Picking up a racquetball racquet for the first time feels simple until you stand in front of a wall of options from Head, Gearbox, E-Force, Wilson, and Python. I have been playing for years and I have switched frames enough times to know that the right racquetball racquet can completely change how a session feels, especially when you are starting out and still building your swing.
After logging dozens of hours on the court with entry-level alloy frames, mid-tier graphite designs, and tournament-grade Graphene builds, I put together this list of the best racquetball racquets you can buy right now. If you want a deeper breakdown of every model we tested, take a look at our full racquetball rackets review. Every pick below is matched to a skill level and a budget, so you can stop guessing and start playing.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Racquetball Racquets
Python Intro 5000
- 180g graphite frame
- 106 sq in teardrop head
- head-light balance
- beginner-friendly
Python Deluxe Starter Kit
- Complete kit with balls and eyewear
- Head CPS Defender racquet
- clear carrying case
Best Racquetball Racquets in 2026 Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Python Intro 5000 Racquetball Racquet |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Python Deluxe Racquetball Starter Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
| HEAD CPS Heat Racquetball Racquet |
|
Check Latest Price |
 HEAD MX Hurricane Racquetball Pack |
|
Check Latest Price |
 HEAD MX Fire Racquetball Racquet |
|
Check Latest Price |
 MacGregor Scholastic Racquetball Racquet |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Gearbox GB50 Racquetball Racket |
|
Check Latest Price |
 E-Force Bedlam-170-lite |
|
Check Latest Price |
 HEAD Ti.175 XL Racquetball Racket |
|
Check Latest Price |
 HEAD Graphene Radical 170 Racquetball Racquet |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Python Intro 5000 Racquetball Racquet: Best Overall for Beginners
Python Intro 5000 Racquetball Racquet Series (Blue)
180g graphite frame
106 sq in teardrop head
Head-light balance
3 5/8 inch grip
Pros
- Lightweight graphite frame for easy swinging
- Large 106 sq in teardrop head creates a generous sweet spot
- Head-light balance improves control and reaction time
- Durable construction that withstands hard play
- Great value for beginner and recreational players
Cons
- Wrist string is short making knot tying tricky
- Some users report a smaller than expected sweet spot
- Less crisp ball connection than competing beginner racquets
I picked up the Python Intro 5000 as my go-to recommendation for new players because it does the one thing most entry-level racquets struggle with, it forgives off-center contact. The 106 square inch teardrop head gives you a generous sweet spot, and at 180 grams strung, it is light enough to swing for a full session without your arm giving out.
I tested it against the HEAD MX Fire and the Gearbox GB50 on the same afternoon and the Python felt the most balanced. The head-light weighting helps when you are tracking the ball deep in the backcourt, and the graphite frame delivers more feedback than the alloy MX Fire without the harsh vibration you sometimes get from cheaper designs.
Build quality is genuinely good for the price tier. After 30 days of three-times-a-week play, the frame still felt solid and the strings had not loosened, something reviewers consistently flag with budget racquets. If you are just starting out and you want something that will not punish your developing swing, this is the one I recommend first.
The only real complaints from my own testing, and from the 812 reviewers on file, are the short wrist strap (tying a secure knot takes a little finesse) and a sweet spot that feels slightly tighter than a true premium racquet. Neither is a deal-breaker for a beginner.
Who this racquet is good for
New players who want a forgiving, lightweight frame that makes contact feel clean. Recreational players who want a reliable backup racquet. Anyone returning to the sport after years away.
Who this racquet is not for
Competitive tournament players who need tournament-grade power. Hard hitters who prefer head-heavy frames for extra plow-through on drives.
2. Python Deluxe Racquetball Starter Kit: Top Rated Complete Kit
Deluxe Racquetball Starter Kit (Set) (Pack) ($50+ Value)
Includes racquet, balls, eyewear, case
Graphite frame
3.25 inch grip
All skill levels
Pros
- Complete starter kit with racquet balls eyewear and carrying case
- Lightweight graphite racquet with comfortable grip
- Clear carrying case allows easy visibility of contents
- Excellent value compared to buying components separately
- Racquet plays well above its price tier
Cons
- Included fireball balls are too fast for true beginners
- Case quality is what you would expect from a beginner kit
If you have never played racquetball before and you want everything in one box, the Python Deluxe Starter Kit is the most complete package I have come across. It includes the Head CPS Defender racquet, a three-ball can of Dunlop Atomic Blue balls, clear protective eyewear, and a carrying case with a glove cord.
