At 90 square inches with a 16 x 19 string pattern included on this 19 mm box beam, this racquet is suited to advanced to tour level players looking for more control than power. Don’t be fooled by the paintjob, this racquet packs a punch, but as all counterparts go it also lacks a few things.

What really impressed me the most with this frame is the precision control I was able to get on my serves. I was able to successfully guide the ball on 23 out of 30 serves, and I mean right on, place one of those trainer aids their and I’ll be able to hit it no problem. Although, if you frame your serves a lot or mishit, those serves will still go roughly around the area you want them to.

 

On returns this racquet could definitely use some lead, if your opponent hits monster serves just hope he faults a lot as this racquet, at 11.7 oz strung, will barely block the ball over the net and get it deep.

 

For those who serve and volley, I would suggest adding around 6 inches of lead tape at the 3 and 9 o’clock position on the frame. At net this racquet lacked the power to push the ball near the baseline of the court. But on the plus side, those of you who love to go for those drop-shots at net will love this racquet. This racquet has great touch on the volleys, angles are easier and so are drop-shots. You’ll also appreciate the crisp feel of this racquet on contact.

 

Now with the 90 square inch head size, you might be surprised by the larger-than-expected sweet spot. When hitting ground strokes with this racquet, the head size felt like a mid plus, mishits won’t dribble into the base of the net. The power from the baseline was totally different than that from the net, definitely not lacking at all. If you take a long swing back you’ll definitely enjoy this racquet, as the open string pattern almost makes it impossible to hit out, but for those of you with a very compact swing it is advised you stay away from this racquet.

 

For those of you who love to slice your forehands/backhands you’ll find this racquet fun to move your opponent around with. When it comes to spin this racquet has it. With the 16 x 19 string pattern adding spin to any ball is like taking candy from a baby. With the topspin the ball will bounce roughly around 5 ft to 5ft 6 in. On the other hand slices will stay low and go deep, also if you were to add sidespin, your opponent might be thinking of hitting a forehand but when the ball bounces he’ll have to adapt to a backhand.

 

All in all this is a nice improvement to the 100 line. Although at 11.7 oz with a swing weight of 296 it does leave improvement for lead tape. Also it comes with a great grip, if you have problems with blisters you may want to give this Hydramax Tour grip a try.