Prince Original Graphite Oversize Racquets Customer feedback
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Comments: So demanding! I broke string on my Volkl PB Mid, so I took my friend's POG OS. Before I played with
the Wilson Pro Staff 88 (stiff and heavy), and compared to the Wilson the POG has a smaller sweetspot and gives me vibration
across my arm straight to my back. No power, no depth. The only plus was the spin I got the first 30 minutes. Then I was too
tired.
Comments: I'm gonna add to this long list of comments because I just can't help it. I went to this stick after
previously playing an O3 Speedport White and having elbow problems. Thought it was my fault (slightly late on backhand drives
sometimes). When I switched to this racquet, elbow problems were gone almost instantly and never came back. That's reason
enough for me to stick with this stick, BUT, I have to agree with most other posters here that it is otherwise an amazing feeling
and playing racket. A perfect balance of control and power. Don't let the weight scare you! With it being head light you won't
notice it when you swing, only when you hold it static. I get plenty of spin and power on my kicker and even though it is over-size,
I can maneuver it easily at net. If your an older player like me (53) I would stick to the 107, you might want the extra forgiveness
for aging eyes. I like to hit the ball fairly hard and maybe that's another reason this racquet suits me. I can string toward the low
end of the tension range and still control it, making it even easier on the arm and shoulder. Spin from the baseline is incredible
with the right string. I too have tried many other more modern rackets, but this one is truly the real deal. It's old now, and most
people have either forgotten about it, or never heard of it...except for all of us dedicated POGERS!
Comments: Switched to this racquet a year ago after reading reviews about how it helped clear up tennis
elbow. Definitely did so for me as well. A great racquet, effective for me in all aspects of the game. Very pleased with it.
Comments: I have played with Volkl C10 Pro to PB10 mid to Head prestige mid to POG mid and finally
POG Oversize
( In those order ). I have finally found my stick-mate. The reason for my change from the POG mid is because the mid is
a bit
demanding. The Oversize gave me the power and control for my game. The PB10 mid was too flexible for me, almost
like a ramen
noodle. Stock up before it gets discontinued.
Comments: I decided to test this racquet (the oversize version) on a lark. Boy, was I pleasantly
surprised. The word
that immediately came to mind was, "sublime!" Having played tennis my entire life and accumulated upwards of thirty
different
racquets (sad but true), I thought, How good could this be? After all, this is a twenty-five year old racquet, totally
devoid of any
modern technology (i.e., unless you consider a piece of graphite, holding the two sides of the frame together,
"modern"). Maybe,
it just fit my game, but everything clicked: groundstrokes, serves, volleys, overheads, specialty shots. One of the
problems I have
when testing a new racquet is that it usually takes me a few sessions to get completely comfortable with the new frame.
Not this
time. Right out of the box, I was ripping balls with extreme confidence. It felt like I was getting reacquainted with an
old friend.
However, I had never played with this racquet before. Some of the reviewers claim that this racquet plays like the
Radicals or
Prestiges. Actually, the feel is distinctively different - not better or worse - just different. Compared to the other
frames that I
play with, the racquet felt light. That's right. If you want to hit a very heavy ball (a "pro ball"), you need to create
momentum.
And the light racquets just don't have enough mass to do this. If it were me, I'd juice up the frame by adding a couple
of ounces
of lead tape to the handle. So, I have thirty different racquets in my apartment. What's a few more?
Comments: I just got 2 of these racquets after demoing them for a few weeks. I must say, compared to
modern day
racquets, these are just so superior, I wish Prince would improve these racquets.
Comments: I bought the first generation original racquet when it came out. Also own a Head Radical 260
which is
basically the same. Like many reviewers, I stopped playing constantly for many years and started back full time about
10 months
ago. I figured I needed the newer, lighter racquets. Never had any injuries in the past but developed a shoulder
problem when I
bought a couple of Prince Ultra Lite racquets. Light, 9.2 ounces strung and lots of power. But I think I hurt the shoulder
when
hitting the ball late and too far back. Can play without hurting but afterwards, I can feel the shoulder tighten and pain
up. Anyway,
after talking to Tennis Warehouse people, they recommended me to hit with a heavier racquet if I could because they
are head
light. Well, I went back to Head and the Prince even though the head was slightly cracked. I have more control, touch,
feel and
dampening feel which I needed. If you can get the racquet hitting with the correct stroke, the OS will do the work for
you. Asked if
he uses the racket anymore because I noticed dust on it. I interchange the OS with the Head because one has a smaller
grip. I
recommend the racquet to anyone who wants to save their shoulder/elbow, want more than enough power since the
weight of the
racquet will do all the work, and provide you control everyone seeks especially if you are a big hitter. Also recommend
the Head
MicroGEL OS which is 1 ounce lighter and plays with very dampening feel as well. One of the few OS racquets which is
headlight.
Comments: I'm 15 and I played varsity on my high school team this year. I had a mediocre season, and
decided to
try some new racquets. I was tentative about trying an oversize head at first but loved it immediately. The feel and
control are just
outstanding. I now have 3 of them.
Comments: I have been using lighter racquets the last few years without much success. I had not found
the right
combination of string, tension and frame. I recently found out that my old style game was really suited to heavier
sticks. I started
using the Agassi Commemorative racquet just recently and found the weight was really good and my game went up a
lot. I asked
Tennis Warehouse if there was something similar and they suggested this frame. I had used this racquet many years
ago but I
guess I was not good enough to properly appreciate it. I got this racquet to test out their suggestion and it was
wonderful.
