Friendship/729 Battle 2 Provincial

Review: FH Friendship Battle II Provincial Orange 38 deg DHS

Paired with Rakza 7 2.0 on an OSP Virtuoso+ blade, this setup has been used for three months, succeeding a similar combination (B2 commercial fh, r7 BH, blade - Sweden Extra). The rubber excels in serve and receive, allowing for varied spins and controlled short play. Despite a slightly less grippy feel in comparison to the commercial, it offers consistency in generating spin during serves. Opening loops are outstanding, with the ability to execute low, risky, and spinny loops consistently. Loop-killing backspins is deadly-effective with the right ball height.

In topspins, blocks, and counters, the rubber demands solid technique. Medium-power topspins lack extreme spin or pace but consistently land on the table. Blocks are surprisingly easy for a Chinese rubber, allowing for both controlled blocking and speedy drives. Countering is effortless with correct stroke mechanics, producing spin and speed that can end points quickly. However, counters away from the table pose a challenge, requiring more effort. Emergency chops are possible, but they need a good feeling to execute. Once they land, however, the low arc makes sure they stay unreturned.

Compared to the commercial version, the provincial one is faster, less sensitive to racket angle changes, and has a less grippy sensation at lower powers. The topsheet is more flexible, offering advantages in rally and topspin play but sacrificing touch in the short game.

In conclusion, the rubber complements my forehand style, providing the ability to finish points quickly and ensuring decent safety in rallies. Its linear and adjustable nature allows for a variety of shots. Despite a slight learning curve, the rubber offers great value for its affordability and is available in a 37deg hardness for backhand play. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a cheaper, and faster alternative to H3 Neo.

38 Hardness Battle II Provincial

On a new (2023) Mercury Y-13 (Off) blade (Backhand), the Battle II Provincial (38 hardness, orange sponge) complements the 39 blue sponge rubber on my forehand. Despite knowing that these rubbers are intended for forehand play, the 38 hardness performed exceptionally well on the backhand.

Its predictability and consistency are similar to the B2P Blue Sponge, making it a formidable backhand rubber. However, the biggest difference between the B2P 38 and the B2P Blue Sponge 39 becomes apparent when using them on the backhand. The 38 hardness offers easier access to its potential, making it highly playable on the backhand.

On the forehand, the Battle 2 Provincial (38, orange) excels as a looper. It provides ample power while maintaining control, especially when looking for a budget-friendly option compared to the Blue Sponge.

UPDATE: Battle 2 Provincial Soft (37)

The Battle 2 Provincial Soft (37 only) has become available again. When used with a faster T11S blade, the 37 feels tackier and plays even more naturally on the backhand. The sponge and top sheet have subtle differences from the regular B2P, warranting a separate listing and review.

Review of Table Tennis Rubber

This rubber is recommended for forehand strokes if you have a fast swing. It is important to maintain proper positioning as it does not tolerate errors. Pairing it with a hard carbon blade worked well, but a flexible blade might be a better option.

The short game is effective. Service is highly efficient; opponents often underestimate the rotation, making service returns particularly challenging.

Summary:

• Service: 10/10
• Receive: 9.5/10
• Topspin: 9/10
• Block: 8/10
• Smash: 7/10