Plies
5-ply
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Level 79
Armstrong Level 79 is an older series, all-wood table tennis blade designed for an OFF- offensive style. It's known for its distinct, high-vibration feel that provides exceptional feedback, making it a unique choice for players who value a direct connection to the ball. While its speed sits on the lower end of the offensive spectrum, it rewards strong, active strokes with solid pace and above-average control. This blade suits intermediate to advanced players who can harness its pronounced feedback and generate their own power for a classic, responsive playing experience.
The exact wood types and ply order for the Armstrong Level 79 are not documented. Based on its description as an all-wood blade with significant vibration—a trait common in 5-ply constructions of its likely era—it is presumed to be a 5-ply build. The specific materials, however, remain unverified.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
With a speed rating of 7.9, the Level 79 operates at the lower end of the OFF- spectrum. It provides a responsive, attacking platform but doesn't generate overwhelming pace on its own. Players report needing to supply significant power through their strokes to activate its offensive potential, making it a blade that rewards active, forceful play rather than offering free speed.
Control is really high for an offensive blade. The moderate speed combined with strong vibrational feedback gives you a clear sense of ball contact. That feel helps with precise placement and touch shots, so it works well if you like to attack but still want accuracy.
The blade delivers a medium-hard feel, described as somewhat stiff yet capable of bending with strong force. This creates a direct, crisp impact sensation. The high vibration level adds a layer of pronounced feedback, making every contact distinctly felt in the hand.
Given its OFF- classification and medium-hard feel, a medium throw angle is a logical estimate. This should produce a balanced, controllable arc for loops and attacks, suitable for a variety of offensive techniques.
Dwell time is estimated to be medium. The medium-hard, relatively stiff construction doesn't hold the ball for an exceptionally long time, but it provides sufficient contact for effective spin generation in loops while maintaining a responsive, direct character for drives and blocks.
The Level 79 is considered relatively stiff, flexing minimally on impact. Descriptions note it can bend only with significant strength. This stiffness contributes to a direct, linear power transfer and a quick response, but reduces forgiveness on off-center hits.
High vibration is this blade's signature. Players report intense feedback through the handle, rating it very high. This characteristic defines the playing experience, offering unparalleled ball feel for those who appreciate it, though it can be excessive when paired with already vibrant rubbers.
While specific quality reviews are limited, Armstrong is a Japanese brand with a reputation for solid craftsmanship in table tennis equipment. The assumed all-wood construction suggests good material selection and build quality, placing it reliably in the 'Good' category for durability and finish.
Technology
Armstrong Level 79 relies on traditional, high-quality wood construction to deliver its unique playing character. While no specific proprietary technology is documented for this model, the focus is on selecting and assembling wood veneers to emphasize raw feedback and a direct feel. The notable high vibration suggests a build philosophy centered on natural wood communication rather than dampening systems or composite materials. This approach provides a classic, sensory-rich experience for players who depend on clear feedback from the blade itself for shot execution and control.