The Official Angell Users Club

esm

Legend
yeah, the tie off at 11T, but that doesnt affect the playability, just annoying.
there is 6T tie off if you do an ATW..
 

Paul Y

Rookie
Is the double block on the 16x19s as well? I thought it was only an 18x20 problem. I only have 18x20 from Angell so that was my assumption
 

Brand77

Rookie
One piece stringing is something I'll save for when I get a bit more confidence :cool:

7T is the biggest pain. But it might be less of a problem if I use 18g instead of 16g string. I also have a set of hollow needles, but the holes are so small I really have to use force to get a 15g needle through.

I think I'll sacrifice a set of grommets to see if I can't widen 7T and 9T so they are more easily accessible.
 
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esm

Legend
Is the double block on the 16x19s as well? I thought it was only an 18x20 problem. I only have 18x20 from Angell so that was my assumption
pretty sure it is the 16x19 issue at 11T.
for 18x20 the last cross tie off is at 12T and it seems to have much more space than the 16x19.... dont own an Angell 18x20, but the google image seems to reflect this. 8-B
 

itsstephenyo

Semi-Pro
Yea, the double block is for 16x19s. I have no issues stringing full poly with 18x20s, but always hated the block holes on my 16x19 sticks. Always had to take the string out and twist it around so that it came out on the correct side of the block hole.
 

racketgek

New User
Paintjob is really nice!!
418a7e3113eb954f8541f19df457c439.jpg
0e08987b41345ffb7a0f200f8333b091.jpg


Verstuurd vanaf mijn SM-G930F met Tapatalk
 

Brand77

Rookie
I have one of those but haven't got the hang of it yet. Just strung a racket where I put narrow strips of ductape behind the problematic main strings. Then I could pull the strings apart slightly to let the cross string through. Worked like a charm only the tape snapped when I tried to remove it :p
 

esm

Legend
I have one of those but haven't got the hang of it yet. Just strung a racket where I put narrow strips of ductape behind the problematic main strings. Then I could pull the strings apart slightly to let the cross string through. Worked like a charm only the tape snapped when I tried to remove it :p
A piece of string would help too. Lol
Then again I always forget to insert one in the end. Lol
 

Happi

Hall of Fame
I find the needle part too thick.... lol

It is really quite perfect but you need to be carefull not to bend the needle, the Gamma pathfinder owl solved my problem stringing Angell TC95 and TC100.

You can use a normal owl to make the holes larger if you need.

Another method is using 2 clamps and not tie off the 2 last mains before stringing the crosses, this works but is a kind of a hassle.

cheers :)
 

Happi

Hall of Fame
I have one of those but haven't got the hang of it yet. Just strung a racket where I put narrow strips of ductape behind the problematic main strings. Then I could pull the strings apart slightly to let the cross string through. Worked like a charm only the tape snapped when I tried to remove it :p

it is quite easy, think there is a youtube video. I tried almost every method to solve the problem, and almost abandoned the Angell due to that stringing problem. The Gamma solved my problem.
 

esm

Legend
It is really quite perfect but you need to be carefull not to bend the needle, the Gamma pathfinder owl solved my problem stringing Angell TC95 and TC100.

You can use a normal owl to make the holes larger if you need.

Another method is using 2 clamps and not tie off the 2 last mains before stringing the crosses, this works but is a kind of a hassle.

cheers :)
Yeah you are right. Using the awl to enlarge the grommet hole is another option.
I have done it once on my daughter’s 25” racquet - it was strung one piece but she wanted blue and purple Syn gut, so I had to enlarge a grommet hole for the last cross. It was an effort and half but can be done.
the 11T tie off never bothered me on the Angell 16x19 (TC95/100/K7), but I can understand it can be for others....8-B
 

skeeter

Professional
Yes, I have sold all my racquets. I did like the Blade but enjoy the unique feel more of Angell. My goal is to get to a point where I am just using the same frame and not switching back and forth. There's too much to think about.
Why the ASL2 versus the 3?
 

emhtennis

Professional
For these blocked hole issues, does cutting the tip of your string at a really sharp angle not work?

I've rarely had issues stringing thru a blocked hole by cutting a sharp tip and then using pliers (held very close to the sharp tip) to guide/push it thru a tiny bit at a time.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
 

skeeter

Professional
The ASL2 has a lower stiffness rating and the ASL3 stock weight is too low. I don't want buy a frame that I have to add alot of weight to get it to my desired specs.

