Stiga Offensive Classic WRB

Blade description:

The Stiga Offensive Classic WRB is a renowned 5-ply wooden table tennis blade highly regarded for its offensive capabilities and exceptional control. Crafted with a combination of Koto, Spruce, and Ayous, this blade harmonizes speed and touch, making it suitable for a variety of playing styles. It features the WRB (Weight Balance), which lightens the handle for better maneuverability and responding quickly when engaged in fast-paced exchanges.

Weighing in at 83 grams, the Offensive Classic WRB is considered to have a medium weight, providing a solid feel without being overly cumbersome. Its thickness contributes to a nice balance between power and finesse, allowing for both aggressive play and controlled shots. With a stiffness rating of 5, players will find it firm yet responsive, which aids in executing powerful loops and drives while maintaining a level of feedback crucial for precision play.

In terms of flexibility, this blade exhibits a certain amount of vibration, a design characteristic that some players may find advantageous for creating spin. While it excels in close-to-the-table play, it also offers good performance from mid-distance, especially when paired with the right rubbers, such as Tenergy or Sriver series. However, players looking for raw speed might consider other alternatives with carbon blades, as the Offensive Classic WRB strikes a balance between speed and control, making it more suited for those who prioritize placement and finesse in their game.

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.