💚 NEW 💚 Wilson Blade 100 V9 Review: Is This Best Blade? | Comparisons to V8 & Newest & Best 100s

[@ACTennis]

Made a mistake on unstrung weight for my V9 100 sozzzz, should be 298g

[@nglfmark1]

Exactly the same as my V9. 298g unstrung. I added Babolat leather grip and only 2g extra compared to original syn Wilson grip.

[@Nessaj87]

@@nglfmark1 I don't get this, how did you get that little increase? I removed the original Wilson grip and added Babolat Leather Grip. I did add the Leather grip a bit higher than where the original grip stopped, because Wilson seem to design their grip length for 1h backhand players for some silly reason. So I understand that mine should be a bit more than what you got. But I increased from 303g unstrung to 314g unstrung with only leather grip replacement. On my V8 100.

[@nglfmark1]

Yes, I was surprised by the little increase too (by changing to Babolat leather). Maybe the stock syn grip in V9 is heavier than stock V8 syn grip. I still have the original V9 grip. I will weigh it and let you know what the weight is. I have a photo of the blade V9 strung with syn grip (314g) and another photo with same V9 same strings but leather (316g). Difference is only 2g.

[@Nessaj87]

​@@nglfmark1 Really weird, but yeah they could have added a heavier original grip to make the racket more stable (or maybe it's a new model?). My Blade V8 100 was 303g unstrung. Removed original Wilson syn grip 288.5g. Added Babolat Leather grip which I did apply a bit over where the syn grip had been, because Wilson grips are so short and I wanted it longer. 314.2g. So maybe 1-2g is extra because I didn't cut it where the original grip stopped.

[@Nessaj87]

@@nglfmark1 And to me that sounds correct, that's what I heard in most videos online is that a leather grip adds about +10g.

[@OldManMidnight]

I hear the intro music, and my body is ready for an AC review

[@arueda46]

Can´t wait to watch your CX 400 Tour review

[@SY-it7xs]

After watching the blade pro v7 review countless times I finally bought 3 18x20s and 2 16x19s in the v9 version. After a couple hits, I got to say your review was excellent and true to how the racquet plays. I'm not even interested in this model but I watched it purely for the production quality. Keep up the good work AC tennis, you make the best racquet reviews.

[@ACTennis]

One of the best comments ever thank you 😁

[@illyushen9856]

which one would you recommend among 18*20 and 19*20 ?

[@leonardoramirez7667]

Blade v8 100 user. Acquired the v9 100 and been playing for 2 weeks now. I can say that these play very very similar, but the feel and stability are the differences. Stability is an obvious improvement and feel is subjective. I like both v8 and v9 feel, however I think because I'm used to more muted frames that I have more confidence with the v9. I feel the v8 string bed trampolines slightly and that difference in flex is what I think makes the v9 a little bit better. I will keep my v8 100s and add another v9 100 to have 4 frames. Very good all around forgiving and now very stable frame modern control frame.

[@imodium5118]

bro, your videos are just better and better everytime ! ty

[@ACTennis]

Appreciate that man

[@sebastiandomagala9233]

Seems like Wilson did a very good job of getting it right for everybody.

[@tennisnow3920]

love the comparison with other racquets, nicely done !

[@type1ist]

excellent and thorough review as always!

[@GabeBonnici]

Definitely interested in a comparison video between Blade, Percept and CX400. Currently playing with a customised Gravity MP, looking for a better balance of Control, Power and Stability.

[@hybrid11theory75]

Yeah, the Gravity MP is a noodle. U really have to put some weight to make it somewhat powerful and stable, but then it gets more demanding due to the overall weight.... ,)

[@LiamApilado]

Hey Allen, I remember seeing in one of your reviews that you played at The Y which is like 2 minutes away from where me and a few fellow tennis nerds play. If you’re from around there and keen to play some tennis would love for you to join :)

[@ACTennis]

Hit me up on my email and we can exchange numbers , ill let you know what im around

[@LiamApilado]

@@ACTennis sounds great, where can I find ur email?

[@ACTennis]

@@LiamApilado very bottom of description 😁

[@keykey702]

You have absolutely the best looking OHBH including the pros...Can't stop looking at them.

[@ACTennis]

Hahha i dont think anywhere near as nice, but appreciate the kind words!

[@SonPham-zy2zp]

@@ACTennis Yes, I like your OHBH as well, in one of your videos with the camera moving behind to show the angle of your OHBH, that is just beautiful and I am trying to practice like that. BTW, there is another version of Blade v9 98S 18x16, a very strange string pattern, Is it a chance for you to review it?

[@ACTennis]

@@SonPham-zy2zp Thanks! i have been working on it alot since this video, and it's much better even now since February / March - for the Blade 98S, i don't think it's available here in Australia unfortunately

[@987mikka]

As always exceptionnel review, Thank-you

[@anielloliguori6312]

Taking mine out tonight! It cane in on the matching service from tennis warehouse Europe at 297g unstrung 287 SW, got it strung with hybrid set up Hyper g soft in mains at 46 and Bobalat execll at 50 crosses so it weighed 311g strung i added 1g at 2 & 10 and 1g in the handle so its now 314g. I have an all court style and played with 98 16x19 both 2015 and the CV. Since then played with all sorts of rackets! I must have more than any store lol! been looking for that balance of control and power and comfort! Decided to go for this with demoing! I figure its a blade and I did play well with them, however thier SW were quite high and now i am 64 I need some help! So went for an under spec one which meant i can weigh it up, if its to much I can take the weight off!

