it hits an awesome ball. Even at this lower weight the racket doesn't twist, and it gives me the added bonus of faster swing speeds for bigger serves and better reactionary shots at net.

So, if you've read my TED talk this far, you'll immediately feel the quality of the frame with any choice, but if you're trying to hunt for a new "main racket" then think about what you want the frame to help with. I'll also say, that the 18x20 patterns are very dense, and hit the best slice of almost any frame I've ever played. I trend towards liking thin shaped poly in the 18x20s and thick round poly in the 16x19s. Low 40s in the 95s and 97s, and 50lbs in the 100. The 100 has been the hardest to "tame" but most rewarding once you find the goldilocks string that works for you.
 
Hi everyone, I’m looking for some help/advice from the experts!

I’m in the market for a new racket, I’ve cycled through a few recently (RF01 Pro, Blade v8 98 16 x 19, Prestige MP - the older 320g model, V-Core, E-Zone… the list goes on) and haven’t found one that I love. I’ve demoed the Shift Pro and have a Boom Pro and Speed Pro on demo currently. However, I’ve been looking at Angell rackets for some time and think that maybe now is the time to take the plunge since I seemingly can’t find anything from the modern ranges that resonates with me and my game. I’d class myself as an aggressive basliner with a OHBH. I play to a good level and a mixture of singles and doubles, although prefer singles.

I’ve been toying with specs in the TC range and would love any advice you could give on the following:

- 95 or 97? These are the two frames I’m drawn to but I fear the 95 might be a little small? Also, a lot of people talk about the higher RA being better on the 95, but there’s only one option of 64RA when I go to build one now, would this provide enough stability?
- 16x19 vs. 18x20. I’ve historically used 16x19 just because that’s what a lot of the rackets I used over the years came in, but is there a better option for the 95/97 frames respectively? For example, if the 95 work best with 16x19 but the 97 with 18x20.
- 320 / 12pts HL or 315 / 10pts HL? I guess this just comes down to my ability or fitness/strength, but similarly to the above point, is there a better option for a particular frame in your opinion?

Sorry for all the questions, I’m really excited by the prospect of finally getting an Angell but want to be sure that I get the specs right, especially when it’s a custom racket that may be hard to sell if I don’t.

Really appreciate any advice you can give!
Agree with previous response that you should go lighter on an Angell and spec up if you need to.

Because it is foam filled it feels more hefty than retail racquets.

The 95 isn’t that much smaller compared to the 100, but you do feel it on off days withy be 95. Smaller head means you feel the stringbed more on the 95 and on the 100 it feels more pillowy (softer but less direct). The 95/100 is more of a powerful frame for hitting penetrating groundies, less so for spinny type games.

I don’t have a 97 but I know the beam design is different. The 95 and 100 have a D beam which gives them the oomph; whereas the 97 is a box beam design which is generally lower powered (think prostaff).

18x20 might be too demanding especially if you play competitively and want an edge. The 95/100 are beasts but at the end of the day you need to swing to get the most out of them.
 
Agree with previous response that you should go lighter on an Angell and spec up if you need to.

Because it is foam filled it feels more hefty than retail racquets.

The 95 isn’t that much smaller compared to the 100, but you do feel it on off days withy be 95. Smaller head means you feel the stringbed more on the 95 and on the 100 it feels more pillowy (softer but less direct). The 95/100 is more of a powerful frame for hitting penetrating groundies, less so for spinny type games.

I don’t have a 97 but I know the beam design is different. The 95 and 100 have a D beam which gives them the oomph; whereas the 97 is a box beam design which is generally lower powered (think prostaff).

18x20 might be too demanding especially if you play competitively and want an edge. The 95/100 are beasts but at the end of the day you need to swing to get the most out of them.
Tc 95 is same size as aero98 ,when measured from inside the frame .. have you tried tc90
 
Hi everyone, I’m looking for some help/advice from the experts!

I’m in the market for a new racket, I’ve cycled through a few recently (RF01 Pro, Blade v8 98 16 x 19, Prestige MP - the older 320g model, V-Core, E-Zone… the list goes on) and haven’t found one that I love. I’ve demoed the Shift Pro and have a Boom Pro and Speed Pro on demo currently. However, I’ve been looking at Angell rackets for some time and think that maybe now is the time to take the plunge since I seemingly can’t find anything from the modern ranges that resonates with me and my game. I’d class myself as an aggressive basliner with a OHBH. I play to a good level and a mixture of singles and doubles, although prefer singles.