Are you considering an Angell frame?
I am. Actually purchased one of the first iterations of the TC 97 when it came out a number of years ago; loved the comfort and feel, but just couldn't quite gel with the certain other aspects of it at the time, though more likely due to user-error than the frame. I've improved as a player (thought gotten a bit older!) and miss that Angell feel. Thinking I might want to go to a larger, more user-friendly head size, but not wedded to that necessarily. I try to steer away from really open pattern racquets but am fine with 16x19 patterns that offer more control than others (thus the 16x19 v7 Blade was of interest, and I have a Clash 98 that works ok, but not great). Will be interested in your review of the ASL2 since you've played with the Blade.
 

tennis347

Hall of Fame
I am. Actually purchased one of the first iterations of the TC 97 when it came out a number of years ago; loved the comfort and feel, but just couldn't quite gel with the certain other aspects of it at the time, though more likely due to user-error than the frame. I've improved as a player (thought gotten a bit older!) and miss that Angell feel. Thinking I might want to go to a larger, more user-friendly head size, but not wedded to that necessarily. I try to steer away from really open pattern racquets but am fine with 16x19 patterns that offer more control than others (thus the 16x19 v7 Blade was of interest, and I have a Clash 98 that works ok, but not great). Will be interested in your review of the ASL2 since you've played with the Blade.
I tried the Clash 98 and didn't like the feel.

I like 97 or 98 inch frames as it is easier to generate racquet head speed for topspin and better maneuverability. I also don't want a frame that is under 11.5 ounces strung. The ASL2 is very headlight so a few grams of lead will be needed at 3 and 9, no more than 3 grams total and maybe a little on the butt of the handle. I should be around 330 grams after adding weight with a very manageable swing weight. I will post a review of the ASL2.
 

esm

Legend
For these blocked hole issues, does cutting the tip of your string at a really sharp angle not work?

I've rarely had issues stringing thru a blocked hole by cutting a sharp tip and then using pliers (held very close to the sharp tip) to guide/push it thru a tiny bit at a time.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
I’d say it does. Depends on the gauge and type of the string. Sometimes 16 gauge soft multi can be very challenging.
 

ed70

Professional
That Octane paintjob is an absolute beauty, but does anyone else think the tc101 looks kinda weird? The box beam with the 101in headsize looks off for some reason to me. Like a body builder that skipped leg day

I don’t think the box beam throat makes the head look any bigger!
I guess when strung the hole won’t look so big, same goes for any unstrung 100+ head.
 

tennis347

Hall of Fame
I just purchased the ASL2 directly from Angell and sold most of my other racquets. I was looking at this frame a while ago. I had the K7 Red and really enjoyed it but wanted a bit more power. I will post my review within the next week.

The racquet just came this morning and it's a beauty. The cosmetics are spectacular and the weight came in exactly 310 grams unstrung! The ASL2 looks larger than a 97 sq inch frame. Having it strung soon!
 
It is really quite perfect but you need to be carefull not to bend the needle, the Gamma pathfinder owl solved my problem stringing Angell TC95 and TC100.

You can use a normal owl to make the holes larger if you need.

Another method is using 2 clamps and not tie off the 2 last mains before stringing the crosses, this works but is a kind of a hassle.

cheers :)
I suppose after the cast wrap for the Harry Potter series those who played Hedwig, Pigwidgeon et al. were pretty much outa work, and any actor still needs to put food on the table, or in the little feeder thingy...
 

BBender716

Semi-Pro
I have a TC95 70RA 16x19 and can't help but wonder about whether I'd prefer an 18x20 or 63RA TC95. I've fallen in love with my 18x20 Blade v7 but it's slightly too muted and admittedly a bit unwieldly for me.

Suggestions/thoughts? I'm around a 3.5 USTA and all court style and play with a decent amount of spin...

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk
 
So, I've been considering a 28" TC97 or possibly even a TC95 for some time now (if the 101 paint job becomes available I might just put my toes in the water) anyone tried this length? Cheers, JMac
 

Paul Y

Rookie
My son currently uses the 70RA TC95 27.75 18x20. He states the big difference is power from the baseline and volleys. He throughly loves the little extra free power he gets at the baseline and the feel at the net is moot between the two. If you want the little extra feel at the net then go with the 63RA.
 