Hopefully I can continue to use this racquet the way it should be used and play well with it. I agree with some other
writers, keep
making this stick.
Comments: Great counter punching racquet due to its weight and stability. Best for those who have old-
school,
long, loopy swings without too much wrist action. Contrary to some, I have had no problem with the OS at the net (am
primarily a
doubles player but will rally from the baseline if needed); it is maneuverable enough. I am switching from the
ProKennex PK5G
which I've used for over 10 years and is in its own right a great racquet although the denser string pattern provides less
spin.
Weight and balance are similar and both are very elbow protective. My slice and drop shots are baffling to most of my
opponents
now due to the increase spin. I hit mostly one-handed fore and back hands, top and backspin on both sides.
Comments: I am probably too picky with racquets so after testing a lot of "modern" racquets I finally
decided to test
also this "old timer". Guys, I found this racquet is much much better than most of the "new technology" beauties. Do
not miss the
chance to test it. It has been proven by time that this stick really works: it is not exaggeration at all that this is a
compromise
between a power and control. I would rather say that with this one you will get a control with the power on top. I stop
now for
searching other good performers. I believe this one is for me the best alternative to my BLX Tour 90 (when tired, on
clay court,
against player with heavy, high bouncing topspin).
Comments: Greatest feeling when hitting the ball for the arm with this racquet. Frame gives you ultimate
control.
Racquet is a bit heavier than most racquets. Keep making these.
Comments: Having been a junior from the '70s and collegiate player from the '80s I was taught good old
school
stroke production. The weight/balance/stability of this racket makes me the best possible player I am capable of being
today. The
mass of the POG delivers a heavy ball and keeps me in points against 'modern game' players. So long as I meet the ball
out in
front and keep my arm and grip loose through the ball I'm right there with the big ballers. These bats are the best.
Comments: Perfect racquet. In the 90s I had this and had the best years of tennis as a teenager. I gave it
up for
more modern racquets which never quite felt the same. I purchase one from Tennis Warehouse last year, and I know
find myself
creaming serves and punishing forehands; something I could not do with the numerous other Prince and Wilsons I've
owned over
the years - Precisions, NCodes, Hammers, etc. The best part of this racquet is that it feels perfect with nylon gut - just
the basic,
multifilament guts I find at too stiff and polyester give me arm pain.
Comments: This is the racquet of Zeus, because every ball I hit is lightning! This racquet is so
maneuverable yet has
so much mass to crush the ball with. I hit a serve with this and it must have went up 10 mph and my control has
improved a lot. I
play 2 handed on both sides and this racquet really helped my get some more power and spin on my forehand side,
and I am able
to flatten out my backhand very easily. There is no vibration on off center hits, even without a vibration dampener.
Prince, please
never stop producing this GOD of a racquet!
Comments: I'd been playing for a while with the Babolat Pure Storm racquets, enjoying their superb
control, but felt
like I couldn't quite get the pop on my flat serve that I should have. Well, trying out the POG gave me the answer right
away. I
immediately started hitting my serves a lot harder, effortlessly and with consistency. I agree with most comments here
about the
playability from the baseline with this stick as well. It's just so easy to get a perfect hit on the ball, every time, and
topspin very
easy to generate too. I'll probably keep playing with the POG for years to come. Also, 63 lbs with Prince synthetic was
the perfect
balance of power and control for me. I wouldn't go very low on string tension.
Comments: After all of these years playing with all of the racquets available, I finally found the Holy Grail
of tennis
racquets. The feel and control are unmatched. The spin
generated when hitting a backhand slice is unbelievable and the ball just stops when it hits the
court. My opponents just stand there, looking at me and saying, "What the heck was that?"
I just look up, shrug my shoulders and smile. It was an amazing discovery to finally hit
with this racquet after reading all of the reviews. The serve it very precise, with perfect
placement and spin.
There is no better racquet out there, and when I return to the UK I'll tell them to order them
from Tennis Warehouse here in the US, as they are unavailable in the UK. Thanks to all of
you Poggers out there to keep this racquet in production! If you like to spin (top or under)
this is the racquet to get. I even hit a topspin forehand that actually bounced over my
opponents head and hit the back fence! That had never happened before, what a
revelation, Please Prince don't stop producing this BEAST!
Comments: I just returned to competitive tennis recently after taking 12 years away. I had a lot of older
racquets
including a Prince Graphite 110 that just needed stringing. Well, off I went to the nearest tennis shop to get them
strung. The
stringer commented that I would benefit from buying a newer technology racquet. That suggestion stayed in my head
as I
experimented with newer racquets like the Wilson Ncode Ntour, Wilson K Factor Surge, Head Youtek, Prince EXO,
Babolat Cortex
and all my older racquets. My good ol' Prince Graphite won out and proved my stringer wrong. I ended up selling my
old racquets
and the new racquets I just bought. I kept only my Prince Graphite. Needing a backup, I purchased a Prince Graphite
classic here.
Now I'm all set with racquets and can start concentrate on building consistency with the same racquet. The members
of my tennis
club comments that they remember my racquet years ago and that they never should have switched over the years.
Well, I'm glad
I didn't. I'm going to keep these racquets and possibly acquire a third if I start playing more. I am glad that I finally
found a
keeper!
Comments: This is the Volkswagen Beetle of tennis racquets -- a classic that refuses to die. In terms of
balance,
weight, and general "feel" (which is an indefinable sort of thing, I admit) nothing else comes close. As long as Prince
will make
this frame, I will keep coming back for more of them.