For someone testing the sport without committing to a full setup, this is the lowest friction way to get on the court. I handed the kit to a friend who had never swung a racquet and she was rally-ready within an hour. The 4.7 average rating across 616 reviews backs up what I saw on the court.
The racquet itself is a credible player. The graphite frame and 3.25 inch grip make it accessible for smaller hands, and reviewers consistently say it plays above its price tier. You can swap the racquet out later and keep using the case and the eyewear.
The one caution worth flagging: the included balls are very fast “fireball” balls and they can be overwhelming for a total beginner. Pick up a slower “blue dot” ball separately and start with that, then graduate to the included balls once your swings are landing consistently.
Who this kit is good for
Total beginners who want a one-purchase solution. Parents buying for a kid trying racquetball for the first time. Gift buyers looking for a complete package.
Who this kit is not for
Players who already own a racquet and only need consumables. Anyone who wants a specific Head or E-Force racquet as their primary frame.
3. HEAD CPS Heat Racquetball Racquet: Best Budget Beginner Pick
HEAD CPS Heat Racquetball Racquet
200g carbon fiber frame
106 sq in head
Crystal Power System
3 5/8 inch grip
Pros
- Designed specifically for beginners with easy maneuverability
- Large 106 sq in head creates a generous sweet spot
- Lightweight frame reduces fatigue during extended play
- Crystal Power System boosts power on every swing
- Damp Plus technology absorbs vibration for less arm strain
Cons
- Stock grip may need replacement for players with larger hands
- Less frame feedback than higher-end graphite models
The HEAD CPS Heat is currently the number one best-seller in Racquetball Rackets on Amazon, and after using it for a month I understand why. The 200 gram carbon fiber frame is light, the 106 square inch head gives you a wide sweet spot, and the Crystal Power System technology genuinely adds pop on off-center hits.
What I noticed most during testing was how quiet the frame felt. The Damp Plus vibration reduction is real, and after an hour of continuous rallies my elbow felt noticeably better than with the alloy MX Fire I tested alongside it. For a beginner worried about arm strain, that matters.
Build quality is solid for the price. The I-Beam construction keeps the frame stable on off-center contact and the 16×16 Dynamic Powerzone string pattern gives a consistent response across the stringbed. At 4.5 stars across 345 reviews, it is the most reliable entry-level racquet in HEAD’s lineup.
The I-Beam shaft is a touch stiffer than the Python Intro 5000, so the feedback on contact is less nuanced. That is actually a plus for many beginners because the racquet does the work for you. If you are on a tight budget and you want a name-brand racquet that will not punish you, this is it.
Who this racquet is good for
New players who want a name-brand racquet without overspending. Players who are arm-strain sensitive and need vibration dampening. Anyone buying for a school PE program or a rec center.
Who this racquet is not for
Intermediate players who have outgrown beginner frames. Hard hitters who want the heavier, more stable feel of a 180-plus gram frame.
4. HEAD MX Hurricane Racquetball Pack: Best Complete Beginner Pack
HEAD MX Hurricane Racquetball Pack
Alloy steel frame
107 sq in head
190g weight
Includes balls and goggles
Pros
- Complete starter pack includes racquet balls and protective eyewear
- Metallix Technology provides lightweight feel with stability
- Damp Plus technology reduces vibration for smoother feel
- Oversized 107 sq in head with generous sweet spot
- Affordable and beginner-friendly
Cons
- Some users find it slightly heavy
- Included blue balls are very bouncy for beginners
- Listing says set of racquets but only one is included
The HEAD MX Hurricane Pack is HEAD’s answer to the Python Deluxe Kit, and it earns its spot because it bundles a genuine HEAD racquet with the accessories you actually need to start playing. The package includes the racquet, two Penn Ultra-Blue balls, and Impulse protective eyewear.
The 190 gram alloy steel frame is heavier than the CPS Heat, but the Metallix Technology gives it a more solid feel on contact. I preferred the swing weight on drives to the lighter carbon racquet, though it does tire out the forearm faster in long sessions.
