Weight
98g
Plies
5-ply
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Dacota
Banda Dacota is a classic 5-ply all-wood table tennis blade celebrated for its exceptional feel and control. Originating from Sweden, it embodies the high-quality craftsmanship of that region and era. The blade offers a soft, absorbing touch that prioritizes placement and spin-oriented play. Its construction provides a versatile balance between speed and control, making it an excellent choice for players in the offensive-allround category, particularly those transitioning to custom setups.
The blade uses a symmetrical 5-ply construction. The outer layers are Limba, which provides a good base for spin generation. The inner core consists of Ayous plies, offering a consistent feel and contributing to the blade's overall flexibility and controlled dwell time.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Banda Dacota offers a well-balanced speed suitable for aggressive play and looping. While not in the fastest category, its pace is more than adequate for modern offensive table tennis, particularly when combined with faster rubbers. Players report its speed feels similar to a solid, heavy 5-ply wood blade, providing enough power for strong attacks without sacrificing touch.
Control is a standout feature of the Banda Dacota. Its excellent feel and dwell time allow players to place the ball with high precision. This makes it particularly effective for those who rely on placement, spin variation, and strategic shot-making. Many players find they can execute shots with confidence, feeling a strong connection to the ball.
Banda Dacota delivers a soft and controlled feel, where players experience an absorption and expulsion of the ball rather than a harsh impact. This tactile feedback is crucial for imparting spin and controlling the pace of rallies, offering a satisfying connection on every shot.
The combination of its wood composition and dwell time suggests a medium to medium-high throw angle. This characteristic is beneficial for generating powerful loops with a good arc, making it effective for spin-oriented attacking play.
The dwell time is perceived as moderate, providing enough contact with the ball for significant spin generation and control. This balance allows for effective looping without being excessively long, which helps maintain responsiveness for fast attacks and blocks.
The blade exhibits moderate flexibility, which aids in dwell time and provides a pleasant, absorbing feel. This flexibility allows for a good arc on loops and helps in controlling softer shots, contributing to its overall versatility and touch.
Vibration is generally considered moderate. The blade offers clear feedback to feel the ball without excessive jarring, contributing to its controlled playing experience. It strikes a balance between a crisp feel and a comfortable, absorbing touch.
The Banda Dacota is recognized for its high build quality, characteristic of Swedish-made blades from its era. The materials and construction methods contribute to its durability and consistent performance over time. Even vintage models maintain their playing characteristics, a testament to the craftsmanship involved in its production.
Technology
Banda Dacota represents classic Swedish table tennis blade manufacturing, focusing on the inherent qualities of 5-ply all-wood construction. Its reputation is built on the careful selection and assembly of wood veneers to achieve a harmonious balance of speed, control, and feel. The blade's construction emphasizes a soft touch and a natural catapult effect derived from the wood's properties, rather than artificial enhancements. Its enduring appeal speaks to the timeless effectiveness of traditional, high-quality blade design principles.
Pro Players Using This Blade
J.O. Waldner
While not exclusively a Banda Dacota user, J.O. Waldner is famously associated with Banda blades and was instrumental in their prominence. The classic egg-shaped head of the Dacota is noted as his personal favorite. His legendary all-round, creative, and controlled playing style aligns perfectly with the Dacota's emphasis on feel and precision.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Petr Korbel
This blade is frequently cited as having very similar playing characteristics to the Banda Dacota. Both are renowned 5-ply all-wood blades that offer a great blend of speed, control, and feel. They are popular choices for players who appreciate classic wood blade performance for aggressive, spin-oriented play.