Stiga Offensive Classic WRB
Blade description:
The Stiga Offensive Classic WRB is a lightweight, all-wood offensive blade. It is highly regarded for its versatility, functioning as a “do-it-all” option for players ranging from allround spin-oriented styles to aggressive, close-to-the-table attackers. Due to its construction, it is essential to seal the top ply before attaching rubbers, as the wood is prone to splintering during removal.
Playing Characteristics
- Feel and Feedback: The blade is noted for its distinct, high-frequency vibration, particularly in the WRB (Weight, Balance, Rate of Play) handle versions. While some players find this feedback helpful for sensing ball contact, others may find the vibration pronounced. The feel is often described as crisp and direct.
- Speed and Stiffness: Performance varies significantly based on rubber pairing. It is generally characterized as having enough speed for offensive looping and smashes at close to mid-distance, though it may lack the raw power of carbon blades when playing from far distance. Stiffness levels can vary between individual specimens, ranging from soft and controlled to quite stiff and hard.
- Control: The blade offers a high degree of control for spin-based play. However, users emphasize that it requires a development period to master, especially for touch shots near the net. Once acclimated, it provides a consistent, reliable platform for loops, blocks, and serves.
- Construction: This is an all-wood blade. The WRB hollow handle design shifts the weight balance toward the head, which impacts timing and feel compared to solid-handle blades. It is a lightweight choice, typically weighing around 80 grams, though lighter specimens are available.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — October 2017
Using the CPEN version, sealed. It is lightweight; mine has 73g, as per my request. It has quite some vibration, as already mentioned, but it doesn’t bother me. It does well in every department, from blocks to flicks, serves to receives, flat hits to loops. It has plenty of speed, considering it’s a thin 5-ply wooden blade. I’m really enjoying using it, mostly because of its weight and direct feeling. It feels stiffer and more direct than Xiom’s Offensive S. It lacks speed with soft rubbers, such as Joola’s Maxx-P, but works well with harder rubbers. Yasaka’s Rising Dragon is a good choice on the FH.
#2 — July 2017
Blade Review
Paired with DHS H3 mid (FH) and H3Neo (BH), all Chinese tacky rubbers, this blade feels lighter than the DHS PG7 with similar rubber.
As an offensive blade, it offers a light and powerful combination for smashing hard and fast. For a left-handed two-wing looper, the spin is exceptional.
Initial impressions include the unique sound upon hitting. While not a major factor, the blocking capabilities are solid. Loops are also impressive.
The hollow WRB handle produces some vibration, but this does not present any significant issues. My coach has experienced powerful spin loops with curvature using this blade.
#3 — December 2014
This blade fits like an old pair of jeans. The Legend FL grip provides a perfect feeling. Those who claim this blade lacks control require coaching, as players of various levels can utilize it effectively.
It excels in close/mid-distance looping and offers a delicate touch for the short game. Pair it with classic rubbers for exceptional all-around control or experiment with fast and spinny tensors for advanced play.
It is crucial to seal the blade upon purchase to prevent the top ply from splintering during rubber changes. Hairspray offers a quick solution, but water-based sealers from TT shops provide excellent protection.
Overall, this blade is a versatile “Do All” option.
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