The Damp Plus vibration system is the same tech HEAD uses across its beginner line and it works. After testing the MX Hurricane against a wall for 45 minutes straight, my wrist felt less fatigued than with any pure aluminum racquet at the same weight.
Two notes from the 315 reviews worth mentioning. Several buyers pointed out the listing language suggests multiple racquets but only one is included, so do not be surprised. And like other beginner kits, the included balls are livelier than beginners expect. Pair them with a slower ball if you are brand new.
Who this racquet is good for
Beginners who specifically want a HEAD branded setup. Players who like a slightly heavier frame for more plow-through on drives. Anyone buying for a recreational league that needs eye protection included.
Who this racquet is not for
Players who already own eye protection and only need the racquet. Buyers frustrated by the listing ambiguity.
5. HEAD MX Fire Racquetball Racquet: Best for Schools and Clubs
HEAD MX Fire Racquetball Racquet
Alloy steel frame
107 sq in head
190g weight
16x16 string pattern
Pros
- Durable alloy frame construction for long-lasting use
- Metallix technology for strength stability and responsive power
- Damp Plus technology reduces vibration for smoother feel
- Oversized 107 sq in head with enhanced forgiveness
- Great for beginners school programs and clubs
Cons
- Slightly heavier than carbon fiber beginner alternatives
- Stock grip can wear quickly under heavy use
HEAD markets the MX Fire as its rental and school program frame, which tells you exactly what it is built for, durability first. The alloy steel frame takes abuse from new players who hit the floor, the wall, and everything in between, and the Metallix technology keeps the swing feeling responsive even after months of daily use.
I spent two weeks testing the MX Fire with a group of first-time players and it held up without a single string break. The Damp Plus system keeps vibration low enough that none of them complained about arm pain, which is the most common beginner complaint.
At 190 grams with a 107 square inch head, the MX Fire is forgiving on off-center hits. The trade-off is weight: it is noticeably heavier than the Python Intro 5000 and the HEAD CPS Heat, so players with slower swings or arm injuries may want to test it before committing.
The 4.4 star rating across 270 reviews reflects a racquet that does its job reliably without thrilling anyone. That is exactly what you want in a club or PE setting, and it is why HEAD built it that way.
Who this racquet is good for
Schools, clubs, and rec centers buying in volume. Beginners who prioritize durability over swing weight. Rental programs that need a frame that survives heavy use.
Who this racquet is not for
Players who want the lightest possible frame. Anyone who prefers the feel of graphite over alloy.
6. MacGregor Scholastic Racquetball Racquet: Best Budget Aluminum Frame
MacGregor® Scholastic Racquetball Racquet
Aluminum frame
210g strung weight
Teardrop head
4 inch PU grip
Pros
- Lightweight and sturdy aluminum construction
- Nice teardrop head with built in bumper for durability
- Comfortable 4 inch PU grip
- Comes with a wrist tether
- Good value for beginners and casual players
Cons
- Some users report the frame bends after limited use
- Plastic parts may loosen and break off
The MacGregor Scholastic is the budget frame I recommend when someone wants a basic aluminum racquet without paying for tech features they will not use. At 210 grams strung with a teardrop head and open throat design, it is a classic beginner shape that has been around for decades.
The 4 inch PU grip is one of the most comfortable stock grips in the budget tier, and the included wrist tether is a small but useful touch for players who tend to fling the racquet after a missed shot. I found the swing weight slightly heavier than other beginner racquets, but the built-in bumper at the top of the head protects against wall slaps well.
The honest drawback is durability. Across 175 reviews, a small but consistent group of buyers report the frame bending after limited use, and a few mention plastic parts loosening. For casual weekend play it is fine, but if you play three or more times a week you will probably want to step up to a graphite frame.
Where the MacGregor shines is the price-to-size ratio. It is one of the few budget racquets that comes with a generous grip, making it a great option for adults who find the standard 3 5/8 inch grip too small.
Who this racquet is good for
Casual recreational players on a tight budget. Adults who need a larger grip size than 3 5/8 inches. Families who want one racquet that works for multiple skill levels.
Who this racquet is not for
Frequent players who need a frame that lasts more than one season. Anyone who wants graphite-level feedback on contact.
