Stiga Kjell Johannson

I bought this blade 40 years ago, and it is still a very good blade now. Its sealed wood construction protects it from splintering. The blade has a medium-slow speed, but combining it with tensor rubbers makes it fast enough to win points. Its conic handle is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to hold. These blades are becoming rare to find in good condition. It has above-average vibration and a medium sweet spot. This blade is an excellent all-around choice for collectors or players who appreciate the feel of older Stiga blades. My first Stiga blade, purchased in 1973, had BTY Plous rubber if anyone remembers that. It’s saddening to see manufacturers discontinue the conic grip, which was a cross between flared and straight handles. With the larger ball, using a tensor with a harder sponge is recommended unless you are a beginner. This timeless classic is worth every cent.

Hi, I have started back playing TT and I am using a Stiga Clipper with the KJ conic handle.

Would love to have a back up.

Is this blade for sale?

Thanks, Gary Fagan.

When I first started playing table tennis around 1980, I used a second-hand Stiga Kjell Johanson blade with Mark V 2.0 rubbers on both sides. It possessed an unsurpassed fit and a conic handle that provided an exceptional feeling of control while maintaining a relaxed grip. The Kjell Johanson belonged to the “Offensive” family line, sharing similarities with the “Stellan Bengtsson” blade but with a distinct handle shape. Both blades offered a delicate touch and explosive power, allowing for both aggressive and short- to mid-distance looping play.

However, precise timing and footwork were crucial for optimal performance with this blade. While the current Offensive Classic may have a larger sweet spot, the original Kjell Johanson demanded precision, which ultimately contributed to my technical development.

1978 Stiga Kjell Johansson offensive wood with Yasaka Mark V, both sheets 2.5 were red in those days.

This is a conic model from the 1970s. They don’t make this blade anymore. Nowadays, we would classify it as an All Round blade.