Butterfly Timo Boll Forte

Blade description:

The Butterfly Timo Boll Forte is a remarkable table tennis blade designed to enhance the performance of offensive players. With a composition of 5 wood plies, this blade strikes a perfect balance between speed and control, making it an appealing choice for those who favor aggressive play. The blade’s construction, featuring a thickness of 6.9mm, ensures a blend of the crisp feedback necessary for quick strokes and the dwell time for executing controlled loops and spins.

Weighing in at approximately 85 grams, the Timo Boll Forte is considered to have a medium weight, which aids in maneuverability while still providing enough mass for powerful shots. Its stiffness rating of 5.3 and a hardness level of 5.6 give players versatility in playstyle, as it can accommodate various rubber types without losing its unique feel. The blade is moderately flexible, allowing for responsive returns during rallies while still maintaining a solid structure to support aggressive strikes.

Despite the positive attributes, some players note the Timo Boll Forte’s speed can be challenging, particularly for those still developing their technique. Consequently, this blade may not suit beginners or players still mastering control. For those seeking alternatives, options like the Butterfly Timo Boll ALC or other all-wood blades, such as the Butterfly Petr Korbel, may provide a different balance of speed and control, catering to varying skill levels and playing styles.

Overall, the Butterfly Timo Boll Forte stands out as a dynamic choice for intermediate to advanced offensive players who thrive on speed and power, provided they possess the technique to handle its potential.

Recent Reviews

#1 — November 2019

Fast all wood blade, perfect for attacking strokes and controlled loops (for me personally). The only negative I can really find is that the speed makes playing it short quite a lot harder.

#2 — June 2018

This blade is highly recommended for offensive players who crave speed and a good feel for the ball. The extended dwell time allows for precise shots, but the blade’s fast speed may compromise control for some. It worked well with T05 and HN3 rubbers. Despite its affordability, the lack of control could be a drawback for those seeking more precision.

Pros: - Excellent feel - Impressive speed - Budget-friendly - Compatible with various rubbers

Cons: - Limited control, especially at high speeds

Ultimately, this blade is ideal for skilled players with a strong offensive style who can manage its speed. However, beginners or those lacking confidence in their technique may prefer a more controllable option.

#3 — July 2014

Despite being faster than other blades, it has a normal sweet spot, which is not particularly large. It lacks any particular sound or control, but for a cheap blade, it performs adequately.