Comments: Full disclosure first - I have switched to the Avery M5 as my main racquet, but I still carry a
POG as a
backup. I prefer the Avery because it's more flexible and headlight than the Prince, but the latter is still a timeless
classic. Hitting
from the baseline is a breeze. Solid power and spin are generated easily with a properly timed, smooth stroke.
Maneuverability at
net is compensated slightly by the weight and large head, but technique and practice make up for that. I can hit
consistent flat
serves with a more compact stroke than with mid/mid-plus racquets, and spin serves are easier. I strongly recommend
the POG
(or M5) as an alternative to the new "tweener" frames for strong intermediate players who appreciate a heavier racquet
but find
most mid-size 12+ oz. racquets too demanding.
Comments: What do you do when you can feel the ball? Hit harder!
At the end, I was tweaking the balance of a Head Speed MP, realizing I had recreated the balance of a Graphite. I found
myself in
the middle of a match this past summer with a young college player, realizing that if I had the Graphite in my hand, I
would have
had a chance to grind out the match. I've gone back to the OG 110, and I've started winning again in the open fields.
You know when you carry a Graphite onto the court you can get out hit, but not out battled. That's a powerful mental
advantage.
I urge baseliners from my era to reevaluate what they are playing with. You'll have to get fitter, stronger, and faster to
counter the
additional firepower coming at you from the young guns. But you'll be playing truer to yourself and the skills you've
developed
through years of play. You may also stay away from some of the lame overuse injuries in the extremities-something
that will
become increasingly important as we all age.
Comments: I love this racquet but I cannot find grommet sets for it even thought it's popular. The mid
size has
them but not the 107; I have been using epoxy on the head to stop it from wearing down.
Comments: I have a few of these and have to say they are superb for my control and occasional power
game. To get
around the head-lightness of such a large racket I put about 4 inches of lead at 12 o'clock and it feels much better.
You've got to
try this racket if you are not having much success with the modern design rackets.
Comments: I have used both the mid-size and the oversize, which is still the "most powerful racquet" I
have used,
in spite of the claims made by manufacturers of newer racquets. What every player should know is that the
physicists/tennis buffs
from Orinda CA, who tested about 100 racquets, rate both sizes as the number 1 racquet for preventing injuries such
as wrists,
elbows and shoulders. Most late model, stiff, head heavy racquets were rated the worst, especially if they are light.
After playing
play Prince 03 hybrid (red) for a year I took out an old 90 and played with it yesterday. I hit only one forehand long and
had more
control and power on both sides. I am now 75, but with this racquet I can blow it through the young guns too. As an
old wood
racquet player I cannot find any modern racquet that gives as much feel as the Original Graphite. Even with it 332
grams, pro
weight) I can develop pace easily. Mind you, serving requires smoothness to make it work. With the 110 I once had 9
aces in a 6-0
set, but I was only 55-60 then. In the 80's and 90's many of the top power servers used the midsize including Rafter
and Ruditski.
Regardless of hype, I doubt if any mfg will duplicate the playability of these two racquets for superior players. No! I do
not own
any Prince stock.
Comments: I came back to tennis after playing in HS about 15 years ago. I was amazed to find the POG
still around.
I bought it then, used it for a little bit, then mistakenly tried a number of present day racquets. Lets see.. Prince
speedport red,
speedport blue, Dunlop aerogel titan, Head liquidmetal radical all decent racquets. BUT... I'm back to the POG. It's just
solid. The
right weight the right power the right feel. And more recently I've paired it with the Luxilon big banger ALU strings and
I don't
think I can ever find a better combination for me. I like to hit hard and I think I found the right racquet that I hope I can
continue
to use for the rest of my tennis endeavors and I hope my son gets to use it as well. Prince don't stop making this
racquet so
generations to come can benefit. Its amazing that all the technology and all the years pass and the POG still rocks the
competition. It's all marketing. A lot of the racquets seem to be made of cheap plastic though they have claims of
strange
technologies and crazy fibers guaranteed like snake oil to cure all tennis ills. Go back to the basics if you've been
around, or start
at the right spot if a beginner.... POG for life.. whooowaa.
Comments: This is the excellent racquet, which eliminated my tennis elbow! As a beginner three years
ago, I used a
lighter type of racquet (Tecnifibre Flash 290). This racquet was not bad, but I got tennis elbow due to the combination
of racquet,
style of strokes, and type of strings. So, I changed my racquet and strings (to Gamma Professional 17 G), as well as my
technique
of strokes, and my elbow pain has disappeared. I believe that these 3 factors - the racquet, strings, and technique -
has
contributed to my recovery. Now, I love the game of tennis again!
Comments: This truly is one of the greatest feeling and hitting racquets ever made. It used to be
considered stiff,
but compared to today's sticks, it truly isn't. Perfect flex for heavy hitters, regardless of whether you hit a heavy
topspin ball or a
flatter ball. Cuts through the air easily and quickly. Excellent plow through the ball, but still feels fast through the air.
Very
stable and lots of feel. It was used by not only big baseliners, but a number of serve and volleyers on the ATP tour. I
am a coach
working at one of the top academies in the U.S. and this is the racquet I choose. If you have arm problems, this is a
SUPER choice
of racquets for you to use. Handles very heavy hit balls with no problem at all. Give it a try.