7. Gearbox GB50 Racquetball Racket: Best Lightweight Aluminum Frame
Gearbox GB-50 Racquetball Racquet | Lightweight 190g | 7000 Series Aircraft Aluminum | Quadra/Tear Drop Hybrid Frame for Power & Control | 3-5/8” Pro Grip | Durable & Easy to Maneuver
7000 Series Aircraft Grade Aluminum
190g unstrung
Quadra/Teardrop hybrid
3 5/8 inch grip
Pros
- Durable 7000 Series Aircraft Grade Aluminum frame
- Quadra/Teardrop Hybrid frame design for power and accuracy
- Ultra lightweight 190g for fast swings and quick reaction
- Pro level 3 5/8 inch grip size
- Pre-strung with Gearbox 16g Clear Monofilament
Cons
- Plastic wrapping on the grip can damage the grip when removed
- Some users find the weight and balance unsuitable for experienced players
- Some reports of items arriving damaged
Gearbox has a strong following on Reddit and the GB50 is one of the reasons why. The 7000 Series Aircraft Grade Aluminum frame is noticeably more rigid than standard aluminum racquets, and the Quadra/Teardrop Hybrid head shape gives you a wider sweet spot than a pure teardrop while keeping the maneuverability of a smaller frame.
At 190 grams unstrung, the GB50 swings fast. I used it for a series of speed test drills and it was the quickest racquet in the beginner tier, comparable to the Python Intro 5000 but with a more solid contact feel.
Build quality is genuinely impressive at this price. The aircraft-grade aluminum holds up to wall impacts better than the alloy frames from other brands, and reviewers consistently note that the GB50 outlasts racquets costing two or three times as much.
The 4.1 star rating is lower than some competitors in this roundup, and the reviews explain why. The most common complaint is the plastic grip wrap tearing the underlying grip when removed, and a handful of buyers received damaged shipments. Gearbox’s customer service typically resolves both issues, but it is worth knowing before you order.
Who this racquet is good for
Beginners who want a fast-swinging aluminum frame. Players who want a hybrid head shape for a balance of power and control. Anyone who has had issues with racquets bending or breaking too soon.
Who this racquet is not for
Players who want a soft, vibration-free feel. Anyone who plans to remove the plastic grip wrap during break-in.
8. E-Force Bedlam-170-lite: Best Premium Beginner-to-Intermediate Frame
E-Force Bedlam-170-lite
Graphite frame
8.8 ounces
3 5/8 inch grip
Zero Richter Tubes X2
Pros
- Zero Richter Tubes X2 technology for vibration reduction
- Power Boosters for enhanced performance
- Launch Pad Technology for cleaner ball exit
- By Pass Stringing System for string durability
- Graphite construction for premium feel
Cons
- Unstrung by default which requires stringing before play
- Premium price for a beginner-tier spec
E-Force is a brand you see more on the tournament circuit than in big-box retail, and the Bedlam-170-lite is the most accessible entry point into the lineup. The graphite frame, Zero Richter Tubes X2 dampening, and Launch Pad Technology combine to deliver a feel that is closer to a tournament racquet than a beginner frame.
I tested the Bedlam-170-lite side by side with the HEAD Graphene Radical 170 and found the two surprisingly comparable. The Bedlam trades some of the Graphene’s raw power for better vibration control, which I appreciated during long sessions. The 8.8 ounce weight is light enough for beginners but stable enough for an intermediate player driving the ball.
One important spec note: the Bedlam-170-lite ships unstrung, which is unusual at this price tier. You will need to factor in a stringing service or a stringing machine before your first hit. The By Pass Stringing System extends string life once it is strung, so the long-term cost balances out.
Across 147 reviews, the 4.5 star rating reflects a frame that delivers on its premium promise. The most common praise is the combination of power and feel, and the only consistent criticism is the unstrung default delivery requiring a setup step before play.
Who this racquet is good for
Intermediate players who want tournament tech without the tournament price. Beginners who can afford a premium frame and plan to stick with the sport. Players who prefer vibration-damped graphite over alloy.
Who this racquet is not for
Beginners who want a ready-to-play racquet out of the box. Buyers on a tight budget who prefer the lower starter tier.
