Monkeyfinger Ape-X Specs:
Diameter: 55.21 mm / 2.17 inches
Width: 41.6 mm / 1.64 inches
Gap Width: 4. mm / 0.15 inches
Weight: 67.9 grams
Bearing Size: Size C (.250 x .500 x .187)
Response: Monkeysnot Flowable Silicone (compatible with 19mm pads)
PLAY
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The Ape-X is the most accessible, “all-around” design yet from Canadian manufacturer, Monkeyfinger. With a more conventionally-shaped body and a comfortable feel in the hand, the Ape-X handles modern play easily while giving the player a more “classic” yoyo feel. It’s not the most stable throw out there for plane-bending tricks, but it has a solid, reassuring feel in the hand and plays lightly and quickly on the end of the string. The profile is a classic, rounded shape with a v-shape accent that give it a more modern look and feel. In an era where “zero wall” yoyos are becoming more and more popular, it’s a nice change of pace to use something that features a more classic, organic body shape.
With a bead-blasted finish on the catch-zone, the yoyo grinds well and feels great in the hand. As you’d expect of any modern aluminum yoyo, it spins dead smooth. The Monkeysnot response works fine, but as with all flowable response applications it’s difficult to maintain consistency of play and can quickly become the impetus for #yoyodamage. The binds started off smooth and reliable but an air bubble in the response quickly turned into a tear, and I replaced the silicone with a standard 19mm pad. If you like and can manage the variables of flowable silicone, Monkeysnot works great. If you prefer something easier to maintain and are a fan of instant gratification, stick with pads.
LOOKS
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The anodizing and finish on the Ape-X are beautifully done! While our review model is not a production color, the finish quality is the same on the final production. We’re quite fond of our earth-tone, olive green with gold and blue splash, but the production colors are notably brighter and bolder. Monkeyfinger seems to be in the process of replacing/overhauling their packaging, and our review model only came in the customary fabric pouch. So, zero stars for packaging, but that’s only a reflection of their transition and not an actual commentary on the quality of packaging.
Monkeyfinger avoids engraving on their yoyos, and instead opts for a subtle “ghost logo” anodized in a contrasting finish. The glossy Monkeyfinger icon on the matte portion of the yoyo is subtle but effective.
VALUE
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Retailing for $105, the Ape-X isn’t a budget throw by any means, but it’s still reasonable for a high-end yoyo made in small batches by a boutique manufacturer. It’s still more reasonably priced than quite a few lesser performing yoyos, though, so we’re going to say that if you have the money, the price is right where it should be.