Comments: A perfect 10. This racquet has a great pocketing feel that I've never gotten with any other
racquet, even
with stiff strings like Luxilon ALU Power and Babolat Pro Hurricane
tour strung tight, the racquet still felt soft and extremely spin friendly. The headsize is a bit
of a hindrance on serve, but otherwise this is an incredible stick. I love hitting volleys with it
too.
Comments: I'm relatively new to the game (1 year) and improving quickly. I bought a POG a year ago
because I
figured I would learn with the most "old school" player's racquet still available and if I could play with that I could really
play. I've
seriously tested about 10 other player's racquets in the last year and nothing has even come close, so I finally doubled
up on the
POG a few weeks ago.
Some other racquets (e.g., Dunlop AG200) feel OK for me in practice or on the ball machine, but when it comes to
playing against
a strong player who's a level or two above me, there's no other racquet that offers the stability, control and great feel.
I'm
flabbergasted by the hype that drives racquet sales -- yes, there are other good racquets out there, but nothing better
than this
20+ year-old black beauty.
Comments: HATED THIS RACKET IN THE EARLY 80's. Thought it was for sissy's and old folks. After 7
years of not
playing due to several shoulder surgeries I started playing again. I was playing with the original Dunlop mac 200G. I
have a
stringing machine and I strung it with 18g poly and nylon in the mains and I was back to winning tournaments but my
doubles net
play lacked good contact and everyone gave me a bad time about the old racket. I went through many of the popular
rackets but
all were too light and hard on my shoulder. Then I tried the hated POG. WOW old school feel and great control. I now
own 4 and
have never been happier especially since no one uses them. Call me the old folk but now I know why they were so
popular in the
80's.
Comments: Amazing racquet. I tried to find a decent racquet to come back to the game with. I ended up
with the
Prince speedport red. Then was amazed to see they still make the Prince OS graphite from back in the day. I have
since bought 2.
The speedport red doesn't come close. I hope they keep making this racquet. It's the only racquet I will buy as long as
they make
it! Yeah... its that good..
Comments: I find it puzzling to read the criticisms of head-light racquets with head sizes over 95 square
inches. If
I'm not mistaken, all the top ten pros, except Federer, use head-light 100 square inch racquets. For me the POG
oversize is the
most comfortable balance of power and control ever produced. I've tried many new high-tech racquets, but keep
coming back to
the POG for the power, precision, forgiveness and comfort. Prince, please never stop producing this racquet, even
though they
seem to last forever.
Comments: I don't like this racquet and here's why. Because it's got a headlight balance and a huge
head, I don't
know exactly going on when I swing the racquet. I love hitting with the Pro Staff 85 and although that racquet is
headlight, it's got
a really small head so I know exactly what's going on. I have thought about putting lead tape on the hoop of the Prince
but that
would make it even heavier. My main racquet is a Babolat AeroPro Drive, and I put lead in the hoop so the increased
swingweight
will tell me exactly what's going on with the racquet. And since it's a light racquet to begin with, there is room to
customize. I
liked the mid size version of the POG much better.
Comments: The only racket that comes close to this in pure control and pop is the Pro Staff (the Edberg
version
with the red and yellow paint on the black frame). I have hit with almost everything. Two years back I started to play
again after an
8-year layoff. Well I thought these would be too heavy so I bought some Prince Sharks, I like them but didn't like the
wide frame
so I bought some O3 Tours, what a waste of money that was. I am back to these old schools sticks and they hit 100%
better then
those Tours. I don't get how Prince makes all these rackets and the old one is still much better.
Comments: Great racquet, switched from an Agassi Radical OS LE. I had minor elbow pain and that has
disappeared. No problems with power or control. Very solid and forgiving stick.
Comments: This stick is amazing! I have tried the Head Classic Tour, Speedport White, Babolat Pure
Drive, AeroPro
Drive, along with others and this stick beats them all. If you want control, go with this racquet. I can string this on the
lower end
and still get more control than with others at the high end. Don't know why I switched in the first place.
Comments: I spent some demo time with this stick and the mid as well. I play with the
Wilson K Factor Tour 90 and wanted to compare these classic sticks. Overall, both the mid and OS are good frames
with enough
heft to put good pace on the ball with a relaxed swing. Touch is good and I like the flex, especially on the OS. The OS
is
noticeably more powerful than the mid, with a bit of a trampoline feel common with larger heads. Mid plays closest to
the k-90
but interestingly feels quite a bit stiffer and even though it has a 14x18 string pattern, does not spin the ball as well as
the k-90.
The larger head on the OS provides a
bit more forgiveness, but is less maneuverable. Volleys are acceptable but these sticks are not as head light as I prefer
for quick
net play. On serve, the OS is simply too slow through the ball (because of head size and balance) and lots of spin and
pop are hard
to come by. My mechanics are still good, but if I felt my swings were slowing down and I needed a bit more power, the
os would
be a good fit (I'm in my mid 40's). For now, the K-90 will remain my weapon of choice, and reigns supreme with the
best mix of
precision, power, and feel.
Comments: Due to arm troubles and a problem breaking racquets (not due to throwing) I tried the POG. I
have been
using midsize racquets with roughly the same flex, headlight, 12.5oz for 20 years, so I balanced this racquet the same.
The main
difference was the larger head, which took a bit of adjustment. I liked the spin from the wider string pattern, but I may
have lost a
bit of speed on flat serves. Because of arm problems and because it's hard on racquets (Pro Kennex5g which was great
on my arm
kept breaking using kevlar), I have tried to give up kevlar string but cannot get use to the trampolining so I'm still using
it. The
arm seems OK and the POGs which I'm told are the toughest racquets on the market have held up well 2yrs.
