New bat recommendation/advises

[PyqKoo]

Hi everyone,


I'm looking for some advice and feedback on a potential equipment upgrade.


I'm a low-intermediate player (around 1000–1100 FFTT, which I believe corresponds roughly to 1500–1600 USATT). I usually play twice a week for 2–3 hours per session, and while I’m 27 and not aiming for anything crazy in terms of competitive level, I still want to improve steadily and enjoy the game at a "decent" level. I try to make the most of my limited training time by focusing on quality.

Current setup:

• Blade: Donic Burn ALL+ (5-ply all-wood, OFF- if I'm not mistaken)
• FH: Tibhar Evolution FX-D (2.2 mm) – I liked this rubber but found it lacked durability.
• BH: Donic Bluegrip S2 (2.0 mm) – I’ve used it for over a year but find it too demanding; I struggle to fully utilise sticky rubbers on my backhand due to limited technique and strength.

I’d describe my playing style as all-round. I like to loop on both wings when possible but I’m also comfortable with a more passive/blocking approach when needed. I value feel and control, but still want enough speed and spin.

New setup I'm considering:

• Blade: Nittaku Acoustic – Softer, more flexible feel compared to my current blade, and it’s still an all-wood 5-ply. Love the feeling of all-wood blades kinda "telling" you when your stroke is on point.
• FH: Nittaku FastArc C-1 (2.0 mm)
• BH: Yasaka Rakza 7 Soft (1.8 mm) - More standard tensor compared to the sticky rubber I had before.

What do you think about this setup for someone at my level and with my goals?
Do you think this combination offers the right balance between control, spin potential, and long-term growth?
Would you suggest any alternatives?


Thanks in advance for your thoughts and suggestions!

 

[John_]

You won't see much of a difference with the blade, so if there isn't a particular reason you want to change it, I don't think it'll make much of a difference. If you do want an upgrade, infinity vps v and clipper cr are both better in my opinion.

For rubbers, I'd say go with c1 or rakza 7 on both sides and avoid the soft versions. I think they're both 45°, which is already medium to soft-ish. And no need to go with 1.8, they make much less difference than what people think. Personally I go with max in general unless I need some space for boosting.