Butterfly Innerforce Layer ALC.S
Blade description:
The Butterfly Innerforce Layer ALC.S is a standout table tennis blade that combines the classic feel of all-wood blades with the advanced power and performance of carbon. This blade has been crafted with a unique composition that includes a thin 5.5mm construction and a combination of spruce outer plies, which not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to excellent dwell time and spin generation. The Innerforce ALC.S is known for its remarkable control, rated at an impressive 9.2, making it an excellent choice for players looking to refine their technique and gameplay.
In terms of weight, the Innerforce ALC.S is categorized as medium, typically weighing around 90g. Despite its solid weight, many players report that it feels light in the hand, allowing for easy maneuverability and quick adjustments during play. The blade offers a stiffness rating of 4.4 and a hardness of 4.2, providing a balance between flexibility and rigidity that suits various playing styles, especially those who rely on both powerful attacks and precise control.
What sets the Innerforce ALC.S apart from other alternatives, such as the Viscaria or the TBS, is its unique blend of all-wood feel and carbon speed. Players have praised it for its ability to generate explosive topspin while maintaining an impressive level of touch for finesse shots. While it may not suit every player, particularly those who prefer stiffer carbon blades, the Innerforce ALC.S serves as a great option for intermediate to advanced players seeking a versatile blade capable of elevating their game.
Recent Reviews
#1 — March 2024
I am quite positively surprised by the ALC.S, especially with OX and close to the table. I found the control with OX on the table particularly strong. However, I made too many twiddling errors with the Shield because of the blade protruding too far into the handle. I also did not warm up with the Shake Defence blade.
The Shield was actually the best I could test from the play characteristics (Zeulloid). The ALC.S was just an impulse buy, but it harmonizes extremely well with the Zeitgeist OX. Apart from the excellent control and the surprisingly pronounced braking effect, this combo has the best characteristics in “pip-spin” (and highest control) that I have ever experienced.
It does indeed feel softer than the Shake and Shield blades, but is obviously stiff enough due to the ALC to control the pimples very well. I find the slightly heavier weight to be a very good offset to the lack of weight from double pimple insides. I cannot say for sure how much the Spruce plywood plays a role in this, but the ALC.S really does everything very well and controlled, including chop block (most important to me), flip, empty block, counter, and “pimple-spin.”
As for pimples inside, the ALC.S also has super control in the short and passive game and becomes faster than expected when playing topspin (tested with T 25 max and now covered with Battle 2). It makes a relatively high arc for my standards, which I do not necessarily like, but the balls sink surprisingly often still on the line. The ALC.S has a softer feel than the Shake and Shield blades, but is definitely on par (with advantages in pimple attack - in combination with Zeitgeist) and with better spin play (noticeably more rotation). So those who disrupt at the table and mainly play topspin attacks might get happy here.
#2 — December 2021
Vyborná šepel, lehká (nemusí každému vyhovovat), perfektní cit na pálce, přesná, vynikající pro hru u stolu.
#3 — October 2021
Great control and ball feeling. Enough power if you play close to the table. Easy to produce spin on serves and loops. I use it with Impartial XS 2.1mm.
Very good! Note: please use fast rubbers on it.
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