[@Takeshi007Fukushima]

Thanks for the video! This is perfect for me! Well all most. My current racket is a Wilson ProStaff 97 v13, I am a rec player with a single handed backhand. I was just looking for a new 100 inch racket hoping for more forgiveness. I have demoed the percept 100D and CX400 Tour. I liked the percept 100D because of the control and how the control feels similar to the Prostaff. It probably would be an easier transition. The CX400 tour was a totally different feel, however I really felt the extra power. Although it might take awhile to transition to this racket, it seems it may give me more power and help me in defense, probably good for me on the long run. I was just about to demo out a blade 100. It’s too bad the demo rackets are Nylon strings. I can’t have an exact comparison with my Prostaff with Allu Power Vibes. It’s always a guessing game. So I was thrilled to find this video! You shined some light on the different rackets in comparison. However this is more centered to the blade100, it would be nice if it was more evened out for all the other rackets. Ex. You have rated cx400 quite high in different aspects but you don’t really talk much about this racket. I am guessing you are coming out with a CX400 tour review? If so, I might wait for that one. Thanks again for the video!

[@johnnacke4134]

AC: A truly outstanding racket review! Thank You. Well, you helped me make up my mind. We have communicated many times… I am the old 4.0 dude who still plays competitive singles. I have been playing with the Shift 99 16x20… I like the racquet, and generally play well with it… BUT, I need a bit more control.. I do hit mostly flattish, and sometimes I get a bit tentative going for my shot because of lack of spin. The V9 Blade 100 has gotten great reviews from Europe ( Tennisnerd, and many others..)I want a somewhat lighter racket that will give me some pop and control, and good for the OHB…. I think the Blade 98 16x19 might be a tad heavy, and more demanding. The Blade 100 looks perfect for me… I will go for the Blade 100 when it becomes available in the States. Thanks for helping me. ciao, John Also, I string my rackets with gut in mains 55; alu power rough crosses 52 ( Champions Choice Hybrid) Do you think that this would work in the Blade 100?

[@ACTennis]

Thanks John, glad it can be of some use to you , your string setup should be all good, cant imagine it being anything wrong

[@ToonLink240]

Awesome review, man! It really is a fantastic stick. Hoping to see the Dunlop CX 400 Tour get either it's own video, or at least a more in depth video with other 100s, as I think it's really that good. Based on your brief comparisons here, seems like you like it as well outside of the stiffness. Hoping to see your verdict on that racquet if you decide to detail on it more. However, I know how much time you take on these to get them right, and I certainly appreciate we at least got a Blade 100 review! I think I'm more on the fence of the 100 being better than the 98, but I get why people would still prefer the 98. Not to mention the Blade 100 looks even bigger than your normal 100, imo. Thanks again as always, man!

[@ACTennis]

Agreed, looks massive doesnt it? almost like the 104 lol - i will give it some more time soon, got sidetracked with this one because no one has been able to review it yet, and have held the CX 400 for a month now I think id steer towards 98 for my most difficult matches, but 100 ill happily play everything else, actually still a consideration of 50/50 to buy the v9 18x20 in my spec or the 100

[@TimTividad]

I’m playing with the Wilson Blade 100, v9. No issues with elbow or wrist. Current set up Kirschbaum Super Smash Yellow Spiky 1.20 at 48 lbs. I prefer comfortable, (maybe medium firm) responsive strings. Thank you!

[@ACTennis]

LXN Alu Power or Element are always good options, but expensive - Element maybe more so would last longer playability wise If you want cheaper options, possibly: - Solinco Confidential, Tour Bite Soft - MSV Co Focus - Head Hawk Power or Head Hawk Touch (might be a bit muted feel) - TruPro Durafluxx (easiest / cheapest to buy online US)

[@TimTividad]

@@ACTennis Thank you, Allen! Tim

[@Javi_C]

Thanks for the review!

[@leonardoramirez7667]

Bruhhh, thanks for the review. Was eagerly waiting for this. Debating wether to upgrade from my v8 100 as I like the comfort but i feel more control and confidence with slightly stiffer layup.

[@ACTennis]

V8 super comfortable, V9 a nicer response, once i'm done shelling out some of my current racquets if i keep them or not i am seeing if i want the v9 18x20 or 100 😊

[@Knoxcarey914]

@@ACTenniswhat is the different in the 18x20 and 100?

[@ACTennis]

@@Knoxcarey914 18x20 is softer, more control, lower launch angle, slightly less power, maybe heavier feeling in general due to weight and swingweight

[@bodzio2304]

it would be awesome if AC Tennis made a video in the style of the best rackets for one-handed backhand with such an analysis as he always does reviews, some top 5 rackets💪😎

[@bodzio2304]

AC is back, yeaaaaahhhhh!!! :))))

[@farood5]

Fair to say and also thank you for your video to make the choice simple . If you have a V8 100 the difference is marginal if anything no point upgrading

[@ACTennis]

Too expensive to upgrade, it's nice if you have the spare money but other than that... lol

[@AlexTennisChannel]

Excellent video!!

[@anthonydabaco8407]

Excellent review. Seems this frame has been a bit of a hidden gem that's now starting to get the plaudits it deserves. Curious to try despite very happy with my set up (PS Gen3 16x19/HyperG Soft 50lbs). Would like to find a 100sq option that makes the game a bit easier at times. Outgoing V8 might be the way to go given so similar, should be a bit cheaper. Keep up the great work.

