Beginner ALL+/OFF- ~50$ blade with the most potential – yet another blade recommendat

riversquirrel said:

I will preface by saying that I have not read this entire thread, but I just wanted to pitch in my own two cents. I am an intermediate (~1400-1500 USATT) player, and I recently switched back to an all-wood blade after playing with a carbon blade for about 8 months, seeking more control and feedback while I continue to improve my form. I tested the XIOM Offensive S, Tibhar Stratus Power Wood, and Yasaka Sweden Extra, all using the same rubber setup (H3 and Rakza Z). XIOM was disqualified for me due to it's over large handle, and mediocre feel on touch shots. The Tibhar SPW and YSE both felt good in drills, with the SPW being softer, and the YSE a bit crispier with it's feedback. I originally tried to play matches with the SPW, but found that the softer feedback wasn't helping me, and I was having trouble with touch shots. I much preferred the clear and direct feedback from the YSE, even though it is a little bit stiffer. With good form, I can still generate more than enough spin and speed, and I am much more confident in my shots. The finish on the SPW is really good, the wings come lightly sanded and the handle is nice, if a bit of an odd shape. It is more of an oval than normal, very thin vertically but wide horizontally. The YSE has a mediocre finish by comparison, but the material quality is good and I was able to sand it down to my preference quite easily.

TL;DR: Of all the all+/off- wood blades I have played with, the YSE gives by far the best feedback. It is a bit stiffer than most, but I think it is a worthwhile trade off for improved control. It performs as well as your form will allow for spin based shots at an intermediate level, and the consistency of feedback allowed my to hit better quality shots when compared to "softer" and more flexible blades.

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Thank you for detailed information. I guess since no blades are mentioned multiple times except YSE and TSPW it's is between them, I am just little bit scared about TSPW size and handle. Too bad nobody has any opinions on Andro