Tag: VICTOR

威克多

Badminton Racket Victor BRAVE SWORD 1500 Reviews
Parameters: 3UG5, with bottom cap, total weight 94.4g in used condition, balance point 293mm, 7.0mm shaft, length 215mm, medium stiffness, diamond-cut wind-breaking frame, 72-hole string bed, 9–3 o’clock string grooves, warranty 24lbs, strung at 24lbs with VBS66N.
I like the grass green color. Although the racket doesn’t have too many decorative stickers, I think the unique color choice is very successful and has good recognizability. The transition between green, white, and black on the frame is basic, but it creates a natural layering effect, which is more comfortable than some plain white or pink designs from other brands. It also suits the glossy finish. However, it seems like the 1500 comes in multiple color options, which suggests that there are indeed significant tuning differences in this low-end series from 1100 to 1900.
Although the materials are limited by cost, the Brave Sword frame is still authentically retained, resulting in very low wind resistance and high swing speed, giving a sense of flexibility during use. When focusing power, you can also hear the sound of slicing through the air. Even though low-end materials are used, they can’t hide the fact that the racket face is relatively hard. Under the current string configuration, the 1500 still shows a crisp and elastic characteristic. Combined with the moderate stiffness of the shaft and the large sweet spot, it provides a good feeling of power when hitting the shuttle, with enjoyable feedback. However, in terms of directional control of shots, it falls short. After the rigidity of the frame is reduced, you can’t expect precise control of the shuttle’s landing point, especially with flat or high shots.
Even though the swing weight of the racket is relatively balanced, its downward pressure is not bad, performing even better than the entry-level JetSpeed 02 I used previously. While you can’t expect explosive attack power through the elastic potential energy of the shaft, the rigid feel of the racket face still allows you to hit shots that maintain confidence when you get an opportunity for a downward smash. As for the real power, that depends more on the user’s skill level and the condition of the strings. It may not be very friendly to beginners, but intermediate players won’t feel much discomfort using it.
The racket doesn’t feel as springy as high-end Brave Sword models when performing flat drives and blocks, but this actually makes it more controllable in net play, as it’s less likely to bounce too high. The large racket face provides enough forgiveness, and the high swing speed improves its performance in defensive situations. The racket also feels good when generating power in backhand shots, providing a sense of reliability.
In conclusion, the 1500 seems to be another racket made with lower-end materials that might not excite entry-level players, but it has no major flaws. I personally like it; both the color and the feel meet my expectations for a racket in this price range.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor BRAVE SWORD LHI Reviews
A truly remarkable racket, I have encountered many top players who have used various rackets, and almost all of them have left me thinking, “They actually liked using this kind of racket.”
This one perfectly fits my almost stereotypical understanding of Daoist Long.
Specifications: 3UG5, without the bottom cap, total weight 92.5g in used condition, balance point 300mm, 7.0mm middle shaft, length 220mm, moderate to high stiffness, diamond-cut wind frame, 72-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock string grooves, warranty 28lbs, strung with 25-27lbs KT66F.
This is a highly attractive weapon, extremely so. The deep black base paint instantly elevates the racket’s premium feel. The LHI on the middle shaft already indicates its exceptional background. The frame’s paint design is symmetrical, with minimal stickers on the wings but extending from 2 o’clock to 5 o’clock. The gold stickers at 3 and 9 o’clock, and the blank spaces at 4 and 8 o’clock, prevent it from being too flashy. The sharp lines give it an elegant sense of layering. After not having handled a Liangjian frame for a long time, I now notice that the 12 o’clock position is indeed very thin. The wind-breaking treatment is as sharp as ever, but this leads to the LHI suffering from poor paint durability, making it prone to chipping, especially on the racket’s head—such a pity for such a high-quality appearance.
The racket’s tendency to hit the frame before adapting makes its fate even more doomed. The frame’s sharpness and thinness, combined with its high swing speed, make it challenging for many to adjust to initially. This seems to be an inherent trait of the Liangjian series that people both love and hate. Additionally, the low ball feel and the wood-like hitting sensation due to outdated material technology are also characteristic.
Surprisingly, compared to the more rigid and violent Liangjian 11R/12, the LHI, as a signature racket for singles players, is somewhat softer. The racket’s wings use vibration-damping string grommets and inner waves structure, effectively lowering the force threshold. It seems that Daoist Long’s Tai Chi style does not require such hardcore equipment for support.
So, is the LHI violent? Not at all. On the contrary, aside from a somewhat unappealing feel (neutral), the racket is very gentle, to the point that some players find it too soft.
In flat drives, it continues the series’ excellent performance. The current LHI, being a 4U version, can quickly switch in response to sudden flat drives from midcourt, effectively handling challenging shots like those to the back or under the arm—very agile. Although it was originally a singles player’s racket, it is actually quite suitable for doubles play—more so, in fact.
Initially, I found the racket’s relative neutrality puzzling, but as I continued to use it, the quality of this top-spec Liangjian left me in awe.
