The Pro Staff Classic 6.1 mutual appreciation club

joe sch

Legend
Here is a nice pair that I sometimes hit with. Notice the slight diffs between the 1/2 and 5/8 models.
wilson_ps61a.jpg
wilson_ps61b.jpg
wilson_ps61c.jpg
 

MrRandom247

Semi-Pro
I have four (got my eye on a 5th)
All MP, 16 x 18, standard length.
Favourite weighs in at 386g
Strings: Kirchbaum Pro Line II mains & Gosen OG sheep X's @56lbs
Full replacement grip added over fairway leather & another overgrip. No Lead added.
Such a beast for hardcourt singles, too heavy for doubles or grass singles these days.
 

BorgCash

Legend
I have four (got my eye on a 5th)
All MP, 16 x 18, standard length.
Favourite weighs in at 386g
Strings: Kirchbaum Pro Line II mains & Gosen OG sheep X's @56lbs
Full replacement grip added over fairway leather & another overgrip. No Lead added.
Such a beast for hardcourt singles, too heavy for doubles or grass singles these days.


You've got yours quite heavy. What's grip # you get after all grips and overgrip s added?
 
I played my PSC 6.1 last night for warm ups and the first three games of a league match. I just picked up the racquet on Sunday, so had to at least try it out. I strung it up with Head RIP Control 17 at 60/57 on a lockout machine. It certainly was more powerful than my Volkls. Only problem last night was that I had a little trouble controlling the extra power on serve (and I wanted to win the match). That power giveth and taketh away. So, I switched back to my Volkl with Kevlar/Zyex and didn't get broken the rest of the night (and won).

Truth be told, it feels nostalgic and will get some regular use in my rotation. I used the KFactor 95X for a few years, so this is similar. Plus, I grew up a huge Edberg fan, so this paint job brings back childhood memories. Cheers.
 

joe sch

Legend
I played my PSC 6.1 last night for warm ups and the first three games of a league match. I just picked up the racquet on Sunday, so had to at least try it out. I strung it up with Head RIP Control 17 at 60/57 on a lockout machine. It certainly was more powerful than my Volkls. Only problem last night was that I had a little trouble controlling the extra power on serve (and I wanted to win the match). That power giveth and taketh away. So, I switched back to my Volkl with Kevlar/Zyex and didn't get broken the rest of the night (and won).

Truth be told, it feels nostalgic and will get some regular use in my rotation. I used the KFactor 95X for a few years, so this is similar. Plus, I grew up a huge Edberg fan, so this paint job brings back childhood memories. Cheers.
Same for me, I loved and attempted to play the Edberg SV game. His smooth speed and big kicks were tops IMO. I still have a few of the pro stock ps85 models that did not get the classic "ps61 pj". Here is a visual:
stephen_edberg_ps85pj_adidas_outfit1.jpg
stephen_edberg_ps85pj_adidas_outfit2.jpg
 

Muzzy

New User
My coach just gave me one of these to use as a practice racquet for stringing - but I love the feel of it in my hand, so I am considering playing with it.

The only confusion I have is which version I have - mine seems to match the fourth edition, since it says "Midplus" inside the hoop. The part that is throwing me off is that the buttcap is white and doesn't seem to have any identifying numbers. I'm assuming that maybe the original cap just got swapped out?
 

GatorTennis

Rookie
I just bought a pair of the white buttcap Chinese models. $90 for the pair. They look like 7/10. The guy is getting back into tennis and has been playing with a pure drive and decided to sell these to go toward a backup. My gain.

I never hit with a 6.1 before, but I love the classic frames. My favorite pro staff was the 6.6 but I played well with the 6.0 95 also.
 

Raul_SJ

G.O.A.T.
Is there anything close to the PS Classic 6.1 si among the new Wilson models? I already tried the Fed Autograph but it did not feel the same.

Wilson should continue to produce these rackets.
 

macattack

Professional
Is there anything close to the PS Classic 6.1 si among the new Wilson models? I already tried the Fed Autograph but it did not feel the same.

Wilson should continue to produce these rackets.

The RF97 is probably the closest that Wilson makes to the PSC 6.1, but I agree it's not the same. Best is either find old PSCs on the 'bay or some other 6.1 iterations of the past (K-Factor, BLX, NCode, etc.). The newer ones won't be spot on, but they're pretty close. You could get one of the 20th Anniversary 18x20 they're selling on TWE. Here in America I think there are plans to release a similar 16x18, but I'm not sure if that's coming to fruition.
 

