Weight
95g
Thickness
6.4mm
Plies
3-ply
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Defence Alpha
Butterfly Defence Alpha is a classic defensive table tennis blade built for players who prioritize control and stability. It excels in precise chops, effective blocking, and nuanced placement, offering a solid platform for defensive techniques. The substantial weight and generous head size contribute to its reliable feel, making it a dependable choice for dedicated defenders. This blade pairs exceptionally well with specialized defensive rubbers to maximize its potential in patient, strategic play.
The 3-ply all-wood construction uses Willow throughout to maximize dwell time and provide a soft, controlled feel. This design helps absorb incoming pace and generate spin, which is crucial for defensive play like chopping and blocking.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Defence Alpha delivers very slow speed, a design choice that prioritizes control and dwell time over raw power. This makes it unsuitable for aggressive attacking play, as generating pace requires significant player effort. Players report that its attacking capabilities are limited, which is typical for blades dedicated to defensive mastery.
Control is the standout feature here, offering exceptional ball sensitivity and placement accuracy. This high level of control allows defenders to execute precise chops and blocks consistently, helping dictate rallies from a defensive stance. Many players find it provides amazing control, essential for a reliable defensive tool.
Defence Alpha provides a medium-soft feel that offers good feedback without harshness. This characteristic enhances control and dwell time, letting players feel the ball on the racket face for delicate defensive shots and spin variations.
Defence Alpha typically produces a medium-high throw angle, especially useful for lifting the ball over the net from defensive positions or when returning heavy topspin. This helps defenders manage aggressive shots effectively.
The 3-ply Willow construction delivers a long dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the blade. This facilitates greater spin generation on chops and returns, while providing a sensitive touch for precise blocking—a hallmark of effective defensive blades.
The all-wood build offers medium flexibility, contributing to the blade's dwell time and control. This flexibility aids in spin generation and makes it easier to absorb the pace of incoming shots, a key requirement for defensive play.
The soft wood construction suggests moderate to low vibration, which helps absorb pace and provides a comfortable feel. This reduces hand fatigue during long rallies and supports precise defensive actions.
Build quality is good, with a solid, durable construction that contributes to its stable feel. The materials, while simple, are effective for its defensive purpose. Our testing shows it offers a comfortable, substantial feel in hand, which is important for rigorous defensive play.
Technology
Butterfly Defence Alpha relies on a traditional 3-ply all-wood construction, focusing on natural wood properties for optimal control and feel. The use of Willow across all plies is chosen for its inherent softness and ability to absorb speed, contributing to a long dwell time and sensitive feedback. This method prioritizes the defensive player's need for a stable platform that facilitates precise execution of chops, blocks, and defensive loops without modern composite materials.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Defence II
Butterfly Defence II is another all-wood defensive blade known for excellent control. Some players note it might feel slightly stiffer than the Alpha, offering a different tactile response for chopping and blocking while maintaining a focus on defensive play.
Donic Defplay Senso
Donic Defplay Senso is a frequently compared defensive blade, sharing a large head size, all-wood construction, and a focus on control and dwell time. It's a popular alternative for players seeking a similar feel and performance for chopping and blocking.
Victas Koji Matsushita
Victas Koji Matsushita is a high-end defensive blade that shares many traits with Defence Alpha, emphasizing control, dwell time, and stability for chopping and blocking. It is often praised for its exceptional feel and ability to generate heavy spin, appealing to defensive specialists.