I’ve been toying with specs in the TC range and would love any advice you could give on the following:

- 95 or 97? These are the two frames I’m drawn to but I fear the 95 might be a little small? Also, a lot of people talk about the higher RA being better on the 95, but there’s only one option of 64RA when I go to build one now, would this provide enough stability?
- 16x19 vs. 18x20. I’ve historically used 16x19 just because that’s what a lot of the rackets I used over the years came in, but is there a better option for the 95/97 frames respectively? For example, if the 95 work best with 16x19 but the 97 with 18x20.
- 320 / 12pts HL or 315 / 10pts HL? I guess this just comes down to my ability or fitness/strength, but similarly to the above point, is there a better option for a particular frame in your opinion?

Sorry for all the questions, I’m really excited by the prospect of finally getting an Angell but want to be sure that I get the specs right, especially when it’s a custom racket that may be hard to sell if I don’t.

Really appreciate any advice you can give!
Hi! I’ve played with the tc95 for over 7 years so these are questions I can, for one, be helpful with

Re. headsizes: the 95 and 97 share the same grommets if that helps. Comparing the 95 to my blades 98, the 95 is only a small fraction smaller. Comparing the 95 to my dunlops muscleweaves 200g, the tc95 seems a tiny fraction bigger. Looking back, the tc95 is probably the best racquet I’ve played with when it comes to ohbh. I’ve switched to the blade 98 18x20 for more control, better plow on my fh and a meaner bh slice, but I have no issue with admitting my bh drive was better with the tc95. It’s ok, you have to balance a lot of things when changing. Only if you’re playing with a racquet that doesn’t fit you at all, will you feel that you can improve in almost everything, in the context of a change.

Re. Ra: there’s no such thing as better Ra. People refer to the bending profile which is a bit different between 95 and 97. The 97 has a more uniform bending profile whereas the 95 bends more at the throat but has a stiffer upper hoop. I hate very flexible upper hoops (here I typically think about the prostaff 95 2014) but I wouldn’t say the 97 is even that extreme compared to the 95. Small difference in bending profile but you can feel it. You probably know this but the 63ra on the tc95 is measured using the hairpin only, so when you add pallets+grip+strings you’re really looking at 58ra which is quite low. This is the main reason why people like playing it with a bit more weight (extra power). One other option which I actually ended up enjoying a lot is the 70ra version (last time I checked I couldn’t find it, I think it may have been discontinued), this version is also very comfortable due to foam filling but simply bends less. The upside is that it can be played at a lower weight without sacrificing a lot of power.

Re: patterns. The 16x19 pattern is already quite open on the 95, but you can deal with it. Galapagos has a good thread on strings you can use to tame the higher launch angle of the tc95 16x19 (spoiler: they’re almost all round poly strings in 1.30 gauge. I personally had a lot of success with firestorm, dyreex super tour and mayami hit pro, but there are many others you can try). I personally wouldn’t consider the 97 in 16x19.

Re: weight/balance. Most people go with the most headlight configuration for the weight they want. I’ve started all my tc95s at 310gr and 315mm but I’ve always ended up at 315-320gr with the extra weight in the head and handle.

Best of luck and please let us know what you end up with. The angells are often a bit tricky to figure out but once you find your perfect spec I guarantee you won’t be thinking about other racquets in a long time!
 
I've owned many Angells over the last 3 years.

95 and 97 in both patterns and the 100.

Weights have varied from as low as 300g, 310g, 320g.

100 is the most powerful, very Pure Drive level frame but far more comfortable and "solid feeling"

The 97 18x20 is like a classic Prestige on steroids, stiffer and more powerful.

The 95 16x19 is the most unique. Monstruous ability to put action on the ball, but a higher launch angle that requires an adjustment period. Similar to the 100 in this regard.

I would classify all Angells as "string sensitive". Strings will always affect how anyone perceives any racket, but the is amplified in an Angell. So, keep this in mind if you get one. You may have to deviate from your normal go-to Strings depending on your initial hitting impressions.

But, the #1 thing to reflect on before making a purchase is your personal strength/swing speed. I highly recommend going with a static weight choice 10g less than your initial thoughts may be.

A persistent major complaint that many Angell owners make (and i have made as well) is that Angells feel sluggish when swinging. Well, they are foam filled - which distributes weight more evenly thru the entire body of the frame - and made of higher quality materials which means that compared to a hollow frame of thr same weight it may swing much differently than what you're used to.

So, the best thing to do, is to go lighter than what you think you want. I am my own best example. I am a strong 4.5, regularly play with equal or better players, and most all of my other frames are 315g or heavier unstrung. I need the mass to "win the collision" with heavy high quality rallying.

My latest honeymoon with with thr Angell 100 71RA at 305g unstrung. Out the door it's around 330g. And it hits an awesome ball. Even at this lower weight the racket doesn't twist, and it gives me the added bonus of faster swing speeds for bigger serves and better reactionary shots at net.