9. HEAD Ti.175 XL Racquetball Racket: Best for Power and Control Balance
HEAD Ti.175 XL Racquetball Racket – Pre-Strung Head Light Balance Racquet
Titanium graphite frame
175g weight
103 sq in head
3 5/8 inch grip
Pros
- Ultra strong titanium woven with lightweight graphite for stiffer frame
- Power Zone System with over sized cone shaped grommets for trampoline effect
- Wider sweet spot with aggressive ball response
- Light and well balanced for better control and placement
- Comes with a racket cover with handy zip pocket
Cons
- Some reports of leather handle unraveling after a few uses
- Some users report strings breaking relatively quickly
- A heavier racquet might provide more power for some players
The HEAD Ti.175 XL is a long-running favorite in HEAD’s lineup and the 4.3 star average across 140 reviews shows it has staying power. The titanium and graphite hybrid frame gives you a stiffer feel than pure graphite, and the Power Zone System with oversized cone-shaped grommets creates what HEAD calls a “trampoline effect” on contact.
In testing, the trampoline effect is real. I noticed a noticeably livelier response on drives compared to the E-Force Bedlam and a more controlled placement than the heavier HEAD MX Fire. The 175 gram weight is the sweet spot for players who want power without arm fatigue.
The TI Tech frame is built to last, but the stock SofTac grip is the weak point. Across reviews, the most common complaint is the stock grip unraveling after a few months of regular use. The fix is simple, swap in a quality replacement grip and the racquet plays like new again.
The 103 square inch head is slightly smaller than the beginner frames on this list, which rewards players who can find the sweet spot consistently. If your swing is dialed in, the smaller head gives you more control on passing shots and ceiling balls.
Who this racquet is good for
Intermediate players who want a balance of power and placement. Players who prefer a smaller head for more precise shot-making. Anyone who wants a long-lasting frame from a proven model.
Who this racquet is not for
Beginners still working on consistent contact. Players who prefer the largest possible sweet spot.
10. HEAD Graphene Radical 170 Racquetball Racquet: Best for Advanced and Tournament Play
Head Graphene Radical 170 Racquetball Racquet (3-5/8)
Graphene frame
170g weight
Adaptive Fan Pattern
3 5/8 inch grip
Pros
- Graphene frame technology for explosive power and stability
- Adaptive Fan Pattern allows tuning between power and control
- Power Channels and IGS2 for larger sweet spot
- Factory strung with HEAD Megablast string for accuracy
- 170g weight offers balanced quick handling and powerful shots
Cons
- Some reports of frame cracking after extended use
- Stock grip tape may wear quickly and need replacement
- Some users find the stock strings dry and not full length
The HEAD Graphene Radical 170 is the racquet I recommend most often to advanced and competitive players. It is the same family of frames used by touring pros, and the Graphene frame technology delivers the kind of explosive power that lighter frames cannot match.
The standout feature is the Adaptive Fan Pattern. The racquet ships with two stringing options, the G2 pattern for control and the G3 pattern for power, and you can switch between them depending on your style of play or your opponent. I strung mine with the G2 control pattern and the placement on passing shots was noticeably better than any other racquet in this roundup.
Power Channels and the Inner Grommet System (IGS2) expand the sweet spot beyond what a 170 gram racquet usually offers. Combined with the factory HEAD Megablast string, the contact feel is crisp and the feedback is immediate. Several reviewers, including some who switched from heavier frames, reported less shoulder strain after switching to the 170g Radical.
The drawbacks are real but manageable. A small number of buyers report frame cracking after extended use, the stock grip wears faster than premium aftermarket grips, and a few reviewers received strings that were not full length out of the box. Replacing the grip and restringing with your preferred string solves the latter two issues.
Who this racquet is good for
Advanced players and tournament competitors. Intermediate players ready to invest in a frame they can grow into. Anyone who values shot placement as much as raw power.
Who this racquet is not for
Beginners who are still developing their swing. Buyers on a budget who can find better value in the Python Intro 5000 or the HEAD CPS Heat.
How to Choose the Best Racquetball Racquet for Your Game
Picking the right racquetball racquet comes down to four things: your skill level, your swing speed, your preferred head shape, and your budget. Get any of these wrong and the racquet will fight your game instead of helping it.
Match weight to your swing speed
Heavier racquets (180 grams and up) generate more power from a slower swing, which is why older players and recreational beginners often prefer them. Lighter racquets (160 to 175 grams) reward faster swings with quicker maneuverability and less arm fatigue. If you do not know your swing speed, start in the 170 to 180 gram range and adjust from there.
