TRU PRO

It is low-powered IMO (which is fine) but the small change in directional control I experienced had enough impact for me not to consider this string as my current favorite.

Before completely writing off Firewire, I recommend you try it in the mains and syngut in the crosses strung 3# less. I experienced the same directional issues - sometimes uncontrollable, but those went bye-bye when I started string with an ultra smooth cross like Prince XC. Gosen Micro 18g works really well and makes for a nice responsive string bed, at least in my old Pure Storms.
 
For you alt-stringers, a heads up. Don't bother trying to string FW 17 and 18g at tensions north of 68#. Three sets of mains snapped while trying to string it 70#. I've had no problems ever at 65#, but 70# wasn't happening. No, it wasn't a bad grommet if you are thinking that. In all three attempts the string snapped at three different locations *AFTER* tension was removed and I was stringing two mains away. Going to order a set of 16g to see if has the same issue.

After the 3rd popped string, I decide to try their Strike Force RIP instead, which didn't break before I got it off the stringer. After my experiment with a set up inspired from @Shroud and @travlerajm, I really like ... no love RIP much better at 70# than at my usually 52-54#. The amount of ball movement I got on slice serves was the best I've been able to produce so far since I started the game 7 years ago.
 
Before completely writing off Firewire, I recommend you try it in the mains and syngut in the crosses strung 3# less. I experienced the same directional issues - sometimes uncontrollable, but those went bye-bye when I started string with an ultra smooth cross like Prince XC. Gosen Micro 18g works really well and makes for a nice responsive string bed, at least in my old Pure Storms.

Great thinking and I am definitely not writing off Firewire or FW Boost. I'll try a different hybrid setup at some point in the future.
 
For you alt-stringers, a heads up. Don't bother trying to string FW 17 and 18g at tensions north of 68#. Three sets of mains snapped while trying to string it 70#. I've had no problems ever at 65#, but 70# wasn't happening. No, it wasn't a bad grommet if you are thinking that. In all three attempts the string snapped at three different locations *AFTER* tension was removed and I was stringing two mains away. Going to order a set of 16g to see if has the same issue.

After the 3rd popped string, I decide to try their Strike Force RIP instead, which didn't break before I got it off the stringer. After my experiment with a set up inspired from @Shroud and @travlerajm, I really like ... no love RIP much better at 70# than at my usually 52-54#. The amount of ball movement I got on slice serves was the best I've been able to produce so far since I started the game 7 years ago.

I got some weird breakages stringing FW 16 at 60 pounds. It would break outside the racket within a set of playing on a weird string bend. Getting the tension down to 56 on a lockout has solved that problem. The cross string in FW Boost seems to have no issues with high tension.
 
Okay, its been a while so I'll provide an update on this all. I played a full set with Racket 1 and even several days later the tension has barely dropped. Same story on Racket 2 after no play on it. So, tension maintenance on this string is excellent. Comfort is much better than Cyclone.

HOWEVER, I have definitely noticed less pop and control after extended use. Enough that I had switched rackets completely during a match (something I never do) because I was missing shots that would normally drop in. After switching rackets (to my standby racket from 30 years ago...strung with syn gut), things got back to normal. After the match, I decided to try the Tier 1 FW Boost in my old racket (Prince CTS Graduate 90) strung at 52 lbs. After 4 sets with this combo, tension dropped 12.4%. In general, playability was fine but I didn't experience any more spin than with syn gut.

So, this all said, I think that Tier One FW Boost is a good string, with the following attributes (in rank order):
  1. Tension maintenance
  2. Comfort
  3. Value
  4. Spin potential - perhaps dependent a bit on the racket
It is low-powered IMO (which is fine) but the small change in directional control I experienced had enough impact for me not to consider this string as my current favorite. I was hoping the result would be different as the value of this string had the potential to rival similarly and higher priced strings. I'll continue to experiment with it (still strung in my 2 Pure Drives and one CTS Graduate) but I am now going to try full bed Cyclone 18 awg in one of my CTS Graduates and see how that goes. I have 3 more matches this week so I'll definitely be able to compare the Cyclone and FW Boost back-to-back in my old rackets.

