Weight
85g
Thickness
5.1mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
158x151
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Andrzej Grubba 15
Butterfly Andrzej Grubba 15 is a classic all-round table tennis blade celebrated for its exceptional control and feel. Named after the legendary Polish player, this 5-ply all-wood construction offers a flexible playing characteristic, making it an excellent choice for players who prioritize placement and spin. It provides a dynamic range of shots from close-to-mid distance and can generate good speed when paired with modern rubbers. Its enduring popularity makes it a reliable choice for developing players and advanced all-rounders seeking a connected feel and consistent performance.
A standard 5-ply all-wood construction, known for providing good feel, flexibility, and control. The outer Anigre ply is noted for its softness, contributing to the blade's dwell time and feedback, while the inner wood layers provide structural integrity and a balanced response.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Andrzej Grubba 15 is generally considered an all-round blade with a good balance of speed and control. Its inherent speed is moderate, but its flexibility and dwell time allow it to generate good power and speed when paired with fast, modern rubbers. Some players find it lacks outright speed for very aggressive, far-from-the-table play compared to modern offensive blades, but it excels in controlled offensive scenarios.
Control is the hallmark of Andrzej Grubba 15. Its flexible nature and soft wood construction provide excellent feel and feedback, allowing for precise placement and reliable execution of strokes. This makes it ideal for developing players and those who rely on tactical play and spin, offering superb control characteristics that are consistently praised.
Andrzej Grubba 15 offers a distinct, connected feel to the ball, often described as soft or medium-soft. This tactile feedback is highly valued, allowing players to better understand the ball's trajectory and spin. The vibration is noted to aid in feel rather than being a distraction, enhancing the overall playing experience.
The combination of flexibility, dwell time, and control suggests a medium-high throw angle. This allows for a good arc on loops, making it easier to clear the net and land the ball deep on the opponent's side, ideal for spin-oriented play.
The 5-ply all-wood construction, particularly with softer outer plies like Anigre, contributes to a longer ball dwell time. This extended contact allows for greater spin generation on serves and loops, and provides more time for the player to react and control the ball during rallies.
Andrzej Grubba 15 is characterized as a flexible blade. This flexibility allows for a deeper ball pocket and a longer dwell time, which is beneficial for generating spin and controlling the pace of play. It provides a more elastic response compared to stiffer blades, supporting a dynamic range of shots.
Andrzej Grubba 15 possesses a noticeable vibration that players generally perceive positively. This vibration enhances the tactile feedback, allowing players to feel the ball more distinctly upon impact. It is described as a 'good' vibration that aids in control and feel, contributing to the blade's connected character.
Butterfly is known for quality craftsmanship, and Andrzej Grubba 15 is no exception. It is built with durable wood plies, offering a consistent feel and performance over time. The materials and construction are of high standard, contributing to its longevity and solid build quality, making it a classic bestseller in the all-round category.
Technology
Butterfly Andrzej Grubba 15 is an all-wood blade representing a classic approach to table tennis blade design. Its construction relies on a 5-ply layering of wood, specifically featuring Anigre as an outer ply. This design emphasizes natural wood characteristics such as flexibility, dwell time, and tactile feedback. Unlike modern composite blades, it does not incorporate carbon fiber or other synthetic materials, focusing instead on maximizing the feel and control derived from pure wood. This traditional approach is key to its renowned controllability and consistent performance.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Petr Korbel
Butterfly Petr Korbel is another highly popular 5-ply all-wood blade, often recommended as a direct alternative or successor to Andrzej Grubba for players seeking a similar feel and all-round performance. Both blades are known for their excellent control, dwell time, and suitability for developing players and all-round styles, offering a classic wood-blade experience.
Yasaka Sweden Extra
Yasaka Sweden Extra is a well-regarded 5-ply all-wood blade that offers a comparable balance of speed, control, and feel to Andrzej Grubba. It is favored by players who appreciate the traditional wood feel and the ability to generate spin, making it a strong alternative for those seeking a versatile all-round blade.