Thought I found my holy grail but the search continues (help needed :-) )

[smalahove]

Over the last couple of years, I've been through quite a few rackets, in search of the holy grail (isn't that the TF97A btw?). I've also steadily been progressing from 3.5 to 4.5, and my appreciation for rackets specs have changed accordingly (see list below).

I've been alternating lately with my 6.1 95s which I feel is the best spin frame on the market; along side the Prestige Pro (IG&G). I just traded a 2015 PD for a GSP Ltd, and thought I'd found my grail. Yes! But no. My elbow doesn't approve and since it's never complained about any frame thus far ...

I like the new Head rackets I've tried/owned and the GPP hasn't jarred with my elbow. That being said, it's def. second stiffest racket I've played with so far. The PDR I just bought feels like a noodle in comparison (to the GSP).

So, I'm thinking:

6.1 95 (16x18 )
RF97A (with lower sw and w, selected)

Thanks in advance for any suggs



- - - - - - - - - - - -

What's in the bag:

Wilson six.one 95s
Wilson PS 95s
Head Graphene Speed Pro Ltd
Head Graphene Prestige Pro
Head IG Prestige Pro
Head IG Prestige MP

I also own a few Prince rackets (Rebel 95, Tour Pro 100 ESP, Tour 98 ESP and a few vintage frames)

I've also owned the following among flavour-of-the-month frames - but sold them:

Babolat PD 2015
Yonex Ezone AI 98
Prince Tour 100 16x18
Prince Tour 100 18x20
Wilson Blade 98 18x20
Prince Warrior 100 ESP

- - - - - - - - - - - -

 

[movdqa]

Kind of hard for me to imagine the PDR being softer than something else though mine is from several years ago. That's the stiffest racquet in my collection and I haven't used it in a long time (I really should get rid of it).

I think that it's more efficient to put in a lot of time to get a good base frame and then customize it to what works best for you and then just stick with the frame for a long time (like 10 years). You don't have to worry about trying out new frames and you can focus on improving your game and fitness.

 

[DustinW]

What don't you like about the 95s and the Prestige IG?

Have you tried any of the Pure Strikes?

 

[dnj30]

There is no Holy Grail. Its about the journey, not the destination.

 

[maxpotapov]

This looks like it

 

[movdqa]

That's a classic look.

 

[smalahove]

...
I think that it's more efficient to put in a lot of time to get a good base frame and then customize it to what works best for you and then just stick with the frame for a long time (like 10 years). You don't have to worry about trying out new frames and you can focus on improving your game and fitness.

There is no Holy Grail. Its about the journey, not the destination.

I'm almost there
I'm using the term holy grail in a tongue-in-cheek kind of way.

What don't you like about the 95s and the Prestige IG?

I love both.

The 6.1 95s generates great spin and is one of the best frame I've tried volley. It's by far the best spin frame on flat, hard shots, but still ... compared to f.inst. the IGMP (or the GSP), it's still far behind. I have tried the 18x20 version of the 6.1 a couple of times, but the setup (strings), grip size and lack of overgrip has left me a little unsure of the 6.1 line up's real potential. I haven't tried the 16x18 version, but since I enjoy 16x19 rackets, I thought maybe this would make for an interesting frame.

Btw. where I live, there's little to no possibility of demos, so buying and selling is the game unf. (since selling always equals selling at a big loss).

The Prestige, esp. the IGs, are awesome, and I can't really pinpoint any flaws, but I'm looking for an alternative nevertheless. I'm not looking into more Heads, since I have two Graphene rackets where one is great (GPP) and the other (GSP) almost goat'ing if it wasn't for the fact that it is intent on destroying my elbow ...

One thing perhaps on the IG Prestiges, esp. the mid: to get the frame to generate more power, I have to add lead in the hoop (12, 6&9) at which point it becomes a tad sluggish, esp. on defence. I guess this is also attributed to balance - which makes the RF97A very interesting.

