Unstrung weight of the Prime: 85 g - 3U (85-89 g)
The weight (actually the mass) is measured in grams. Rackets can weigh anywhere from 60 to over 100 grams. They are sorted in weight classes expressed in "U". The lighter the racket, the more manoeuvrable and comfortable it will be, while also hurting your arm less and increasing your swing speed. On the other hand, a heavier racket will be more powerful.
Flexibility of the Prime: Semi-stiff
Flexibility is defined as the shaft's capacity to bend while hitting. Shafts can range from flexible to rigid. A flexible shaft will be more forgiving and comfortable as you easily hit into the backcourt. A stiffer shaft will be more responsive and accurate, but will require a fast swing. A stiff racket is also not very forgiving of hitting errors.
Balance of the Prime: Even
Balance refers to the racket's weight distribution. It is indicated in millimetres and is measured from the base of the handle to the balance point. A head light racket will be more manoeuvrable and reactive, making it perfect for defensive and doubles players. Head heavy rackets will provide better power, the ideal choice for offensive players. However, they can feel heavy and difficult to swing.
Composition of the Prime: HM graphite
The price of a badminton racket is affected by its composition. Steel and/or aluminium rackets are sturdy, heavy and better suited to recreational use. Graphite/aluminium and full graphite rackets are lightweight and perfect for beginner and intermediate players. Finally, rackets made from High-Modulus Graphite and other materials like tungsten are designed for advanced players.
Length of the Prime: 675 mm
The length of an adult's racket is measured in millimetres and ranges from 660 mm to 680 mm. Only the shaft length will vary. A shorter shaft length will be more manoeuvrable and provide a better feel. A longer shaft will offer increased inertia for added power.
Handle size of the Prime: Size 1 --> G5
Grip size is measured in millimetres. Grip size ranges from 75 mm to over 90 mm and is categorized into size ranges expressed in "G". While a larger handle is easier to hold, many players have difficulty changing their grip. A smaller handle is easier to wield and lets you put more power on the racket by using your fingers.
Original strings
The racket comes pre-strung with black Babolat Ifeel string with a gauge of 0.70 mm.
Original tension of the Prime: 8-9 kg / 18-20 lbs
The tension is expressed in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb). The rackets are strung at about 9 kg (20 lbs) but can decrease as the stringing loses tension over time.
Maximum recommended tension for the Prime: 10 kg / 22 lbs
Babolat provides a recommended maximum tension to prevent the frame from breaking when stringing, after an impact, or after a string breaks.
String pattern of the Prime: 22x22
The string pattern is give in number of vertical strings x number of horizontal strings. In badminton, we talk about mains x crosses. This 22 x 22 configuration increases the racket's forgiveness.
72 eyelets stringing instructions: A = top, B = bottom
4 knot stringing instructions.
Mains: start from top centre and continue stringing, alternating left and right every 2 mains to B12 (skip B11) and finish by tying a knot at B8. Crosses: start the crosses at the bottom from B9 and tie a knot at B7. Keep on stringing from the bottom to A7 and finish by tying a knot at A6.