Those familiar with Li Xuanyi’s playing style will recognize it: fluid and Tai Chi-like. In high-level matches, it’s challenging to force him into a particularly passive position, and he doesn’t often show much aggression in prolonged rallies. However, once there’s a crack in the opponent’s patience, he seizes the opportunity to strike decisively. The atmosphere of unknown timing for a sudden attack is quite intimidating.
The LHI indeed embodies this style.
Its lightness gives it a sense of keeping up in various rhythm battles. When you feel you can increase the pace, the LHI’s high swing speed and strong continuity allow you to immediately ramp up the pace with added pressure or flat drives. When slowing down is needed, the large racket head and sweet spot provide ample tolerance, making it easy to defend against continuous down-pressure shots and disrupt the opponent’s rhythm with changes in direction and backcourt control.
Its friendliness allows for spontaneous offensive timing. Daoist Long’s later career rarely featured heavy smashes, but his ability to deliver sharp and effective shots with just a slight lift is formidable. Even without full body rotation or preparation, the racket can deliver a lethal down-pressure shot through the small joints’ explosive power, enhancing the sense of sudden attack.
In terms of control, the racket’s performance is also impressive. The larger racket head aids in controlling net play, and for advanced players with consistent actions, the LHI’s lightweight makes successful smashes, net shots, and lifts more achievable and threatening. Additionally, its ability to compress the backswing allows for more varied handling of backcourt shots, whether it’s a smash, flat shot, or drop shot—highly deceptive. The racket’s elasticity and torsional resistance may be lacking compared to current models, but its control and attacking versatility remain surprisingly effective.
This is a racket that becomes more enjoyable the more you use it. On the court, it feels like everything is under control in the midst of the battle.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor BRAVE SWORD 09 Reviews
I didn’t expect it to be such a Liangjian.
Six months ago, I wouldn’t have felt the urge to complete a speed racket series that’s been around for over ten years. Although it’s called classic, it can also be considered outdated, especially since the JetSpeed series deeply resonates with me, and there’s no need to go retro if purely pursuing performance.
Yet, I’ve started using even older models.
Specifications: 3UG5, without the bottom cap, total weight 92.9g in used condition, balance point 311mm, middle shaft length 215mm, high hardness, diamond-cut wind frame, 72-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock string grooves, warranty 28lbs, strung with 24lbs Victor NS880.
I find the Liangjian 09’s appearance quite dull—silver base paint with a small amount of red at the racket head. The whole racket looks unremarkable and blunt. It seems there are no intentional decorations or many stickers, and the technological applications aren’t indicated. However, the Liangjian frame’s characteristic of easy paint chipping is preserved, and the old issue of paint flaking off the cone cap makes it look worn over time.
The feel of this racket is surprisingly heavy for a speed racket. This reminds me of the 3U JetSpeed 70k, but Liangjian 09 is clearly stiffer. Initially, I worried that the old strings would make the racket feel too soft, but it turned out I underestimated the string bed’s tension, as the ball response still has a crisp, bouncy characteristic. The Liangjian series’ direct and stiff feel is truly unique.
Even though the string’s elasticity has significantly decreased, the racket’s head heaviness still provides substantial leverage, sending the shuttlecock to the baseline with a higher arc in clears. Compared to newer products, it doesn’t show any significant lag. I believe changing the strings could improve its shuttlecock speed and overall performance.
This is my first time using such a heavy Liangjian and experiencing such a solid performance from a speed racket. Besides the enhanced grip from the racket’s weight, the NS880’s ball-wrapping feel helps Liangjian 09 provide an excellent experience in net play. During warm-ups for net play, I could already feel the “closer to the net with each stroke” sensation, and in doubles play, I occasionally managed to pull off a lucky net shot. Even with my basic skills, I began to enjoy working on net play.
Moreover, the large racket head increases tolerance, reducing the chances of mistakes from overly aggressive shots.
However, the increased head weight does result in some loss of agility. Agility isn’t the same as swing speed, but the characteristic “whoosh” sound is still noticeable during active play. Liangjian 09 slows down during flat drives and quick blocks.
In passive play, it sometimes struggles to keep up, and continuous defensive play can be taxing on small joints, increasing the workload and causing forearm fatigue.
The Liangjian 09’s enhancement in control actually comes at the cost of some continuity and agility, making it more suited for singles play.
This Liangjian’s attacking feel is very close to traditional offensive rackets—stiff feel with a slightly heavy head, and a solid down-pressure response. Due to the string’s condition, I didn’t push for full power in backcourt attacks, keeping each down-pressure shot to about 70% to maintain continuity for the next shot. Even so, Liangjian 09’s sharpness and power in smashes exceeded my expectations. Despite the decrease in string tension, it can still produce satisfying smashes.
However, it does have some inherent torsion resistance issues regarding placement.
In summary, as long as you don’t treat it as an old relic, it remains a capable and reliable racket. I didn’t expect the Blue Factory to release an upgraded version of Liangjian 12 this year in the name of commemoration. I also didn’t anticipate that even a more aged high-end model would still be highly effective.
Its unremarkable appearance is well-matched with its robust build.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor BRAVE SWORD 15 Reviews
Curiosity Series 476— Victor BRAVE SWORD 15 is in a somewhat awkward position. It is said that when the Blue Factory secured the sponsorship of the Korean team, Lee Yong-dae chose his equipment. Although Liangjian 15 was intended to be a higher-end model than Liangjian 12, Lee Yong-dae preferred the feel of Liangjian 12, which led to the latter’s prominent reputation and acclaim.