[@ACTennis]

Wont be more power than the Gen 3 Strike, but for sure lighter and easier to swing if thats what you are looking for, with some good power when you swing out, and more stable at lower weights

[@anthonydabaco8407]

Thanks for the extra info, particularly the free power insight. That’s a bit of a non-negotiable for me!

[@hybrid11theory75]

I love your simple, but effective Serve Motion. Your wrist is very loose, similiar to Sinner. :)

[@ACTennis]

Appreciate that sir 😁

[@ryansolomon4178]

Thanks for the review! Currently using the Whiteout 18x20 and love it but sometimes my elbow doesn’t even with a soft poly at low tension. I was thinking of trying this out because it sounds up my alley and I also have a OHBH. Anything else you suggest I try? Was thinking of the Speed MP but I worry about a 330SW.

[@protossmr2344]

OHBH. Try RF 01 instead. You will play like Roger

[@ACTennis]

Sorry for late reply - i quite like Vcore 98 on one hander, Blade 100 as long as you have a nice simple stroke it works too, just the headsize can feel a bit large for some people Speed Pro 2022 was really good for OHBH , without the high SW added

[@ryansolomon4178]

@@ACTennis thanks!

[@bodzio2304]

​@@ACTennisSpeed pro 2022 has also 100 inch head size! ​what are the differents between them? And pleeeeeaaaaseeee do a video about versatile racket for one hander backhand that are also good for topspin forehands, that are baseline grinders, not to heavy, any thougs?

[@ACTennis]

@@bodzio2304 It just moves the right way through the air, especially if you balance it to make it headlight

[@Le-Chuck]

Great review. Will you make a review of the 98s (295g-18/16) ?

[@MrTimesoy]

Thanks, this helps a lot!

[@t2dev]

Do you think adding 15-20g on the handle to up the static weight is necessary for more plow? I was thinking of undersizing the grip then adding a shrink wrap. I'm more of a flat FH and a OHBH.

[@ACTennis]

@@t2dev It would work, only if you feel that the hoop is stable enough, since its quite light to begin with, adding 10g shodnt be detrimental, it can feel reasonably head heavy which might put some people off on the OHBH But if not enough plow, just add like 1-2g to 12 oclock, that should be enough

[@t2dev]

Maybe I'll order the right size grip instead and begin with with putty at the butt or tape at the handle. Thanks for the informative review and response. Cheers.

[@peterjohnperpetua8898]

How does it compare to cx 400 tour? Which one is better dor ohb?

[@gaetano4143]

How would you compare the blade to the percept 100? Do you think the percept 100 is easier than the blade 100?

[@ACTennis]

percet 100 will be a little easier but not quite as stable in stock form, with a bit of weight, i assume it should play like the 100d from the materials its composed of, so it should be stable at a bit higher weight I think blade 100 is easier because its just free stability, percept 100 youll need to swing faster to access most of its properties

[@gaetano4143]

@@ACTennis do you think for an intermediate player the percept 100 is better than the blade 100?

[@ACTennis]

@@gaetano4143 nope

[@gaetano4143]

@@ACTennis thanks!

[@eugenioc7776]

How would you compare the blade 100 v9 to the clash 100 pro v2

[@lolman360]

Currently looking to switching off my PS 97 Countervail to either the Blade V9 100 or 98. Do you think either of these are a good step up from what I'm currently using or should I look into demoing other rackets? I'm also am a one hand backhander that primarily hits flat. Thanks for these in depth videos!

[@o2xygen02]

Ive played with both the v8 and now v9 and have been experimenting with different string setups. Looking to see if i can get a bit more power and spin from the frame. Do you think moving to an ezone 100 or solinco blackout would be a good move? Or if you have any other recommendations? Ideally keeping the SW below 320...

[@ACTennis]

@@o2xygen02 Would blackout or ezone suit you? because they are much thicker frames - but blackout does swing pretty fast and has really good spin , ezone can be a bit clunky if you want more whip, but its good for driving shots New blackout seems to be coming out soon, it would be interesting what they update - but if you want a cheap frame, it means probably both are on sale now with new generations out soon If you like the whippy feel like a blade, try solinco whiteout 18x20 (the 16x19 one is really open, youll close a bunch of control)

[@o2xygen02]

@ACTennis both ezone and blackout are on decent discounts right now so thought it would be worth considering without too much of a loss if I don't vibe. I'll check out the whiteouts thanks 🙏

[@nglfmark1]

I bought the V9 5 hours before your video was uploaded. Strung up immediately and will play tonight. Sound like it is exactly what I imagined. Will find out soon. Excellent review and comparisons between the other popular 100si rackets. I had the Blade 100 V8, Percept 100D and they were excellent also. Mine was 298g unstrung, changed to leather grip, strung with TAAN TT 8600 1.20mm 50lbs mains and Prince Lightning Pro 1.25mm 50lbs crosses. Hopefully the hybrid and lower tension (compared to your 53lbs ALU) should negate the firmness in the string bed you mentioned.

[@ACTennis]

Hope you enjoy it - i can't imagine too many people have the issue with the stiffness, i'm definitely on the more sensitive side, but also this was a stiff string for me to use, interested to see how you go

[@nglfmark1]

Played with the Poly/ Multi hybrid 50/50 and it was like a huge pillow. So comfortable. Volleys were a dream. Serving, groundstrokes all very good. No complaints. No additional weight (except the change in leather grip). Overgrip and dampener. Total static weight is 325g. I have a one handed BH, semi western FH. I had to take off the dampener. I found it more dampened than V8. I will restring with full poly around 50lbs Ytex Quadro Twist 1.26mm mains and Pro's Pro Red Devil 1.14mm 48lbs in the crosses. Have been playing tennis for over 45 years.