PS - I am thinking about ditching my Pure Drives and reverting to the Prince rackets from my High School days. I have 4 of them total and they play great...

The spin is quite nasty in my open patterned frames.
 
I got some weird breakages stringing FW 16 at 60 pounds. It would break outside the racket within a set of playing on a weird string bend.

I'm using a drop weight machine to string on. My breaks were outside the racquet as well but I hadn't even got them off the stringer when they snapped... lol At 65# I've yet to break a FW string in my closed Pure Storm Tours.
 
How did those last 3 set ups work for you thus far? I just strung Boost myself and can't wait to try that and FireWire/Hawk Touch


I played Sat with the FW / Neos (Boost setup). Hitting topspin lob winners over two guys up was the most notable part of of this frame. [emoji3] i know I had six before my teammates stopped rushing the net.

Went out of town Monday and just got home from San Jose, CA. Playing tonight.

While I was gone, three more Prince Warrior Textreme 100 frames arrived with 4 1/4 grips. Paid $100 for each them. [emoji2] I will put Fiarways on them and add a 1/2 size (white) gamma grip build up sleeves.

Playing singles Friday am and Sat am and will get more time with the other setups. Sold the frame with the V-Torque/Head Hawk to a buddy. Playing with the Boost setup tonight again.
 
Well that didn't last long.

My opponent got into the Girl Scout Cookie or perhaps Granddaddy Purple before lightning up the Marlboros before we hit. The longest rally in the warm up was him hitting to me and me trying to catch the moonball before it went over the fence. Not joking

The court next to me was a buddy I string for and my teammate playing singles. I had a golden set going and couldn't stop myself from DF. Thankfully he retired at 0-3 after I offered to play him another day. I told them I was going to retire if my opponent didn't.

First time ever facing a totally stoned opponent in tennis. Hope it is my last time. What a waste of a beautiful night in the low 70s with no humidity.


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Two more outings with FireWire Boost (singles and doubles) and I am starting to feel the stiffness of this string over my normal setup of Cyclone Tour.

The spin is nice, and it feels more powerful but I did strung it at a lower tension than Cyclone Tour 1.30mm, so can't judge the power level just yet. I am not sold on it for my personal use yet, and miss the tried and true Cyclone Tour I have known for 3.5 years.

I will keep playing with the Boost setup, the FW / Head Hawk setup, but think the Boost / Head Hawk Touch might be the best of the three honestly.
 
Earlier in the post I wrote about not stringing Firewire over 65# and trying Strike Force RIP at 70# in the mains with OSGM 18g in the crosses. Today, I strung a Pure Control Team stick with Tier One's Tour Status in the mains at 73# (78) and OSGM in the crosses at 57# and played doubles for two hours. After playing a little more than a week with this extreme specs, I am really enjoying the control, increase spin and the feel/sound on contact with the ball. It is totally addictive. It is weird after spending more than year trying to find my setup at lower tensions, going up way up has been a game changer. The terrible part about this set up and the RIP version is when its my service game, generally I only get to hit five to six serves and may be a couple of volleys before we've won the game :D:D:D In all seriousness, the only real downside is once the tension drops significantly, which would probably be good for normal players, after about 10 hours of hitting, my ability to keep the ball in the court and placement decreases :(:eek:
 
So I came across Tier One's free trial offer (just pay shipping), and decided to pick up a set of their new Black Knight poly strings. The description on the site is a bit misleading though, as it turns out is is NOT a smooth/rounded poly, but a shaped one. They didn't mention that at all! My intention with this string was to use it as a cross with a multi (HEAD Velocity MLT) in the mains. Now I am not so sure I can do so, because the Black Knight is likely to just saw right through. Can anyone here offer any feedback on that? Experience with the Black Knight string, or thoughts on if that will just saw through the Velocity?
 
Black Knight is shaped but not very sharp. It may be OK as a cross string but obviously a round string would work better as a cross.
 

