Stiga Carbonado 45
Blade description:
The Stiga Carbonado 45 is an offensive-rated composite blade featuring a 5+2 construction. It is widely recognized for bridging the gap between traditional all-wood blades and high-speed carbon models. By incorporating a specific carbon layup, it provides a large sweet spot and increased stability for blocking and looping while maintaining a feel that many players describe as remarkably woody and tactile.
Key Playing Characteristics
- Speed and Power: Classified as an offensive blade, it offers sufficient speed for aggressive mid-to-long distance play. While it provides ample power for loop-driven attacks, it is not typically categorized as a high-velocity smasher’s blade.
- Feel and Control: The blade offers a medium-high throw angle and notable dwell time, which facilitates spin generation and secure topspin play. It balances a stiff, reactive response during power shots with enough sensitivity for delicate touch shots and over-the-table play.
- Weight and Balance: Generally categorized as medium-light, the weight distribution is even, avoiding a head-heavy feel. Players should note that the actual weight can vary between individual units.
Construction and Maintenance Considerations
- Material Quality: The outer plies are constructed from Limba, which contributes to its favorable, soft-touch feeling.
- Maintenance: Users have noted that the outer veneer can be prone to splintering when removing rubbers. It is highly recommended to apply a thin layer of blade sealant to the surface before the initial assembly to protect the wood fibers.
- Compatibility: The blade is versatile, pairing effectively with a wide range of rubbers, from medium-soft to harder, high-tension sponges, depending on the player’s preference for throw angle and dwell time.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — June 2025
I’ve been using this blade for a season. When I first played with it, it felt unremarkable, and perhaps even a bit slow. However, after a few months, it became my favorite blade after testing over 20 others.
My skill level improved from high amateur to league player (3rd highest league in the country) due to intense training. With this blade, I never felt the need for more speed or a crisper feel. It’s not an ALC or even a Carbonado 145, but with Dignics 09C on the forehand and DNA Platinum M on the backhand, I’ve never felt more comfortable during stressful moments.
The K3 and Dignics 09C combination on the forehand feels particularly amazing. The blade already produces a high arc, making my shots deadly in terms of spin and depth on the table. This blade cured my equipment obsession after I bought two more Carbonado 45s and 145s. I doubt I’ll reach the top 10 nationally, but the top 100 might be achievable.
#2 — April 2024
This blade is slower than the Carbonado 145. This is likely due to a change in the carbon ply construction.
#3 — March 2024
My first Stiga blade was the Stiga Offensive Classic WRB (OC). To this day, it remains the blade that provides the best feeling out of all the blades I’ve tried, even surpassing the Yasaka Extra and Yasaka Sweden Extra. I’m solely referring to the feel of the blade, for clarification.
Despite owning several modern blades, I find myself longing for the familiar feeling of the OC, occasionally picking it up when facing high-level players. However, my attacks lack sufficient power against them. This prompted me to search for a blade that replicated the feel of the OC while offering greater power.
My initial choice was the Offensive Classic Carbon. While it delivered impressive speed, surpassing the OC in power, it was overly stiff, compromised on feel, and generated less spin when paired with the same rubber. Despite its优点, it simply didn’t align with my style.
In my ongoing pursuit of a suitable replacement for the OC, I came across recommendations suggesting that the Stiga Carbonado 45 felt similar to an all-wood blade. Upon trying the 45 for the first time, I was thrilled to discover that the feeling was indeed very close to the OC, although it still produced slightly less spin. Its inherent flexibility and softness allowed for excellent ball control during blocking and looping.
Having tried countless blades, over 30 to be exact, I hesitate to rate the Stiga Carbonado 45 as highly as others who give it an 8.7/10. Personally, I would give it an 8.2. I can still distinctly feel the carbon layer, but the control remains commendable. As a penhold player, I find this blade ideal for off-play, excelling in control and looping but falling short in the smashing department. With slight adjustments to its phrasing, the review becomes more coherent and grammatically sound.
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