Nittaku Hino 5.22

The Hinoki Catapult is controlled at low speeds due to the carbon layers (2 on each side), but at higher impacts, the catapult from the thicker hinoki core really kicks in. This results in a very controlled blade for the speed it provides, which is even faster than ALC blades like Viscaria. The catapult sets in more dynamically compared to Viscaria (which is more linear) so this blade unlocks more gears.

The blade creates a low arc on the balls unlike all wood hinoki only blades due to the carbon layer and thus very dangerous balls but the trajectory is long so caution is needed when finishing a ball, otherwise it will go long.

The ball contact point is crisp due to the carbon, yet still provides good dwell time from the hinoki. Due to the moderate flex of the blade, it will have a lot of power from half distance where it can create dangerous low trajectory spinny topspins while having a very nice and controlled touch in the short game (albeit a somewhat muted feeling during serves, serve return feels good though).

Faster than Primoarc Carbon, the Arc is a bit low. Shots are very direct, making it easy to make mistakes. Not recommended for beginners. Overall, it’s a very good blade with insane handle quality and a very smooth feel.