BorgCash

Legend
Is there anything close to the PS Classic 6.1 si among the new Wilson models? I already tried the Fed Autograph but it did not feel the same.

Wilson should continue to produce these rackets.

Don't fool yourself and waste your time with modern sticks. Just got the original Classic in good condition (until it's possible) and enjoy it!
 

joe sch

Legend
Don't fool yourself and waste your time with modern sticks. Just got the original Classic in good condition (until it's possible) and enjoy it!
Agree ... there are many available at deals and they will way outlast the modern rackets. I have a few myself and even have a pair of the megage age M1s.
 

Raul_SJ

G.O.A.T.
The RF97 is probably the closest that Wilson makes to the PSC 6.1, but I agree it's not the same. Best is either find old PSCs on the 'bay or some other 6.1 iterations of the past (K-Factor, BLX, NCode, etc.). The newer ones won't be spot on, but they're pretty close. You could get one of the 20th Anniversary 18x20 they're selling on TWE. Here in America I think there are plans to release a similar 16x18, but I'm not sure if that's coming to fruition.

I have a 6.1si PS Classic Stretch, which is also a great racket, that I'd been using as my main racket, of course it plays differently than the standard 27" PS. I've recently been playing a lot with the Prince Tour 95...

I've tried the various PS 6.1si iteration over the years. I am leaning towards the conclusion that it is the Graphite/Kevlar composite that gives it the unique feel.
These iterations do not have the Kevlar, just graphite.
 

BorgCash

Legend
I have a 6.1si PS Classic Stretch, which is also a great racket, that I'd been using as my main racket, of course it plays differently than the standard 27" PS. I've recently been playing a lot with the Prince Tour 95...

I've tried the various PS 6.1si iteration over the years. I am leaning towards the conclusion that it is the Graphite/Kevlar composite that gives it the unique feel.
These iterations do not have the Kevlar, just graphite.

What's the difference in playing between standard and Stretch PS 6.1 Classic? I have both but don't try Stretch yet. I was thinking about cut it to 27", but maybe just grip it a little higher on the handle? It should take time to correct it, of course, but i can try.
 

Raul_SJ

G.O.A.T.
What's the difference in playing between standard and Stretch PS 6.1 Classic? I have both but don't try Stretch yet. I was thinking about cut it to 27", but maybe just grip it a little higher on the handle? It should take time to correct it, of course, but i can try.

For me, I get better serve power with the stretch but more difficult to volley due to length. Get less topspin because it is harder to whip up and brush...

I doubt cutting the stretch to 27" would make it equivalent to standard PS. There must be some other differences in the body. I don't think Wilson just takes a standard PS and adds
an inch at the handle to create the stretch PS.
 

BorgCash

Legend
For me, I get better serve power with the stretch but more difficult to volley due to length. Get less topspin because it is harder to whip up and brush...

I doubt cutting the stretch to 27" would make it equivalent to standard PS. There must be some other differences in the body. I don't think Wilson just takes a standard PS and adds
an inch at the handle to create the stretch PS.

I feel exactly the same about serving and volleys. Don't know about the differencies in the body. It will be another model. I think it's just the longer handle.
 

TadDavis

Rookie
I just installed a set of blx grommets (WRG710500) in my pro staff classic. It takes some work to get them in (you'll need a grommet grinder), but if anyone was wondering, these will work.
 

GatorTennis

Rookie
So what's the your verdict? I played with it from 1999-2002. I ordered one for old times sake and it's somewhere between TWE and my house. Eagerly awaiting
They're still wrapped in plastic. I have so many racquets, I may just hold on to them and sell them with the plastic still on them. Couldn't pass up the opportunity to get the pair though.
 

KANZA

Semi-Pro
So I got my 25th anniversary edition and took it out to the courts today. I played with it regularly 15 years ago (99-01?) and wanted to have some fun with it again. I'm probably not man enough to wield this hefty piece on a regular basis anymore, but I would like to try. I really appreciated the shot control. Best control I have had in years with a racket. I Didn't notice much of a difference in spin on my serve between the Psc 18x20 pattern or my other open 16x19 pure strike or prince TT95. That may just be me.