My spec range:
SW 320-335 (I've put this so wide as f.inst. the 6.1 95s feels as heavy swingwise as my sw330+ Rebels)
Weight: I prefer 340+ strung with overgrip (usually 345sh)
Balance: min 7 pt HL +++

No more Babolat for me, btw. And that's coming from someone who's part french ;-)

 

[smalahove]

This looks like it

That both looks goat and tickles my Prince fancy

 

[morten]

Been there a few times... Now as well..

 

[Fintft]

Hi,

As I was posting in another thread I'd take:

BLX 6.1 95 (16x18 ), (especially the latest version, 2013 with parallel drilling) over

RF97A (with lower sw and w, selected)

B/c the later vibrates more (being ProStaff) and has a less forgiving sweet spot.

 

[smalahove]

Hi,

As I was posting in another thread I'd take:

BLX 6.1 95 (16x18 ), (especially the latest version, 2013 with parallel drilling) over

RF97A (with lower sw and w, selected)

B/c the later vibrates more (being ProStaff) and has a less forgiving sweet spot.

Thanks. I haven't tried the RF97A, but I have been able to try out the PS97, and that felt quite plush and very similar to the AI98, and also the feel I get from my 6.1 95s. Does this mean the RF97A has "stiffer" feel than those?

 

[pfrischmann]

Over the last couple of years, I've been through quite a few rackets, in search of the holy grail (isn't that the TF97A btw?). I've also steadily been progressing from 3.5 to 4.5, and my appreciation for rackets specs have changed accordingly (see list below).

I've been alternating lately with my 6.1 95s which I feel is the best spin frame on the market; along side the Prestige Pro (IG&G). I just traded a 2015 PD for a GSP Ltd, and thought I'd found my grail. Yes! But no. My elbow doesn't approve and since it's never complained about any frame thus far ...

I like the new Head rackets I've tried/owned and the GPP hasn't jarred with my elbow. That being said, it's def. second stiffest racket I've played with so far. The PDR I just bought feels like a noodle in comparison (to the GSP).

So, I'm thinking:

6.1 95 (16x18 )
RF97A (with lower sw and w, selected)

Thanks in advance for any suggs



- - - - - - - - - - - -

What's in the bag:

Wilson six.one 95s
Wilson PS 95s
Head Graphene Speed Pro Ltd
Head Graphene Prestige Pro
Head IG Prestige Pro
Head IG Prestige MP

I also own a few Prince rackets (Rebel 95, Tour Pro 100 ESP, Tour 98 ESP and a few vintage frames)

I've also owned the following among flavour-of-the-month frames - but sold them:

Babolat PD 2015
Yonex Ezone AI 98
Prince Tour 100 16x18
Prince Tour 100 18x20
Wilson Blade 98 18x20
Prince Warrior 100 ESP

- - - - - - - - - - - -

I really like the RF97 I got with a lighter SW. It's taking a little adjustment to get used to the heavier stick, compared to my APD but even though mine is underspec, it's still a very stable racquet. Mine is 12.6 oz with a sw of 318. I acqually find 318 too light and have been playing around with SW in the 325-328 range. the cool thing is I have the flexibility to do this.

 

[pfrischmann]

Thanks. I haven't tried the RF97A, but I have been able to try out the PS97, and that felt quite plush and very similar to the AI98, and also the feel I get from my 6.1 95s. Does this mean the RF97A has "stiffer" feel than those?

I think the RF is stiffer than the PS97 but almo more stable and predictable. I have a 6.1 95S and although I liked it, I find the PF more predictable/stable and it has more control. I'm not a fan of spin racquets. They are a cool effect but I find because of the way the strings come off the bed, they limit my options. 16X19 is far enough for me.

 

[smalahove]

I think the RF is stiffer than the PS97 but almo more stable and predictable. I have a 6.1 95S and although I liked it, I find the PF more predictable/stable and it has more control. I'm not a fan of spin racquets. They are a cool effect but I find because of the way the strings come off the bed, they limit my options. 16X19 is far enough for me.

What string tension and gauge do you use?

