Pros and Cons of Western Grip?

Question

List 3 pros and 3 cons of the western grip.

This is the grip I used for practically 3 years and helped me win 3 finals (2 singles and 1 doubles) and brought me to over 8 finals. Now that I bought a new racquet (really heavy), I noticed how much strain it puts into the wrist and elbow compared to my emergency grip (semi-western). So I am thinking of changing.

Answer 1

pros:

1. it gives you massive topspin on your forehand

2. it helps you to hit/drive high balls better

3. it's a safe rally shot

cons:

1. because the grip is extremely closed, it's much harder to deal with low trajectory balls.

2. it's hard to generate pace.

3. less maneuverability when using heavier rackets (just like how you just described from your experience)

the semi western is the most user friendly grip, because it's easier to switch between strokes when you're in the baseline.. plus you can get a fair amount of pace in the forehand.. i don't know how it is for the backhand though.. i hit with two hands so i'm used to a continental grip, sometimes i use this even with the forehand.. though i mainly use an eastern grip on the forehand, so i think you can guess what type of player i am.

if you're comfortable with the grip, then i wouldn't suggest changing completely, especially when you've become quite successful with it. sometimes with new rackets, you don't like them in an instant and it takes a little bit to adjust. so maybe just use your emergency grip more often.

Answer 2

i've used the western since i was five, and my wrist hasn't hurt yet. the reason it's hurting is because of your swing mechanics, not the grip. you're probably flipping your wrist too much. when you finish your swing, the butt of the racquet should face outward.

pros: insane spin

you're used to it

good for high balls.

cons: low balls can be tricky. shouldn't be that hard, though, unless you've actually got a hawaiian grip

hard to switch between western and serve/volley grip for net rushing.

too much spin?

i really like the western. i can even hit flat with it. just watch your mechanics. also, with the new, heavier racquet, ice your elbow and wrist after playing each day.