Stiga Emerald VPS V
Blade description:
This blade is an all-wood, 5-ply offensive construction that functions as an OFF/OFF+ blade. It is characterized by its stiffness and hardness, which contributes to a very short dwell time and a high degree of speed. Due to its rigid nature, it provides a direct, responsive feel and a medium throw angle, making it particularly effective for blocking and close-to-the-table counter-hitting.
Performance and Handling
- Sweet Spot: The blade features a notably large sweet spot, which enhances consistency during blocks and defensive maneuvers against aggressive spin.
- Weight Distribution: The balance is highly sensitive to the weight and hardness of the rubber pairings. Using heavy or hard-sponge rubbers can cause the setup to become head-heavy, which may diminish maneuverability and control in the short game.
- Rubber Synergy: It performs well with tension-based rubbers that provide internal energy, while pairing it with tacky or very hard rubbers can significantly alter the balance between speed and dwell time.
- Construction: As an all-wood blade, it relies on a specific veneer bonding process, which provides a consistent, albeit firm, feedback profile compared to composite alternatives.
This blade is well-suited for players who prefer a direct, fast, and stiff all-wood feel for an aggressive, attack-oriented game. Its durability and stability are noted, particularly in its ability to maintain consistent performance across various styles, including the use of short pips.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — October 2021
Using this blade for three weeks, it has exceeded my expectations. It offers excellent speed with acceptable control. I’ve been using H3N on the forehand and Fastarc G-1 on the backhand. The blade’s consistent brushing capabilities make it effective against pips. However, its standout feature is its blocking ability, thanks to its large sweet spot. I tested it with Tenergy 05 on the forehand, and it performed exceptionally well. Pairing H3N with this blade provides excellent control but slightly compromises speed. For modern playstyles, Dignics 09C on both sides might be a more suitable choice.
#2 — October 2020
I have been using this blade for 5 years, with periods of use and non-use. Firstly, this is an all-wood OFF+ blade, close to the OFF side. Mine came with an anatomic handle and weighs 93 grams. It has good craftsmanship and quality. I sometimes hit the table, but this blade has been resistant to damage. It works well with attack short pips. Plus, it’s good for blocking because it has a large sweet spot.
#3 — June 2020
The blade is ultra forgiving, to a point that I feel sorry for my opponent. The Ebenholz wood gives good speed, while the 5-ply structure gives good control. It is quite hard, so it is not too good for looping, but overall it is a good blade.
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