Nittaku Acoustic Carbon Outer Large Handle

This blade features a 5+2 construction, integrating carbon layers into an Acoustic-style design to achieve a balance between increased speed and the distinct, natural feel of a wooden blade. It is highly regarded for its precision and exceptional control, particularly during near-table play, blocking, and looping. Despite the inclusion of carbon, it maintains a soft, communicative touch that allows players to feel the ball well, making it a versatile choice for both hard and soft rubber pairings.

Playing Characteristics

• Performance: The blade offers a significant speed upgrade over its all-wood counterparts while retaining a sophisticated, non-vibratory feel. It is characterized by its stability during aggressive shots and its ability to produce a reliable arc on topspin, which results in a pronounced, dipping trajectory upon the ball’s bounce.
• Flex and Stiffness: While it possesses a degree of natural flex that aids in looping, it performs with the firmness of a stiff wood blade. It is not prone to unwanted vibration, ensuring high accuracy and consistent placement.
• Balance and Weight: The blade is known for having a neutral, stable balance, though individual units can be quite heavy. Players often find that the distribution helps facilitate powerful blocking and stable attacking, provided they are comfortable with the overall mass of the blade.

Handle and Build

• Handle Variations: This model is available in both standard and Large (LG) handle versions. The LG handle is notably substantial and may require manual shaping or sanding to suit individual grip preferences, as its original texture can be rough.
• Compatibility: The blade is highly sensitive to different rubber types, allowing for a wide range of setups, from inverted rubbers to short pips. It is generally recommended for intermediate players and above, as it rewards precise technique and allows users to explore a refined, aggressive style of play.