[@tommehzlol]

@@nglfmark1 hey mate I'm in the market to buying a blade. I've demo'd the V9 100 16x19 and absolutely loved it, but at the current RRP modern price tag, there are V8 98/100 16x19 available at half the price, but i haven't been able to demo these. At half the price I really want to save some money but not lose the great feel of the V9 100, what would you opinion be? The biggest thing for me was the confidence the V9 100 gave me, which translated to better play and shots. The only complaint is the power was slightly lower than I'd like, not sure if the V8's would fix this. Note it was a demo too so the string wouldn't have been optimised. Keen to hear back from you

[@tilenmlakar7036]

@@tommehzlol I have done the same, enjoyed play test with V9 (along with 17 other racquets during half a year period) and now have purchased 100 V8 due to being almost the same according to reviewers (i prefer the comfort) and of course for half of the price. Will hit with the V8 later this week - remind me to report back :).

[@tommehzlol]

​@@tilenmlakar7036 hey mate thanks for replying! let me know how the V8 goes. I ended up pulling the trigger on the V9 100 because I found a seller with a really competitive price. I was very keen to stringed it with Volkl Cyclone Tour which didn't respond well with me. Re-strung with Alu Power and it's a world of difference, very happy with my purchase. Could you let me know how the V8 feels vs the V9 ? I might pick up a V8 as a backup racket for cheap if there's not too much difference between the two

[@yatuducheeez]

Great review! How would you compare the 100 V8 to the 360+ Gravity Tour? Thanks!

[@ACTennis]

Lol testing my memory on that one, i haven't used that in a long long time, i never had particularly a great experience with Gravity Tour, i didn't enjoy the head heavier balance and always felt slow , even in the right stock spec, or if you made it more headlight, then it just made it too heavy - i don't know if it's because i'm a better player now since i was then, maybe i would enjoy it more, but at this stage from memory only, Blade 100 was just better at everything aside from maybe feel

[@Nessaj87]

I recently purchased the Blade V8 100 as it was discounted to 113 euro which I would put as a steal. 303g unstrung. Replaced original grip with Babolat leather grip. 314g. Strung it with Head Lynx Tour 1.25 -> 333g. Added 2g lead on each side at 3&9->337g. With Yonex overgrip it is now 342g. Do you think I went too overboard weightwise? Normally I play with Yonex Vcore100 at 327g and Yonex Ezone DR98 at 335g. Would love to know the SW on my Blade V8 100 but sadly I only have the tools to measure static weight.

[@ACTennis]

Swiingweight may not be that high if you only added this lead on, though lynx tour also adds swingweight because its heavy - i think if youre used to 327g and 335g, you probably went overboard with static weight. 7g can make a big difference for me to swing speed

[@Nessaj87]

@@ACTennis Did you try Lynx Tour in any Blade? Seemed to be a favourite alongside RPM Rough for Racquets and Runners testing of the V9. Yeah might need to consider not using the Leather grip I guess.

[@WE-vd8ux]

Coming from a Tweeners Frame (Aero Pro Drive 2013), which one you think is easier to adjust (v8 or v9)? What about launch angle and which one you give a slightly edge in spin?

[@ACTennis]

Not gonna be that much different, v9 is gonna feel a bit more muted, and have a little more power, the spin is probably slightly more on v9 as well because it is more powerful

[@CR4WLFC]

I also have a chance to get a v7 100. Any thoughts on that? For me stability and comfort are important. I am switching from the clash 100 looking for a bit more plow through and control

[@ACTennis]

Nah never got around to trying that one back in the day, i'm sure it's similarly as good if the specs are relatively the same and the shape and everything is identical, once you change the composition, it's mostly feel that can be different

[@LL-kz1qe]

At the moment which is your favorite racket blade 98 18x20 blade 100 100D or the customized Shift?

[@ACTennis]

98 18x20 I think i would probably play the best with, Blade 100 is really fun and nice to play with, i could also do pretty well with that - the Shift is a bit too heavy for me with swingweight, and 100D is not for my style personally

[@januarius3361]

been curious for a while about this… is there a reason the percept 100 isn’t on this list ? is it too powerful ?

[@ACTennis]

I chose mostly the 'controlled' variants , that would be closer to Blade 100 profile, think it's the more popular one anyway - Percept 100 is not too much different, maybe slightly less control, higher launch angle, incrementally more power and less stable from the 5g less static

[@arueda46]

Would be nice to have a comparison with the Gravity tour

[@ashton2410]

What's your favourite to least favourite of the 5 racquets you compare? Is head speed aux 2.0 worth the upgrade from 2022?

[@ACTennis]

@@ashton2410 Blade 100, Percept / Speed MP, Cx 400, Strike MP aux 2.0 is a downgrade , because of the specs they default at stock, its not beneficial to most users i think, too high of swingweight

[@ashton2410]

@@ACTennis thanks. Blades are my favorite racquets but I can’t get on with the new buttcaps of v8/v9 so I’m stuck with my 98 v7. Don’t mind the radical but it hurts my arm. Speed mp I really struggle with control especially ohbh so think I’m stuck with unforgiving nature of 98s.

