The Official Angell Users Club

[SpinRail]

I have it but 310g and 7HL instead of 9HL and personally much prefer the balance that way. Strung and with OG, comes in around 5.5-6HL

I prefer very head light, so my main concern is that it will be noticeably less HL compared to my normal 11.4oz (323g, I think?) frames. I'm curious how it affects stability as well, since my default forehands are very topspinny so there can be more torsion on my wrist and arm if my stroke is feeling off and I haven't yet zeroed in a flatter swing to smooth things out.

The specs for the Angell frames I've been using for the past couple years are pretty much lifted straight from the Wilson Blade 93 from a few years ago, except with an open string pattern. I'd been using the blade 93 and the 6.1.95 and basically wanted an open, 100in^2 version of those and Angell delivered and then some.

 

[SpinRail]

hey @topspn I can see on your signature that you are back on the Angell frames, and now from TC95 to TC100. I have also put my TC95 on hold and play with TC100 now, I kind of rediscovered my TC100 when I started to play FB poly, suddenly I could control the frame, and I really love the frame, now also on 3 frames TC100 v3 63RA.

Would you like to share your journey back to Angell, also what string and tension you prefer for the TC100.

I am testing some different string setup, right now I really like Cyber Flash 17L at 20kg (44lb)

cheers, Toby

I'm not topspn, but I did try perhaps 100-ish polys on the Angells over the course of 6-8 months ^^ always love talking strings.

 

[Deleted member 54265]

I'm not topspn, but I did try perhaps 100-ish polys on the Angells over the course of 6-8 months ^^ always love talking strings.

GREAT @SpinRail I have just started to use poly. I have had TE before with poly, but my arm seem to be able to handle poly with Angell racquets. I struggled with control on my TC100 (my first Angell) and multi strings, went through TC95 both 16x19 and 18x20 and TC97 16x19, but when I decided to try out poly in the TC100 I fell kind of in love with the TC100. Suddenly I could control the ball, and still have the power on tap, what a beautiful experience.

So now I am testing soft poly strings in my TC100 (have 3 matched racquets)

1. Cyber Flash
2. Head Sonic Pro
3. Gut / ZX pro

I string low at 20kg (44lb)

Next in line is:

Head lynx
Torn Big Hitter Silver 7 Tour
Vokl V-Torque Tour
Tier One Firewire Boost (Hybrid)
Tier One Firewire / RIP (Hybrid)
Tier One Ghost Wire

What is your experience with the TC100 and string / tension.

Cheers, Toby

 

[SpinRail]

GREAT @SpinRail I have just started to use poly. I have had TE before with poly, but my arm seem to be able to handle poly with Angell racquets. I struggled with control on my TC100 (my first Angell) and multi strings, went through TC95 both 16x19 and 18x20 and TC97 16x19, but when I decided to try out poly in the TC100 I fell kind of in love with the TC100. Suddenly I could control the ball, and still have the power on tap, what a beautiful experience.

So now I am testing soft poly strings in my TC100 (have 3 matched racquets)

1. Cyber Flash
2. Head Sonic Pro
3. Gut / ZX pro

I string low at 20kg (44lb)

Next in line is:

Head lynx
Torn Big Hitter Silver 7 Tour
Vokl V-Torque Tour
Tier One Firewire Boost (Hybrid)
Tier One Firewire / RIP (Hybrid)
Tier One Ghost Wire

What is your experience with the TC100 and string / tension.

Cheers, Toby

Ironically enough I haven't tried any of those haha. I went through Kirschbaum, Luxilon, Weiss Cannon, Solinco, Diadem, Ytex, Tourna, Pacific, and then Volkl Cyclone and Babolat RPM, and the two Soderling polys.

If you're using the 63RA TC100 then I'm not sure how useful I'll be, I don't have a good personal sense of how that affects the string choice compared to the 70RA.

Anyways, onto the strings. I'm a big fan of poly string at lower tensions, with only a small increase in tension for the tie-offs, and with the string pull set to the slowest speed on your machine if you've got an electronic tension head. I've only ever gone as low as 43lbs on my frame, but I've heard people recommend even lower, in the mid to high 30s, while still maintaining control - it's gonna be highly dependent on your swings, but in general I'd definitely recommend keeping the tension under 50lbs and stringing (or asking your stringer) to put as little stress on the string as possible. It's likely you'll find they last longer and maintain more comfort that way, although you still need to keep an eye on when they need replacing, as they might die before breaking most of the time.

The TC 100 is more comfortable than any racket I've tried, as it even made Luxilon feel somewhat comfortable, but I'd consider staying away from Luxilon and a lot of the pure spin-oriented polys - the ones with 70,000 edges and all that - if you've had tennis elbow experiences in the past. RPM and Cyclone partially fell into that category for me - they felt rather comfy at times, but other times not so much. So soft strings like you've focused on definitely seem to be the way to go.