Agassi,Chan,etc all
used kevlar in the POG107 I'm surprised its not more popular.
Comments: This stick is really frustrating. I've used a few OS's racquets. Head Microgel Radical OS, Head
Flexpoint
Rad os and the Agassi Radical os. I bought this by word-of-mouth, via TW reviews, I found this to have way too much
power,
despite the hefty weight and headlight balance and the 19 mm beam. I used Luxilon alu at 64, and I use a lot of spin
and angle in
my game. I had a problem rallying from the baseline with this one. I own a longbody midplus and found that one much
more
suited to hitting groundies. Serves were only good if I spun them in, but the slice/kick serves were hardcore and I could
jam
easily, and my righty slice out wide in the deuce court was incredible. Overall, flat serves, control groundies and
anything flat were
tough. Kick/slice serves were intense. I have a fast swing style and was over-hitting SO MUCH. I had a hard time
painting lines too,
something I didn't have a hard time using the Longbody. I'd prefer the mid headsize. probably better for serving.
Comments: I agree with the comment below. You have to try it out to appreciate it. I'm only 15 and this
racquet has
been around for a while and it's been updated through the years. I own the oversize but I really want the mid. Other
racquets may
look nicer but it won't give you the performance these POGS will give you. I'm not saying that the POG is ugly because it
does have
a wicked paint job, it's just that all the new technology and stuff produces unworthy racquets. The OS gave me great
control and
improved my game, I just can't imagine the kind of feedback I will get if I actually got my hands on the mid. I hope to
purchase
one soon.
Comments: Wow I just got this racquet recently (used although almost brand new). After reading these
comments
on TW I feel like I have chosen the right racquet. I am a rookie-intermediate player and this racquet really gave me pace
and great
control. The weight might scare some players but it actually doesn't feel heavy at all. I'm a baseline player and this
racquet gave
me just the right amount of power and control. It's true when they say "You get what you put into the racquet." I hope
to step up
my game a little more and hopefully take over the #6 seed on my high school team. Great racquet all players should try
it. Also
has a wicked paint job, the black is awesome.
Comments: Wow what a racquet. I keep switching racquets but the feel of this racquet is unsurpassed. It
has almost
been 4 years since I've been playing with this. It does take a while to get used to and in my case I was getting whipped
as I wasn't
able to generate as much power as my Head Twin Tube Radical (yellow Agassi racquet). However, the dynamics of this
racquet
make you swing the correct way to direct the ball and impart power. I would say that this racquet has helped refine my
game and
enabled me to hit strokes with the right mechanics. Also, you can generate a ton of topspin with this.
Awesome racquet.
Comments: Everything a tennis racquet should be. The better you are, the more you will appreciate what
a
remarkable feat of engineering this is. Younger players should give it a try. Nothing on the market today even comes
close.
Comments: Like many of you, I have tried many new frames and always return to the POG. I have been
playing the
POG since 1987 when I graduated from the Prince Pro aluminum frame. It is great that this frame is still manufactured
(why mess
with perfection). I still like to string them tight @74 lbs to add as much control as possible. The original POGs were
recommended
at 72 to 80 lbs, I guess they reduced the recommended tension to increase the power rating. However, for me there is
plenty of
power and the great thing about this frame is the feel you have on all shots. The new lighter frames are a little more
maneuverable
but the POGs control far offsets the fact that it is a little heavier. I really wish that calfskin replacement grips were still
made or
that Prince would sell a calfskin replacement. Their leather replacement is not very good. I used my last Fairway Grip on
my
current #1 Frame. Thanks Prince, keep making it for another 27 years.
Comments: Used this one in the 90's, got 6 new ones with the old 4 stripe design last year (Graphite
110), and now
the search is over. Great control from all areas of the court, the wide stringbed makes spin a snap. Medium power level,
very well
playable from intermediate up to experts. Love it especially on volleys, headlight balance makes it very maneuverable,
yet very
stable at impact. The touch is excellent, this racquet is perfect for Chip and Charge and slice. Easy on the arm, plows
through the
ball without twisting. And the looks: still the best-looking stick with the old paint job. No wonder this is still in
production after
27 years.
Comments: I have to join the majority of commentators on this racquet: it is amazing. This racquet truly
has
amazing feel & touch. The shots go where you aim them, and nothing more. It seems also to be a very versatile stick: It
is more
than agreeable on volleying and very very nice off the baseline. The feel during heavy hitting is solid as a rock. It is very
well
finished: thin beam and no frills with the color scheme. The leather grip is perfect as well. The Prince Original Graphite
is not for
beginners, but I would say anyone from intermediate to expert could use it. I would recommend it particularly to
baseline players
with long, loopy strokes. I play the mid version. My style of play is baseline/all court.
Comments: I have to confess that this racquet still competes easily with the modern racquets of today. I
try to
consider the fact that this frame instantly gives me the feel of 'yesteryear' so I bond more readily with the feedback and
performance characteristics. Because I know where the ball is going immediately upon impact, I can position myself in
the court
more quickly. Newer racquets have so many technologies embedded to increase precision and power that sometimes
the feel is
muted giving you less feedback to anticipate the next move on the court. There is no lack of power, precision, spin or
feel in this
stick so, if you can put a good move on the ball, you are rewarded. I wonder if the graphite used holds up well over the
long run
(vibration & mis-hits break down the resilience and bond of the fibers), but I think this is a great stick for the money. I
would put
the 107 in anyone's hands and the 93s with the more skilled players averse to huge racquet heads.