[@ACTennis]

@@ashton2410 A new gravity 98 may be coming early next year, so that could be an option or new Extreme Pro with a more arm friendly string set up

[@ashton2410]

@@ACTennis Wouldnt a 16x19 gravity 98 with exact same specs play very similar to a gravity tour 18x20 (assuming same beam). I read your reply earlier about not liking the gravity tour. Do you find the auxetic radicals much better in terms of comfort than previous? I think auxetic 2.0 radicals could be a winner which I assume are 2025 also.

[@ACTennis]

@@ashton2410 It's probably gonna be a bit more Blade like, which in fairness us not gonna be that far off thr Gtour - i playtested it a couple years ago for a short time, cant say i remember alot about it though lol I have bought the aux Gtour recently and well i dont like auxetic gravity feel , but it plays decent, just not better than the Pro, nor do i like the current gen Pro over the original Aux radicals on other hand was an upgrade , albeit slight, but feel was much better, but i think string sensitive - 2.0 may also be slight improvement, if the specs remain similar

[@trzmaier]

Subjectively, I rate Blade 100 V9 spin potential noticeably higher than Percept 100

[@gabrielsales6687]

Hey Mate! May I ask what’s your Gravity Pro’s unstrung SW? And what do you consider as ideal? Cheers!

[@ACTennis]

@@gabrielsales6687 Ideally around 295 around, for the 2019/2021 versions which are a bit harder to come by, the Auxetic its more common

[@Hazem.m11]

Actually I tried speed mp 100 and pure drive 100 and I like them because of forgiveness and easy power, but sometimes I tend to love stiffer frames with low weight as they are easy to manuever and powerful at same time, Also tried v8 blade 100, I like the feel and control of it but ai really felt its more heavey than all 300grams rackets I tried, so do u recommend me trying 100L light version of this one ? Its stiff an low weight so it sounds like it could suit me well... Thanks also for really detailed review, keep it up!

[@ACTennis]

Yep that's because it's kind of head heavy with a large head size, so it can feel a little clubby for some people 100L i think could be a good choice, with a little bit of extra weight if it's not enough, but being stiffer it could be already a reasonable bit more powerful as well

[@brunis_m]

Measured my V8 strung with Lynx Tour at 59 RA and it feels exactly like that. Btw I think that listed balance is wrong, as a 300g racket with 34cm strung is bound to have a much higher SW. My specs unstrung were 300g, 322mm, 290 SW on an RDC. I feel like it needs more weight tho, as there is very little free power

[@ACTennis]

You can blame TW for those measurements, pretty sure they just copied pasted the 100L version lol - Blade regardless of model is still a swingers racquet, not really meant to have free power per se, but big swings most certainly provide heavy shots

[@jorgetirado3201]

I’m coming from a pro pure strike 16x20 perspective (I’ve tried all of these but the previous years models), and I’m curious about why you ranked the strike low for maneuverability, when it is the most head light of these frames in stock form (7 pts head light)?

[@ACTennis]

Maybe just the swingweight combined with the balance was bothersome, but thats 7pts HL unstrung no? had a 1.25mm gauge string pushing my SW to 331 , anyway im still testing, thats why i refrain from scoring yet until i give it a proper go, had a couple hits but now i can give more time to it

[@jorgetirado3201]

@@ACTennis got it - 7 pts head light strung. Mine with overgrip are around 32cm balance point. Swing weight with a 1.25 string around 325

[@ACTennis]

@@jorgetirado3201 Thats the spec i wanted but i think the stores SW machine is not calibrated, cuz i took it home to mine and got over the range they had told me

[@sundaramirtanandha7058]

Awesome review. If you were to choose 100sqr which plays beat for single handed backhand OR would you stick to 98? From any manufacturer?

[@ACTennis]

After really kind of mastering my technique and swing in recent months since this review, i actually don't mind different frames anymore - currently using my gravity pro obviously 100sqin at a 33cm balance and 321g Of course i much prefer thinner beams , so 22mm max i would say, 100 or 98 is not a problem

[@jplapuz123]

How does it compare to the v9 18x20?

[@idna_firry]

Nice review, thanks! Just a comment: perhaps it'd be somewhat more correct to compare with PS 100 (16x19, not 16x20) and Percept 100 (not 100D). I believe those 5g more and the different string patterns is a sign that those are intended for different users (I may be wrong, but I hope you got what I mean).

[@ACTennis]

I get you, but yeah the reason why is that Blade 100 is still a control racquet for this line of racquets, so i compare what i can to the other (within reason) control racquets Speed MP is the only one that is seemingly a bit of an outlier, but it Speeds always had a decemt amout of control for what it was The 5g at this weight is not enough to make a difference for this specific style of racquets

[@wizbiz1589]

Do you think V8 100 works better with soft poly, or can a stiffer poly like Confidential still work well with it?

[@ACTennis]

I think you should use a stiffer poly, because it''s already a very soft racquet, it might be too much of a double up if you use a soft poly

[@wizbiz1589]

@@ACTennis Thanks for your view. I asked that because experienced people (like Tennisnerd) suggest using stiff polys for power rackets like Ezone to tame that power. I tried this and it was so much better in my experience, so I assumed this would be the other way around for soft-control rackets, for adding some power and depth.

[@ACTennis]

@@wizbiz1589 Just depends on how well you can access the power of the V8 100, i think it has good power if you can fully swing, so i'm thinking more about balancing the feel of the racquet But if you can't access the top end power so easily, by all means you could use a softer set up or lower tension to get some more free power

[@josejoselete6156]

i prefer the v8 much better than the v9, although the v9 is more stable i hate muted feel, the v8 is more maneuverable and fun to play with

[@johnmarano6933]

Your videos are great, thank you! Have you ever used the V9 104? For a weak player it really does feel like butter, speaking from experience. I’m looking at possibly adding the 98 18x20. You mentioned you would choose to compete with that model first. Would there be some benefit for a 3.0 player to train with the 98? Or safer to experience the learning curve with the 100? Strong athlete lacking technique. Thanks in advance!