Junkie44

New User
I am a newer Angell user with a TC100 63RA 320g stick as my first plunge. I have strung it up with Tour Bite 16L at 48-50lbs and still have to be careful not to get too excited by the sheer power and heavy ball when rallying and sail it. I got this racquet mainly for doubles so when I hit too big it reminds me to get to the net. I really do like the way it feels coming from a Pure Strike (PO7) also with Tour Bite. Elbow was getting sore.

Wanted to get another Angell stick and don't know if I just get another TC100 in the bag or add a TC95 63RA 16 x 19 perhaps at the same 320g. I'm wondering what peoples' experience is with a TC95 in doubles. I like the idea of more precision with the TC95's smaller head, like I hit with the Pure Strike 98, but wanted to see if there were any thoughts. I am a 4.5 all court player with 2 weapons (big serve and forehand). I volley well but also wonder if those reflex volleys will be tougher with a smaller head size as well. Any thoughts are welcomed.
 

Happi

Hall of Fame
I am a newer Angell user with a TC100 63RA 320g stick as my first plunge. I have strung it up with Tour Bite 16L at 48-50lbs and still have to be careful not to get too excited by the sheer power and heavy ball when rallying and sail it. I got this racquet mainly for doubles so when I hit too big it reminds me to get to the net. I really do like the way it feels coming from a Pure Strike (PO7) also with Tour Bite. Elbow was getting sore.

Wanted to get another Angell stick and don't know if I just get another TC100 in the bag or add a TC95 63RA 16 x 19 perhaps at the same 320g. I'm wondering what peoples' experience is with a TC95 in doubles. I like the idea of more precision with the TC95's smaller head, like I hit with the Pure Strike 98, but wanted to see if there were any thoughts. I am a 4.5 all court player with 2 weapons (big serve and forehand). I volley well but also wonder if those reflex volleys will be tougher with a smaller head size as well. Any thoughts are welcomed.

I have both TC95 and TC100 in 310/315 63RA V3 and if you put them on top of each other there is not too much difference in size. They play kind of similar, but with more power on tap with the TC100. I was tired of changing racquets all the time (throws my game off) so I have decided to only play the TC100 and really commit to only this frame, my racquet quest is over. But I still keep my two TC95 for now, just in case :)
 

topspn

Legend
I am a newer Angell user with a TC100 63RA 320g stick as my first plunge. I have strung it up with Tour Bite 16L at 48-50lbs and still have to be careful not to get too excited by the sheer power and heavy ball when rallying and sail it. I got this racquet mainly for doubles so when I hit too big it reminds me to get to the net. I really do like the way it feels coming from a Pure Strike (PO7) also with Tour Bite. Elbow was getting sore.

Wanted to get another Angell stick and don't know if I just get another TC100 in the bag or add a TC95 63RA 16 x 19 perhaps at the same 320g. I'm wondering what peoples' experience is with a TC95 in doubles. I like the idea of more precision with the TC95's smaller head, like I hit with the Pure Strike 98, but wanted to see if there were any thoughts. I am a 4.5 all court player with 2 weapons (big serve and forehand). I volley well but also wonder if those reflex volleys will be tougher with a smaller head size as well. Any thoughts are welcomed.
You’re picking a pretty specific scenario of reflex volleys. The TC100 is just a tad slower but more forgiving head size. TC95 just a tad quicker but a bit smaller. I’ve had no problem at all with either in terms of reflex at the net
 

esm

Legend
I am a newer Angell user with a TC100 63RA 320g stick as my first plunge. I have strung it up with Tour Bite 16L at 48-50lbs and still have to be careful not to get too excited by the sheer power and heavy ball when rallying and sail it. I got this racquet mainly for doubles so when I hit too big it reminds me to get to the net. I really do like the way it feels coming from a Pure Strike (PO7) also with Tour Bite. Elbow was getting sore.