 

[Magic of tennis]

Over the last couple of years, I've been through quite a few rackets, in search of the holy grail (isn't that the TF97A btw?). I've also steadily been progressing from 3.5 to 4.5, and my appreciation for rackets specs have changed accordingly (see list below).

I've been alternating lately with my 6.1 95s which I feel is the best spin frame on the market; along side the Prestige Pro (IG&G). I just traded a 2015 PD for a GSP Ltd, and thought I'd found my grail. Yes! But no. My elbow doesn't approve and since it's never complained about any frame thus far ...

I like the new Head rackets I've tried/owned and the GPP hasn't jarred with my elbow. That being said, it's def. second stiffest racket I've played with so far. The PDR I just bought feels like a noodle in comparison (to the GSP).

So, I'm thinking:

6.1 95 (16x18 )
RF97A (with lower sw and w, selected)

Thanks in advance for any suggs



- - - - - - - - - - - -

What's in the bag:

Wilson six.one 95s
Wilson PS 95s
Head Graphene Speed Pro Ltd
Head Graphene Prestige Pro
Head IG Prestige Pro
Head IG Prestige MP

I also own a few Prince rackets (Rebel 95, Tour Pro 100 ESP, Tour 98 ESP and a few vintage frames)

I've also owned the following among flavour-of-the-month frames - but sold them:

Babolat PD 2015
Yonex Ezone AI 98
Prince Tour 100 16x18
Prince Tour 100 18x20
Wilson Blade 98 18x20
Prince Warrior 100 ESP

- - - - - - - - - - - -

OMG you are really racquetholic :mrgreen:
The difference between racquets are very slight most of cases. The closest one you desire is the one. Some racquet feels perfect for a while but it last only few weeks to few months.

 

[smalahove]

Well, if there was a comprehensive demo program available, I'd easily have settled for that. The difference between the various frames I've owned have been as big as they can, f.inst. Warrior 100 ESP vs. Rebel 95, Bab PD 2015 vs Prestige IG MP.

That being said, I'm going cold turkey on the racquet cool-aid. Just wanted a last fix ;-)

 

[Backhanded Compliment]

Havea look at the Pacific x Force Pro: http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Pacific_BX2_X_Force_Pro/descpageRCPACIFIC-PXFP14.html

It seems like it is in your wheelhouse and it is unique

 

[KYHacker]

If you like the Prestige's but want a little more foregiveness, look at the Pure Control Tour.

 

[smalahove]

Thanks for the suggs.

The Pacific looks interesting but is almost R97A money, and I have no idea how Pacific/Fischer plays so I'm going to wait until I can try one.

If I can, I'm avoiding Babolat ;-)

Looks like I'm going for the 6.1 96 (16x18), but I'm looking at an additional racket as well. Doesn't look like it's going to be the RF97A as it is very expensive, and none of my Prince rackets are selling ...

I'm intrigued by the Head IG Prestige Mid though

However, is there any softer version of the GSP? I.e. headsize 98-100, sw 325 (+/-5), strung weight 340 (+/-5), beam size max 22 mm?

 

[sma1001]

However, is there any softer version of the GSP? I.e. headsize 98-100, sw 325 (+/-5), strung weight 340 (+/-5), beam size max 22 mm?

Have you thought about Volkl? Look at the C10 Pro and the Organix 10. Specs are bang on what you are looking for. And with the benefit of arm friendly vibration dampening technology. Worth a try.

 

[smalahove]

My coach has some older Volkl models (i guess the C10Pro), so I'll ask him for a loaner.

I've recently been interested in the Technifibre T-fight 315 (16x18), which seems to be a great stick when leaded up?

Btw. my reluctance towards (the combo) smaller brands (smaller than Wilson and Head) and player frames = very hard to re-sell.

 

[Gee]

What about the Völkl Organix Super 9?

 

[sma1001]

My coach has some older Volkl models (i guess the C10Pro), so I'll ask him for a loaner.

I've recently been interested in the Technifibre T-fight 315 (16x18), which seems to be a great stick when leaded up?