Another version I heard is that Liangjian 15 was originally intended to be a mid-to-high-end product. Despite its hardness being just below Liangjian 10, its overall quality was not as high. However, this still does not explain the dramatic price drop of this racket.
Specifications: 3UG5, without the bottom cap, total weight 93.0g in used condition, balance point 296mm, middle shaft length 215mm, medium hardness, diamond-cut wind frame, 72-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock string grooves, warranty 28lbs, strung with 25-27lbs BS710/KT66F dual strings.
The cone cap design is similar to my MX-90, showing its age. From the pricing, it indeed doesn’t reach flagship-level standards; its mid-to-high-end positioning is accurate. Aesthetically, the frame color is banana chocolate, and the Sword at the 4 o’clock position is in dark red, which looks good. The pearlescent paint enhances its appearance, but the Liangjian’s wind-breaking frame is traditionally prone to damage. The sample I have has endured years of abuse, leading to numerous blemishes; the whole series suffers from this issue.
Upon closer inspection, Liangjian 15 also has a slight flat head, which might reduce its sweet spot area and make it a bit more challenging to handle. However, in practical use, the racket does not perform as aggressively in terms of hardness, and deformation is less difficult to occur. I do appreciate a slightly firmer feedback in doubles-speed rackets, so perhaps the Liangjian 15 has softened over the years. After all, it was once claimed to have hardness just below Liangjian 10… well, I haven’t tried Liangjian 10 yet.
The large face does not significantly aid in the tolerance of off-center shots, and the difference in shot quality when hitting within or outside the sweet spot is still noticeable, a characteristic of the flat head. With age, this Liangjian feels somewhat fatigued, and the frame doesn’t have a rigid feel. Perhaps the string setup is not ideal, with some ball cling making it feel somewhat awkward.
However, the swing speed is very fast, and the racket produces a sharp sound when cutting through the air, a feature of the current frame shape. Liangjian 15 performs exceptionally well in the mid-court and front-court, remaining agile despite being 3U in specification. It performs very well in flat drives, blocks, or intercepts with quick response and excellent feel for both forehand and backhand. Liangjian still delivers an impressive speed for doubles, even though it is a mid-to-high-end product.
Due to its swing weight, it is more flexible than the 09 but still has a lower quality for smashes and tolerance compared to other Liangjian models I have used. The slight power concentration from the flat head is somewhat reduced by the middle shaft’s elasticity and hardness. Its smash quality is mediocre, placing it in the upper-middle range of speed rackets. To achieve effective smashes, one still needs to focus on continuous and aggressive play rather than brute force.
I rarely consider using this racket for delicate net play; only in front-court situations without aggressive intentions do I make soft shots. Although Liangjian 15 has a good feel for back-court lifts, this is not entirely due to the large face but rather the current string setup that enhances control at the net.
Have I not compared it with Liangjian’s flagship models?
Despite its shortcomings, it is very affordable, costing around three times less, and provides exceptional value. For players seeking elasticity and advanced attack experiences in a speed racket, it might not be the best choice. However, Liangjian 15’s versatility and adherence to the Liangjian series characteristics make it a very cost-effective racket priced at 1180. It can outperform newer series like JetSpeed or Rapid in terms of value for money.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor BRAVE SWORD 12L Reviews
Generally, in Victory’s rackets, models with the “L” suffix often have substantial meanings, such as the MX-30L aimed at women, the lightweight TK-15L, and the JetSpeed 05L, which merely indicates a different color. However, as the product range expands, I’m not entirely sure if “L” still signifies a special adjustment in that direction.
At least for the Liangjian 12L, looking at its weight data, I have doubts.
Specifications:
Weight: 3U G5, without grip, total weight in use: 100.70g, balance point: 292mm, shaft length: 216mm, moderate stiffness, diamond-shaped aerodynamic frame, 72-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock grooves, warranty up to 30 lbs, strung at 25 lbs with NBG95.
Despite the worn-out paint, I can still see its former glory. The silver and white base coat and water blue accents give it a scholarly appearance, making it stand out among the Liangjian series’ standardized designs. It reminds me of the old MX-30L. Upon closer inspection, the blue stickers on the frame at 5 o’clock and the wings feature pearlescent paint. If it weren’t for the Liangjian series’ “flower sword big break” resulting in a damaged aerodynamic part, this would be a very attractive racket.
As a derivative model of the Liangjian 12, it shares the same technologies, such as the inner wave and shock-absorbing pins, which should theoretically make it a more lightweight product. However, both the 3U and 4U specifications and the total weight of up to 100g were unexpected, leading me to question the “L” designation. Nevertheless, the Liangjian 12L is still a light and swift racket. Compared to the 12, its lower balance point makes for a sharper and more agile feel. Additionally, the overall stiffness of the 12L is lower, allowing for greater shaft deformation during powerful shots, making it more forgiving in terms of driving power.
