Friendship/729 Battle 2 National Blue Sponge

Headline: This rubber is a great choice for comfortable and spinny play

Review:

I love this rubber and own the 39-degree black version. When compared to the Hurricane 3 Provincial Blue Sponge black 40-degree B2 National, this rubber is more comfortable for light shots, even when your footwork isn’t perfect. It’s also less demanding on technique.

The sponge on this rubber is more lively and has a noticeable catapult effect. It generates good spin and speed, thanks to its tacky surface. Overall, it has everything you’d want in a good rubber. It’s my top choice.

Hurricane 8 Blue Sponge Provincial (39°, 40°)

The 40-degree Blue Sponge National sponge provides faster speed with a similar arc as its 39-degree counterpart, but offers increased distance. Mastering the 40-degree sponge indicates a high level of skill. For those new to Blue Sponge Provincial, the 39-degree sponge offers a great balance of performance. Enhancing the sponge with two layers of Haifu Seamoon boosting does not significantly increase speed but softens the sponge, improving its feel.

Hurricane 8 B2 Orange Sponge Provincial

The B2 Orange Sponge Provincial sponge possesses a softer texture than the Blue Sponge National sponge, but sacrifices long range and power. The 39-degree Blue Sponge National sponge strikes a good compromise between the two.

Compared to Hurricane 3 Sponge

In comparison to Hurricane 3 Sponge, the 40-degree Blue Sponge Provincial version lacks tackiness and blade feel, despite similar speed. While Hurricane 3’s quality control has been inconsistent in recent batches, personal experience with the sponge is limited.

The Friendship Battle 2 rubber stands out as the best of its line, as well as among Friendship rubbers overall. Coming in at a higher price point, this rubber boasts exceptional tackiness. Its high spin generation shines during both attacking and defensive play. When pushing or defending at a distance from the table, the backspin produced is truly impressive.

At the table, the Battle 2 performs admirably. Opening shots and topspins come effortlessly, accompanied by ample spin. Its control and stickiness make blocking a breeze. Counter spins, however, require a bit more effort. For hitting, European rubbers might prove more suitable.

Overall, the Friendship Battle 2 rubber offers exceptional performance and versatility. Its strong points are evident in spin generation, control, and blocking. While counter spins and hitting may be slightly more challenging, this rubber remains a highly recommended choice.

Blade Tested: Stiga Allround Evolution

Rubber Thickness: 2.0mm

Review:

I installed recently tried Battle 2 National on my forehand at 41 degrees. Initially, I tried it without any boosting, and I immediately noticed the need to engage my body when hitting the ball. Otherwise, the ball would be too heavy and difficult to control.

After putting a few layers of booster on the rubber, I found that it significantly improved the ball’s response and speed. The ball now generates an impressive amount of spin, while retaining a perfect speed and a medium throw angle.

Overall, Battle 2 National is an excellent rubber that provides great spin, speed, and control. With some boosting, it transforms into a formidable weapon for forehand play.

Tibhar Evolution MX-P. Extremely fast rubber for the forehand. When combined with a Yasaka T10s blade, it becomes incredibly powerful. The low throw angle and lack of forgiveness demand a high level of technical proficiency to harness its force. It’s comparable to the Donic Blue Storm A1 but may have an edge in speed with slightly reduced control. Notably, the MX-P is half the price of established European brands offering similar performance, such as the Tibhar MX-P. Highly recommended for exceptionally offensive players seeking maximum power.

Currently using this on FH 41 degree with Lin Gaoyuan ALC. Good speed, even without boosting. The low arc requires some strength when looping. Despite the 41-degree hardness, it feels relatively soft, possibly due to the blade’s flexibility.

Compared to Battle 2 Provincial, the National version offers similar performance. It excels in smashing, outperforming Hurricane rubbers but slightly compromising spin in the process. The trade-off is increased speed for slightly reduced spin.

Additionally, it produces a satisfying, loud sound.