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Butterfly Viscaria
Blade description:
The Butterfly Viscaria is a highly esteemed table tennis blade renowned for its combination of speed, control, and touch. Its unique construction comprises seven plies—five layers of wood and two layers of arylate-carbon—providing players with a blend of power and responsiveness. With a weight of approximately 90 grams, the Viscaria is considered to have a medium weight, making it suitable for a wide range of playing styles without being overly cumbersome.
Designed for aggressive offensive players, the Viscaria offers impressive flexibility that enhances ball control while executing powerful strokes. It boasts a high speed rating of 8.7, complemented by a control rating of 7.2, which many users argue may be rated low given the precision they experience during play. The blade’s stiffness and hardness are rated at 5.2 and 5.7, respectively, allowing for a comfortable feel that adapts well to both looping and blocking techniques. Players appreciate the exceptional consistency delivered by the Viscaria, attributed to its well-crafted construction and quality materials.
For those seeking alternatives, blades like the Timo Boll ALC and Zhang Jike ALC are worth considering, as they similarly blend speed and control but with slight variations in feel and response. However, many players find that the Viscaria excels in providing a more precise touch on the ball, particularly for topspin-heavy styles and counter-attacks. While it is an ideal choice for intermediate to advanced players, beginners may struggle to harness the full potential of this legendary blade.
Cheaper Alternatives
The Butterfly Viscaria is one of the most iconic and widely used table tennis blades in the world, known for its balanced feel, excellent speed-control ratio, and the signature ALC (Arylate-Carbon) composition that offers both power and touch. However, it comes at a premium price point. Fortunately, there are several high-quality alternatives that deliver a similar playing experience at a more affordable cost. Blades like the Yinhe Pro 01, Sanwei 75 ALC, Friendship 729 Blue ALC, and DHS TG 506x all feature composite constructions and performance characteristics comparable to the Viscaria, making them great options for players seeking pro-level performance without the high price tag.Recent Reviews
#1 — April 2023
Control was superb, even when combined with anti-rubber on the backhand side. Speed was just enough and it also has a big sweet spot (using the Viscaria fish-scale version). Since its stiffness was average, it was very suitable to be used with fast rubber.
#2 — February 2023
Unbelievable blade. Loads of control and enough speed to win a point outright.
Control: Exceptional control allows for precise placement and spin generation, enabling strategic gameplay and devastating shots.
Speed: Despite its focus on control, this blade delivers ample speed when needed, granting players the power to secure points or execute aggressive strokes.
Balance: Its well-balanced design ensures a stable feel in hand, providing a consistent and comfortable playing experience throughout rallies.
#3 — February 2023
Viscaria “M” Version
I acquired this Viscaria “M” version blade through a trade two years ago. I attached a DHS H3 Neo 40° rubber to the FH and an Xiom Oza rubber to the BH. This blade offers exceptional control but is not suitable for beginners. With proper technique, I could precisely place the ball during attacks. However, effective topspin strokes required adequate hip rotation to generate power. I recently replaced the Andro Rasanter 48 on the FH, enhancing the blade’s speed while maintaining its impressive control.
Viscaria “O” Version
Recently, I acquired a Viscaria “O” version. Notably softer than its “M” counterpart, the “O” version provides greater control and topspin capabilities. It is an exceptional weapon, originally equipped with Tenergy 05 rubbers on both sides. Currently, I am utilizing T05 hard on both sides, which has proven to be an excellent combination for attacking shots and blocking.