So, what’s the trade-off? Difficulty in controlling the ball. The Liangjian 12 was not renowned for its attacking capability, but its higher stiffness and appropriate swing weight allowed it to perform well in consistent downward shots. This was one reason why many experienced players would return to the 12. With the 12L’s adjusted balance point focusing more on consistency, the change in feel has made the ball trajectory straighter and less sharp, with a slower response. While the 12L can still deliver powerful smashes with a 95 tension string, the confidence in shot placement is somewhat diminished.
I initially thought its net play capabilities would significantly improve, but I found that I had to be more mindful of my power, as I pushed several balls out of bounds when trying to forcefully hit the ball at the net. The transition from other rackets to the 12L made this issue more apparent, leading to frequent mistakes. Most errors at the net, whether hitting out or into the net, were due to over-aggressive movements, exacerbated by the 12L’s tendency to push shots forward.
However, the flat drives and defensive feel are still quite good, confirming the improved agility as previously mentioned.
It’s worth noting that the 12L’s ball feel is somewhat similar to the Liangjian 15, with the ball staying on the string bed slightly longer, which boosts confidence in backcourt drops and net play, enhancing its tolerance.
Other aspects, including the feedback and feel, don’t show significant differences from the 12. For details not covered here, refer to previous reviews for a comparison. Overall, the Liangjian 12L is a more agile and user-friendly version of the 12. While its reputation and circulation are less compared to the 12, its playability is noteworthy. The problem with downward shot performance and the poor paint quality contribute to a significant depreciation in the second-hand market, making it another loss for me.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor BRAVE SWORD 12 se Reviews
Fans of the Liangjian series, take a look at the latest addition. Over the past decade, the Liangjian series has weathered fierce competition and still survives, which is quite remarkable. Despite the excellent performance of the new Speed series, the Liangjian still has its distinctive features, with the 12 being a standout.
In the new era, where material advancements meet traditional designs, it’s worth anticipating how this combination will perform.
Specifications:
Weight: 4U G5, without grip, total weight in use: 90.34g, balance point: 302mm, shaft length: 215mm, medium-high stiffness, diamond-shaped aerodynamic frame, 72-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock grooves, warranty up to 28 lbs, strung at 25-27 lbs with VBS66N.
The appearance is indeed elegant. The porcelain blue base coat gives a delicate touch, with a symmetrical pattern but differentiated sticker colors. The gold sticker at 4 o’clock looks very refined, striking a perfect balance. Being a flagship model, the T-head logo features gilded and subtle textures, reflecting light significantly at certain angles. The shaft appears slimmer; although it lacks the robust power feel of the older Liangjian models, it looks particularly sleek.
In terms of handling, adaptability, and swing speed, it’s fundamentally similar to the Liangjian 12, with no significant differences in these aspects. I’m unsure if there were any adjustments in weight distribution, but the differences in the experience with the 12SE and the 12 are not substantial. Both feature a large head frame and sweet spot, with a diamond-shaped aerodynamic frame providing high swing speed and sharp sound. Both also share the same feel of leveraging the racket and balanced weight during swings.
The material upgrade, however, has led to significant changes.
The traditional “wooden” stiffness of the old Liangjian has been improved with the addition of High-Carbon and the floating handle, making the hitting feel more elastic. The deformation of the shaft during forceful shots feels clearer, offering good power storage. This reduces feedback stiffness and difficulty of use while adding a bit of flexibility to the previously rigid shot mechanics. The material update improves the elastic response, allowing shots like backhand low hits or overhead clears to transition to the opponent’s court with higher quality even under compressed power.
In terms of feel, the 12SE has shown improvement in flat drives and blocks. The old 12 was quite stiff, with fast response in quick exchanges, and the 12SE largely maintains this performance. However, it has become more forgiving, a sign of its more mature design.
The GB version only offers the 4U specification, which is less favorable, especially for smashes. Despite the new shaft and handle, the 12SE hasn’t significantly improved in explosive power and speed. However, it has better continuity, allowing me to maintain balance even after a powerful smash is blocked. The 4U specification lacks the heavy and stable feeling, and the floating handle further softens the power feedback, making me feel less confident during strong attacks. The 55th’s performance in aggressive smashes shows a sense of compromise, perhaps due to aging.
Victory has indeed aimed to improve the Liangjian 12 with better materials and enhanced performance in the SE model. The current SE and 55th models are reasonably priced, so fans can buy them for sentimental reasons. The feel difference between the two models is quite noticeable. This isn’t necessarily a question of which is better, but it does remind me of the trend seen with some flagship models from other brands where they’ve taken a more friendly, soft, and non-core route in their updates.
Overall, I still quite like it.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor BRAVE SWORD 12 Reviews
The high-end HX series has hit a bottleneck due to acquisition issues, and the supply of HX500P/C is extremely low. If anyone knows of a good deal, feel free to recommend it.
Since I can’t play with high-end models, it’s still nice to use entry-level rackets to lighten the mood. I picked up an HX20H for a bargain price, and I wonder if it will be a pleasant surprise.
Specifications:
Weight: 4U G5, without grip, total weight in use: 86g, balance point: 295mm, shaft diameter: 6.8mm, length: 210mm, slightly flexible tuning, 10-4 o’clock grooves, diamond-shaped aerodynamic frame, strung at 25 lbs with BG80P/VBS68.