The only non-round poly that I really loved is the Weiss Cannon rock 'n power poly (not the hybrid of the same name). It's an absolute nightmare to string and you could freaking shave with it, but it's sooooo much fun to hit with - stupid amounts of spin and power, solid touch, good durability, and surprising comfort in sort of a dense foam way. It's not for everyone but it's a very interesting string - finding it in the US was difficult for me but there are reels available if you hunt for them. Weiss also makes the smooth Silverstring poly which I enjoy, but it's not quite as comfy or consistent-feeling as the RS Lyon.

The Angell soft polys are super comfy and fun to hit with in my experience, but they didn't last long for me.

I really highly recommend trying the smooth Soderling poly, RS Lyon. That's the one I keep coming back to, it does everything well - I'd call it very neutral in a sense. If you hit with a lot of spin in general, you'll find plenty with it, if you hit with power, it doesn't limit you, etc.

So yeah, that's my 3 cents. In general I really recommend low tensions for poly strings, as long as you have full swings and your racket face doesn't open up often, it's my experience that you can swing away in comfort and still see that ball divebomb the baseline or put volleys and serves where you want them.

 

[tennisgurl]

Disappointed no Black Friday sales on Custom models as well. Was going to get a couple of TC100.

 

[SpinRail]

Disappointed no Black Friday sales on Custom models as well. Was going to get a couple of TC100.

They're already cheaper than most rackets though, I feel like. Even with the currency conversion and shipping for US residents.

 

[tennisgurl]

They're already cheaper than most rackets though, I feel like. Even with the currency conversion and shipping for US residents.

That isn't the point of a Black Friday though, atleast for me.

 

[landcookie]

I've got 2 tc100s, one at 63ra and the other at 70ra. I find the 70ra to give me better control, especially on volleys, but since it's much harsher on the arm I use it mostly for doubles or a backup to the 63ra. Anyone else have a similar experience?

 

[Deleted member 54265]

Disappointed no Black Friday sales on Custom models as well. Was going to get a couple of TC100.

Black Friday sales are not what it pretends to be:

https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/black-friday-string-hoax.658619/#post-13931141

 

[Deleted member 54265]

Ironically enough I haven't tried any of those haha. I went through Kirschbaum, Luxilon, Weiss Cannon, Solinco, Diadem, Ytex, Tourna, Pacific, and then Volkl Cyclone and Babolat RPM, and the two Soderling polys.

If you're using the 63RA TC100 then I'm not sure how useful I'll be, I don't have a good personal sense of how that affects the string choice compared to the 70RA.

Anyways, onto the strings. I'm a big fan of poly string at lower tensions, with only a small increase in tension for the tie-offs, and with the string pull set to the slowest speed on your machine if you've got an electronic tension head. I've only ever gone as low as 43lbs on my frame, but I've heard people recommend even lower, in the mid to high 30s, while still maintaining control - it's gonna be highly dependent on your swings, but in general I'd definitely recommend keeping the tension under 50lbs and stringing (or asking your stringer) to put as little stress on the string as possible. It's likely you'll find they last longer and maintain more comfort that way, although you still need to keep an eye on when they need replacing, as they might die before breaking most of the time.

The TC 100 is more comfortable than any racket I've tried, as it even made Luxilon feel somewhat comfortable, but I'd consider staying away from Luxilon and a lot of the pure spin-oriented polys - the ones with 70,000 edges and all that - if you've had tennis elbow experiences in the past. RPM and Cyclone partially fell into that category for me - they felt rather comfy at times, but other times not so much. So soft strings like you've focused on definitely seem to be the way to go.

The only non-round poly that I really loved is the Weiss Cannon rock 'n power poly (not the hybrid of the same name). It's an absolute nightmare to string and you could freaking shave with it, but it's sooooo much fun to hit with - stupid amounts of spin and power, solid touch, good durability, and surprising comfort in sort of a dense foam way. It's not for everyone but it's a very interesting string - finding it in the US was difficult for me but there are reels available if you hunt for them. Weiss also makes the smooth Silverstring poly which I enjoy, but it's not quite as comfy or consistent-feeling as the RS Lyon.

The Angell soft polys are super comfy and fun to hit with in my experience, but they didn't last long for me.

I really highly recommend trying the smooth Soderling poly, RS Lyon. That's the one I keep coming back to, it does everything well - I'd call it very neutral in a sense. If you hit with a lot of spin in general, you'll find plenty with it, if you hit with power, it doesn't limit you, etc.

So yeah, that's my 3 cents. In general I really recommend low tensions for poly strings, as long as you have full swings and your racket face doesn't open up often, it's my experience that you can swing away in comfort and still see that ball divebomb the baseline or put volleys and serves where you want them.

thanks @SpinRail I will grab some RS Lyon sets of Black Friday sales, they are down to about USD 8.30 (BP 6.40 at UK site). RS Lyon reel 200m @ BP 80 (USD 102) that is a real deal....