[@ACTennis]

98 18x20 id consider an advanced racquet, best to stick with the Blade 100 or even previous gen 2022 Speed MP / current gen Speed MP legend (they have lower reported swingweights than the regular 2024) - good racquets to help develop

[@johnmarano6933]

@@ACTennis thank you for the advice 👍

[@TimTividad]

Hi Allen. What tennis string do you recommend. I’m a 4.0 player, and I hit mostly flat. I’m not a string breaker. Thanks in advance! Love your video content!

[@ACTennis]

Thanks mate - can depend on alot of things - what's your racquet? current string and tension? do you have any preexisting tennis elbow or wrist issues? do you prefer comfortable or stiff feeling? ball pocketing or responsive? 😊 Give me an idea and maybe i can recommend a couple

[@indragazali]

​@@ACTennis hi allen ... i havesame question like above.... my current racket ezone 100 string with PTP 48/46. 3 month ago i have elbow tennis .. thats why im loose my tension string, i like power dan highlaunch ...for my comfort hand. But i need control too.. due to 4.0 player. Im always use poly.. do you think for bring the best this racket for poly/hybrid/multi? Thanks you.. love from indonesia Big fan..❤

[@ACTennis]

@@indragazali Try soft cross string if you have access to buy - try PTP and Head Lynx Touch or ALU Power Vibe

[@wizbiz1589]

Hi AC Tennis, do you think it's better to have an overspecced V8 compared to on-spec V8? I'm not sure if overspecced Blades are more head-light or head-heavy. That's why I'm curious about what you think. Ps. I think you have the best racket reviews on YT :)

[@ACTennis]

Thanks mate - overspec is really just meaning that it comes alot heavier in weight than intended, it can more headlight or more head heavy, it happens for both ways Are you referring to V8 100? I think the average swingweight listed in tennis warehouse is probably wrong, but i do hear that alot of people needed a little bit of weight to maximize the v8 100 - so i think overspec is right route to go, so long as it suits your style, but i always prefer more headlight than head heavy, adding weight to the head is easy, if its built within the racquet then virtually impossible to change if its too much for you

[@wizbiz1589]

@@ACTennis Thanks, you put a smile on my face with such a fast reply. Yes, I meant V8 100. Mine is just 302.5g unstrung so I think it's pretty on spot. I also love headlight rackets for serve speed, that's why I love your perspective. I'll buy you a coffee using your link :)

[@ACTennis]

@@wizbiz1589 Hahah damn was about to say not necessary but just got the notification, much appreciated! hope the frame works out for you

[@rob7ho]

Nice review. I have two questions. If you had neither one, which version would you get? But let's say if you know a used V8 selling $100 cheaper than v9, would you get the V8? Btw, here in canada they don't sell the Blade 100 so it's hard to get.

[@ACTennis]

If you are strapped for cash, by all means get the V8 - inherently they will play similar enough, but the feel will be the most noticeable - just know that it's still a swingers type of racquet, so the power comes from self generation , but theres some good power there if you can access it

[@raiderraider11]

have you tried the regna 100? and if you did, how did you compare to this? im currently using regna 98 and 100, thinking of switching to this one

[@ACTennis]

I briefly hit for it only, quick impressions were that it was like the 98, but faster because it was lighter, feels similar, but not as much stability i thought - Blade 100 would be an overall easier racquet to play with, Regna 100 is more for the enthusiast for racquets i would imagine

[@boyansirakov8653]

Hi, Blade 100 V9 or Blade 98 V9 16x19 for doubles? OHBH. Thanks in advance 🙂

[@ACTennis]

Personally i like lighter racquets in doubles, and since its stable, you can get away with alot

[@tigerkenshi]

How is this compare to Blade 98 v9? I plan to upgrade from Clash 100 v1.

[@ACTennis]

Will be a much easier transition than the 98, can just look at the two rating charts i gave each racquet

[@mteca5093]

V9 100 Lite was tested next to v9 100....the lite was modified to regular 100 weight and the lite had more power, control and spin..... can you test the v9 lite with some Weight n balanced as 100

[@ACTennis]

V9 might be a bit too stiff for me, but its definitely going to have more power and all that - i'll see

[@mteca5093]

@@ACTennis I use a hybrid or soft poly in my stiff frames also cause I like power without stiffness

[@mteca5093]

@ACTennis a coach From Europe once told me the blade 100L or the 101L was a pro stock that he used built up to his specs and his students used it stock form ...one is 16x19 other 101L is 16x20

[@mteca5093]

How does it compare to v7 100?

[@TomekGrzyb82]

How does it compare to Gravity Pro? Thinking about switch from it to V9..

[@ACTennis]

If we're talking stock, Gravity has better control, more top end power, more spin, competitive stability, or still better due to swingweight being higher, but alot more difficult to move around for long periods and serving, but also still more forgiving - that manoeuvrability issue is probably what stops about 80% of people from using it, but mine is very slight spec so i can use it for a while

[@TomekGrzyb82]

@@ACTennis thx!!

[@jwill071855]

Nice! By the way which version of the Dunlop CX 400 TOUR are you referring to in this comparison?

[@ACTennis]

2024, never got around to the previous, but still testing this one

[@nikkosantos8347]

hii. do you like the blade 100 or percept 100d more? why? thank you!!!

