PRICE: $289
BALANCE: 3/5 in. head heavy
HEAD SIZE: 115 sq. in.
FLEXIBILITY: Stiff
LENGTH: 27.8 in.
IDEAL SWING: Compact
WEIGHT: 9.3 oz.
NTRP: 1.0– 4.0

SALES PITCH:
A unique, separate T-shaped piece in the throat of the racquet moves with the strings to provide added power and comfort for beginners and intermediates.

COMPARE TO:
Völkl Catapult 1 Generation II

HOW IT TESTED:
Upon first glance, you might think that the DNX 1 w/Power Arm is a gimmick that’s trying to impress with an unusual appearance. But there’s a purpose behind the design. The Power Arm moves back in conjunction with the string bed upon impact, causing a pocketing effect, and catapults the ball forward like a slingshot. DNX material (an ultralight and strong graphite on the Arm, and anywhere you see silver) makes the Arm very stiff, but it has to be to provide stability. The results are a huge sweet spot that extends to balls hit down by the throat, and limited twisting when you miss the mark. The vibration dampener adds comfort, but it can come loose and flap around. Some playtesters found the big, thick frame not conducive to producing topspin, which created a few control issues from the baseline. But players with shorter swings who favor flat or slice strokes should have more success.

BOTTOM LINE:
The stick delivers on its promise of power and stability, and should be a welcome addition to the club doubles circuit.