Stiga Hans Asler

Nice old-school blade, good for short play and controlled medium-speed topspins. Combined with an offensive, spinny rubber, you get a good feeling for spin and control. So I recommend it for all-round players improving their technique or defensive players in combination with dead rubbers.

Bought this to remind myself of how blades from the early 1970s play, as we had substantial handles in those days. The blade is 5.5 mm thick, and after stripping off the rubbers, I was surprised by how dead the wood felt. It absorbs energy, reminding me of a phrase often used in finance: “dead cat bounce.”

This is a brilliant defensive blade that will suck the lifeblood from your opponent. Otherwise, it’s just a collector’s item.

Combined with an offensive, spinny rubber, you get a good feeling for spin and control.