Andro Gauzy SL OFF
Blade description:
This blade is a high-performance, all-wood 7-ply construction designed for offensive play. It is recognized for its significant speed and rigidity, often drawing comparisons to carbon-composite blades in terms of pace and power. It features a hard ebony outer ply, which contributes to a stiff feel and a direct, fast ball trajectory.
Performance and Feel
- Stiffness and Speed: The blade is exceptionally stiff and fast, providing high energy return and “zing” on smashes and aggressive drives. While it offers substantial speed, users note that it requires active, proper footwork and stroke mechanics to unlock its full potential, as it does not provide “easy” speed without user input.
- Control and Touch: Despite its hardness, the blade retains a level of responsiveness that allows for consistent blocking and counter-topspin play. It is described as having a mid-long trajectory and a medium arc.
- Balance and Weight: The blade typically weighs around 87 grams and presents a slight head-heavy balance. The flared handle is reported to be comfortable, contributing to a secure grip during high-intensity play.
Pairing and Usage Recommendations
- Rubber Compatibility: The blade performs best when paired with medium-soft to medium-hard tensor rubbers. Users advise against using traditional hard Chinese rubbers, as the inherent hardness of the blade may negatively impact spin generation for some players.
- Player Suitability: Due to its speed, stiff character, and requirement for precise technique, this blade is recommended for advanced or professional-level players. It serves as a viable alternative for those seeking the power of a composite blade while preferring the feedback and “soulful” feel of an all-wood construction.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — March 2024
Fastest all wood blade I’ve used. 87 Grams. Slight head heavy, not uncomfortable and great flared handle. Touch is very good for its speed and hard outer ebony ply. Does not feel super hard in terms of playing as it flexes slightly giving ability to spin when needed.
Speed is 9.4/10 Loop 8.9/10 Drive 9.5/10 Touch 9/10 Block 9.9/10. Definitely more for loop drivers than spinny brush loopers.
It does allow for brushing when needed but the pace when top spinning is relatively fast. Not as fast as carbons but a notch or two slower but can speed up to fast carbon speeds thus giving control in blocking or countering heavy topspin.
Semi stiff and very good at driving with mid hard rubbers and works extremely well with Skyline 2 provincial 40’, R47 and C48 types of rubbers.
Mid long trajectory and medium arc and safe when out of position when under pressure and allows for regaining aggression. Has many gears for serving and receiving, it however feels less crispy and more “soulful” feeling as they have marketed.
Overall a good wood alternative for those who don’t want to play or want to get away from carbon. I can do the fastest third ball openings I’ve ever been able to do and has a high elasticity and speed when going for the hills but able to control the game if you decide to be less aggressive.
Only drawbacks are price, veneer came off and recommend one layer of lacquer and it will last.
Power is available at all ranges from close to very far away. It does best one step back if you open slowly or on the table if you open third balls with power.
Overall my favorite 7 ply so far among ML3, PG7, Clipper or BS1 or even most euro 7 ply woods. It allows for all types of power input and you will rarely miss no matter how hard you hit or spin. Excellent control to speed ratio. Takes some skill but has a satisfying crack when hitting with tensors and strong powerful loops that make people feel like they are playing against Primorac in his prime…
#2 — May 2023
Yesterday, I played with this blade equipped with the Nittaku Hurricane Pro 3 Orange on the forehand (FH) and the Andro Hexer Powergrip on the backhand (BH). I found it to be a very consistent and controllable blade with these rubbers, producing a low throw.
#3 — April 2023
Hard and stiff, this blade must be used with medium-soft, bouncy tensors to get the best results. It is the fastest of any all-wood blades I have ever used.
It is very good with rubbers such as Xiom Europe, BTY Tenergy, or Tibhar Evolution.
Do not use it with Chinese rubbers.
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