Nittaku Tornado King
Blade description:
The Nittaku Tornado King is an all-wood blade characterized by its slim 5.4mm thickness and lightweight profile, which typically weighs around 83g. Its construction features a wenge top veneer, providing a harder surface feel compared to blades utilizing koto wood. Despite this hard outer layer, the blade maintains significant flex, which contributes to increased dwell time and a comfortable, consistent feel during play.
Construction and Feel
- Material: All-wood composition.
- Top Veneer: Wenge wood, which offers a harder contact sensation than traditional koto.
- Flexibility: High degree of flex despite the hard top veneer, facilitated by its thin 5.4mm core.
- Handle: Features a hollow handle design that contributes to a distinct, “Swedish-style” tactile sensation.
Playing Characteristics
- Handling: Highly balanced weight distribution, making it agile and comfortable for intermediate players.
- Performance: Delivers a clear sound upon ball impact and provides a balance between speed and control. It offers greater dwell time compared to many standard offensive blades, assisting in spin-oriented play and consistent shot placement.
- Versatility: Functions well as a balanced, all-around offensive tool that performs reliably across various strokes and distances from the table.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — November 2024
I was recommended this blade by a friend, and I was not disappointed.
It’s a quality blade at a great price, especially on sale. For my intermediate skill level, it provides a very consistent feel, and the weight balance is spot on.
The flared handle fits comfortably in my average-sized hand.
#2 — September 2024
The D. Neubauer Dominance rubber works perfectly when paired together.
#3 — August 2024
This is an all-wood Nittaku Tornado King blade that I purchased, and mine weighed 83g. I also own a Tibhar Samsonov Force Pro, which is the same weight and about the same price.
I have used the Samsonov for a year or two and like it very much. So, when I purchased the Tornado King, I had high hopes, but I didn’t really expect it to be so excellent. Compared to the Samsonov, the feeling is a little softer when hitting, and I think it has greater dwell. Speed is about equal, but there is so much difference in the feeling.
They are really not that much different, but the Tornado King is head and shoulders above the Samsonov. For that matter, I also have a Clipper Classic (same weight) which I have used for 4-5 years. The Tornado King rivals the Clipper, but I have not determined which blade is preferable. But for now, I would pick up either one and be happy.
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