So, if you've read my TED talk this far, you'll immediately feel the quality of the frame with any choice, but if you're trying to hunt for a new "main racket" then think about what you want the frame to help with. I'll also say, that the 18x20 patterns are very dense, and hit the best slice of almost any frame I've ever played. I trend towards liking thin shaped poly in the 18x20s and thick round poly in the 16x19s. Low 40s in the 95s and 97s, and 50lbs in the 100. The 100 has been the hardest to "tame" but most rewarding once you find the goldilocks string that works for you.
This is amazing, thank you so much for your in-depth reply.

Really good advice on the string selection and the weight. Sounds like I’d be better off going for a 310 or even 305 with the more HL balance. 305 potentially might be the one as have previously found 320s just a touch on the heavy side so was looking at 315s this time around.

I know you said the 95 in 16x19 is the most unique, but how did you get on with the 18x20 setup? Really intrigued by this and having a good slice is never a bad thing, but am keen to hear your thoughts on the rest of the game.
 
Agree with previous response that you should go lighter on an Angell and spec up if you need to.

Because it is foam filled it feels more hefty than retail racquets.

The 95 isn’t that much smaller compared to the 100, but you do feel it on off days withy be 95. Smaller head means you feel the stringbed more on the 95 and on the 100 it feels more pillowy (softer but less direct). The 95/100 is more of a powerful frame for hitting penetrating groundies, less so for spinny type games.

I don’t have a 97 but I know the beam design is different. The 95 and 100 have a D beam which gives them the oomph; whereas the 97 is a box beam design which is generally lower powered (think prostaff).

18x20 might be too demanding especially if you play competitively and want an edge. The 95/100 are beasts but at the end of the day you need to swing to get the most out of them.
Thank you for this! I’ve always liked having a closer connection to the stringbed and so by the sounds of it the 95 might be the one to go for, but probably not in the 18x20 based on your last paragraph!
 
Hi! I’ve played with the tc95 for over 7 years so these are questions I can, for one, be helpful with

Re. headsizes: the 95 and 97 share the same grommets if that helps. Comparing the 95 to my blades 98, the 95 is only a small fraction smaller. Comparing the 95 to my dunlops muscleweaves 200g, the tc95 seems a tiny fraction bigger. Looking back, the tc95 is probably the best racquet I’ve played with when it comes to ohbh. I’ve switched to the blade 98 18x20 for more control, better plow on my fh and a meaner bh slice, but I have no issue with admitting my bh drive was better with the tc95. It’s ok, you have to balance a lot of things when changing. Only if you’re playing with a racquet that doesn’t fit you at all, will you feel that you can improve in almost everything, in the context of a change.

Re. Ra: there’s no such thing as better Ra. People refer to the bending profile which is a bit different between 95 and 97. The 97 has a more uniform bending profile whereas the 95 bends more at the throat but has a stiffer upper hoop. I hate very flexible upper hoops (here I typically think about the prostaff 95 2014) but I wouldn’t say the 97 is even that extreme compared to the 95. Small difference in bending profile but you can feel it. You probably know this but the 63ra on the tc95 is measured using the hairpin only, so when you add pallets+grip+strings you’re really looking at 58ra which is quite low. This is the main reason why people like playing it with a bit more weight (extra power). One other option which I actually ended up enjoying a lot is the 70ra version (last time I checked I couldn’t find it, I think it may have been discontinued), this version is also very comfortable due to foam filling but simply bends less. The upside is that it can be played at a lower weight without sacrificing a lot of power.

Re: patterns. The 16x19 pattern is already quite open on the 95, but you can deal with it. Galapagos has a good thread on strings you can use to tame the higher launch angle of the tc95 16x19 (spoiler: they’re almost all round poly strings in 1.30 gauge. I personally had a lot of success with firestorm, dyreex super tour and mayami hit pro, but there are many others you can try). I personally wouldn’t consider the 97 in 16x19.

Re: weight/balance. Most people go with the most headlight configuration for the weight they want. I’ve started all my tc95s at 310gr and 315mm but I’ve always ended up at 315-320gr with the extra weight in the head and handle.

Best of luck and please let us know what you end up with. The angells are often a bit tricky to figure out but once you find your perfect spec I guarantee you won’t be thinking about other racquets in a long time!
Great to hear your experience after a number of years with these frames, thank you!

I think they must have discontinued the 70RA because I couldn’t find it either and went looking for it especially after reading this thread.

So based on the replies I’ve had so far, I think I’m looking at a TC95, 16x19, 64 RA (only option), 305g and 320mm and probably grip shape B.

I must say I’m really excited to try them, just need to take the plunge now! I’ll keep you posted for sure and will feedback my experience with it as well once I’ve landed on a spec and had some time with it.

Thank you again!
 
This is amazing, thank you so much for your in-depth reply.

