YMMV

What I have here is the 4u g5 version of the Arcsaber 7 Pro. Bought at 225 AUD shipped. It was tested with Exbolt 65 string at 26 lbs.

Background & Tech

The original Arc 7 was the flagship launch of the Arcsaber series some years ago, and now it has received a revamp! The 7 Pro is the most user-friendly and flexible racket of Yonex's Pro series rackets, and represents a high-end racket which priorities 'shuttle hold' by the head.

The major technologies here are the revamped Energy Booster Cap, the new Arcsaber frame (stiff and recessed on top and bottom, flexy on the sides) and the use of Pocketing Booster foam material at 3 and 9 o'clock positions. The shaft has been made deliberately flexible to twist with torque as the shaft is bent on impact, theoretically releasing energy into the birdie thereafter.

The Arc 7P only comes in 4u weight.

Handling

The 7P is easy to manoeuvre and effortless to handle. It is truly beginner friendly, as far as higher end rackets go, and while not particularly exciting to play with, it is simple and comfortable. The g5 grip is fairly thin and allows for dexterity. The hitting feel is on the softer side due to the deliberate design of the head (soft and bendy on the sides) and the flexible shaft. There is more shuttlehold than the average racket, but not to the point that it significantly impacts play.

This is a true EB 4u racket, and slices through the air with ease but not in a sharp manner. The frame is reasonably stable but more advanced players may not like its flexibility.

Hitting feel is soft and slightly muted. I would describe it as subdued and a little boring. However, all types of strokes can be made with ease and it is a consistent hitter with a fairly good-sized sweet spot.

Control

Arcsaber is Yonex's control series and, not surprisingly, this aspect the 7P handles with grace and ease. The little bit extra shuttle hold does make guiding the birdie a tiny bit easier, and for experienced players this racket should prove to be consistent, reliable and accurate.

However, do take into account that the shaft is medium flex and you may need some time to adjust if you're coming from HH or stiff-shafted rackets.

Speed

The 7P is neither fast or slow - a very average EB experience as far as speed and sharpness goes. It is not a speedstick, even if there is no sluggishness in the swing.

Power

The power ceiling is not particularly high, which is not surprising as it is even balanced with a flexible shaft. However, for casual players, the flexible shaft and large sweetspot should assist with generating power.

Who is it for?

The Arc 7 Pro should be of interest to casual and social badminton players, or more advanced players who prefer a softer or more flexible feel. It is very easy to use and certainly reliable. If you're just starting badminton but want a premium racket, the 7 Pro is a good choice.

Who is it not for?

If you prefer a harder hitting feel or a stiffer frame, the 7 Pro is not for you. If you want an 'exciting' racket, the 7 Pro is not for you

For:

• Competent all-rounder

• Easy handling

• Consistent and reliable

• No major weaknesses or flaws

• User friendly

Against:

• A little boring

• Slightly lower power ceiling

Final thoughts:

The Arcsaber 7 Pro is a premium racket which proves user-friendly, reliable but a little boring. Like a helpful friend who is a bit dull. You can't go wrong picking this racket, and likely it will perform well for you, but there are more exciting rackets out there for enthusiasts. If you are just starting to play badminton, are not particularly athletic or are recovering from injury, etc, the 7 Pro is a good choice.