Li-Ning Halbertec 6000

The Halbertec 6000 moves into the advanced half of the Halbertec range, built for players who already have a full swing and want the frame to hold up under it.

It shares the 5000's even balance and up to 30 lbs tension ceiling, but steps up to an ultra-high-modulus graphite frame and a slim 6.8mm shaft with a firmer medium flex, so energy transfers more directly into the shuttle instead of getting absorbed by the frame flexing. That firmness is exactly what makes it less forgiving than the models below it - off-centre hits are more noticeable, and it rewards clean contact rather than papering over mis-hits the way the 1000 to 4000 do.

This is a racket for an advanced, offensive-and-defensive all-rounder who plays often enough to have a repeatable swing. It's not a good starting racket, and it's not the choice for someone who wants a purely defensive, control-only frame either - for that, look at the 5000 or the doubles-leaning Halbertec 7000 next door, which trades a little of the 6000's directness for touch at the net. Players wanting even more stiffness than the 6000 offers should look to the 8000 or 9000 at the top of the line.

Strung by hand in our Perth workshop, free with every racket. 100% authentic Li-Ning stock.