In terms of technology, it’s all familiar. Those who’ve played since the Nano 7 era should be acquainted with this. It references the brand’s hammer series and uses FRS to make it a high-tension durable racket. As a model with the “H” suffix, it’s rated for up to 35 lbs of tension. The paint job looks quite youthful, with a white base and blue-black stripes. For an entry-level racket, it’s visually appealing, showing that thought was put into the design, similar to the small hammer series. It’s certainly more layered than the YU1L. However, the paint quality seems a bit lacking—chips easily when bumped, and the inherited cone cap tends to darken over time.
The swing feels nimble. Although the diamond-shaped frame only marginally reduces wind resistance, a 4U balanced racket doesn’t demand much power, so with its light swing weight, it gives the user a good sense of control. With this friendly setup, beginners shouldn’t find it hard to handle. The slightly softer shaft makes it easy to achieve deformation during swings, though it doesn’t whip around like the small hammer. Considering the 7.0mm shaft is a standard Victory entry-level feature, there isn’t much more to say about it.
During warm-up, I initially struggled a bit because I hadn’t played with balanced rackets much lately, and I hadn’t adjusted my power for clear shots. To be honest, the shaft is easy to drive, but the light head requires a bit more force when hitting, or else the shot might lack depth or height. Given that I had a year-old BG80P on the string bed, switching to a more elastic string should improve things. Sure enough, after switching to a fresher VBS68, things got better.
As for doubles, the racket is indeed easy to handle. In mid-to-front court exchanges like drives and blocks, the nimbleness persists, and even though the shots aren’t particularly sharp or crisp, the racket keeps up with fast reactions, allowing for slightly stronger rallies. As for net kills or blocks, as long as the small power movements are well-executed, it can handle windshield wiper shots well. Despite being an entry-level racket, it performs similarly to an ultra-light model in fast-paced exchanges.
The backcourt smashes, however, aren’t as impressive. The racket feels rather soft, and with the right movements, you can execute a smash without much effort, but the shuttle speed and power are mediocre, and there’s a noticeable loss of energy transfer. With a balanced racket, the lack of head weight means that the power transfer relies more on the shaft’s elasticity, and this entry-level shaft still has room for improvement in that regard. This explains why sometimes, with head-heavy entry-level rackets like the small hammer, the elasticity feels better, and the smashes pack more punch.
While the barrier to effective smashes is low and the downward shots feel smooth, the shuttle quality leaves much to be desired. However, this isn’t typically a key selling point for entry-level rackets, and similarly, increasing the string tension on the HX20H won’t make a big difference.
This classic frame shape still provides a stable feel that’s easy to adapt to. For net play, the shuttle-holding sensation gives decent confidence, although this feel is what the Nano 7 was often criticized for as “mushy.” It’s also quite handy for defense against smashes.
All in all, it’s another well-behaved, easy-to-use entry-level racket. To be honest, it plays like a younger, more tension-resistant version of the Nano 7. Compared to the HX7SP, its price-performance ratio is indeed pretty good and worth recommending.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor BRAVE SWORD 11 BKA Reviews
This is the second entry in the Liangjian series. Released over a decade ago, it witnessed the heyday of the Korean team, so the version with the BKA small wing is even more popular.
Its swing speed and frame shape are indeed classic. This classic can be verified from the introduction of this racket in the equipment library, especially as it has been used by various professional players including Li Daochang, Zheng Daxu, and Ma Huang, covering male and female players and both singles and doubles events.
However, whether the Liangjian 11 or Liangjian 12 is still a viable racket today needs to be tested.
Parameters: 4UG5, with a base, used condition total weight 92.0g, balance point 294mm, 7.0mm shaft, length 220mm, hard feel, diamond wind-breaking frame, 72-hole string bed, 9—3 o’clock string grooves, warranty 26/28 lbs, stringing 26 lbs with generic strings.
The Liangjian frame is quite delicate. A small chip of paint can be seen after hitting the ball, and the excessively sharp edges cause a smaller contact area with more pressure upon impact, which results in significant wear on the sample in my possession. In terms of color, it reminds me of the JetSpeed 9 and Challenger 9500, with the same black, white, and red color scheme, which looks rather ordinary by today’s standards. It’s worth noting that the hardness markings on the racket vary by version: TW is softer, while CN is harder.
I haven’t experienced the sharp, cutting wind-breaking sound of the Liangjian frame for a long time, but it returned when I started swinging it. When first handling it, it doesn’t feel like a 4U racket; the weight is quite substantial, which is the most puzzling aspect to me—how does a 4U racket with a base and strings achieve such a full feel with a balance point of only 294mm?
The Liangjian 11’s static hardness is indeed high, with a shaft that looks considerably thicker than current rackets, possibly reaching 7.2mm after coating. Upon adapting to it, its dynamic hardness is also notable, with direct feedback and prominent frame rigidity, giving a similar feel to the Liangjian 12. This is a racket with a classic feel, but it seems somewhat outdated in terms of materials.