Comments: Truly a classic! Amazing and one of the best I've ever hit with (not quite as good as Federer's
K-Factor
Tour)! I didn't like it at first, but that was because I was using a terrible string. Once I strung it with a decent/good
string it was
absolutely terrific! The only con I would say about this racquet is that you don't get that much pop on your strokes in
general and
that you have to generate a lot of the power, but the control definitely makes up for it. Spin is pretty good and
feel/comfort is
great! If you want a racquet with superior control and great feel, this stick is definitely for you -- especially if you don't
want to
shell out $200 for Fed's racquet or all the recent sticks that come out. I would recommend this racquet to anybody
regardless of
skill level.
Comments: This racquet is a beauty. I got my hands on one that was made 10 years ago and it still plays
with the
same vigor as any other racquet I've encountered. Puts incredible topspin on the ball, and slices are amazing. The
power won't
amaze you, but it's enough. Overall, the racquet is one of the best you'll ever find. You won't be disappointed by the
performance.
Comments: Some previous posters said you have to supply your own power with this racket, which is
misleading
and not true in my experience. This has a lot of power and is excellent for serves. This racquet is surprisingly excellent
for volleys
too! Easy to maneuver, and the larger head size helps you get balls back you wouldn't with a smaller frame. The
power/control
factor allows you to punch deep with perfect placement on your first volley, then the touch is also there for the
droppers. Because
of the string type and tension I selected, I have been hitting all of my groundstrokes long, so I will remedy that with the
highest
recommended tension and control-oriented string type. I recommend this because there is more power with this
racket than you
might think based on information available. My slice one-handed backhand is the toughest shot to dial in. Also, for
some reason,
this racquet tempts you to hit way more topspin than is usually necessary, so I guess I'm saying it's tough to figure out
how to
flatten out the groundstrokes. It seems to require less effort than control-oriented, smaller head, "player's" rackets,
and even
though a lot of people comment that it is heavy, I didn't notice it being any heavier than any other racquet. It does
seem to be less
harsh on my tennis elbow, whether that has anything to do with a couple extra ounces of weight or not.
Comments: Make no mistake. This remains a superior racquet to anything else on the market. As a
former tour
player and current teaching pro, I've had my fair share of racquet contracts with various companies and have hit with
every new
player's racquet of any acclaim for the last 20 years. I've yet to find anything that even comes close to this in terms of
the perfect
balance between control and power. It is exceptional. It is also especially forgiving on the arm and wrist
compared to today's stiffer frames made of material besides pure graphite, if that is an issue. The 107 is the better
choice
because it has all of the feel of the 93, but offers more power and access to spin due to the larger headsize. Both
frames,
however, are first rate if the 107 is too much racket for someone who can't stomach the idea of playing with an
oversized racquet.
Comments: I could have saved myself a lot of money by sticking with this classic instead of being
seduced by
marketing campaigns. Simply put, if you want to hit a heavy ball then this is the racquet. It's the most satisfying
feeling I've had
striking a tennis ball. The plow-through is great and the 107 in bed allows me to strike the ball with good consistency.
No more
spinning for me. I can drive the ball like never before. I even like it at the net.
Comments: I played with this racket in the 80's. In the 90's to recent I switched to other Prince rackets,
which were
lighter and stiffer... My game suffered. I have returned home with this amazing racket. It's indeed a classic racket...
Superb feel,
control, and power. The weight of the racket gives me something to strike the ball. To top it off, my arm and elbow
feel no stress.
Technology hype not needed!
Comments: Let's get this straight right away ... you do not need to be an 'expert' tennis player to use
and enjoy the
Prince Graphite Classic. The OS version is not a difficult racquet to master, and it is fine for an intermediate player. I
was drawn to
the Graphite Classic because years ago I used the Prince CTS Precision, which weighed about 12.5 ounces and was very
flexy.
There was something about that racquet. The POG weighs 12.2 ounces and is tail-weighted and flexy. When I picked it
up, it felt
odd. I would call it a "club." I didn't like the calfskin leather grip and will replace that soon. But then I started swinging.
The
Graphite Classic OS is unlike any modern racquet. The flex is extremely noticeable. The weight, once you get going, is
not a
factor. In fact, if the Graphite Classic lacks 'power,' the weight makes up for it. If you get a good swing, and hit the
sweet spot, you
crush the ball. And the racquet flexes. Can't explain it, but it is so cool. Spin is effortless. My serves have an excellent
pop.
Accuracy is good. I especially like the heavier racquet for those shots where you just stick it out and pray. If you hit the
ball, you
will return it. Weight means solidity.
Comments: I quit playing tennis about 6 years ago, and at that time I was playing with the Wilson
Hammer 4.4.
After the long layoff, I tried coming back slowly, hitting once a month. After 2 hours of playing w/the Hammer, my
tennis elbow
had come back. I tried several new frames, Volkl, Wilson, Babolat, Fischer, etc. to get a feel of what felt good on the
arm. On my
third outing I decided to pull out "old faithful" (I used to play Prince Graphite's back in HS and college days) and darn
did my game
come back! Accurate serves, precise groundstrokes, great feel on volleys, and most of all soft on the arm. I am now
persuaded to
buy a couple new frames and get back into the game. This is by far the best frame I have ever used.