Wanted to get another Angell stick and don't know if I just get another TC100 in the bag or add a TC95 63RA 16 x 19 perhaps at the same 320g. I'm wondering what peoples' experience is with a TC95 in doubles. I like the idea of more precision with the TC95's smaller head, like I hit with the Pure Strike 98, but wanted to see if there were any thoughts. I am a 4.5 all court player with 2 weapons (big serve and forehand). I volley well but also wonder if those reflex volleys will be tougher with a smaller head size as well. Any thoughts are welcomed.
Definitely TC95 16x19 63RA. Much prefer it than my TC100 63RA for the doubles (and singles too).
I had it at around 340g/31.5cm and 335SW at the time. The TC100 was at the same spec range too.

I still have it in my bag but it is now similar spec to my 2013 Blade 98 18x20 (polarised setup). Same for my 2013 Pure Strike 98 16x19, they are similar to the Blade setup too.
 

Junkie44

New User
I have both TC95 and TC100 in 310/315 63RA V3 and if you put them on top of each other there is not too much difference in size. They play kind of similar, but with more power on tap with the TC100. I was tired of changing racquets all the time (throws my game off) so I have decided to only play the TC100 and really commit to only this frame, my racquet quest is over. But I still keep my two TC95 for now, just in case :)
The changing racquet carousel can be a pain...probably smart on your part to commit!
 

Junkie44

New User
You’re picking a pretty specific scenario of reflex volleys. The TC100 is just a tad slower but more forgiving head size. TC95 just a tad quicker but a bit smaller. I’ve had no problem at all with either in terms of reflex at the net
That was exactly the reply I thought I might heae...which leads me to keep an open and inquisitive mind about the TC95. The TC95 really is an inriguing racquet. Btw. my volleys are so much better in general with the Angell vs. the Pure Strike as it is. Not sure if its the lower flex or just more confidence or the combination.
 

Junkie44

New User
Definitely TC95 16x19 63RA. Much prefer it than my TC100 63RA for the doubles (and singles too).
I had it at around 340g/31.5cm and 335SW at the time. The TC100 was at the same spec range too.

I still have it in my bag but it is now similar spec to my 2013 Blade 98 18x20 (polarised setup). Same for my 2013 Pure Strike 98 16x19, they are similar to the Blade setup too.
Thanks for the feedback. It's nice to have a variety iof good racquets to choose from. I've always liked the Blade's feel and SW but felt like the weight distribution was toward the head which didn't help my confidence when net rushing.
 

Junkie44

New User
Does anyone in the U.S use RS Lyon on their sticks? It's almost impossible to get here it feels like. Any alternatives that you like on the TC100? I've seen some of the usual suspects; SPPP, WC Silverstring, PTP but haven't a lot of experience with those.

And sorry to hijack the last slew of comments but I'm itching to figure out my setups as USTA match season has already started here in Florida.
 

topspn

Legend
Does anyone in the U.S use RS Lyon on their sticks? It's almost impossible to get here it feels like. Any alternatives that you like on the TC100? I've seen some of the usual suspects; SPPP, WC Silverstring, PTP but haven't a lot of experience with those.

And sorry to hijack the last slew of comments but I'm itching to figure out my setups as USTA match season has already started here in Florida.
Not really to be honest, at least I haven’t found a round string similar to it and not sure why it’s dried up in the US. I do like revolution 1.25 @54lbs in my TC100s
 

tennis347

Hall of Fame
I just ordered the ASL2 directly from Angell and looking for to the legendary feel that Angell is known for. I too had to stop playing with the TF40 as it was too firm for my elbow. I just sold most of my racquets. I had the K7 Red but someone made me an offer to sell that could not be refused. The ASL2 appears to be quite unique to anything else on the market.

I received the ASL2 and had it strung with goat string Gosen Micro 16 at 54lbs. I changed the stock grip to my usual Wilson Contour grip and then added 5 grams of lead total at 3 and 9 with a 1/2 inch strip. The weight is now 334 grams and still is whippy and very maneuverable. Just bouncing the ball on the hoop it feels quite plush and feels a tad firmer than the K7 Red.

I will be playing tomorrow and post my review!
 
I have a TC95 70RA 16x19 and can't help but wonder about whether I'd prefer an 18x20 or 63RA TC95. I've fallen in love with my 18x20 Blade v7 but it's slightly too muted and admittedly a bit unwieldly for me.

Suggestions/thoughts? I'm around a 3.5 USTA and all court style and play with a decent amount of spin...