Despite this, I found adapting to the racket wasn’t particularly difficult. Its fast swing speed and long shaft provide excellent power, and the smooth swinging experience, aided by the large sweet spot of the Liangjian frame, makes handling high and defensive shots quite comfortable. However, while the frame is rigid, and the T-head features a box-shaped frame extension for better speed, it doesn’t offer corresponding precision in controlling the landing points of long shots. The diamond wind-breaking frame still has its shortcomings in torsional resistance.
Nonetheless, its swing speed remains impressive. Initially, I worried that my wife, who was used to the 5U Speed 90F, might find the Liangjian 11 too heavy, but she persisted and trained with me. She was able to handle it with decent performance. Although the feedback was somewhat stiff after numerous rallies, making her forearm sore, it’s still usable. In my own experience, the Liangjian 11 is more suited for fast-paced flat drives and net play rather than singles. At least, it is competent for handling shots in the front and middle court for players at my level.
Of course, it requires some adaptation in downward shots due to its head-heaviness. Initially, when facing excellent front-to-back court opportunities, there were awkward moments where powerful shots went out of bounds because the shot trajectory wasn’t controlled well. This could be resolved by adjusting the timing of the swing. The heavy smashes feel good and the speed is there, but the shaft’s elasticity lags behind. Compared to the Speed 100X, which increases speed with better elasticity, the Liangjian 11’s shot speed has decreased, making it easier to defend against. Thus, offensive strategies should focus on leveraging the Liangjian 11’s advantages in continuity.
Its low swing weight and high frame rigidity provide good instant power and fast initial shot speed, giving it a sharp and sudden striking experience. For well-placed attacks or counterattacks, a well-executed strike can often score or create scoring opportunities.
The racket also has a good tolerance level. It provides clear feedback during high and flick shots in the backcourt, with a low error rate, and handles various smashes quite adeptly. This feeling reminds me of Li Xuanyi’s graceful footwork, smooth shots, and seemingly non-aggressive playing style, akin to a deceptive move.
However, I must say that using the Liangjian 11 resulted in a very low win rate. The racket’s feel gave me excessive confidence, leading to unreasonably high expectations for my shots and resulting in many forced errors. The most memorable instance was in the decisive set of a singles match, where I had four match points but was overturned, making three errors on service returns and net play. It was my own fault.
This makes the Liangjian 11 a racket worth long-term adaptation and main use, though its outdated shaft often leads to disappointment. It is a contradiction between being outdated and having no significant weaknesses.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor JETSPEED S 03H Reviews
One of the Choices for Entry-Level Rackets with a Hard Feel
Creating a hard-feeling racket in the entry-level category is not very popular, as the target group mainly consists of beginners who might struggle with such a racket.
In this price range, the JetSpeed 03H is quite distinctive. To my knowledge, another racket in this tier with a similar hard feel is the Power Black Mamba 5. However, the 03H is not only cheaper than the latter but also comes with a warranty of up to 34 lbs…
It seems quite hardcore. So, is it easy to use?
Parameters: 3UG5, stripped of bottom, used condition 92.0g, balance point 299mm, 6.8mm shaft, 215mm length, hard feel, oval wind-breaking transition diamond frame, 9-3 o’clock string grooves, 76-hole string bed, warranty 34 lbs, strings 28-30 lbs VBS70.
The bright yellow is vibrant, and in terms of color choices, the 03H is my preferred type. Victory’s yellow rackets often excite my interest, much like the sour bamboo shoots. The details are not lacking, which can rival the JetSpeed 2SP. Besides the yellow and black color scheme, some lines and fonts in bright blue create a color contrast that enhances the racket’s visual depth. Although the warranty pounds are very high, the frame thickness has not increased significantly compared to the JetSpeed series, with more emphasis on the oval frame. It looks good, feels speedy, and that’s what matters.
Additionally, based on my experience, FRS generally causes the racket face to feel slightly wooden, which is a trade-off.
The racket feels balanced upon handling. Compared to the previous TK100F, both rackets are relatively heavy, but the JetSpeed 03H should have slightly lower swing weight, although this is not evident from the balance point value. Perhaps due to the string configuration, the shock absorption of this racket is not as good as expected. The TK100F also has some residual shock, but not as pronounced as this racket. However, given that this racket is strung at high tension, I have no complaints; “one must endure the bitterness of salted fish to enjoy the sweetness.”
Excluding the high string tension factor, the difficulty level of handling this racket is at the threshold between beginner and intermediate. Beginners might find the shaft a bit stiff. However, in swing strikes, it offers both a sense of leverage and good power, with a smooth swing process. I believe that with proper swing techniques, using the JS03H to hit the baseline should not be an issue, although the 3U version is relatively more energy-consuming.
The JS03H performs well in swing speed. Although it is not extremely sharp, it is among the top in its price range and specifications, being slightly faster and more flexible. Some might argue that choosing an ultra-light racket could also provide good swing speed, but ultra-light rackets usually sacrifice solid feel, which the 03H does not. For beginners who prioritize weight and speed, I strongly suggest comparing the feel of 3U rackets with lower balance points and 5U rackets with higher balance points in flat drives before making a decision.
