Jayce
Generally speaking, in Victor’s range, models with an “L” suffix often have substantial significance, such as the MX-30L for women, the TK-15L for lightweight design, and of course, the JETSPEED 05L indicating a different color. However, with the expanding range of products, I’m beginning to question whether the “L” actually signifies any special tuning.
At least for the BRAVE SWORD 12L, I have some doubts based on the weight data.
Specifications: 3UG5, without cap, weight 100.70g, balance point 292mm, shaft length 216mm, medium stiffness, diamond wind-break frame, 72-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock string grommets, warranty up to 30 lbs, strung with 25 lbs NBG95.
Despite its worn paint, I can still see its former elegance. The silver and white base paint contrasts with the sky blue, giving it a scholarly, gentlemanly appearance within the BRAVE SWORD series’ stylized design, reminiscent of the old MX-30L. On closer inspection, the blue stickers on the frame and the sword emblem at 5 o’clock have a pearlescent effect. If not for the “flower sword” design leading to a battered wind-break section, this would be a very attractive racket.
As a derivative model of the BRAVE SWORD 12, it retains the same technologies, such as the internal wave and shock-absorbing grommets, suggesting it should be a lighter product. However, both the 3U and 4U specs, and the 100g weight, were surprising, leading me to question the “L” designation. The BRAVE SWORD 12L is indeed a light racket, with a lower balance point compared to the 12, making it feel sharper and more agile. Additionally, the 12L has a lower overall stiffness, providing greater shaft deformation during power shots, making it more user-friendly.
So, what’s the trade-off? It struggles to handle the shuttlecock effectively. The BRAVE SWORD 12 was not renowned for its attacking power, but its higher stiffness and suitable swing weight allowed it to perform well in sustained smashes. This was a key reason why many experienced players returned to the 12. The 12L, with its adjusted balance point, emphasizes continuity but results in straighter shot lines and less sharpness compared to the 12. The response is also slower. While the 12L maintains some smash speed capability with 95-pound stringing, it lacks confidence in its shots.
I initially thought it would significantly improve net play, but I found myself needing to adjust my power application more carefully. When rushing to hit the shuttlecock at the net, I frequently sent it out of bounds. This transition from other rackets to the 12L showed a higher rate of errors in net play, largely due to excessive hand movement or failing to stop the racket in time, making the racket’s handling fault more apparent.
However, the feel in flat exchanges is still good, supporting my previous assessment of its improved agility.
Notably, the 12L’s handling is similar to the BRAVE SWORD 15, with the shuttlecock staying on the string bed a bit longer. This provides more confidence in rear-court lifts and net play, with slightly improved error tolerance.
Other aspects, including the feedback and feel, are quite similar to the 12, and the unmentioned parts align with previous reviews. Thus, I believe the BRAVE SWORD 12L is a more agile and friendly version of the 12. It has less fame compared to the 12, and similarly, its circulation is lower. Moreover, the issues with its downward pressure and paint durability lead to significant depreciation in the second-hand market, making it another loss for me.