I will also try to string with a softer pull, I have a Wise 2086 stringing head. Could also be interesting to try a Sergetti stringing.

I am trying to narrow my choice down to a few arm friendly polys and stick to them, arm safety is highest priority.

Cheers, Toby

 

[landcookie]

thanks @SpinRail I will grab some RS Lyon sets of Black Friday sales, they are down to about USD 8.30 (BP 6.40 at UK site). RS Lyon reel 200m @ BP 80 (USD 102) that is a real deal....

I will also try to string with a softer pull, I have a Wise 2086 stringing head. Could also be interesting to try a Sergetti stringing.

I am trying to narrow my choice down to a few arm friendly polys and stick to them, arm safety is highest priority.

Cheers, Toby

You should give Isopseed cream/ baseline a go.

I'm also on the hunt for an arm friendlier set up for my tc100. Most comfortable I've tried so far is isospeed by a mile, followed by hyper g. Am about to try gut/poly and will ND interesting to see how that goes

 

[haqq777]

Can any Angell enthusiasts possibly compare this: CUSTOM V3 TC95 – 18 X 20 to a Babolat Pure Storm LTD+ GT 95 or a Pure Control Plus 95? Why? I have a trio of those Babolats in 27.5 that I really really like and when I look at what is currently available that compares to these the Angell 95 18x20 seems to be about the only option.

Very different playing and feeling sticks. The Bab LTD+ were 19mm constant beam and TC95 is 20mm tapered beam with 'D' box section design. The TC95 18x20 is more powerful, more dampened and offers a crisper feedback. The LTD+ has more old school flex in the hoop, and you can tell it feels softer. It feels clunkier as well to a regular length TC95. Biggest difference to me would be the power. Even with extended LTD, there was a considerable difference. I played with poly in each strung at low-mid tension.

 

[topspn]

I prefer very head light, so my main concern is that it will be noticeably less HL compared to my normal 11.4oz (323g, I think?) frames. I'm curious how it affects stability as well, since my default forehands are very topspinny so there can be more torsion on my wrist and arm if my stroke is feeling off and I haven't yet zeroed in a flatter swing to smooth things out.

The specs for the Angell frames I've been using for the past couple years are pretty much lifted straight from the Wilson Blade 93 from a few years ago, except with an open string pattern. I'd been using the blade 93 and the 6.1.95 and basically wanted an open, 100in^2 version of those and Angell delivered and then some.

Yes, I understand there are many people out there that prefer to error on the side of HL as they are concerned about mobility of the frame. The balance on mine does feel pretty stable and for me also better feel of the tip of racquet so adds more to control. No issues with mobility at all as the static weight is still light at 310 unstrung.

 

[DJ-]

Yes, I understand there are many people out there that prefer to error on the side of HL as they are concerned about mobility of the frame. The balance on mine does feel pretty stable and for me also better feel of the tip of racquet so adds more to control. No issues with mobility at all as the static weight is still light at 310 unstrung.

Added the tc100's back to your bag ? Hard frame to give up ! ;-)

 

[topspn]

hey @topspn I can see on your signature that you are back on the Angell frames, and now from TC95 to TC100. I have also put my TC95 on hold and play with TC100 now, I kind of rediscovered my TC100 when I started to play FB poly, suddenly I could control the frame, and I really love the frame, now also on 3 frames TC100 v3 63RA.

Would you like to share your journey back to Angell, also what string and tension you prefer for the TC100.

I am testing some different string setup, right now I really like Cyber Flash 17L at 20kg (44lb)

cheers, Toby

Yeah, I have tried tons of frames recently. I was really looking for a frame with a smidge more control and forgiveness. The most notable frames I have tried have been Dahcor, new blade 16M and Tecnifibre TF40 and XTC 300. These really stood out from the herd and i was especially surprised by Tecnifbre as it was a brand i was not familiar with. The feel is simply magically connected on those frames. I still have them all in my bag. I came to the TC100 as overall playability is just hard to beat. It has some tweener characteristics but also player’s frames elements. USTA matches I play or other leagues everyone is playing a forgiving tweener, they are just everywhere and i needed to keep up quite frankly. I currently have an experimental softer poly from Angell strung up @54lbs. I will be using Tour Bite 1.25 on the frame when it’s time to restring.

 

[Deleted member 54265]

You should give Isopseed cream/ baseline a go.

I'm also on the hunt for an arm friendlier set up for my tc100. Most comfortable I've tried so far is isospeed by a mile, followed by hyper g. Am about to try gut/poly and will ND interesting to see how that goes

I just played with Head Sonic Pro and loved that string even better and softer than Cyber Flash. I think Isospeed Baseline is the same string as Head Sonic Pro as Isospeed make this string for Head. I tried Cream but to my surplice found it played stiff, and I did not like the feel, this was a few years back and not in a TC100, might have to give Cream another chance.

