Tibhar Samsonov Premium Contact

Blade description:

The Tibhar Samsonov Premium Contact is a thoughtfully crafted table tennis blade designed to cater to a wide range of players, from beginners to more experienced competitors. Renowned for its excellent balance of speed and control, this blade is particularly favored for its exceptional spin capabilities, making it an ideal choice for players who rely on spin strategies during matches. It stands out due to its consistent performance and smooth feel, making it easy for players to engage with various styles of play.

This blade features a composition that combines a wooden core for a natural touch and control, accompanied by balsa inserts that attenuate vibrations well, creating a comfortable playing experience. Weighing in at a moderate 80 grams, it offers a balanced weight that supports dynamic movements without compromising agility. Its thickness contributes to its stiffness rating of 4.9, offering players a reliable point of contact with the ball, while still allowing for enough flexibility to generate impressive loops from different distances.

While the Premium Contact is effective for an all-round offensive style, some players may eventually seek out faster options as their skills progress. For those looking for alternatives, blades from brands like Yinhe or LKT might offer comparable performance at a more approachable price point. Overall, the Tibhar Samsonov Premium Contact is a commendable choice for anyone looking to elevate their game, striking a harmonious note between control, speed, and comfort.

Recent Reviews

#1 — July 2019

Nicely manufactured with a smooth handle, this blade provides fast speed for short play and excels in over-the-table play. It offers a pleasant touch and sound. Looping is particularly exceptional from 3-5 feet from the table. The blade is well-suited for medium to medium-hard rubbers.

#2 — April 2019

Easy to play with, loads of spin, for the cost.

#3 — December 2011

Blade Review

This blade is suitable for beginners due to its lightweight and small handle. I recommend using Sriver-type rubbers initially.

As you develop your playing style (all-around or offensive) and improve your skills, you may notice a lack of power. To address this, you may need to switch to faster rubbers or a more suitable blade.

Personally, I prefer Chinese blades from brands such as Yinhe, LKT, or Dawei. For a comparable price, you can achieve similar results.