[Review Experience] Bonny Classic Carbon 2013P II

Jayce September 3, 2024 0

First, let me introduce myself: I’m an amateur player who started playing badminton in 2013, around my first year of college. I’ve spent many years playing in local courts and later, during my postgraduate studies, had less time for badminton, averaging about three times a week. My style leans towards speed and aggression, and I rate myself around level 4 on the Zhongyu scale.

I’ve tried various brands, including domestic and the major three, thanks to friends and opportunities to test out different rackets. While I don’t have a strong desire for high-end rackets (mainly due to budget constraints), I’ve used some high-end models and had enough experience to know what works for me. Often, I end up using the XM25 I got for free during a promotion for casual play with friends and coaches. Thus, my reviews are personal and subjective, and everyone is free to have their own opinions.

Currently, my main rackets are the Third Court Black Panther K Supreme Edition and Black Panther C Titanium Edition (which I’ll review later). I’ve always wanted to explore second-tier brands and considered rackets like Kawasaki Lightning, Wolf, Bonny Slash Demon Sword, 2013 series, 1982 series, and J20 series. Despite some hesitation due to concerns about Bonny’s reputation, I decided to order the 2013P II Frost Blue, tempted by PDD’s offer. The coupon price was 305, including the 66N string. The seller was a certain online shop; I wonder if Fat Lou remembers me.

Parameters: I won’t go into details about the 3-in-1 frame, eight-blade edge, etc. You can find those details yourself. Given the 80-hole design, I asked Fat Lou to string it at 25 lbs.

Appearance: Initially, I preferred the 2013L II Purple Gold, but my girlfriend thought both the Frost Blue and Purple Gold were nice, with Frost Blue being better. I did some research on the differences between P and L models and, based on my playstyle, chose the Frost Blue 2013P. Upon receiving it, I found the glossy paint to be quite beautiful, understated yet luxurious, not as unattractive as some forum comments suggest. However, it’s rather unremarkable. By the way, I still think the cloud logo looks better; if it were the cloud logo, it would be a knockout.

Feel: As a singles player, I haven’t used it for doubles. After high-intensity play, I’ve played nearly 16-17 matches of 21 points each. I’m not sure if I’ve improved or if it’s psychological, but my record is 15 wins and 1 loss. My version is without the base tape, using a milk-colored grip, which makes it slightly heavier but still agile. It’s indeed very stiff, as advertised and noted by other players—a “brute” as described by some. It has excellent downward pressure and a strong drive, often making me feel an irresistible urge to smash when facing high balls. With good power and footwork, I can often score with a single hit. It has good directional control, hitting exactly where you aim, and performs well in both offense and defense. In flat drives, it’s impressive and well-suited for continuous attacking players. Despite being a 3U racket, it’s highly flexible, not inferior to my friend’s Speed Series.

Drawbacks: I initially wanted to mention that it’s heavy and stiff, which can be exhausting, especially against tough opponents. If you’re fatigued and your movements are off, the power of this heavy racket diminishes. But this isn’t the racket’s fault—it’s my issue!

Additionally, there’s a lot of talk about water army issues with second-tier and domestic brands, especially in the mid-range price bracket. With potential malicious competition and exaggeration, personal experience is crucial. With the stringing cost of 300, I believe the 2013P II is undoubtedly a solid choice.