When a racquet company sends us models to play test, the differences are usually subtle; almost to the point of boiling down to weight and balance. But Wilson recently sent us two new models to try, and while there are small differences that could be considered negligible, there are also striking differences that will leave you surprised that the two racquets are from the same company.
The Wilson Blade BLX and dbl.Trouble share the same basic string pattern of 14 mains and 18 crosses. The dbl.Trouble, however, features a “fan” and significantly more “open” pattern than the Blade. Plus, the dbl.Trouble frame includes Wilson’s Power Holes at the top and sides of the head (allowing for more string movement to enhance power). In contrast, the Blade sports a more traditional “straight” and “dense” string pattern without Power Holes. The result? More power from the dbl.Trouble and more feel from the Blade.
Both racquets feature open throats, but the Blade has an elongated (almost tear-drop shape) head which stretches out the sweet spot. As for weight and stiffness, the dbl.Trouble tipped our scale at 153g strung and has a small bit of flex, while the Blade weighed in at 144.5g strung and is very stiff— but the blade is very head-light while the dbl.Trouble is clearly head-heavy. Again, the head-heavy balance of the dbl.Trouble enhances its power, and the head-light Blade provides better feel and maneuverability.
The handles are slightly different in circumference, but the result feels dramatic. The dbl.Trouble measured at 4-3/16” while the Blade was 4-1/16”. It may be just a 1/8” difference, but wrap your paws around them and you’ll see why it matters—the smaller Blade helps with it’s maneuverability.
Finally, if you’re looking for a stick with virtually zero vibration, both models will wet your appetite. Visit Wilson.com for more info.
