Tibhar Fortino Force
Blade description:
The Tibhar Fortino Force is a fast, composite blade featuring an inner-layer structure. With a blade thickness of 6.6 mm and a weight of approximately 87 grams, it is engineered for players who prioritize speed and a direct, linear bounce over dwell time. The blade is characterized by a large sweet spot, minimal vibration, and low flex, which results in a stiff, stable feel during play.
Performance Characteristics
- Speed and Playstyle: The blade is significantly faster than the Fortino Performance, making it well-suited for flat hitting and offensive play close to the table. Its linear rebound ensures consistent shot placement, which can be advantageous for users who prefer a direct response.
- Spin and Dwell: Due to the stiffness and the rapid speed of the ball off the blade, the dwell time is limited. Users may find it challenging to generate high levels of topspin compared to more flexible alternatives. To compensate for the short contact time, pairing the blade with rubbers that offer high dwell or a softer sponge is recommended.
- Versatility: While it excels in offensive flat hitting and works effectively with short pips on the backhand, it requires more effort to generate power from the far-to-mid court due to its lack of flexibility. The blade maintains a solid, stable feel, though some users may note a hollow acoustic feedback depending on the rubber pairing and stroke technique.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — July 2024
Palio 5Q Sound (AN) is a well-made blade with a decent overall feel. It is flexible, yet moderately stiff, providing a unique combination of control and power. The blade has a soft-medium hardness of 5 (2.1), similar to Tackiness Chop 2 (1.7).
Tackiness Chop 2 is an excellent choice for backhand, as it produces a good amount of spin and control. For forehand, players might prefer Tackiness Chop 1 (1.7) - a highly-rated inverted rubber that offers great control and spin.
The 5Q Sound works well for all-around play, but it excels in blocking and countering, providing great stability and control. It can also handle power loops well, and is comparable to popular blades like Yasaka Mark V or Butterfly Viscaria.
Overall, the Palio 5Q Sound is a versatile blade that offers a balanced combination of control and power, making it suitable for a wide range of playing styles.
#2 — May 2023
I bought this blade hoping it would offer me some extra speed, coming from a Fortino Performance blade, which I really, really like but found a bit slow at times.
However, the Fortino Force is worse in every aspect compared to the Fortino Performance, except for speed. Even then, it’s debatable because you lose so much control close to the table due to its increased speed at any stroke level, even from the baseline.
There is less spin, less control, and serves are more difficult. The worst thing is the weird, hollow sound it makes when flat hitting, even just test-bouncing the ball on the bat, like a cheap $10 pre-made bat. I tried both hard and soft rubbers, so I doubt it’s a pairing issue. I’ve never experienced this with any of the blades I’ve had before.
I’ve found better-suited rubbers for my Fortino Performance: FH Victas Ventus Extra 2.0 or less, Rakza 9 also works wonders with marginally more spin and less speed, and BH Rasanter R45 2.0 or less. I’ve also improved my fitness and overall playing form. Now that I’ve acquired this blade, I’ll have to find a new owner for it.
#3 — March 2022
Slightly faster than Fortino Performance. Topspin friendly, looping is fun.
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