Karry
Columbia Series: Columbia 5 (3U) Review
Previously, a friend mentioned that the Columbia series feels incomplete if it’s not a 3U. For the third installment, I decided to get a 3U Columbia 5. After testing it, I was struck by how high-end the actual feel is, though even at a mid-range price, it hasn’t enhanced market performance details. The current Columbia series is all high-spec.
Specifications:
- Weight: 3U G5
- Full specs weight: 90g
- Balance point: 310mm
- Shaft: 6.4mm Babolat carbon
- Shaft length: 220mm
- Hardness: Rigidly tuned
- Frame: Egg-shaped box frame
- String grooves: 8-4
- Core filling: Strong core filling
- String tension: 25-27 lbs VBS66N
The new copper color with a glossy finish is part of the Columbia’s series design. It doesn’t bring anything new, but the striking color reminds me of Rambo from First Blood—with a muscular look.
Feel and Performance:
Upon first use, there’s a noticeable head heaviness, which was expected. Aside from that, there’s nothing particularly new. The weight increase from 4U to 3U further limits the swing speed. As for flexibility, it’s similar to the Columbia 6.
The shaft’s performance parameters are clear: the rigidity is between the Columbia 3 and Columbia 6, better suited for players who find the latter too stiff but are dissatisfied with the former’s softness. The racket still delivers powerful and aggressive shots. Even when adding extra force for clears, it can pressure opponents with poorer fundamentals. The shaft’s tuning is at a “drivable” hardness level, which I find very favorable. However, it’s still on the heavier side, so it’s not recommended for everyone. This racket has a strong self-selection filter for its users.
Key Points:
For intermediate players, especially against opponents who prefer high serves, you need to consider your tactics. In such cases, start quickly to ensure you can reach the shuttle point in time and execute a strong attack. The racket delivers explosive sound and effect with powerful shots that can pin the shuttle down from the baseline. After adapting to the egg-shaped frame, controlling the sweet spot becomes easier, elevating the overall experience to an exceptional level. The thrill of smashing with this racket is addictive, making you temporarily forget its demanding power requirements. The Columbia 5 surpasses the previous Columbia 6 in terms of pure smashing power.
With this weight, the stability of shots improves. From backcourt smashes to frontcourt drop shots, the racket performs reliably. It’s hard to believe it’s an egg-shaped frame, as it offers excellent directionality and high success rates with undeniable feel.
Flat Drives and Passive Handling:
The handling style remains consistent: minimal treatment. However, with the decreased rigidity, the struggling posture looks a bit better. The Columbia 5’s hardness is well-suited for me, achieving a balance between drivability and explosiveness. At this level, scoring methods don’t need much explanation.
Overall, there’s not much to say. For the Columbia 3, 5, and 6, choose according to hardness preferences. Personally, I favor the Columbia 5 for its crisp shot feeling and versatility. It works exceptionally well for mixed doubles and is relatively comfortable for singles. This review is shorter since the Columbia series involves minor adjustments that directly affect the feel. Understanding the shaft details helps in analyzing them. The 3U version provides a more satisfying experience, though you’ll need to be prepared for its heavier weight. The Columbia 2, the last one I’ll discuss, deserves more attention. This racket has already found a new home.