I don't think you won't have anything to worry about. I haven't used Black Knight, but I have played with several other Tier One strings shaped strings in the crosses like Tour Status and have yet to break a string in my 16x19 sticks. Unless you have D1 level strokes, you'll be okay with that pattern and I bet get at least 10-12 hours worth excellent play and another 6-12 okay after that. FWIW, if you have a dependable slice and slice serve, I thing you will appreciate BK in the crosses.
 
I don't think you won't have anything to worry about. I haven't used Black Knight, but I have played with several other Tier One strings shaped strings in the crosses like Tour Status and have yet to break a string in my 16x19 sticks. Unless you have D1 level strokes, you'll be okay with that pattern and I bet get at least 10-12 hours worth excellent play and another 6-12 okay after that. FWIW, if you have a dependable slice and slice serve, I thing you will appreciate BK in the crosses.

That's encouraging, and I might end up giving it a try. I still think Tier One should do a better job of describing their strings on the site though. I mean it being a shaped poly, is that not a major defining characteristic? Anyway, We'll see how it goes. One of my goals was to have a setup where the cross and main strings glide over eachother nicely, and snap back into place. I doubt the Black Knight will do that not being smooth/round though...
 
That's encouraging, and I might end up giving it a try. I still think Tier One should do a better job of describing their strings on the site though. I mean it being a shaped poly, is that not a major defining characteristic? Anyway, We'll see how it goes. One of my goals was to have a setup where the cross and main strings glide over eachother nicely, and snap back into place. I doubt the Black Knight will do that not being smooth/round though...

This is where Firewire Boost comes in. You get an extremely sharp string for the mains in Firewire and a nice smooth/soft poly cross for the main to slide across. Black Knight is a really good string too but I'd just use it as a full bed.
 
Has anyone used Prince Premier Touch? I'm wondering if that could be a good soft cross with FW.

FW would saw through PP Touch like a hot knife through warm butter. PPT is a soft multi no matter how you slice it.

Use a smooth slick poly instead. Wilson Revolve would be my last choice as sharp strings shred Revolve.
 
FW would saw through PP Touch like a hot knife through warm butter. PPT is a soft multi no matter how you slice it.

Use a smooth slick poly instead. Wilson Revolve would be my last choice as sharp strings shred Revolve.

^ this is an issue with the current Tier One line-up. They do not offer a smooth/rounded poly! There is a rounded poly in their hybrid pack with the FireWire, but they do not sell it separately. Get with the program @TierOneSportsOfficial , not everyone wants a shaped poly.... :rolleyes:
 
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^ this is an issue with the current Tier One line-up. They do not offer a smooth/rounded poly! There is a rounded poly in their hybrid pack with the FireWire, but they do not sell it separately. Get with the program Tier One, not everyone wants a shaped poly.... :rolleyes:

Not really an issue IMO. I have multi reels of smooth polys on hand, and TW sells every one I have in stock. I use Wilson Pro Overgrips, yet my frames aren't Wilson. RF has used one string by Wilson (Natural Gut) and one by Lux (Alu Power Rough) for years. Not so sure what he will be using now that Babolat no longer makes Wilson's natural gut and Lux has taken over that contract. Maybe he has a 5 year supply in a climate-controlled vault.

My personal favorite in the FW setups is FW/Head Hawk, with FW/ Head Hawk Touch next. If TierOne stops making Neos2, FireWire will continue to sell as there are plenty of smooth polys to use as a cross.
 
^ this is an issue with the current Tier One line-up. They do not offer a smooth/rounded poly! There is a rounded poly in their hybrid pack with the FireWire, but they do not sell it separately. Get with the program Tier One, not everyone wants a shaped poly.... :rolleyes:

I have used Cream successfully with FW. I am also going to be trying MSV CoFocus, which to me feels similar to the FW Boost cross (neos I think T1 calls it?)

Also looking forward to the upcoming availability of an ~18g/17L version of Cream
 
Two more outings with FireWire Boost (singles and doubles) and I am starting to feel the stiffness of this string over my normal setup of Cyclone Tour.