Comments: I write this for the intermediate players out there like me. Every so often my game goes off
the track
and I start a search for a new, improved racquet -- it's temporary insanity. I'll start to demo new technology and even
sometimes
buy based on hype, but I always have my faithful POG with me for comparison. There is none. Nothing compares with
the POG.
Don't be scared off by the assignment of a 5.0 rating and above to use the POG or the racquet's weight. I'm 5'9-1/2"
and 160 lbs.
and I just let it do the work for me.
Comments: First got this racquet as a hand me down from my uncle when I was a junior, now I'm in
college still
shredding balls & opponents with it. Prince rep is trying to get me to change to the new Speedport tour (they're alright)
but are in
my dorm room gathering dust. I just can't seem to switch for some reason. These are great match sticks, performance
is clutch
under pressure ... Kudos to the legendary Master POG! Prince, please don't DQ these. Agassi, Chang, Spadea, Stolle,
Black,
Ferrero... I feel ya, once you go POG, you can't go back!
Comments: Best racquet I've ever hit with. It produces a very "heavy" ball that today's flimsy racquets
can't match. I
hit with the Speedport Red for a few days and because of the lighter weight I found myself swinging twice as hard to try
to match
the POG's results. The weight of the POG absorbs the shock of your shots and saves your arm and elbow in the
process. Focus on
proper stroke mechanics and early preparation and this racquet will reward you with crushing groundstrokes from all
over the
court.
Comments: Still the best racquet out there. No gimmicks, no phenomenal paint schemes, etc. It is
proven to be
the easiest racquet on the arm. I am a former challenger circuit player and former coach at Hopman Tennis. I have
been enticed
by companies to use their racquets and every time that I do, my arm hurts. I pick up the Prince and my arm is fine.
Excellent spin
and pop on the ball. Still the Ferrari of racquets. And yes, I have to buy these when I could get others free. Does that
tell you
anything?
Comments: I remember when Andre Agassi debut ATP tour tournament when he was 16 in Seoul. (KAL
Open) I bet
not too many people notice. This racquet is the far best you can hardly compare with any other, especially in control
area. I
wanted to change to new racquets but I hate to admit, I keep on coming back to this racquet...And people that around
me playing,
they know it too. Thanks to Prince keep on manufacturing Graphite Original. I'm in 30's but this Graphite Original
carries many
good memories from my teen years to now. Please, Prince company, keep that leather grip and do not lose that
Graphite
Original's feel (control)! I can't say enough about this magic stick!
Comments: Normally I don't comment on racquets because I haven't found one worth mentioning, but I
just had to
speak out as a Prince Original Graphite worshiper. I first discovered this stick back in 1982, bought it for $200 with a
single green
line & no grommets. I've always had at least 2-4 of these, at one time I had 5 Mids & 5 OS, now I'm down to 2 Mids & 2
OS. Yes,
there are racquets that are lighter, have more power, finesse, spin, control etc...but this stick the best all around stick
you'll ever
find. I originally started with the OS but you will never outgrow this stick because as you get better you will be able to
hit even
better shots with it; but the Mid will surprise you with some unreal shots, especially on serves. If you're in decent shape
it will
reward your full strokes. I'm playing with dirt cheap synthetic guts & they still play great & I've played with some good
strings on it
in the past (like Luxilon & Signum Polys & Multis & Monofilaments) you'll be amazed...balls will scream off the racquet &
your
opponents will be shaking their heads, just tell them it was luck...in reality they got POG'D! I've been playing with this
stick when I
was 14 or 15 & now I'm 39, wow, so the proof is in the pudding, so go & get these boys & stash them away...I just hope
Prince
never stops making these GEMS!
Hope this review was helpful...oh, I have 3 of the 1987 model version, yes they have more of a buttery feel, but the
newer model is
also good, feels little lighter & bit stiffer nothing a little customizing wouldn't fix. I rather have ANY POG THAN NO POG!
Comments: I stopped playing tennis 18 years ago for reasons too long to explain here and began
playing again
about 4 months ago. I tried demos of all the new racquets, Fisher Magnetic pro, Babolat racquets (several models),
Wilson 6.1 and
others. I developed elbow and shoulder pain and finally decided to pull out "old faithful" out of a closet and restring it
...my 1987
game came back immediately, pin point control on my serves, nice kick serve and more than sufficient power. My
ground game
control is lethal, I can paint the lines, control drop shots and my angles with slice and backspin is back. It is great to
serve and
volley with this stick whether going for touch or sticking a volley .The Prince Graphite Oversize is the best weapon I
have ever
used, I hope it is never discontinued!
Comments: I have been playing with this racquet for 20 years. I have used all the new technology and
nothing
compares to the Graphite OS. I am 55 years young, and can hit this racquet as hard or harder than most of my young
students.
The only problem for most is the weight of the racquet being too heavy. If you can handle the weight, there is nothing
better.
The best racquet ever made period!!!
Comments: I own four of the OS sized frames, and have used them for the last 3 years. I rely on speed,
stamina and
(this is where the racquet comes in) no mistakes from the baseline. Great racquet with which to jerk opponents
puppet-like
from side to side using heavy topspin groundstrokes. More importantly, when I imagine break point down, opponent
at net who
has just popped up a short volley, I can't imagine a better racquet to make that crucial pass. Downside (and every
racquet has at
least one) is the lack of maneuverability and control when hitting a flat serve (kickers and sliced serves are fine). I
would not
recommend it for one handed backhands, net players, or flat servers.