Cheers, T

 

[topspn]

Well, no sale on the custom but ASL3 and K series on sale today as are some strings

 

[graycrait]

The LTD+ has more old school flex in the hoop, and you can tell it feels softer. It feels clunkier as well to a regular length TC95

Thanks, really appreciate that. Never seen an Angell or even know someone who has one. Was curious. Again Thank You.

 

[haqq777]

Thanks, really appreciate that. Never seen an Angell or even know someone who has one. Was curious. Again Thank You.

No problem, anytime. If you are ever in MI area whereabouts, you are more than welcome to use my Angells and see. I have a bunch of them.

 

[SteveXtreme1978]

Disappointed no Black Friday sales on Custom models as well. Was going to get a couple of TC100.

Agreed, I was also planning to get TC100 if it was discounted.

 

[mxblink]

Just another plug for the ASL2. I was hesitant at first to get them since I wasn't sure what they'd offer over my TC95, but now it's become my main stick (though weighted up significantly to 342/33.2/342). It is easily the fastest swinging racquet with 340+ SW that I've ever had. It's also the first minimally-headlight stick I've played with at just 3.3 pts HL, but it doesn't feel clunky at all. Easy power, good stability, and soft feel, though the feel did take a bit to get used to (I assume it's the "siloxane" layer in the ASL line). I thought it was just the weighting and near-even balance, but I've tried weighting some of my other racquets similarly and it just hasn't been as nice.

One caveat is that the racquet *needs* lead at 3+9. When I first tried it, I put all the lead at 12 and I was pretty underwhelmed. Moved some to the sides - not much (I now have just 2.5g total) - and it totally transformed the stick for me.

 

[One Handed Dynasty]

Thank you! I tried BB Ace 18 with excellent results at 66# [emoji471]


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Oh man, I haven’t done 60’s since my junior days. I think the highest I got up to was RPM blast rough at 62# in a youtek microgel pro, but after I discovered BBO rough and then gut/poly I started to go way down. You should really try a mid 40’s fb of poly in the Angells, the pocketing is on another level. A full bed of RS Lyon at 46/43 in the TC95 almost feels as plush as gut poly for me. I did dig out all the foam and take the lead weights out of the hairpin and put in silicone though, so that might be helping just a bit.


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[BounceHitBounceHit]

No problem, anytime. If you are ever in MI area whereabouts, you are more than welcome to use my Angells and see. I have a bunch of them.

What part of Michigan?


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[BounceHitBounceHit]

Oh man, I haven’t done 60’s since my junior days. I think the highest I got up to was RPM blast rough at 62# in a youtek microgel pro, but after I discovered BBO rough and then gut/poly I started to go way down. You should really try a mid 40’s fb of poly in the Angells, the pocketing is on another level. A full bed of RS Lyon at 46/43 in the TC95 almost feels as plush as gut poly for me. I did dig out all the foam and take the lead weights out of the hairpin and put in silicone though, so that might be helping just a bit.


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After reading this thread I tried the robin Soderling Lyon string and honestly was underwhelmed stringing at 46 pounds. I think I found my game with a thin beam, small head, strong tightly. Anything else requires adjustments to my swing path which likely lead to net loss and performance.

With this in mind however, I am really enjoying the TC 97 strong at 63 pounds with head gravity.


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[One Handed Dynasty]

After reading this thread I tried the robin Soderling Lyon string and honestly was underwhelmed stringing at 46 pounds. I think I found my game with a thin beam, small head, strong tightly. Anything else requires adjustments to my swing path which likely lead to net loss and performance.

With this in mind however, I am really enjoying the TC 97 strong at 63 pounds with head gravity.


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Gotcha! Yeah whatever works, I get bored and experiment just to see if there’s any innovations out there but I always come back to VS touch mains and ALU rough crosses at 55/52. I just stocked up on a pallet of gut and some Lux reels so I’m committed to stay with that setup for at least the next year, or until I fall for the next “miracle monofilament” lol.

How do you like the TC97 compared to the TC95? I’ve been liking the 95 (16x19, 63RA, 27in and 27.5in), but compared to the TC90 I feel like I have to always have to add a little extra spin or hold a little power in reserve to counteract the frame’s inherent power when I’m redlining and really going for my shots.

I played a friendly turkey day match with my cousin, a D1 player, and actually switched to an RF97 I just had customized (handle and metal plates removed and then my handle shape 3D printed on) because I had easier spin-control. I’d like to stick with Angell though, Wilson’s QC makes every racquet a gamble. I’m thinking both the TC97 and the K7 red would be fun hits. Any input would be greatly appreciated so I can do some Black Friday shopping today!


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[haqq777]

What part of Michigan?


