5 out of 5 rating for Drinkhall Allround Classic
On first inspection the Tibhar Drinkhall all round blade comes with a really nice, fresh design with a red handle. The blade is 5 ply and aimed at developing and intermediate level players.
The all round blade is built with a combination of ayous and limba wood to provide soft feeling and control.
The blade weighs 84 grams.
I was joined alongside Paul Drinkhall using the Tibhar Evolution MX-P rubbers on both sides of the blade.
Forehands
We both found a huge benefit to the all round blade was the tremendous amount of dwell time and control it allows for. Paul executed topspin shots effortlessly.
Blocking and control
Due to Paul’s ferocious power, I had difficulty blocking at times but I definitely found the all round helped me with controlling his speed due to the blades good flex and soft feel.
Speed
This blade isn't as fast as offensive and carbon blades we have reviewed before this doesn't mean however that I wouldn't recommend it to players trying to develop their strokes or players who aren't as interested in high end speed, as it would be very good for them. The combination of limba wood plys used in the all round classic provides great control and gives you more time to impart high amounts of spin on the ball.
Spin
The all round provided lots of control, against backspin this was very evident when playing topspin strokes. This helped produce a lot of spin due to the blades feeling and control.
Conclusion
The allround blade is very good for maximum control, and ideal for a player who wants to develop solid strokes due to the added dwell time. However, if you are looking for something with a bit more power the offensive blade would be of a better choice as it had a more direct, harder feel and is slightly faster than the all round due to it’s harder ply's.
All in all the wood blade has excellent control and is ideal for beginners and intermediate players looking to develop their game.
