Yasaka Ma Lin Carbon

First of all, a noteworthy point about the handle shape: blades in the Ma Lin series share a very well-designed handle for Chinese penhold that is super easy to grip and alternate pressure between thumb and index finger. Cannot stress enough of that since it is the most comfortable design I have encountered, tested personally and with beginners.

Ma Lin Carbon performs like an enhanced wooden blade with increased speed and support from inner layer carbon when called for. In low force range, the soft outer layers provides great touch. There is some flex and the overall feeling is around medium hardness leaning towards the soft side. Control is akin to wooden blades. In medium force range, the carbon seamlessly activates and the blade feels mildly stiff while retaining sufficient flex. There is no abrupt 'kick in' although one can notice it from the difference of sound or vibrational feedback. This enables proper mid distance game although it is not exactly its strength. The insufficiency in power only happens in long rallies or far distances. In high force range, if one exerts and maintain the effort in good position, it can stably reach low end OFF speed close to mid distance.

Over a decade and more, this versatile blade is still completely relevant in today's game below advanced level. Pair with soft rubbers for control and hard/bouncy rubbers for speed. Recommended to anyone wants to enjoy a carbon blade with woody feeling.

A great blade by yasaka good speed for offensive player but a little too hard to control need alitlle bit more of the control and surface hardness part

This is one of yasaka's most popular blade.

When I was playing in France I saw quite a few top french players playing with the ma lin carbon. It is a good weapon of choice if your looking for a fast blade that still offers good feeling along with the carbon characteristics. I found that the carbon gave it a nice crisp feeling when I was looping and was quite durable so I would get similar results after each stroke. The feel of the blade also means that you get good control so is good for touch play and effective counter looping.

Overall a very nice blade, if you are looking for a fast carbon that offers good feeling this would be a good choice or if you prefer a softer carbon feel, try the ma lin carbon soft.