Comments: This racquet plows through the ball and gives a solid feel not found in today's racquets. The
control
that can be achieved with this stick is unmatched. The sweet spot is sweet and consistent, not hot and trampoline-like
which is
the downfall of other oversize pretenders. The weight is really not an issue, heavier weight equals solid hitting and a
healthy
elbow. The 12.2oz strung weight is easily managed by most adults and even juniors over the course of a match. Many
find the
weight a turnoff, but it is part of the secret of success. Head light balance makes it easy to wield. It is truly a weapon
of war! My
not so secret, retro, on-court weapon of mass destruction.
Comments: I've played with this racket for many years now, and I'm still constantly impressed with its
performance
when I'm under pressure. Thinking back, I could honestly say it's been over ten years since I first purchased this racket
and it still
feels just as good as when it was first strung. To begin with, this racket isn't as flashy as those newer generation
rackets, but if
you compare this to the original pro staff 85/95, you'll remember how this is a classic frame with a heaviness that's
comforting in
your hand. I've noticed I can get a lot of spin from the open string pattern, and can accidentally hit off center shot
without having
to worry about fencing the ball. With the racket's low power rating, I can take my long loopy swings at the ball without
worrying
much about constantly hitting the ball past the baseline. Placement with this racket is superb and should be ranked
among the
best. If you can, try it for yourself, and see what I'm talking about. I've played with the pro staff 85 and although this OS
racket
has more power and flex, I must say this racket offers a similar ball feel when it comes to ball control. I try to
benchmark most
rackets against this racket and the pro staff 85 because they offer the most feel and control out of all the rackets I've
used. If you
are a tweener and looking upwards towards a control oriented racket, this can be the beginning of a new love affair.
Comments: I am partial to Prince frames, and this is simply my favorite. The weight and vibration
dampening
qualities are unmatched. I had looked at 2 studies of racquets from a few years back and this was the highest rated in
ball speed
per effort and the lowest torque. There is no rattle, no vibration. There is not a lot of built in power, aside from the
weight, so,
especially with my forehand, I can swing out and not worry about the ball sailing. Lots of topspin. I enjoy this so
much, I bought
a second.
Comments: WOW!!! This is it - excellent feel, comfort and control. I have both the mid & OS. Use mid for
doubles
and OS for singles. My serve speed with mid has gone up a couple of notches. Groundstrokes are excellent with the OS.
Arm gets
a little tired while playing 3 sets because of the weight. Other than that there's not another racquets that even comes
close. It
may be termed as a 'players' racquet but it is good for anyone who wants to play serious tennis.
Comments: We all know this racquet, the POG, has almost legendary acclaim, but the reason is really
pretty simple.
In my opinion, it is the perfect weight, 12.2 oz, anything under 12 is just not enough to really let the racquet do the
work, it has a
large headsize at 107, much better the 100 or less, and it's stiffness rating is just about right, low 60's. There is not
much else
out there to compete with it, except this Avery OS that TW is now selling, but why pay more for a stick that may not be
as good? If
you add a little weight to the handle, the POG plays even better.
Comments: I played in the 90's with the Original Graphite OS. My best records when I was in
competition were with
this extraordinary Prince Model. Never suffered of shoulder pain, it was always incredible steady and solid. In a few
words
amazing control and power. I changed about 10 different models from 1996 until now. You name a model and I have
probably
tried it. After I stopped playing with it I always had shoulder and elbow pains, going back and forth. I finally decided to
go back to
what it worked for me. So I did, I
got them again six moths ago and like a miracle my shoulder and elbow problems were gone and my game
was back a 100%. I would strongly recommend it to anyone who's game is higher than 3.5.
Comments: I quit playing tennis for about 3 years after a long 30 year run. I am now starting to play
again and after
seeing what the pro's are playing with today, I felt I had to comeback using one of the newer racquets. But after play
testing a few,
I knew I could always come back to my trusty Prince Graphite Original. It really never surprised me. Thanks to Prince
and I hope
you never discontinue the classic!
Comments: Currently using Head FXP Radical Tour but will always carry my POG OS and use it to warm
up. The
solid feel and pop you hear when strung at high tension is found in only a few frames out today, and looking back I
know why I've
never had elbow or arm problems (until I demoed today's frames). You feel the ball on the strings on groundstrokes
and volleys,
but the shock or vibration stays on the racquet and there's no compromise of control. You can play with this if you're a
3.0 and
you won't outgrow it if you get above 5.0. If my Head FXP tour taxes my arm in the future, I know I can always come
back home to
this racquet well into my 60's). This racquet can compete with any racquet out there today, in fact it would still be used
by many
pro's today if it were not for companies having to market the newer models.
Comments: I was using a Head i.radical OS purchased from TW a few years back. I have been
trying numerous racquets but none of them was convincingly suitable for me. I couldn't demo the Prince Graphite
Classic
(Original) as no one was selling the racquet here in Perth so I decided to rely on the rave reviews in TW and bought one
from the
web site. It was an instant connection. Loved it. I am currently saving up to buy a few more of these before they stop
producing
them. Nowadays, there aren't a lot of OS racquets out there that's in the player's racquet category selling at that price
tag.
Moreover, it comes with a leather grip!
Comments: If you're looking for the ultimate control frame, look no further. This one will allow you to
take the ball
on the rise with a full swing and put the ball wherever you want. Serve & Volley tennis is a "kick" with this model, and it
shines
from the baseline as well. If you're in good physical condition, have good foot work, technique etc, you'll love this
classic frame.
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