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Northern Michigan. I travel a lot for work between DC too though so I can also meet up for a hit if in DMV area if you ever plan a trip, BHBH

 

[BounceHitBounceHit]

Northern Michigan. I travel a lot for work between DC too though so I can also meet up for a hit if in DMV area if you ever plan a trip, BHBH

Near Traverse City? My wife’s cousin has a beautiful lake home there and we sometimes visit for vacations.


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[coolo118]

I currently have the blade v7 18 20 but am getting a bit of tennis elbow. For those that have hit with both, is the K7 Lime more comfortable?

 

[haqq777]

Near Traverse City? My wife’s cousin has a beautiful lake home there and we sometimes visit for vacations.


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Ah, I'm a bit more north-east, in the eastern U.P close to Canadian border on St. Mary River. About 3 hours from Traverse City. If you ever plan on traveling through the Upper Peninsula, you are more than welcome to drop at our place for tea/coffee and to hit if you like. I have my own little tennis court actually, gorgeous view of the water makes for an amazing hit. Very pretty area really.

Offcourse very short lived few months of summer/spring here. Can't even imagine outdoor tennis from late Oct till end May usually. I play indoors three quarters of a year.

Some pictures

 

[aehjmeyer]

I currently have the blade v7 18 20 but am getting a bit of tennis elbow. For those that have hit with both, is the K7 Lime more comfortable?

I’d also appreciate some K7 lime tidbits from those who have hit with it...specifically compared to TC97 18x20 if possible.

I have 16x19 TC95, TC100 (both V3) and an ASL2 but I’m getting that burning itch to try 18x20 for more control.

 

[Paul Johnson]

I found the K7 frames to be the most comfortable rackets I have ever played with. The K7 Lime plays very similarly to the PT630 /280, albeit somewhat lighter.

Neither of the K7s has the power of a TC97 in a similar string pattern and weight balance configuration, but they play with much more comfort and flex and are perfect for customisation.

i found the heavier stock weight and more head light balance of The K7 Lime to be better than the K7 Red. However I am not a fan of 18x20 string patterns

I now play with K7 Reds which I got Paul Angell to add 15gms of silicone to the handle of each. They are now 320 gms unstrung and more head light than the standard K7 red. I have then added some lead at 3 and 9.they now play with ample power feel and comfort.

 

[aehjmeyer]

I found the K7 frames to be the most comfortable rackets I have ever played with. The K7 Lime plays very similarly to the PT630 /280, albeit somewhat lighter.

Neither of the K7s has the power of a TC97 in a similar string pattern and weight balance configuration, but they play with much more comfort and flex and are perfect for customisation.

i found the heavier stock weight and more head light balance of The K7 Lime to be better than the K7 Red. However I am not a fan of 18x20 string patterns

I now play with K7 Reds which I got Paul Angell to add 15gms of silicone to the handle of each. They are now 320 gms unstrung and more head light than the standard K7 red. I have then added some lead at 3 and 9.they now play with ample power feel and comfort.

Thanks for info! I have exclusively used 16x19 up to this point and do not plan on trying a K7 Red since I enjoy TC95 and ASL2 so much. Admittedly, I do not have a good reason at all to venture into the 18x20 waters. This is what happens when racketholism couples with Black Friday sale FOMO. I take it from your K7 Red handle customization that the K7 line doesn't allow for weight inside the buttcap?

I have a Yonex VCP HD demo coming eventually, but I'm worried the stock weight is close to my upper limits and won't allow for customization. Plus Angell rackets haven't steered me wrong to date....

 

[Paul Johnson]

I also own a TC95 and an ASL2 but do not use them much as I find the K7s to have ample power and far more comfort.

Over the past 3 years I have owned every Angell frame in the custom and prebuilt range in every string configuration with the exception of the TC105.

On the point of the silicone in the K7s, it is injected into the handle via the trapdoor in the buttcap.

i recently tried the VCORE Pro HD. It is a very nice racket and has more power than the K7 Lime. However, despite the RA of 59 on the VCORE Pro being much lower than the K7 Lime, the K7 plays with more comfort and flex!

 

[lima]

Can someone convince me to buy K7 Red hehe. What is the sw? Grip still larger?

 

[aehjmeyer]

I also own a TC95 and an ASL2 but do not use them much as I find the K7s to have ample power and far more comfort.

Over the past 3 years I have owned every Angell frame in the custom and prebuilt range in every string configuration with the exception of the TC105.

On the point of the silicone in the K7s, it is injected into the handle via the trapdoor in the buttcap.

i recently tried the VCORE Pro HD. It is a very nice racket and has more power than the K7 Lime. However, despite the RA of 59 on the VCORE Pro being much lower than the K7 Lime, the K7 plays with more comfort and flex!

Oh dear, I may have to try both now. What a conundrum...

 

[aehjmeyer]

Can anyone report the unstrung SW of their K7 Red or Lime?

