I currently play with a Carlton Powerblade. I bought this 5 years ago when I first started playing. I had to stop playing for 4 years and just picked it back up. I love the sport. The racquet I am using is stiff and kind of heavy. I like the racquet, but I want to buy something a little lighter with a little more control and flex. I am looking to spend between $75-$100. Any ideas of some racquets that might be good for me? I'd say I am a borderline intermediate player who plays mainly doubles. Thanks.
I personally like Carltons, i have found the Tours very good for what you are after. The new Vapour Trail tour is out of the price range but the Fireblade Tour would be good for what you are looking for, its medium flex and has great control. Other brands you could go for being Yonex, would suggest the Armortec 600. Good flex and head heavy so you can get a decent smash. There are APACS rackets, they do have their Yonex counterparts but by all accounts tend to be a bit more flexible (someone else will know more)
True forgot to add that, check out the Buy & Sell section, i always see loads in the US for around $100
There is a Wilson Xloop Xfire Special Edition on sale around here. Do you guys know anything about it? I was looking at some Dunlop and Head Racquets. The Dunlop M-Fil 500 and Evo Carbon. The Head Metallix series. Know anything about those? Thanks.
I have not heard very good things about Dunlop, but have never tried them. On the other hand, I have played with a pair of Metallix', but they never inwoked anything great in me. You maybe also want to look into Panda Power rackets. Great rackets, where you can choose the exact specs you want (within a limit of course). I personally love them. I have a K-lite for sale, if you choose to try that out.
You can always look for cheap Victor Bravesword 10's on the net. Maybe some retailers might sell it for under 100 Euros or so. Check out Paul's review on it. http://badminton-coach.co.uk/1027/victor-bravesword-10-badminton-racquet-review/