Moreover, the racket frame has high rigidity, and the shot style is crisp. Even when paired with VBS70 strings known for durability, the shots do not feel sluggish at high tensions. In summary, the JS03H is not a racket that fears fast-paced mid-court play. With better elastic strings, its aggressive performance would be even more impressive.
In terms of downward shots, the JS03H performs well for its class, but this might not apply to all players. As mentioned, its higher stiffness relies more on the player’s own power, and the shaft’s elasticity does not show an upgrade in performance. Therefore, when paired with traditional hard and elastic strings like 68/80, it requires a higher level of player skill to utilize its explosive power. Additionally, higher material hardness leads to more noticeable vibrations, which can be a disadvantage. However, its consistency and downward pressure are not issues, and it can deliver fast smashes.
Handling defensive shots like net kills and lifts is somewhat challenging. It’s easier to use for handling shots in front of oneself, but overall, it requires the player to have good forearm and wrist strength for defensive actions. I am most dissatisfied with its performance in handling low backhand shots; during testing, I could only manage straight net shots, and most subsequent shots were intercepted.
The price is affordable, and the performance ceiling is decent, but it does have certain requirements for the user’s ability. Those expecting a sugary-speed racket might be disappointed; it is more suitable as a versatile, affordable backup racket for intermediate players.
I initially intended to praise its durability, but having seen some wear and tear examples in the equipment library, I’ll reserve my opinion.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor JETSPEED S 09L Reviews
This racket is the main racket of the team captain from my workplace. Saying “main” might be a bit much, but it is indeed the racket he has used the longest, and I know he has kept an old 88D in his collection for a long time.
When I first saw him using this racket, I couldn’t imagine how he could produce such powerful shots with what is clearly a female-oriented racket, to the point where I confused it with the JetSpeed 9 when I learned its model.
Parameters: 3UG5, total weight unknown, balance point 285mm, soft shaft, 210mm length, wind-breaking frame, 10-2 o’clock string grooves, string tension unknown, warranty 25 lbs.
This is a pink version, and the visual effect is quite different from how it is used by our captain, but I have to say the racket is indeed beautiful. The gradient color of pink and lemon yellow on the frame gives it a bit of a charming feel, and the lines on the shaft are smooth and soft. From the appearance, it definitely looks like a feminine racket. The paint quality cannot be guaranteed, especially since there are signs of paint chipping on the shaft, which is a part that rarely gets damaged. Although it has an L suffix, the available versions are the standard 3U and 4U.
From the pricing, I judged it to be a racket that sits on the threshold of intermediate level. Apart from the frame being the standard of the JetSpeed series, the technology used is just the strong heart filling, and the shaft is also a 7.0mm standard model, giving it a similar feel to the “Speed 50” in the JetSpeed series. Even though it’s a 3U, the lower balance point makes it quite swift, and it feels light and solid in hand. In reality, the 285mm balance point and the noticeable head weight don’t quite match, but it doesn’t affect performance.
The racket is designed to be easy to handle. The typical formula for an easy-to-drive racket includes: a shaft that easily deforms, low swing weight, fast swing speed, a large sweet spot, and good elasticity. This is basically achieved in the JetSpeed 09L. Although it doesn’t use a higher-grade shaft, the overall elasticity of the racket is still quite noticeable.
Therefore, users with well-formed power strokes will have no problem with high clears. Although the shot speed is not high, the racket’s temperament is very easy to understand and doesn’t feel as soft and resistant as the most entry-level soft shaft rackets from Victory. The 25 lbs warranty seems a bit low but is in line with the average needs of amateur female players.
The downward pressure feedback from the racket does not match the low balance point. The hitting point of the JetSpeed 09L is easy to find, with a low and stable trajectory. Thanks to the strong heart filling, the racket’s directional accuracy is good; at least when playing against the captain, he often hits the sidelines with precision. However, I still don’t understand how he generates such powerful shots with this racket…
The shots don’t have a crisp feel; there is a sense of holding the ball. The large sweet spot and frame offer high tolerance, good net play, and useful for reactive backhand shots, etc., so I won’t elaborate further. Overall, it is quite balanced; although its upper limit is not high, it has no significant performance flaws.
The captain is about the same age as me but is already married with a child. Between work and family, he also manages badminton activities for our workplace, which is quite remarkable. Moreover, due to some congenital factors, he is prone to high uric acid leading to gout, and even on his free days, he has to consider whether his physical condition allows him to play. It’s no wonder that compared to extreme stimulation, he prefers a more dependable and forgiving racket.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor JETSPEED S NATSIR L Reviews
Specifications: 3UG5, no cap, total weight 88.8g, balance point 318mm, 7.0mm Babolat carbon shaft, length 215mm, medium stiffness, 9-3 o’clock string grooves, 76-hole string bed, full wind-breaking frame, 28lbs warranty, string tension 24-26lbs VBS70.
The racket is a vibrant green, reminiscent of tart green plums, suggesting it might be quite juicy. It features the typical JetSpeed silver decals and symmetrical design, with shark-fin paint at 2, 4, 8, and 10 o’clock for reduced wind resistance. The overall paint quality is consistent with JetSpeed’s durability issues, which are characteristic of the frame’s design. Unlike more aggressive designs, this racket uses a large elliptical wind-breaking frame to reduce drag, aiming for stability over swing speed.