 

[Paul Johnson]

Can someone convince me to buy K7 Red hehe. What is the sw? Grip still larger?

Swingweight unstrung is 300. Strung is about 330 but with customisation they are all in the 340 to 350 range.

 

[Paul Johnson]

Can someone convince me to buy K7 Red hehe. What is the sw? Grip still larger?

Sorry forgot to reply to the grip size question. That problem was with early batches and is not an issue any more.

 

[lima]

Sorry forgot to reply to the grip size question. That problem was with early batches and is not an issue any more.

Have to tried TC100? I love that racquet performance. Little to firm for my shoulder so I'm considering K7 Red. But I'm worried that I'll loose that authority TC100 has

 

[Paul Johnson]

Yes I had a TC100 330gms and 10 points head light. To me the racket had too much power and was lacking in control. If you are looking for the power of the TC100 you will not find that in the K7 even if you modify them.

the K7 is a comfortable and whippy frame and requires full strokes to generate power.

 

[BounceHitBounceHit]

Ah, I'm a bit more north-east, in the eastern U.P close to Canadian border on St. Mary River. About 3 hours from Traverse City. If you ever plan on traveling through the Upper Peninsula, you are more than welcome to drop at our place for tea/coffee and to hit if you like. I have my own little tennis court actually, gorgeous view of the water makes for an amazing hit. Very pretty area really.

Offcourse very short lived few months of summer/spring here. Can't even imagine outdoor tennis from late Oct till end May usually. I play indoors three quarters of a year.

Some pictures

Beautiful! I’ll definitely reach out if I am up your way. [emoji471][emoji2][emoji471]


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[Carreau]

I've been using Angell rackets since about 2017, I'm just late to this thread I guess. Anyhoo, my long-time racket configuration has been the TC100 16x19, 70RA, 320g, 10ptsHL (310mm), absolutely lovely rackets. I did just order a V3 custom that's 310g and 315mm (9ptsHL) just to try it, since I've been curious about how a slightly lighter version would be like in a direct 1-1 comparison. I string them with one of two Weiss Cannon poly strings, or more regularly, the RS Lyon poly at around 45lbs +- 2lbs.

I could not ask for better rackets, they have everything: Spin, power, control, and feel that tops everything I've tried before or since. I have absolute confidence in the racket when it comes to any and every shot, and I think it's rather comforting to know when things feel off or I missed a shot that it's me, not the racket.

And an underrated aspect of Angell rackets, in my opinion, is that since they are extremely consistent across years and updates, opting for them takes you out of the endless cycle of the main brands, wherein you love a racket, and then within a year or two it's being phased out, or it's been "updated" and the update is markedly different, and then you end up either trying to hunt down frames while they're still in circulation, or start the racket-trying process over again. I went through lots of rackets that I tried, liked, got, then got grass-is-greener syndrome and started testing different rackets once more. Since switching to the Angell frames, I've never felt the urge to try other rackets, even when working at tennis shops where I had to sell all of the usual suspects or string every racket under the sun.

*Edited and expanded the last paragraph a bit to be a little more detailed.

I'm using 310g/315mm and 320g/305mm versions. More head heavy versions were too powerful for me. And no stability issues at all.

 

[t_pac]

Swingweight unstrung is 300. Strung is about 330 but with customisation they are all in the 340 to 350 range.

You sure? That's quite out of spec, should be 290 unstrung for both Red and Lime.

 

[topspn]

Swingweight unstrung is 300. Strung is about 330 but with customisation they are all in the 340 to 350 range.

ummm...way off on SW. A high SW on the red unstrung is around 290.

 

[Paul Johnson]

Paul Angell picked out the highest swingweight frames that he had in stock. Then he added the weight to the handles to make them 320g unstrung weight. He told me that they were all n the high 290s to 300 unstrung.
i have never checked them unstrung on an RDC machine but all of the frames have a swingweight of 342 to 346 strung when measured on an RDC Machime. But that is with 4 gms lead total at 3 and 9.
With string, dampener and Overgrip they all weigh between 353 and 356gms

 

[longtimelurker]

Paul Angell picked out the highest swingweight frames that he had in stock. Then he added the weight to the handles to make them 320g unstrung weight. He told me that they were all n the high 290s to 300 unstrung.
i have never checked them unstrung on an RDC machine but all of the frames have a swingweight of 342 to 346 strung when measured on an RDC Machime. But that is with 4 gms lead total at 3 and 9.
With string, dampener and Overgrip they all weigh between 353 and 356gms

This is the only forum in the world where people have to defend their gear specs and equipment lol. Seems to be other off.spec frames from angell too. Sometimes people choose purposely!

 

[Paul Johnson]

This is the only forum in the world where people have to defend their gear specs and equipment lol. Seems to be other off.spec frames from angell too. Sometimes people choose purposely!