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

My suggestion would be to keep whatever racquet is easier / more natural for you to swing. If you’re jonesing for a change, string it with natural gut at 55-60 lb range (Klip is affordable and should last a long time, unless you’re playing on clay in Florida). Otherwise, save up for individual lessons with a good coach who can teach more classic strokes. Consistency at the 3.5 level is key to enjoyment and winning, and that comes from solid footwork and stroke mechanics.
 

Rysty

Rookie
I have a TC95 70RA 16x19 and can't help but wonder about whether I'd prefer an 18x20 or 63RA TC95. I've fallen in love with my 18x20 Blade v7 but it's slightly too muted and admittedly a bit unwieldly for me.

Suggestions/thoughts? I'm around a 3.5 USTA and all court style and play with a decent amount of spin...

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

I have both string patterns of TC 95, 63 RA. They feel quite different. As you can expect, the 16x19 is more powerful and easy to hit spin with. The 18x20 is muted, low-powered and maybe better against very hard hitters (easier to keep the ball low).

By the way, both are good serving racquets, but the 16x19 may be the best I've ever experienced.
 

Emmanuel1971

New User
Hey guys i currently play a TC95 V2 16x19 63RA 320 gr 310 mm really happy with it , this stick does everything well and the comfort is great i want to buy another Angell but hesitates between another TC95 this time at 310 gr /315 mm or an ASL 2 which i found quite intriguing any one could help telling me what would be the major differences between an ASL and TC 95 ?
 

Paul Y

Rookie
My son was actually pretty curious the differences between the TC95 18x20 and the TC97 18x20. Has anyone compared the two before? He did receive his playset of rackets already from Angell so he doesn't plan to switch this year but he was very curious. I heard they really play differently, my son is an all court player and uses a lot of variety.
 

Pneumated1

Hall of Fame
I have both string patterns of TC 95, 63 RA. They feel quite different. As you can expect, the 16x19 is more powerful and easy to hit spin with. The 18x20 is muted, low-powered and maybe better against very hard hitters (easier to keep the ball low).

By the way, both are good serving racquets, but the 16x19 may be the best I've ever experienced.
This is a good assessment. I hit the 16x19 for over a year and worked hard to adjust to it. It's an amazing frame that produces wicked ball quality that gives opponents a lot of trouble, but my strokes and ball shape are a little more linear, so the 18x20 ended up being a better fit for me. As far as spin, that's a tricky one because the 16x19 works best for mechanics that naturally load the ball with loop and kicking spin, but I actually hit a spinnier ball (albeit a tighter spin) with the the 18x20. That translates into quicker bite and more push through the court--at least for my game, which is what I need.

Regrettably, the best of both worlds for me (related only to stringbed) is a Volkl 16x19, which lets me bridge these two styles a bit better and opens the full arsenal of shots. But I'm won over by the Angell TC95 63RA as a frame and will wait, probably in vain, for a tighter 16x19 or 16x20.
 

esm

Legend
This is a good assessment. I hit the 16x19 for over a year and worked hard to adjust to it. It's an amazing frame that produces wicked ball quality that gives opponents a lot of trouble, but my strokes and ball shape are a little more linear, so the 18x20 ended up being a better fit for me. As far as spin, that's a tricky one because the 16x19 works best for mechanics that naturally load the ball with loop and kicking spin, but I actually hit a spinnier ball (albeit a tighter spin) with the the 18x20. That translates into quicker bite and more push through the court--at least for my game, which is what I need.

Regrettably, the best of both worlds for me (related only to stringbed) is a Volkl 16x19, which lets me bridge these two styles a bit better and opens the full arsenal of shots. But I'm won over by the Angell TC95 63RA as a frame and will wait, probably in vain, for a tighter 16x19 or 16x20.
I think a slightly better option would be a TC95 16x19 with 8 mains at the throat - wishful thinking I know.... 8-B
 

Pneumated1

Hall of Fame
I think a slightly better option would be a TC95 16x19 with 8 mains at the throat - wishful thinking I know.... 8-B
Yes, the Volkl 16x19 has 8 mains in the throat. That's what I was referring to but didn't make it clear. But I understand it. Paul is doing his thing, kind of like Paul Reed Smith guitars ... some like to say they're between Fender and Gibson, but they have their own thing going--and going quite well. These genius, stubborn Pauls of the world ...:)
 
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