When One Drop sat down to design the Top Deck with team member JT Nickel, the focus was on pure performance. Taking inspiration from their titanium yo-yo, the Citizen, where they took advantage of the material by making a very thin body to help shift weight to the rim. One Drop decided to use 7075 aluminum alloy, which has more density and strength than the usual 6061, so that they could push the limits on the weight distribution in a similar way that they did on the Citizen.
Here is how JT describes it: "I wanted the Top Deck to move with ease and grace, similar to the Summit, but with a little more stability, for that extra edge during a session. We came up with a design that incorporated a mid-weight step (like the summit) but distributed the rest of the weight into the rim. Combined with an organic catch zone and the false rim look from the Cascade, the end result gave me my absolute favorite yo-yo to date. Fast, stable, comfortable, and made out of 7075 for some extra kick as well!"
7075 aluminum alloy is much more expensive than 6061. Because of this, One Drop's previous 7075 models (Valor and Format:C) retailed for $120. Using techniques they pioneered to achieve incredible value on models like the Benchmarks, the Vanguard and the Gauntlet, they were able to find a way to have the Top Deck retail for $79 without sacrificing quality. One Drop is continuing to push the limit on the value while making their yoyos in house in Eugene, Oregon, USA.
Specs:
Weight: 66 grams
Width: 43 mm
Diameter: 56.5 mm
Stock Response: 19mm
Gap Width: 4.45 mm
Bearing Size: Large (C) stainless steel (One Drop 10 Ball Bearing)
Aluminum: 7075