PRICE: $240
BALANCE: 2/5 in. head heavy
HEAD SIZE: 115 sq. in.
FLEXIBILITY: Very stiff
LENGTH: 27.75 in.
IDEAL SWING: Medium
WEIGHT: 9.5 oz.
NTRP: 2.0–3.5

FIRST TAKE:
The first generation Catapult 2 has a spring mounted on each side of the frame’s head that compresses when the ball hits the strings and releases a burst of power. It also makes the string bed forgiving. With this update, Völkl has added a spring to the 12 o’clock position to create an even more comfortable stick that’s ideal for improving intermediates.

COMPARE TO:
Catapult 2

HOW IT TESTED:
The third spring creates a generous sweet spot that extends toward the racquet’s tip. Players who tend to catch the ball on the top third of the string bed will be greeted not with jarring feedback, which is typical of many racquets, but with a cushy sensation. Enhancing the comfort is a foam that surrounds the shaft (Völkl calls this the Sensor Tour Handle), which eliminates shock before it reaches your hand. Power? You get it, though there’s not quite enough for those with short swings to get the depth they’ll need. Instead, testers found that the Catapult 2 Gen II’s control and power is suited to players with medium-length strokes. The racquet could have used more weight in the head, at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions, to prevent twisting on off-center hits, but it’s an ace at spin production. The open string pattern bites into the ball, helping you generate lots of action on serves and ground strokes.

BOTTOM LINE:
While it could use more stability, it’s easy on the arm and great for hitting with spin.