[@ACTennis]

Blade shape suits my swing better, i prefer the one hander on the Blade 100 - and the feel is better 100d is more controlled, little less power, more muted, both have good stability, but the racquet is also a bit thicker, does suit my swing as much, but you may be the opposite

[@nikkosantos8347]

@@ACTennis thanks! What do you mean it suits your swing? Like the blade compliments a bigger swing? Percept compliments compact? I believe I have a compact swing.

[@ACTennis]

@@nikkosantos8347 Yes i think blade suits a compact swing, percept maybe a bigger fuller swing, but the Blade you still need good speed even if compact, if you are tight, and arm the ball, it wont generate enough power

[@sebz1767]

Is it really more powerful than 100D? It's much softer and a bit thinner, so I would expect more power from Yonex. Overall which one would you prefer between these two?

[@ACTennis]

I prefer the Blade 100, its easier to move around, serves better for my style of swing, better for my one hander, stability is quite competitive, power comes from racquet head speed, but it's easier to generate than the Percept which comes in a millimetre thicker and feels a chunkier to me

[@agradina]

wat is balance point of ur own racquet now?

[@ACTennis]

33.2cm for Gravity Pro

[@dreamphoenix000]

Bro anything noteworthy came out this year yet? Want to add something to a collection but not sure if there's anything that distinctly standing out.

[@ACTennis]

Nothing mate , some new Federer Wilson stuff on the way though, complete new range apparenrtly - i'm waiting for that, some kind of RF98

[@dreamphoenix000]

@@ACTennis pity. I'm itching for a new toy. Hopefully this new Wilson thing gonna be an interesting addition!

[@dreamphoenix000]

​@@ACTennis Oh wow Wilson does tease something with Roger. Now that looks like a collection worthy.

[@FelipeFranco1088]

Nice! how does it compare to ezone 98?

[@ACTennis]

Feels a bit chunkier, alot more free stability, ezone handles alot faster and whippier , allowing for more spin, power is dependent on your strike style, i prefer linear stroke with Blade 100 and handsy stroke for Ez98

[@frantzsly]

@@ACTennis In terms of comfort which one would you rank higher ? I’m torn between the two but I worry about comments on the Ezone stiffness. Thank you in advance for your answer, keep up the great work !

[@ACTennis]

@@frantzsly Blade 100 will be more versatile for comfort, in sense of strings and tension, it will accept more variety and feel nicer, Ezone depending if you have preexisting issues, stringing a bit too high or with wrong string can probably lead to some discomfort, not insanely stiff by any means but can be for some people

[@frantzsly]

@@ACTennisThank you for the quick and precise answer, I will start with that one !

[@joeking4006]

Review for the pure strike 100 16x19/20?

[@ACTennis]

Will spend more time with it soon now that this one's done

[@jakubmichta7919]

Excellent Video ! Greetings from Poland :) How do you compare Wilson Blade v9 100 to Wilson Pro Staff X ? I'm thinking about changing from Pro Staff, because pro staff is too stiff for me and it’s quite hard for serving.

[@ACTennis]

I didnt like the Pro Staff X for the couple sessions i tried it, i was very excited to play with it but i found it slow moving, lacking decent power and suprisingly not great control in my opinion - but i did not give it alot of time, but i didnt want to commit my money to review it if the first impressions were not that great

[@jakubmichta7919]

@@ACTennisThank you for your reply ! Do you think that the blade 100 v9 will have more control than the Pro Staff X? what bothers me most about X is high launch angle (which affects control and predictability) and comfort. That why i want to switch. Im testing now Blade 98 16x19 and im impressed in serving and comfort of this raquet, but after your review i think Blade 100 will be better for me (Blade 98 is quite under power)

[@ACTennis]

@@jakubmichta7919 Yep i think overall a better racquet than PSX, i found little control on big swings and played a bit wild when attacking, even though it should be designed for that , if you can demo first then would be safest route but overall its much better than PSX

[@jakubmichta7919]

@@ACTennisunfortunetely local shops dont have v9 100 in stock, so i wonder to try blade 100 v8 or waiting for v9 demo. Thank you for your opinion, after 6 months using the X i have the same observations like you about this stick

[@haroldjefferson8149]

Do u recommend the Blade 98 or the 100 ? Which one is better ?

[@ACTennis]

Sorry, never saw this comment - I recommend 100 for someone on a bit lower level, intermediate and anything higher 98 is ideally for high intermediate to obviously goes up to professional level, but also a great training tool to reach the next level, but the 100 probably would do the same for you in that manner aswell

[@987mikka]

Ac you are the Best

[@PiustellaKim]

Great review! Trying to decide between the v9 98 16x19 and the 100. Which would you say is more comfortable (less demanding on your wrist, elbow, etc)? Thank you!

[@ACTennis]

Either will be totally fine as long as you find the right string setup, maybe overall forgiveness and weight on the 100 should be a bit better, making off centre less impactful

[@wallenwebb]

Now that a few months have passed, any thoughts on good string setups for the 100 V9. Awesome review.