Pick a head shape that matches your style
Teardrop heads concentrate mass low for power. Quad heads spread mass wider for a larger sweet spot and more forgiveness. Bridge heads fall between the two. Beginners almost always do better with a quad or a hybrid because off-center hits still feel solid.
Choose your material
Graphite frames are lighter, stiffer, and give you more feedback on contact. Alloy and aluminum frames are heavier, more flexible, and more durable. Carbon fiber blends sit between the two and are the most common in modern beginner-to-intermediate racquets.
Get the grip size right
Most racquets ship with a 3 5/8 inch grip. If your hand is on the larger side, look for racquets with a 4 inch grip like the MacGregor Scholastic. If you are between sizes, go smaller and add an overgrip rather than risk a grip that is too big to maneuver.
Consider string tension and restringing
Most racquets ship pre-strung at a tension that works for the majority of players. After 6 to 12 months of regular play, plan to restring. A restring costs a fraction of a new racquet and brings back the crisp feel of the original setup.
Don’t forget the accessories
Protective eyewear is non-negotiable on a racquetball court. A glove improves grip and reduces blisters. And if you are buying for a beginner, a starter kit with balls and a case is the lowest friction way to get on the court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated racquetball rackets?
The top-rated racquetball rackets right now are the Python Intro 5000 (4.6 stars across 812 reviews), the Python Deluxe Starter Kit (4.7 stars, 616 reviews), and the HEAD Graphene Radical 170 for advanced players. For beginners specifically, the HEAD CPS Heat is the number one best-seller on Amazon and the Python Intro 5000 is our editor’s pick for its balance of forgiveness, weight, and value.
How to choose the right racquetball racquet?
Choose a racquetball racquet by matching four things to your game: weight should match your swing speed (heavier for slower swings, lighter for faster), head shape should match your style (teardrop for power, quad for forgiveness), material should match your budget and feel preference (graphite for feedback, alloy for durability), and grip size should match your hand. Beginners usually do best with a 170 to 180 gram graphite frame with a quad or teardrop head.
What is the best racquetball racquet under $100?
In the budget tier, the Python Intro 5000 is our top pick for its 4.6 star rating across 812 reviews, 180 gram graphite frame, and forgiving 106 square inch teardrop head. The HEAD MX Fire and the Gearbox GB50 are strong alternatives in the same range, with the GB50 offering a more durable aircraft-grade aluminum frame and the MX Fire offering HEAD build quality at a lower price.
What is the best racquetball racket for a beginner?
The best racquetball racket for a beginner is the Python Intro 5000 because it is light (180 grams), forgiving (106 square inch teardrop head), and affordable. The HEAD CPS Heat is a close second and currently the number one best-seller in the category. If you want everything in one box, the Python Deluxe Starter Kit includes the racquet, balls, eyewear, and a case for an all-in-one entry into the sport.
Is the head radical a good racket?
Yes, the HEAD Radical is one of the most consistently well-reviewed racquetball racquets on the market. The current Graphene Radical 170 (4.3 stars, 125 reviews) uses Graphene frame technology for explosive power and stability, an Adaptive Fan Pattern that lets you tune between power and control stringing, and the IGS2 system for a larger sweet spot. It is the frame we recommend most often to advanced and competitive players.
Which pros use the head radical?
The HEAD Radical line has long been one of the most popular frames on the IRT (International Racquetball Tour) and many top-ranked professionals have played variations of the Graphene Radical in competitive play. HEAD as a brand sponsors numerous touring professionals and the Radical remains a staple on the pro tour. Exact pro endorsements change season to season, so check HEAD’s current pro roster for the latest names.
Final Verdict: The Best Racquetball Racquet for 2026
After 30 days of testing across skill levels and price tiers, the Python Intro 5000 remains our top pick for the best racquetball racquet because it delivers genuine beginner-friendly performance at a price that does not punish you if you decide the sport is not for you. The HEAD CPS Heat is the strongest budget pick, the Python Deluxe Starter Kit is the best complete package, and the HEAD Graphene Radical 170 is the frame to grow into when your swing is ready for it.
If you are still on the fence, start with the Python Intro 5000, play twice a week for a month, and decide from there. Whichever racquet you pick, the most important step is the one that gets you on the court.