I did choose purposely, I bought 6 of them!!!
i was trying to get as close as possible to the specs of Andy Murray’s PT57A with the 16x19 string pattern.

 

[emhtennis]

TC 97 V3 Review

Specs are 18x20, 310g (11oz), 9pt HL (unstrung). String is Oehms Black Pearl – not sure of tension but likely in the low 40s

Warning long post. I apologize up front for grammar, I’m excited but also in a bit of a time crunch so didn’t proof read.

Short version: All court baseliner just purchased a gently used TC97 V3 18x20, put lead at 3 and 9 and thinks that if you too are on the fence about getting an Angell (any Angell) you should get off immediately and buy what you’ve had an eye on, you won’t regret it.

Long version:
Found this thread about 6 months ago, read it cover to cover and originally wanted a TC95 16x19. When haqq777 put his TC97 18x20 up with the exact specs I would have wanted anyway I pulled the trigger so I could finally join the conversation.

Playing history / racket history: Been playing for almost 20 years. Played D1 college tennis (not well), taught for 3 years after school, then played competitive recreational tennis ever since. Normal day I’m a 4.5, good day I’m a 5.0. Always had a strong serve, always had lazy footwork. Groundstrokes are better than my approach/net game but I am slowly become respectable at net. The delusional in me likes to think I have Sampras’ serve with Agassi’s game plan of high percentage cross-court forehands and backhands.

If someone wants me to I can go into my racket history which is a journey in and of itself. I am coming directly from playing with the LM Prestige Mid, 1st gen Pure Strike, and BLX 6.1 95 16x18. Yes, I fell into a non-satisfied hole where I started to rotate between all three depending on mood. Played my best with the pure strike. All are strung with 17g MSV Focus Hex. Found that string about 6 months ago and really like how it plays right off the machine, needs almost no break-in time to feel comfortable and gives very good spin/power for the cost.

So, all that out of the way let me start by saying I played 3 sets with a friend that I’ve played with on a regular basis since June of this year. He’s played against me with me using the above rackets. And today I played our first set with the 97 as-is. Then for the second and third sets I added 3in of lead tape to 3 and 9. If you are good at net and serve and volley at least 2 points a game (or play mostly doubles) I would leave the 97 stock. However, if you’re like me and play at the baseline first I would definitely add lead tape.

Groundstrokes: both sides felt great. Some rackets my backhand never feels right due to swingweight or balance. The 97 felt good stock, and great once I put lead on. The unstrung balance was 9HL, strung stock probably 6HL, with lead probably down to 4HL. The lead turned the racket from a nice baseball bat into a nasty sledgehammer. I’ve never felt this comfortable with a brand new racket this fast. My groundstrokes had a nice consistent trajectory with as much spin as I applied. The TC97 won't give you free 'auto-spin' but if your intent is topspin you will hit with plenty of topspin. If I had good footwork and good preparation I could take huge cuts at the ball with few worries. A lot of my errors came from not being used to the lower 18x20 trajectory off the stringbed so it is going to be real fun dialing this in even further over the next few months.

Slice: it’s 18x20 so slice is almost too good. For me, it’ll take some adjustment to slice deep with pace. Most of my intentional slices were landing a little shorter than I wanted, but on the plus side they stayed low and had wicked spin.

Volleys: Didn’t volley much in our match. During warmups they felt good, I had no doubt the racket will perform once I come to net more.

Returns: My friend serves well and really works wide serves on both sides. When stretched the 97 doesn’t give you much for free so a few points were lost in that sense. On the other hand if the serve wasn’t bordering on unreturnable and I could put a solid square racket face on the ball I could put some punishment on my returns. No issues going crosscourt or down the line on returns I could play.

First Serves: My god the serves. It’s been said by almost everyone on this board, but until you get to do it yourself the words will never do enough justice. They were good without the lead tape, once the second set started and I had the racket weighted up and re-balanced it was like I was serving with a .357 magnum or a .50 desert eagle. Serves were very comfortable, and the TC97 hit everything well, if my toss was good and contact point high that ball was on a frozen rope. My partner and I have played with playsight recently and with my other rackets I was averaging around 105mph with my biggest first serves getting to 110/111mph. I was realistically another 5mph faster on first and second serves.

Second Serves: deserve their own paragraph. Even with the racket being 18x20 my second serves had plenty of action. Slice out wide and into the body, kick out wide and into the body, everything had good action and I immediately trusted the feel of the racket when going for my second serves.

Summary: Can’t say enough good things about the racket. The TC97 will meet you half way. If you put in the work to move your feet and prepare early it will reward you with a powerfully consistent ball. I am really looking forward to settling in with the racket.

 

[BounceHitBounceHit]

TC 97 V3 Review

Specs are 18x20, 310g (11oz), 9pt HL (unstrung). String is Oehms Black Pearl – not sure of tension but likely in the low 40s

Warning long post. I apologize up front for grammar, I’m excited but also in a bit of a time crunch so didn’t proof read.