Bottom line: I know some would be concerned that this 25th edition is not as good as the original version because it is a remake. However, I would vote that it's a solid retro. It may be just as good
 
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moon shot

Hall of Fame
I bought a 25th, though I haven't spent much time with it yet, but I thought I'd share some photos. http://imgur.com/a/ez7aA

The red looks deeper on the throat, but I suspect that is due to fading.

bK1OVTy.jpg


The only thing that bugs me is the butt cap, which is a generic version of the spin / blade style, not a straight angle pro staff butt cap. Same thing is on my KPS88. I wonder why as it makes it seem down market.

Pgfd7Zv.jpg
 

gino

Legend

They're gorgeous mate. Let us know if there are any subtle differences in feel. The 18x20 pattern will likely play much different but I love seeing three of those babies together. Hit with one of mine today and the plow thru is unrivaled. One of the best frames of all time.
 

moon shot

Hall of Fame
I was ok with the white buttcap. Having blistered up my hand on the sharp edges of the PS97 a month earlier this more rounded cap was a relief

I actually put one of the spin butt caps on my 97 and feel the same, but the lack of a trap door seems lacking. The rest of my 'normal' ps butt caps I wrap my overgrip extra low.
 

KANZA

Semi-Pro
Still really liking the 25th edition after two weeks. Solid feel, but if you are reading this that isn't really news to you. I wonder if the older ones have become more flexible over time and if they play differently from the 25th. The leather grip gives it a high quality feel. I'm not sure I can wield it as my main stick but I will continue to try.
 

moon shot

Hall of Fame
They're gorgeous mate. Let us know if there are any subtle differences in feel. The 18x20 pattern will likely play much different but I love seeing three of those babies together. Hit with one of mine today and the plow thru is unrivaled. One of the best frames of all time.

I found fantastic control with the 25th Anni, I was hitting corners and lines that I'd given up thinking about. I played with a Ti Radical until 2001 when I went to college. I didn't hit much at all until three years ago and got caught up in spin string patterns and regaining my fitness level (thats my 'moon shot'). I kept searching for other solutions as to why I could only swing for big targets, maybe it was just age, or my glasses. Trying my friends 6.1 16x18 and a LM Prestige Mid the benefit of string density sunk in.

I've had a tendency to play in the upper hoop where the 16x18 is more open, it is here the 18x20 shines. Stretched out at the net or bringing a would-be-winner back into play there is more usable and reliable response. The swingweight is higher, but the center density is practically identical.

I really considered switching to the new blade, it should check all the boxes, but I decided to live in the past a bit longer. I have two more 25th Anniversary frames on the way from Europe. With all this nostalgia for a past I never experienced I guess I'm a racquet hipster.

Edit: and thanks to @macattack for the 6.1, I don't know that I'd have come around without that nudge.
 
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Deleted member 3771

Guest
found this old post here:

I have hit both. The only thing they share in stock form is the 28” length. Actually the 6.1 stretch averaged about 3/16” shorter than 28” and the POG LB was right on. Huge weight difference. 6.1 stretch is stiffer and had lower vibration due to Kevlar and thicker beam. The 5 square inch head size difference is also very noticeable. The 6.1 has the classic oval Wilson shape while the POG is more round so it has a different sweet spot. POG is open pattern, 6.1 stretch is closed. Both are male pro level racquets.

Really depends what you need. I preferred the POG’s larger more open string pattern and the stiffness, weight and lower vibration of the 6.1.

Is everyone's PSC 6.1 stretch also 3/16" shorter than 28", or does it depend on whether it's from Taiwan or China? Anyone have one that is 28"?

Can everyone that has a psc 6.1 stretch please list the length of their racquet here.
 
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macattack

Professional
found this old post here:



Is everyone's PSC 6.1 stretch also 3/16" shorter than 28", or does it depend on whether it's from Taiwan or China? Anyone have one that is 28"?

Can everyone that has a psc 6.1 stretch please list the length of their racquet here.

My understanding is that when a racquet is made, the hairpin is long and gets cut down to the length of the model. That leads me to believe that since the mold isn't for a specific model length that there can be some variation when it gets cut down. I have a few TT Radical XLs and they vary by about an 1/8th of an inch, all around 28". That doesn't answer you question, but might give some insight.
 
