Confused difference betweens blades
Table Tennis Equipment
Last updated 6 years ago
Quentin King Asked 6 years ago
As a beginner, I am confused by there being a difference between blades, how can two blades both made of wood be either fast or slow. Surely the rubber on the surface is the main controlling factor. When going to buy a new blade how do I gauge its speed?
Alois Rosario Answered 6 years ago
Hi Quentin,
There are different types of wood and also some have layers of carbon in them as well. This leads to different speeds and feel with the blades.
The rubber is the bigger factor in influencing the performance as you say but the blade does make a percentage of difference.
It is difficult to gauge speed apart from relying on the manufacturers ratings. These are often not totally accurate across different brands. If you know someone with a blade that you are thinking of buying, ask them if you can have a hit with it. Also ask around with different with other players. they may have some ideas to help you out.
Thoughts on this question
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Rohan Keogh Posted 6 years ago
Quentin, as a beginner transitioning into intermediate, I invested a lot of time into this same question and I now even make my own blades (for social play only), most of which are now dressed in various versions of Mark V rubber.
My strong advice to you is to NOT get too hung up on all the techno mumbo jumbo and claims about how this blade will be better than that blade. At beginner level, you are highly unlikely to notice any significant difference between two similar level blades that have the same rubber. The rubber will be the major factor, by far, in how the bat feels and plays for you. Focus on the rubber.
That said, again for a beginner level, I recommend sticking to a 5-ply all wood blade for better feel and control. You want something better than the cheap sport store $10 - $40 pre-made bats simply because of the wood and build quality and the fact a better blade will last longer into your development rather than being something you'll want to upgrade after 3 months. Which blade is up to you but something like the Ping Skills Rook is ideal for the first year of play, at least or the Stiga Classic all wood. However, depending on your skill and style of play, you may prefer a slightly faster rubber than the Lion one on the Rook. I've found the Mark V is a really controllable, moderate spin and speed rubber that can take you from beginner through into intermediate very comfortably. There are other rubbers of course but again, don't get bogged down in too much hype - just go for a good all-round, high quality rubber and you'll be more than happy for some time to come.
Have fun making the choices and enjoy your TT.
Quentin King Posted 6 years ago
Thank you Alois and Rohan, I think I ill invest in the Rook for now, but its good to get these blade and rubber choices clear in my mind.
Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 6 years ago
No problems Quentin. It is confusing.
Rohan Keogh Posted 6 years ago
Good choice Quentin. You won't won't be disappointed. Enjoy your TT.