REVIEWS
IN THE KNOW : EQUIPMENT
ENGAGE PURSUIT EX GRAPHITE REVIEW
TMPR OCULUS GXT REVIEW
By Jack Bandel
Look / Cosmetics : 4 / 5 Sleek , all-one-color design gives this paddle a unique , sexy look . Familiar Engage target reticule on the upper diagonal . Comes in three colors : black stealth , ruby red and deep purple . Also comes in three weight ranges , so everyone will be able to find their preferred specs . The EX model has the traditional shape and also comes in a slightly thicker “ 6.0 ” model , for those wanting a bit more control . This is the new Engage “ flagship ” paddle that has been in development for a long time . Let ’ s see if it ’ s been worth the wait !
Serves / Returns / Groundstrokes : 5 / 5 This paddle definitely has some serious pop to it ! Once I adjusted to the extra pop , I really enjoyed driving returns and serves with this paddle . Lots of spin also to be had with this new proprietary graphite “ skin ,” and Engage is always pushing the limits on paddle surface texture , managing to combine power and spin into this new exciting package . Ball also seems to come off the face very “ hot ” and results in faster ball speed on your drives . Slice returns are lethal off the rough skin surface .
Touch / Feel : 4 / 5 The soft core of this paddle provides a soft feel and almost a “ springy ” feel to your shots . I give it high marks in the “ feel ” department , but I felt like this paddle is more power / spin / speed oriented than a control paddle ( look at the 6.0 model for control ). Not to say it won ’ t work for control players , but I just think it ’ s not meant for “ extreme dinkers .” It ’ s very unique in the way it combines feel and pop , so you have to try it and see if that works for you .
Sound / Sweet Spot : 4 / 5 Sweet spot feels about average in size , which should be fine for most players . Sound is a satisfying “ pop ” that isn ’ t loud , but unique . Paddle feels a tad head-heavy , which helps it come through on full swings and feels very solid when hit in the center . Very solid feeling on blocks and does not twist in your hand on off-center hits . The word “ solid ” kept coming to mind when playing with this paddle .
Summary : 4.25 / 5 Engage has always been one of my favorite paddle makers and it ’ s great to see them innovating and improving their products . They are very excited about this new Pursuit line and are confident that once it gets into people ’ s hands it will be a huge hit . They are predicting it will become one of the top-selling paddles in the sport . That ’ s a bold statement , but Engage certainly can be trusted when it comes to making top-notch paddles . Give their new “ flagship ” paddle a try and see if you don ’ t agree !
Look / Cosmetics : 4 / 5 Colorful red and black graphics with the familiar large “ T ” logo in the middle with circular lines surrounding it . Comes in three great color choices : red , blue and pink . Handle has angled edges that former tennis players will appreciate . Graphite face and honeycomb core provide a nice soft touch and the paddle shape is a rounded oval , which provides an outwardly extended sweet spot .
Serves / Returns / Groundstrokes : 4 / 5 The Oculus GXT is a very balanced-feeling paddle that leans more toward the control side . The graphite face delivers a very smooth and predictable feel and this will most benefit those who focus on placement over power . Power is there when needed but needs some user input . All court players will love the targeting they can get all over the court with this paddle .
Touch / Feel : 4.5 / 5 Now we ’ re talking ! Very soft feel from the graphite face allows you dinkers to drive your opponents crazy by
controlling the kitchen . Touch and feel shots are what you will really enjoy with this paddle . The handle dampening technology seems to absorb the vibrations and would be a great benefit for those with tender elbows .
Sound / Sweet Spot : 4.5 / 5 The rounder paddle shape extends the sweet spot outward and helps to keep the ball in play on miss hits . I really liked this shape before on other TMPR models and this playtest reminded me how much I liked that . The paddle feels very quick through the air and aerodynamic . Also not a loud paddle , with a nice , rewarding , smooth sound .
Summary : 4.25 / 5 Another great update from TMPR on the Oculus . Very well-rounded control paddle for players who favor feel and placement . Also , the oval shape makes for a large sweet spot , which can benefit all levels of players . Great doubles paddle as well as a singles weapon , with its extended length . TMPR continues to put out some of the best bang-for-your-buck paddles on the market . Low prices and high quality are a tough combo to beat !
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