[@ACTennis]

Crisp but comfortable strings are my preferred for this racquet, like Toroline Wasabi Pro, LXN Element, MSV Co Focus come to mind

[@draconiadorian]

@@ACTennis Hey man. Took your advice and strung the Blade v9 100 with Lux Element Rough (52M/50C lbs). What a superb combination - plush and comfortable, great feel and plenty of spin to boot. Easy enough for me to generate spin without exerting too much effort on my groundstrokes motion. The easy power of the string nicely balances the slightly underpowered capacity of the racquet. I love crispy strings and Element Rough offers plenty of crispiness when the ball is struck cleanly. Yes, the string is pricier than most and durability may not be the longest, but having experimented with so many polys to find the perfect combination with the v8 100 (which I used before switching to the v9), Element Rough and the v9 100 offers the best combination of comfort, feel and spin for my game. Bonus - the bronze colour of the Element Rough looks sick when paired with the emerald green of the new Blade. My racquet (and string) journey is now over.

[@ACTennis]

@@draconiadorian Strings are really tough to recommmend because they are more personable than racquets and the selections are endless, Glad it worked it really well!

[@TheodorosKolokotronis799]

V8 100 made it difficult to manoeuvre and specially on my 1HB. I am curious after all the great comments i hear about 400 tour. If you had to choose one. 400 tour or v9 100 and why ? ❤ (leave stiffness issues aside).

[@leonardoramirez7667]

I guess it depends on your swing path but for me the v8 100 helped me on consistency. I play on clay so heavy balls to the 1hb can be a struggle and this has helped me a lot in this regards. I play with 8 grams of lead, 2g each on 2 & 10 and 2 on the handle.

[@ACTennis]

Needs a shorter swing, i wasnt really 'swinging' it around but still getting alot of plow and heaviness - i got sidetracked with this , so i havent tested the CX enough beyond my few hits, seems pretty good so far, i need to change strings and try again - am not going to say one or another until i know for sure, dont like to be turning around and saying the oppoite of what i say initially

[@TheodorosKolokotronis799]

So blade 100 or cx400 tour ?

[@DanTheMan1610]

Which blade would you choose for your own game, 100 or 98? Thank you

[@ACTennis]

Debatable really, tough choice, i love my 98s which would be my natural selection, only at this point its a 50/50 - i think i could get a little more speed and spin out of the 98 if its in my specs though - maybe that slight bit more precision would be better for me in singles because i tend to go full blast, so probably the v9 18x20 at the moment

[@Nahhmah]

Why would someone choose the V9 18x20 over the 100? For more control only and maneuverability only?

[@ACTennis]

Advanced players want that next level of control and precision, maybe not as big of a head size, may seem like minor details but those will make massive differences at high speed play and pro level

[@cagr9394]

I have already had Blade 100 v8, is it worth buying blade 100 v9?

[@ACTennis]

Check out the section i compare the two in the video

[@afifahmayuddin7494]

Hands down one of the best, if not the best, racquet reviewer out there 🫡

[@mteca5093]

V9 100L and 101L are the best platform rackets wilson makes 100inch

[@reallypantik6283]

Listen even Wilson dont know the specs, they just ask for specific color and form factor, and whatever china manufacturer sends them back is good enough if it doesnt look like a square racket :DDD

[@ACTennis]

Sounds about right 😆

[@benjaminjensen111]

hmm Michelle wasnt particular happy with this stick

[@ACTennis]

What about it that didnt gel? what's her playstyle and level range?

[@benjaminjensen111]

@@ACTennis Michelle from Tennis Warehouse USA

[@ACTennis]

@@benjaminjensen111 Oh lmaoo, she uses an RF97, i highly doubt this is her style of racquet

[@benjaminjensen111]

@@ACTennis Well she might use the Wilson RF 97 as her preferred racket but she tests a lot of rackets and there's rackets she tests that she likes more and some she do not like so much. And she is signed a lot to test the 98's of the different brands. As example she liked a lot the 3. gen Babolat Pure Strike 16 x 19 and Head Prestige Pro 2021 former MP.

[@ACTennis]

@@benjaminjensen111 That goes with any racquet, even if its considered good by a majority of people, there are always people who dont gel with some lol

[@ssportslivetvstreaming]

V8 better than V9 feel

[@ACTennis]

I like the v9 better, but long term arm health maybe v8 is nicer for the arm, definitely softer

[@ssportslivetvstreaming]

@@ACTennis Bro you are saying the opposite of what u sayin, just say the v9 is muted and bad upgrade...

[@ACTennis]

@@ssportslivetvstreaming Lol hows that the opposite? the v8 is actually more muted, thats why its softer, the v9 is actually a bit stiffer, so i dont know what you're talking about , unless you are actually referring to the 98, then you might have a point, but the 100, no

[@seachangeseachange]

This Blads 100 is made of normal graphite while the Blade 98 is made of braided graphite, it's not the same pleasure

[@farood5]

@actennis does this make a difference the graphite ?

[@seachangeseachange]

@@farood5 Feel is better, I found

[@ACTennis]

@@farood5 I personally prefer just traditional graphite racquets lol, they tend to be higher quality, changing the composition normally results in change of the feel, and that comes down to preference

[@farood5]

@@ACTennis agree

[@michaelbrenner9529]

According to Wilson Customer Service the 100 has the same material as the 98. It was a fault in the specs of their homepage.

[@tennis-fan]

If the throught wouldn t have been so darn wide 🙄

[@gregmaier5151]

Compare this review to Harry’s bs 💩 on Tennis Spin🤣

[@TimTheMusicMan]

Here we go the 100th new giant racket for 2024, the artificial technology and artificial strings keep getting better and better and making it easier and easier to hit spin, power and control, pretty soon you won't have to possess any skill, the racket will just do it all for you.

[@ACTennis]

Pretty soon we won't even need to play 🙂

[@TimTheMusicMan]

@@ACTennis 👍 😂