Questions about Pips out bats

andrew brand Asked 15 years ago

hi, i look forward to receiving the training secrets dvd when it is complete.  my question/s are about pips-out. i need to build up an understanding of the different characteristics so i can beat players using these awkward bats.

1. what is the reason and advantage for using short pips. what is best strategy against this when using inverted rubber (WHICH I USE)

2. same question about long-pips. although i think i half understand that long-pips are for reversing spin that is delivered to you by the other player, but do they have other uses? can they be used to attack.

3. if i were to make up a bat using either of 1 or 2, where would i use a sponge under the rubber if at all. and why.

im considering making a bat up with these types of rubber just to use them for a while to try and understand their purpose, so i can form a plan against them.  this of course depends on your answer, i have an old slow bat i can use to try with these rubbers, dont know if its worth it. many thanks, Andrew.

Alois Rosario Answered 15 years ago

Short Pips
Good for flat and faster hitting.  Can't generate as much spin as inverted rubber.
When playing against this use spin not speed.  The pimples willfind it difficult to cope with heavy topspin or backspin but love it when the ball is played flat and fast.

Long Pips
Good for reversing spin as you said.  Good for defensive play and returning spin.
They can be used to attack but this is difficult.

The sponge under the rubber gives you more control and feel.  Short pips without sponge is not much use at all.

Long pips without sponge is hard to control but has good effect.

It would be worth making up a bat and using the different types of pips.  This is a useful way to help you to understand the effects that they have.  Make up the bats with sponge underneath both.

The other important thing which you seem to be doing well is accepting them as a legitimate way to play and trying to understand what happens with these rubbers.

Hope this helps.