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Weight: 180g (unstrung)
Factory String: Synthetic Gut 16
Strung Surface 106 sq in
Factory Grip: Factory Wrap
Balance: Head Light
Frame Shape: Teardrop
If you are looking to get into the sport of racquetball or ordering for club rentals or schools we feel the Python Intro 5000 Racquetball Racquet is the best option we have available in terms of durability and keeping the price below $20.00. There are not a lot of options in this price range available and Python has come up with an affordable option.
If you're unsure about your model or weight...try our DEMO Program.
RacquetWorld General Notes
RacquetWorld recommends changing the grip to a Python (Our favorite), which will be $12.00 installed, for the added traction to prevent slippage. The Racquetworld Grommet Tape upgrade ($2) can save you $$ in the long run as sometimes strings break from the grommet being worn down. For those who don't know what the grommet is, it's the plastic piece at the top of the racquet that the strings go through.When you hit the wall and floor this gets worn down.
The Python Atlas Deluxe string upgrade is recommended because factory string is less playable/durable than the Python Atlas Deluxe string we suggest. At the time of purchase, the Python Atlas Deluxe restring upgrade is $29.95. It's normally $45 if you mailed the racquet to us later so you save $15 if you choose the upgrade right away. This string comes in Black or Natural and it’s a very soft string with incredible playability/durability. We recommend the 17g as it’s right in the middle of 16g (most durable) and 18g (most playable but less durable).
If you choose a vibration dampener go with the Python Vibration Dampner (Our favorite), Head Megasorb, Gamma Worm or the BBB (Big Bad Band).
The wristlacer black is the default wrist tether that comes on your racquet at no charge.If you want to change colors, a small fee of $3.95 will be added for switching.
A question we get everyday is "What is Grommet Tape?"It's a piece of tape that goes over the head (bumper) of your racquet. Sometimes you need a restring because of a broken bumper.For an extra 2 bucks to add this, it could save you $25-40!!
We get follow up calls/emails everyday thanking us for the upgrades as they really help bring out the performance of the racquet.
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Great value for a starter racquet, or loaner for a friend
Alex Hutcheson
08/06/2024
Racquetball racquets in the sub-$90 price range are generally fairly disappointing and unsatisfying to hit with. Most are very heavy (190g or more unstrung), and have narrow sweet spots that make it difficult to control the ball unless you make contact perfectly.
This Python racquet is impressive because it's significantly lighter than other intro racquets: it's 180g unstrung, which is on the heavy end of the "normal" range for competitive racquets. The difference in weight definitely makes a difference in racquet control, especially for quick reaction shots.
Ball contact on the strings is competitive with other entry level racquets: it's good, but not great. As with other teardrop racquets, the sweet spot is somewhat high on the racquet, but I was able to hit it consistently after getting used to it.
So overall I'd say that Python has delivered a racquet that is lighter and significantly cheaper than other entry-level racquets, while maintaining similar ball control and power. If you want to spend less than $90 on a racquet, I'd just buy this one.
My one gripe is that the racquet makes a really unsatisfying sound when you strike the ball. It doesn't have the satisfying "pop" that you get from many other racquets. A vibration dampener might help, so I'd recommend paying the extra $0.25 to get a rubber band tied on, or do so yourself.
If you will play frequently, then I would still recommend upgrading to a graphite or carbon fiber racquet as soon as possible. There are a variety of good options in the $100 - $140 price range. The Python racquet would still be a great "second racquet" you could use to introduce a friend to the game.
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Amazing work!!!
Sydney Wagner
06/06/2024
Fast shipping even though I got a ton of customizations. I was expecting it to take a month or two and they got it to me in less than a week!! I think it is cute that they paint the strings to match the factory design when you restring it! I would have been pleased either way but that is such great attention to detail! thank you!
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Nice starter
Jeff Jackson
05/12/2020
Verified Buyer
Very nice for a starter racquet. I bought to use during COVID. I use it to go to the local school and play up against it's brick wall. Nice to get a little cardio in, don't have to worry about hurting an expensive racquet against the brick or concrete. Would be a good indoor racquet for someone just learning, or someone who only plays occasionally. Good value.
2 of 3 customers found this helpful.
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Nice starter racquet
Tom Patrick
10/27/2019
Verified Buyer
Very nice racquet for the price. Should be good as a club loaner racquet or as a first racquet for any new player.
2 of 2 customers found this helpful.
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Exclusive RacquetWorld Racquet Ratings
Ratings and comparisons for all racquets can be found in RacquetWolrd Exclusive Racquet Ratings
Racquetworld's Durability Rating:
Racquetworld's Power Rating: Age 24- Age 35 Age 45+
Racquetworld's Control Rating #1 (Front Court):
Control 1 (Front Court) represents how the racquet handles upfront in the court. We are basically looking at how certain components stacked together to produce good (or bad) racquet maneuverability. To figure this out we look at the weight, balance point, and shape of the frame. We throw all this info into Pat's brain along with a couple hours of hit testing and out pops the rating. This value is useful especially for doubles players who find themselves covering the upfront court a lot. It is also good to know if you are a good server and find yourself quickly putting away returns off your serve without leaving front middle court.
Racquetworld's Control Rating #2 (Back Court):
Control 2 (Back Court) represents the traditional control rating when taking a full shot from mid to back court. Our goal with control is to redirect the Force of the ball. We again focus on weight, balance point, shape, string pattern and tension, frame stiffness and on court experience.
Racquetworld's Overall Rating: Age 24- Age 35 Age 45+