Really good advice on the string selection and the weight. Sounds like I’d be better off going for a 310 or even 305 with the more HL balance. 305 potentially might be the one as have previously found 320s just a touch on the heavy side so was looking at 315s this time around.

I know you said the 95 in 16x19 is the most unique, but how did you get on with the 18x20 setup? Really intrigued by this and having a good slice is never a bad thing, but am keen to hear your thoughts on the rest of the game.
Always easier to add weight than take it away. I think the 305g would be a great entry point.

For the 95, the 18x20 was low powered, very similar to a Prestige MP 18x20 where you have to take massive full cuts to put away a ball. Spin and slice were still very good using Tru Pro Black Knight 1.18mm at 42lbs.

The 97 18x20 is one of my favorite rackets. Same string setup but the box beam just has a lot more juice in it for whatever reason. The 97 18x20 was my main racket for almost 3 years. Only reason I strayed is because I started to lose tip-feel on my 2HBH, but I still keep 2x around and hit with them regularly.

If i had money to burn I'd love to know what a 27.5in 97 18x20 would do to a ball!
 
Okay so seems like if it’s to be 95 it would probably need to be 16x19 for me.

I’ve previously had box beam rackets and did get on with them, but have been liking the RF01 Pro which has a D beam and is also foam filled, it’s just a bit on the heavy side but I’m guessing that’s because of the foam filling distributing the weight more. So it seems I’d be building a racket not too dissimilar to the RF01 - don’t suppose you, or anyone, would be able to compare the two? Based on what I’ve heard, I feel like the Angell frames will feel much better/closer to pro stock but am just keen to understand the subtle differences I might not be able to spot from words on a page and marketing material!
 
Okay so seems like if it’s to be 95 it would probably need to be 16x19 for me.

I’ve previously had box beam rackets and did get on with them, but have been liking the RF01 Pro which has a D beam and is also foam filled, it’s just a bit on the heavy side but I’m guessing that’s because of the foam filling distributing the weight more. So it seems I’d be building a racket not too dissimilar to the RF01 - don’t suppose you, or anyone, would be able to compare the two? Based on what I’ve heard, I feel like the Angell frames will feel much better/closer to pro stock but am just keen to understand the subtle differences I might not be able to spot from words on a page and marketing material!
Tc DNA is VERY different to RF 01 DNA.

TC string pattern is very open especially in the middle, and fairly evenly spaced throughout the racquets; RF01 has the densest string spacing in the middle I’ve ever seen, and it gets wider and wider towards the outer. This means: hit anything outside sweet spot of RF and it’ll be very unforgiving, TC 95 less so. However, hit the sweet spot and RF is much more precise. Launch angle of RF 01 is very low, begging you to take the ball on the rise, TC 95 is high.

TC is constant thin beam. RF is tapered and on the thicker side. The feel is very different. TC is more classic feeling whereas RF is more modern.

It doesn’t end there.

Overall Very very different racquets.
 
Tc DNA is VERY different to RF 01 DNA.

TC string pattern is very open especially in the middle, and fairly evenly spaced throughout the racquets; RF01 has the densest string spacing in the middle I’ve ever seen, and it gets wider and wider towards the outer. This means: hit anything outside sweet spot of RF and it’ll be very unforgiving, TC 95 less so. However, hit the sweet spot and RF is much more precise. Launch angle of RF 01 is very low, begging you to take the ball on the rise, TC 95 is high.

TC is constant thin beam. RF is tapered and on the thicker side. The feel is very different. TC is more classic feeling whereas RF is more modern.

It doesn’t end there.

Overall Very very different racquets.
Amazing, thank you for such a coherent and detailed explanation. Makes sense when you list it all out like that.

Think I’ve decided on taking a plunge on the TC95, 16 x 19, 305g and 320mm, Grip 3 shape B.

Thank you so much for your help everyone! I’ll report back once I’ve got it and have played with it a few times.
 
Tc DNA is VERY different to RF 01 DNA.

TC string pattern is very open especially in the middle, and fairly evenly spaced throughout the racquets; RF01 has the densest string spacing in the middle I’ve ever seen, and it gets wider and wider towards the outer. This means: hit anything outside sweet spot of RF and it’ll be very unforgiving, TC 95 less so. However, hit the sweet spot and RF is much more precise. Launch angle of RF 01 is very low, begging you to take the ball on the rise, TC 95 is high.

TC is constant thin beam. RF is tapered and on the thicker side. The feel is very different. TC is more classic feeling whereas RF is more modern.

It doesn’t end there.

Overall Very very different racquets.
I’m actually intrigued by the Angell, particularly the TC97 16x19. I’m a longtime Rf97 Autograph user, but since they dc’d those two years ago, at some point I’ll need to find other frames.
 
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