D

Deleted member 3771

Guest
My understanding is that when a racquet is made, the hairpin is long and gets cut down to the length of the model. That leads me to believe that since the mold isn't for a specific model length that there can be some variation when it gets cut down. I have a few TT Radical XLs and they vary by about an 1/8th of an inch, all around 28". That doesn't answer you question, but might give some insight.



Thanks. I can see how they could vary by about 1/8" or so when they're cut, but anything more would seem like it would be on purpose. I have a china psc stretch and it is 27 3/4", so I'm curious to find out if the psc stretch existed in 28" or if they were all 27 3/4" and just marketed as 28".

I also have a few old hammer skunk stretches , and the one made in tawian is spot on 28", and the one made in China is 27 3/4" or very slightly less". Can't make any conclusions from just a few racquets, but if people post the length of their psc stretch racket and where it was made, it might give a better idea of what the length of the psc stretch is really meant to be.
 

moon shot

Hall of Fame
I received my pair of 25th Anni's in the mail.

They are unstrung:
338g 30.5cm 312 swingweight
340g 30.2cm 307 swingweight

When strung this should put them in the neighborhood of:
362g 31.2cm 342 swingweight -- I doubt they will lack plowthrough.
 

1010

Rookie
here

Pro Staff Classic - generation 1
95 sq. in.
16x18
369 gr strung
grip leather L3
buttcap white, code SCT

Another useful mark of 1st generation is the PWS decal. 4 rows ot text, inside the throat. e.g.
PWS. the original Perimeter Weighting System
gives you the advantage of repositioned
weight to provide extra stability, power and
control in a head light racket


Some markings should not be present to be a real 1st gen:
NO 6.1
NO 6.1 s.i
NO stickers to explain s.i.
NO specs. in place of specs, see PWS decal
 

moon shot

Hall of Fame
I have a few questions @PeterFig @vsbabolat or some non US residents might know:

Was the Classic 95 introduced in Europe / South America as a 18x20 only, and 16x18 only in US?

I've seen a few 18x20 Classics on d'**** which have the same airbrushing as a stretch, were all 18x20 stretch or standard painted the same but with different decals?

The 25th Anniversary currently sold in Europe has the airbrushing I've only seen on 16x18 models, and the text is a Serif. @PeterFig was there discussion about recreating the earlier sans serif model instead of the later type style?
 

vsbabolat

G.O.A.T.
I have a few questions @PeterFig @vsbabolat or some non US residents might know:

Was the Classic 95 introduced in Europe / South America as a 18x20 only, and 16x18 only in US?

I've seen a few 18x20 Classics on d'**** which have the same airbrushing as a stretch, were all 18x20 stretch or standard painted the same but with different decals?

The 25th Anniversary currently sold in Europe has the airbrushing I've only seen on 16x18 models, and the text is a Serif. @PeterFig was there discussion about recreating the earlier sans serif model instead of the later type style?
What I recall is, the Pro Staff Classic 6.1 95 came out in 1991. In the USA it was 16x18 only. In Europe the yellow paint on the side of the racquet went all the way into the grip and it came with Balmforth Fairway grip in tan. I don't remember the string patterns offered in Europe. I do remember the 18x20 and stretch models having the red in the grooves at the throat. At some point 18x20 amd 16x18 were both available in Europe.
 

1010

Rookie
Stretch: have additional RED zones at bridge's sides

the one below
IMG_6168.jpg


I dunno if all people remember these, or forget these, prior to selling a Classic.
 

1010

Rookie
In Europe the yellow paint on the side of the racquet went all the way into the grip and it came with Balmforth Fairway grip in tan.

Right you are. Mine's EU. And yellow going into the grip as predicted
Oh, it's 16x18. Question solved
 

moon shot

Hall of Fame
Item number 301984858375 on d'bay is a odd duck that is confusing me. Red shoulder, 18x20, serif, not marked as stretch and seems to be standard length
 
The only thing that bugs me is the butt cap, which is a generic version of the spin / blade style, not a straight angle pro staff butt cap. Same thing is on my KPS88. I wonder why as it makes it seem down market.

I don't know where you got your KPS88, but it should have came with the traditional Pro Staff styled butt cap.
 

moon shot

Hall of Fame
I don't know where you got your KPS88, but it should have came with the traditional Pro Staff styled butt cap.

I bought it used, the white butt cap was original or they were very precise with staple replacement. I've seen a few more on d'bay like that. Not my problem now.
 
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