The Black Knight Hex Phenom, a traditional head shape from Black Knight.
Here’s my review of the Hex Phenom!
2018/2019 version
In some of the product photos it has black string (Ashaway SuperNick ZX Micro, I think) and in other photos it has orange strings (Ashaway SuperNick ZX).
Image via my-squash.com
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Search:Racket Specs chart
Advertised weight (unstrung): 135 grams
String pattern: 14x18
Measured weight (all-in): 159 grams
Measured balance: 37 cm
Factory strings: Ashaway SuperNick ZX
2017 version
Here’s the original Black Knight Hex Phenom. Spotted this on Black Knight’s Facebook page:
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Search:Product Notes
The first of the new Hex series, the Phenom, will be in stores in September 2017. The unique hexagonal cross-section throughout the frame wipes out vibration in this medium stiff, head light frame. The Phenom also features Black Knight’s Thermal Core technology and will be available with Ashaway’s newest string, SuperNick ZX Micro, and a BK Rad Cushion grip.
Laurielh says
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I have been playing with the Black Knight Omega for years now (as a good alternative to the old Dunlop Ice Elite) and wondering whether to change over to the Hex Phenom? Does it have less feedback/vibration than the Omega? Any information is much appreciated. Many thanks
Rod says
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Seeing as nobody else had feedback for you, I’ll try and do what I can without having hit the HEX. I used to play with the BK Razor TC which was basically identical to the Omega. I switched from the Razor TC to the Element PSX which I absolutely loved. The feedback on shots was significantly better. So that could be a good option if you can find one.
One previous commenter, Larry, said that the HEX was an upgrade over the PSX Element. So connecting the dots…yes it probably is a significant upgrade over the Omega. Shape should be similar, and it should play better.
Laurielh says
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Many thanks for your help and comments Rod. It helps that you have played with BK rackets and something similar to the Omega with the Razor. I may take the plunge and get one, PDH sports in the UK have a returns policy so that might be the way to go. Happy hitting.
Rod says
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Glad to see a review of this racket because I was really interested in it last year but ultimately couldn’t find out much about it and ended up buying something else. I understand from the video that you liked the racket and the strings but can you speak some more to how you found the power and control from it and if it is a racket that you would consider making your “gamer”.
Pierre says
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To be honest I would not use it as my go-to racket. I tend to prefer a racket that’s even-balanced and a bit more solid-feeling. This one felt softer and was heady heavy. To get the most out of it I had to use it differently than my natural tendency (I used the “whip” action mentioned in the video). It’s a good question about how to rate the power & control. I’ve always had trouble answering that question. For me personally, the solid feel gives me both more power and control. My sense is that other people who have a different swing pattern might get both better control and power from a setup that’s completely different from mine. Looked at another way, I don’t think it’s possible to assign absolute power / control ratings for a given racket, if that makes sense.
Rod says
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That’s totally fair. I myself really struggle with very light rackets that have a head light balance and on the other side of the spectrum I also struggle with mid weight rackets with a head heavy balance. My sweet spot is a unstrung weight of 130-140g (total weight 150-155g), an even to slightly head light balance and a frame that has a little flex and isn’t too stiff.
Larry Howes says
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Hi Alfie,
That would be a good question for Black Knight 🙂
I suspect since it is a new frame mold (hex), higher grade materials, and possibly better quality control that it all plays a factor in the pricing.
Plus it is a newer model which adds a certain increased price to it.
Cheers,
Larry
Massimo says
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I am having troubles with breaking Corona6 racquets )having broken 2 in a couple month span after not breaking a Technifibre for over 2 years). Any idea if this is comparable in feel/ characteristics? I don’t like the Element line of racquets in comparison to the Corona6.
Thanks!
-Massimo
Larry says
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Hi All,
A quick heads up that we received stock of the new BK Hex Phenom on Friday and we are stoked to try it out. Plan to hit with it this week and post a review online shortly after.
Check it out at –
http://www.squashunlimited.ca/product/black-knight-hex-phenom/
Cheers,
Larry Howes
Squash Unlimited
Rod says
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Have you managed to play with this racket yet Larry? I just broke an Ion Element PSX at the weekend and would like to know how this compares.
Larry Howes says
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Hi Rod,
Yes I have had a quick hit with it.
Overall I liked the Hex better than the Element for several reasons:
1) Head shape – a little narrower width and longer length which seemed to stretch the sweetspot out better and bigger.
2) Slightly more head light so I could come around on the ball better out of the back corners and hold it longer for a bit more control.
3) Slimmer beam profile. Felt more responsive in my hand.
I hope that helps. If you have other questions feel free to ask.
Regards,
Larry Howes
Squash Unlimited
Alfie says
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Why is so expensive?