That's what I was afraid of. A full bed of Firewire is manageable for me and is an absolute spin monster with ample power. I will still give the Boost a try but will drop below my usual low tension set up.
 
^ this is an issue with the current Tier One line-up. They do not offer a smooth/rounded poly! There is a rounded poly in their hybrid pack with the FireWire, but they do not sell it separately. Get with the program Tier One, not everyone wants a shaped poly.... :rolleyes:

No, they don't sell a smooth round poly, but what the do have is Strike Force RIP. Try that in the cross 3# lower than the mains. It is one of my favorite cross string with Firewire. The reason to use RIP is the slickness of the string. If your gripper isn't clean, you will know it right away string this slip poly. Once you get it in, you will be bothered by the fact the notches in this textured poly keeps the string from moving back into straight lines, but after a session or two you will realize that it won't matter because you'll be too hooked on the stupid amount of spin and pace out of the combo. I have three guys I string for using this set up who love it. The toss up is whether to use 18g to make a really thin string bed or 16g to get the edges of the FW string to stand up higher in a closed 16x19 pattern. If you have an open pattern, you certainly want to go with 16g.
 
That's what I was afraid of. A full bed of Firewire is manageable for me and is an absolute spin monster with ample power. I will still give the Boost a try but will drop below my usual low tension set up.

To me, the Firewire Boost feels the same in terms of softness as a full bed of Firewire. I'd start off with the tension the same.

Now that I know how to string Boost which is every string at 60 pounds except for the two outer mains on either side at 56#, I'm getting some serious durability even in my 16x16. I'm estimating that I get 9 or 10 matches out of it before the strings break.
 
I have used Cream successfully with FW. I am also going to be trying MSV CoFocus, which to me feels similar to the FW Boost cross (neos I think T1 calls it?)

Also looking forward to the upcoming availability of an ~18g/17L version of Cream

How did the Cream feel with FW? Also, did you use it as a cross? How was the softness?
 
How did the Cream feel with FW? Also, did you use it as a cross? How was the softness?

FW18/Cream gives me all the positives and none of the negatives that you would want from a full poly setup. FW Boost is crisper and better initially, but seems to me the Neos2 cross tension falls off faster than Cream, making FW/C more consistent for the long run. As for softness I find this setup to be ideal at 50/48 with zero discomfort, but any higher and my 50-something elbow and wrist will complain.
 
Now that I know how to string Boost which is every string at 60 pounds except for the two outer mains on either side at 56#, I'm getting some serious durability even in my 16x16. I'm estimating that I get 9 or 10 matches out of it before the strings break.

curious as to how you came up with stringing the last main(s) at a lower tension?
 
curious as to how you came up with stringing the last main(s) at a lower tension?

Firewire can't handle the weird bend in between the last 2 mains. It was constantly breaking there after a few games when the entire bed was strung at 60#. For some reason, the string has no issues 4# lower on those last two strings on each side.
 
Firewire can't handle the weird bend in between the last 2 mains. It was constantly breaking there after a few games when the entire bed was strung at 60#. For some reason, the string has no issues 4# lower on those last two strings on each side.
Thanks for the insight.

I don't recall the stringing method name...but it is when you would skip the 2nd to last main and then go back after doing the outer main. I wonder if it would be an option or something to consider. I've done that on a few of my racquets before. In the end, I don't do it any more because sometimes I forget and don't think about it anymore.
 
Thanks for the insight.

I don't recall the stringing method name...but it is when you would skip the 2nd to last main and then go back after doing the outer main. I wonder if it would be an option or something to consider. I've done that on a few of my racquets before. In the end, I don't do it any more because sometimes I forget and don't think about it anymore.

It breaks on the outside of the final bend at the bottom of the frame at 60# so I'm not sure if the Yonex loop would work? Basically, on that bend the string does not go in like a semi-circle. There is a slight kink on one side. That appears to be the weak point from my diagnosis. I'm happy with the solution I've found and I just have to remember to drop those 4 strings down to 56# and then I'm good.
 