Short version: All court baseliner just purchased a gently used TC97 V3 18x20, put lead at 3 and 9 and thinks that if you too are on the fence about getting an Angell (any Angell) you should get off immediately and buy what you’ve had an eye on, you won’t regret it.

Long version:
Found this thread about 6 months ago, read it cover to cover and originally wanted a TC95 16x19. When haqq777 put his TC97 18x20 up with the exact specs I would have wanted anyway I pulled the trigger so I could finally join the conversation.

Playing history / racket history: Been playing for almost 20 years. Played D1 college tennis (not well), taught for 3 years after school, then played competitive recreational tennis ever since. Normal day I’m a 4.5, good day I’m a 5.0. Always had a strong serve, always had lazy footwork. Groundstrokes are better than my approach/net game but I am slowly become respectable at net. The delusional in me likes to think I have Sampras’ serve with Agassi’s game plan of high percentage cross-court forehands and backhands.

If someone wants me to I can go into my racket history which is a journey in and of itself. I am coming directly from playing with the LM Prestige Mid, 1st gen Pure Strike, and BLX 6.1 95 16x18. Yes, I fell into a non-satisfied hole where I started to rotate between all three depending on mood. Played my best with the pure strike. All are strung with 17g MSV Focus Hex. Found that string about 6 months ago and really like how it plays right off the machine, needs almost no break-in time to feel comfortable and gives very good spin/power for the cost.

So, all that out of the way let me start by saying I played 3 sets with a friend that I’ve played with on a regular basis since June of this year. He’s played against me with me using the above rackets. And today I played our first set with the 97 as-is. Then for the second and third sets I added 3in of lead tape to 3 and 9. If you are good at net and serve and volley at least 2 points a game (or play mostly doubles) I would leave the 97 stock. However, if you’re like me and play at the baseline first I would definitely add lead tape.

Groundstrokes: both sides felt great. Some rackets my backhand never feels right due to swingweight or balance. The 97 felt good stock, and great once I put lead on. The unstrung balance was 9HL, strung stock probably 6HL, with lead probably down to 4HL. The lead turned the racket from a nice baseball bat into a nasty sledgehammer. I’ve never felt this comfortable with a brand new racket this fast. My groundstrokes had a nice consistent trajectory with as much spin as I applied. The TC97 won't give you free 'auto-spin' but if your intent is topspin you will hit with plenty of topspin. If I had good footwork and good preparation I could take huge cuts at the ball with few worries. A lot of my errors came from not being used to the lower 18x20 trajectory off the stringbed so it is going to be real fun dialing this in even further over the next few months.

Slice: it’s 18x20 so slice is almost too good. For me, it’ll take some adjustment to slice deep with pace. Most of my intentional slices were landing a little shorter than I wanted, but on the plus side they stayed low and had wicked spin.

Volleys: Didn’t volley much in our match. During warmups they felt good, I had no doubt the racket will perform once I come to net more.

Returns: My friend serves well and really works wide serves on both sides. When stretched the 97 doesn’t give you much for free so a few points were lost in that sense. On the other hand if the serve wasn’t bordering on unreturnable and I could put a solid square racket face on the ball I could put some punishment on my returns. No issues going crosscourt or down the line on returns I could play.

First Serves: My god the serves. It’s been said by almost everyone on this board, but until you get to do it yourself the words will never do enough justice. They were good without the lead tape, once the second set started and I had the racket weighted up and re-balanced it was like I was serving with a .357 magnum or a .50 desert eagle. Serves were very comfortable, and the TC97 hit everything well, if my toss was good and contact point high that ball was on a frozen rope. My partner and I have played with playsight recently and with my other rackets I was averaging around 105mph with my biggest first serves getting to 110/111mph. I was realistically another 5mph faster on first and second serves.

Second Serves: deserve their own paragraph. Even with the racket being 18x20 my second serves had plenty of action. Slice out wide and into the body, kick out wide and into the body, everything had good action and I immediately trusted the feel of the racket when going for my second serves.

Summary: Can’t say enough good things about the racket. The TC97 will meet you half way. If you put in the work to move your feet and prepare early it will reward you with a powerfully consistent ball. I am really looking forward to settling in with the racket.

The TC97 16x19 is my favorite Angell frame. It’s the ideal midpoint between my beloved Wilson 90’s and the Pure Aero. All the best of both and without their inherent limitations [emoji2][emoji471][emoji2]


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[One Handed Dynasty]

The TC97 16x19 is my favorite Angell frame. It’s the ideal midpoint between my beloved Wilson 90’s and the Pure Aero. All the best of both and without their inherent limitations [emoji2][emoji471][emoji2]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

How would you compare the TC97 16x19, TC97 18x20, and TC95 16x19? I’ve been a racquet nomad since switching from my K90’s.


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