Upon receiving the racket, I noticed a significant head-heavy feel, contrary to Victory’s indicated head-light setup. After confirming the balance point of 318mm, it’s clear that this is quite extreme, even for some offensive rackets. Fortunately, the swing speed is satisfactory, and the power feel is good, with a moderate learning curve. The 7.0mm shaft, despite its emphasis on elasticity, indicates a preference for stability and torsional resistance.
However, the VBS70 strings, coupled with lower tension, result in a noticeable loss of power. The medium-hard shaft offers a clear feel for power shots, with a large sweet spot for easy adaptability.
Initially, I thought this racket was an optimized version of the JetSpeed 8ST, but the head-heavy nature makes it feel more stable and less fast compared to other JetSpeed models. This creates a more pronounced holding feel, exacerbated by the VBS70 strings, affecting performance in fast exchanges and reducing overall agility.
Despite the reduced flexibility, the racket’s stability is beneficial for defense. Its suitable shock absorption and good directional control make it effective for net play and defending against smashes, particularly for net blocks and sideline shots, facilitating smooth transitions from defense to offense. The VBS70 strings, although not ideal, highlight the racket’s advantages at the net with strong ball control and a rough string surface, allowing for effective disruption of opponents’ rhythm. However, the lack of string bed elasticity requires extra effort to control backcourt shots and avoid netting.
Regarding offensive capability, the racket’s design supports strong smashes with its head-heavy balance and shaft material. The 28lbs warranty suggests a solid foundation for powerful shots, although the VBS70 strings may not provide the sharpest attacking feel. With a more suitable string like the VBS68, the racket would likely perform even better. The shaft’s stiffness, while medium-hard, doesn’t impose a high threshold for powerful shots but may feel less responsive.
In conclusion, while this racket doesn’t offer the same exhilarating feel as others, it performs reliably with a decent win rate. Having tried the JetSpeed 8ST, I quickly recognized the handling of this racket. Though it’s not as thrilling, it delivers consistent results.
September 18, 2024
Badminton Racket Victor JETSPEED S 06F Reviews
Specifications: 4UG5, no cap, total weight 88.9g, balance point 294mm, 7.0mm shaft, length 215mm, medium stiffness, oval wind-breaking frame, 9-3 o’clock string grooves, 76-hole string bed, 24lbs warranty, string tension 22lbs with unknown string material.
In high-end series, the suffixes of different rackets usually indicate their tuning direction, but for entry-level JetSpeed models, only the H suffix seems to denote a different design, while others merely signal paint differences. The JetSpeed 06F features a blue and yellow-green color scheme. Although the paint quality and finish are quite basic, the use of multiple colors and gradient treatment adds visual interest. I had expected the F suffix to lean towards a more feminine and vivid style, but given the price range, it’s acceptable. For this price, the Victory Y3F is a better performer in terms of paint quality.
Priced at 530, the 06F faces competition from other entry-level models like the HX60H, so its performance needs to stand out.
The racket head is exceptionally light, with a balance point of only 294mm for a 4U model, which is quite remarkable. It feels very agile during swings, but the wind-breaking frame is not as sharp and aggressive as higher-end models, resulting in a less intense feel despite the low swing speed.
I strongly suspect that the shaft is similar to those used in some entry-level TK series models. Despite being marketed as medium stiffness, it feels slightly stiffer, likely due to the light head making it hard to leverage the racket, causing less shaft deformation during swings. The feedback from the racket isn’t overly stiff, but the string material is quite poor, lacking elasticity and resembling a net that struggles to reach the backcourt. However, the JetSpeed 06 still offers a decent power experience.
Even though it shares the wind-breaking frame design of the JetSpeed series, the frame is closer to a boxy design due to material constraints, and the string bed area is smaller compared to high-end models. Victory’s low-end products often lack advanced technology and usually offer a warranty of 23/24 lbs. Thus, its tolerance isn’t exceptional, and it has a clear upper limit.
In smashes, you quickly find its limits. In similar-level matches, it doesn’t perform as well as the B Factory’s Nebula, and its point-smash speed is comparable to flat drives. Even with hard strings, the performance won’t change significantly.
A positive aspect is its agility and moderately stiff shaft enhance the feel of shots, making it suitable for quick-paced play. The 06F is ideal for various technical actions like crouch shots and fast drives, showcasing the advantages of a speed racket. It’s a good choice for front-court play.
For net play and small ball control, it’s average. The lightweight head lacks substance, and the defensive feel is odd. The poor-quality strings drag down the experience, leading to a suboptimal performance.
On the bright side, the conservative wind-breaking design makes the racket more durable. The previous owner had clearly subjected it to various impacts, resulting in noticeable paint chipping. If it were a JetSpeed 9, it might have suffered more damage.
In hindsight, I overestimated the JetSpeed 06F. I hoped for a straightforward and useful speed racket, but it turned out to be too basic, akin to a plain, simple racket with minimal features. It resembles the TK300 in terms of feel and carbon fiber quality, ultimately only selling based on its paint, which isn’t particularly outstanding. Besides its agility, it lacks notable qualities.
September 18, 2024