@mikeler - have you tried a power pad at those two locations?

I had a crush on another string Discho Iontec a few years back. It had the same issue as FW and I did try power pads but they did not solve the problem. Props to you and DJ for coming up with some great ideas though. Thanks!
 
Before completely writing off Firewire, I recommend you try it in the mains and syngut in the crosses strung 3# less. I experienced the same directional issues - sometimes uncontrollable, but those went bye-bye when I started string with an ultra smooth cross like Prince XC. Gosen Micro 18g works really well and makes for a nice responsive string bed, at least in my old Pure Storms.

Just to be clear on this -- I am probably going to buy a reel of Firewire 17 (I used 18 last and it was fine..just not sure if I should go to 17 instead or stick with 18) in a couple days and am going to take your advice on Gosen Micro 18 (or should I consider 17 instead?) as a cross. However, I am not sure I am comfortable stringing the syn gut 3 lbs lower than the FW since I'll string the FW between 48-50 lbs. I would think a similar or perhaps couple lbs. higher tension for the syn gut cross would make more sense. Can you clarify your recommendation?
 
Just to be clear on this -- I am probably going to buy a reel of Firewire 17 (I used 18 last and it was fine..just not sure if I should go to 17 instead or stick with 18) ...

I think your decision on gauge should be based on whether you are a string breaker and the pattern of the racquet you will be putting it in. What racquet model are you using? The more open the pattern, the larger gauge I would opt for -- if durability is important. The more closed, you could go with a thinner gauge and enjoy more comfort/touch I think. I've played with both 17 and 18g and my personal preference is the 18. It probably all mental, but I like the way it feels when I make contact with the ball. 17g would be the better of the two options if you have a more open pattern racquet.


However, I am not sure I am comfortable stringing the syn gut 3 lbs lower than the FW since I'll string the FW between 48-50 lbs. I would think a similar or perhaps couple lbs. higher tension for the syn gut cross would make more sense. Can you clarify your recommendation?

I tried the crosses higher than the mains thing. For me, the string bed felt too boardy and it lacked the pocketing feel and control. I played so bad with it I think I cut the strings out before I made it to the five hour mark. However, it may feel fine in your racquet. My suggestion is to start with mains and crosses at 50# for the first attempt and play the set up for at least six hours. If you are consistently hitting long, by say 2 feet, then you have three options starting with either increase both the mains and crosses by 3# - or - increase just the mains by 3# - or - increase just the crosses by 3#. If your FH are landing close to the service line then do the opposite to move the ball closer to the baseline. Repeat until you can consistently hit the same depth. Researching what works for you, in conjunction withthe sticks you are using and your swing mechanics is all part of the learning process - and fun! Keeping good records/diary is worth every second you put into it on your path to finding your ideal specs. Two years ago, if I was hitting long I would have increase the tension on both the mains and crosses. Last year, I would have increased the tension on the crosses only. This year, I have increase the tension on the mains to get more spin which helps bring the ball down into the court sooner. Anyways, restring with your correction and see how it plays. Adjust and repeat until you find your golden setup.
 
I am using a pair of 2015 Babolat Pure Drive + right now -- 16x19. I ended up opting for 18 awg and will stick with 50 lbs as a starting tension. However, I'll likely need to experiment a bit with the crosses....I took your recommendation and ordered Gosen Micro 18 awg and will try it as a hybrid cross instead of NEOs. 50 lbs just seems too low for a syn gut so maybe I'll try 52 lbs and go from there. I will test the setup and after a couple hours (6 hours seems like a lot more time than I need to get a feel for things!) decide if I need to cut it out or not.

Thanks for all your help thus far!
 
Hmmm.... since you are using PD+ you might want to consider starting at 53# instead of #50. Firewire is pretty lively. If you have a fast, full swing I'd bet you'll be overhitting at 50#. Instinct tells me you will end up with mains at 56# crosses at 53#.
 
