YMMV

I have here a 4u export version of the Li Ning Axforce 100 'Qilin', purchased at 330 AUD.

It has been strung with Yonex Exbolt 65 string at 28 lbs. I have additionally placed an overgrip on top of the factory grip.

I am swinging this racket with a body that is 185 cm and 95 kg.

Background

The Axforce 100 is the "summit of Axforce" and represents the very top tier of Li Ning's current production. This is Li Ning's most premium offensively oriented racket, and is 2023's most advanced racket release to date.

Handling

The Ax100 is stiff, bouncy, crisp and powerful . It is a racket with significant head weight and heavy swing weight, balanced by a rigid but lively shaft which is very stable and has a higher flex point. The box-frame head is very solid, and tends not to vibrate much even during heavy hits. Overall, there is an extremely efficient power transfer which, coupled with excellent vibration dampening, results in a punchy feel without distractions.

The 72 hole compact frame is not too unforgiving, and has a sweet spot which extends up, making the spot easier to find especially during big hits.

The Ax100 excels in drives, smashes, lobs, lifts and defensive backhand. Flat exchanges at the net can be taxing.

Control

The Ax100 is very stable and accurate. Both the shaft and the head have minimal vibration/distortion, and transmits to the birdie cleanly. Shot placement is easy, to the point I would consider the Ax100 to be a power-control racket.

Speed

The Ax100 is decently quick for a HH racket, and certainly the very thin shaft incurs less drag, but it's not a speedstick. It is fairly easy to manoeuvre, but chain attacks and flat driving rallies can be demanding of strength.

Ax100 has a crisp but weighty feel through the air.

Power

The power ceiling on the Ax100 is very high, and the power transmission is both complete and direct. While the racket is demanding, it gives the birdie 99% of what you put in, and thus you are rewarded for your exertion. Full & stick smashes are satisfying. The quality of heavy hits is very good, and there is minimal loss of tail speed. My smashes drill across the floor and at times even skip like a pebble due to the heavy force.

Technology

The Ax100 is likely the most advanced racket in regular production at the time of writing. It has the highest specification of carbon materials in the history of badminton. The head features M50, M40X and Extra high elastic graphite, whereas the shaft features M50, T1100 and Extra high elastic graphite. The 6.0mm shaft additionally features an inner layer of aramid fibre. If you are chasing the latest tech or carbon, the Ax100 is the ultimate, for now.

Quality of Manufacture

The 4u Ax100 is made in Fujian, China. It represents peak MiC capability, and rivals the very best that Taiwan or Japan can offer. My racket was flawless.

Aesthetics

Li Ning's paint job is widely accepted as the best available by racket enthusiasts. The Ax100 has the best paint I've ever seen - the detailing, colours, artistry and paint quality leaves Yonex and Victor in the dust.

Value

In purchasing the Ax100, you are either extremely enthusiastic about badminton or are financially blessed. Ax100 does not offer 'value' - it is an ultra-premium racket.

Who is it for?

Physically strong intermediate male players and above only. Singles and back-court focused doubles players will find the 4u Ax100 a delight. 3u version likely only for singles play.

There are two ways to play the Ax100 - control oriented court wizarding or offensive oriented smash machine - mix & match for best results!

Who is it not for?

Beginners and physically weak players must avoid the Ax100. If the shaft isn't moved effectively, the Ax100 will just be a heavy, dead stick.

Net play focused doubles players might want to look elsewhere (EB speedstick maybe), as the Ax100 is properly head-heavy and boxy.

Pros:

• Handsome racket

• The very best paint job

• High quality manufacture

• Top tier carbon specs

• High power ceiling

• Excellent shock absorption

• Sweetspot not difficult to find

• Great control and defence

• Awesome smash quality

• Excellent shaft - rigid but lively, hard but bouncy - if you can move it, it will reward you

Cons:

• Expensive

• Not for beginners; moderately demanding

• Factory grip poor quality for price

• Ugly butt cap

(Please don't ask me for 100zz comparison as it's been more than a year since I tried 100zz)