Btw. my reluctance towards (the combo) smaller brands (smaller than Wilson and Head) and player frames = very hard to re-sell.

That's a very soft and arm friendly racquet but from all accounts you'd need to play quite a bit with the weight. That's fine of course if you are happy to do that. The 18*20 version i tried certainly needed something to get it going.

 

[smalahove]

What about the Völkl Organix Super 9?

That seems to have a stiffness rating of 70 ...
I think low 60s or even in the 50s is preferable if the frame does not play/feel overly soft despite a high stiffness rating.

 

[smalahove]

That's a very soft and arm friendly racquet but from all accounts you'd need to play quite a bit with the weight. That's fine of course if you are happy to do that. The 18*20 version i tried certainly needed something to get it going.

Yes, I understand it need to be leaded up to 340g +, but that's ok.
How soft is soft? Are we talking "prince tour 100 exo3 16x18" -soft?

 

[Gee]

That seems to have a stiffness rating of 70 ...
I think low 60s or even in the 50s is preferable if the frame does not play/feel overly soft despite a high stiffness rating.

According the TW review the SG9 seems to play much softer than its high RA indicated because of the Bio Sensor handle system, V-Sponse technology and Super Grommet system.

BTW Definitely try your coach' C10 Pro. That one has everything what you're looking for!

 

[sma1001]

Yes, I understand it need to be leaded up to 340g +, but that's ok.
How soft is soft? Are we talking "prince tour 100 exo3 16x18" -soft?

My experience was that the TF315 plays a little less soft than the Prince Tour 100 which has a unique feel. But as lots of people here say: feel is very subjective.

 

[smalahove]

Thanks guys. I'll check out what my coach has in the Volkl vein, and have a think about the t-fight.

 

[smalahove]

:sad: It seems neither the tfight 315 16x18 nor the organix 10 (325) is available from TWE (which is where I'm going to buy rackets) in grip size 3.

 

[Gee]

:sad: It seems neither the tfight 315 16x18 nor the organix 10 (325) is available from TWE (which is where I'm going to buy rackets) in grip size 3.

You can order grip pallets size 3 if possible. The Head (both the TK82 and TK82S) pallets fit the TF315 ltd. Völkl grip pallets are available as well.
I also guess TWE will be prepared to install the pallets for you if you order a racquet.

 

[smalahove]

You can order grip pallets size 3 if possible. The Head (both the TK82 and TK82S) pallets fit the TF315 ltd. Völkl grip pallets are available as well.
I also guess TWE will be prepared to install the pallets for you if you order a racquet.

Ahh, but I'm a bit thumbs-only when it comes to anything more difficult than adding lead and overgrips ... but it could be an option if I get TWE to customize the t-fight frame.

 

[MisterP]

If you want control and feel I think a custom weighted Pro Staff 97 would be a better choice than the RF97.

 

[Power Player]

Not sure if you are going to find one frame that does everything.

Currenlty in my bag are 3 different weight classes of frames, and I'm liking the middleweight a lot :

Yonex XI98 - stiffer control tweener. No arm problems (foam handle really helps here I think). 16x20 pattern -330 grams. Like a hybrid of pure drive and 6.1. Really sweet stick - low swing weight, you need to like to swing fast a lot to control the pop

Graphene Prestige MP - 340 grams, 18x20. Loving this frame. Super easy to use considering the specs. Lots of ball feel. Not sure if it's an arm buster, but it sits right between my other frames and is my racquet of choice to use for the upcoming season. I would compare this to the blade, but it is a better frame IMO. Also has a bit of the 6.1 feel to it, but once again - easier to use.

Tfight 315 ltd 16x19 - weighted to 350. One of my favorite frames I have owned. It is soft and needs to be weighted up to be substantial. To get the balance to 6 pts HL and have a SW of at least 320, it needs to weight 350 grams. So that makes it a bit heavier than I would prefer, but I love the racquet's control and feel. It is essentially the same mold as the Prestige, and even has Head pallets. The GPMP is just an easier to use, firmer version of this frame, and that makes match play a lot easier for me.