Butterfly Jonyer Hinoki

≈ 74 grams ≈ 1260 Hz

Blade description:

The Butterfly Jonyer Hinoki is a celebrated table tennis blade recognized for its superior blend of control and feel, making it an excellent choice for players seeking to refine their techniques. Constructed from five plies of hinoki wood, it offers a unique combination of lightweight finesse and solid performance, suited for both beginners and intermediate players. The blade’s lightweight nature, weighing approximately 75g (+/- 5g), and its thickness of 5.5mm contribute to its agile handling and responsiveness.

Characterized by a flexibility rating of 3.5, the Jonyer Hinoki excels in providing remarkable control over shots, allowing players to generate precise loops and significant spin. Despite its control-oriented design, the blade has been noted to lack the explosive speed required for more aggressive, power-driven play styles, particularly in the current era with the 40mm ball. Many users suggest that while it does not provide overwhelming power for away-from-the-table shots, its high dwell time makes it incredibly effective for looping close to the table.

For those seeking alternatives, players have often turned to newer models known for enhanced speed and power, such as the Butterfly Jonyer H Special. Nevertheless, aficionados of the original Jonyer continue to appreciate its craftsmanship and the feedback it provides during play. Combining the Jonyer Hinoki with modern, high-tension rubbers like Tenergy or Donic Coppa Gold can effectively augment its speed, maintaining the advantageous control and spin characteristics that this legendary blade is recognized for. Overall, the Butterfly Jonyer Hinoki remains a staple choice among players who prioritize a balanced performance in their table tennis game.

Recent Reviews

#1 — October 2021

Great blade.

Control ratings are not accurate and should not be used as a measurement. Instead, choose blades that feel good and allow you to connect with the ball well.

The blade has great attacking capabilities.

I am currently using the blade with Friendship 729 Axis Blue Sponge on the forehand and Yasaka Mark V Soft Sponge on the backhand.

The blade feels very comfortable in my hand.

If the blade feels good in your hand, then go for it.

#2 — December 2019

I had this now paired with DHS H3 FH and BH, and it loops very well. I am very happy with it. I loop Chinese style, with a full stroke. The fact is, it is thin at 5.5 mm for a 5-ply all-wood blade, so it’s great for looping. The 7-ply all-wood has more power but not as great as for looping. This is my observation.

#3 — January 2019

In 1988, I used this blade paired with Mark V rubbers (2.0 black BH and max red FH). With that combo, I would topspin on both flanks anything and everything on either side. The blade was a terror with the 38mm ball. Was a topspin machine. I was also 25 years younger and won a bunch of local competitions.

Fast forward to 2016, and I decided to play table tennis again. The old combination was lacking power for the 40mm ball. Younger players were overpowering me. I decided to upgrade. Bought a new butterfly Innerforce (Liu Shiwen)& newer rubbers. Decent blade but affected my looping topspin game. Then I read an article from a famous Chinese coach about how to keep the older OFF blades but simply change the rubber to newer tensors. I decided to go find the correct combination of newer rubbers for my Jonyer H (original FL with the compact head).

After some research and testing, I found the Mizuno Q3 2.1mm for my FH and Rakza7 2mm for my BH. The blade is still amazing. Paired with the newer rubbers, I am beating players half my age. I think the Tenergy05 would also be terrific on this blade, if only I was 20 years younger. The only downside to Tenergy05 I found was it was very sensitive to incoming spin (serve return). Rakza7 has a distinct advantage in this department. Hence my BH has Rakza7.

All my opponents ask me about what equipment I use, and I show them my Jonyer H and it still works. Its an amazing blade and I still love it. Looping machine, fast and light with amazing control. I move my opponents all around the table, and it can do everything - attack, loop, smash, block, chop and drop shots. And yes, the handle shapes to my hand after all these years. I consider it like a work of art. It can never be replaced.