I am using a pair of 2015 Babolat Pure Drive + right now -- 16x19. I ended up opting for 18 awg and will stick with 50 lbs as a starting tension. However, I'll likely need to experiment a bit with the crosses....I took your recommendation and ordered Gosen Micro 18 awg and will try it as a hybrid cross instead of NEOs.

!

Who advised putting 18 Gosen Micro with FW ? [emoji102]

Sharp knife and warm butter approach with that setup.
 
Hmmm.... since you are using PD+ you might want to consider starting at 53# instead of #50. Firewire is pretty lively. If you have a fast, full swing I'd bet you'll be overhitting at 50#. Instinct tells me you will end up with mains at 56# crosses at 53#.

I used FW Boost at 50/50 lbs and was able to control the overhitting...precision on fine shots seemed a bit off though. Loved the comfort of the setup! Ultimately, looks like I will need to play around with things...
 
Another duplicate post. Edited to update another singles match.

FW 16/ HH 17g played well tonight against my teammate / Men's Captain (Nima) and who most 4.0 guys want bumped to 4.5. I didn't play well enough.

Nima is a tough 4.0 opponent and well known in the state of SC. Nobody knows my name. Most 4.0 singles players know the name "Nima". Lost to him again tonight in 10 PTTB. His serve is better than a lot of 4.5 men in town and gets him so many free points. Two aces a game many times. ☹️

The FW/HH setup worked well tonight with deep balls followed by drop-shots. I served well tonight, but not as well as my friend. He plays with a blue Yonex DR 98 with YPTP 55 M/X with 3 Total grams of Tungsten Tape at 10/2.

I played above my level due to the FW/HH Setuo. Kudos to Tier One. Losing makes me hungry.
 
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Two smoth/slick strings I'd recommend as a cross with a shaped poly are Isospeed Baseline Spin or Speed as well as Pros Pro Red Devil.

Baseline is cheaper so it can help cut down cost of stringing
 
Who advised putting 18 Gosen Micro with FW ?
emoji102.png


Sharp knife and warm butter approach with that setup.

Before completely writing off Firewire, I recommend you try it in the mains and syngut in the crosses strung 3# less. I experienced the same directional issues - sometimes uncontrollable, but those went bye-bye when I started string with an ultra smooth cross like Prince XC. Gosen Micro 18g works really well and makes for a nice responsive string bed, at least in my old Pure Storms.

I'll try it out and see what happens :D
 
I'll try it out and see what happens :D

FW is a very sharp string.

Just didn't want you to waste stringing fees and a half set of FW. Putting a smooth poly cross seems to work well with FW. I have tried three different smooth polys, and Cream is a 4th option.

I just like Head Hawk and always have. It is a slick low powered dead cross that works great with Natural Gut and shaped / edged polys.
 
As a fellow fan of the Cyclone series of strings, I'm curious to hear your thoughts on this one.

Just posted about my outing tonight vs Nima. Lost the match, but beating Nima is not easily done in singles or doubles. I have more luck in doubles as I avoid him when possible.

Question for you @mikeler and @TierOneSportsOfficial --

Do either you notice any difference between the red and black versions of 1.30mm FireWire? About to order another reel of 1.30mm in Black if it plays like the 1.30mm Red. Thanks for the $50 off coupon @TierOneSportsOfficial
 
Just posted about my outing tonight vs Nima. Lost the match, but beating Nima is not easily done in singles or doubles. I have more luck in doubles as I avoid him when possible.

Question for you @mikeler and @TierOneSportsOfficial --

Do either you notice any difference between the red and black versions of 1.30mm FireWire? About to order another reel of 1.30mm in Black if it plays like the 1.30mm Red. Thanks for the $50 off coupon @TierOneSportsOfficial

I wasn't aware of a black version of Firewire. I'm not a fan of black marks on the ball that some strings add so I probably would not opt to try it. Every now and then I pull the Tier One Black Knight frame out of the bag like I did yesterday with a set of doubles and those strings just will not break. They are really good too but the spin of Firewire is just too intoxicating.
 
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