Weight
85g
Thickness
5.35mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
158.5x151
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
Grubba Pro
Butterfly Grubba Pro is a 5-ply all-wood blade celebrated for its exceptional control and versatile performance. Named after the legendary Polish player Andrzej Grubba, it delivers a classic table tennis feel that suits players from beginners to advanced levels. This blade excels in touch play, close-to-the-table blocking, and generating heavy spin on loops and chops. While not the fastest option available, its inherent flexibility and large sweet spot create a forgiving playing experience, helping players develop technique and consistency. With a comfortable grip and well-balanced feel, the Grubba Pro remains a reliable choice for those prioritizing control and tactile feedback in their game.
Grubba Pro features a traditional 5-ply all-wood construction, typically using Anigre for the outer and secondary plies and Kiri for the core, contributing to its flexible nature, significant dwell time, and soft feel.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Grubba Pro is an all-round blade with moderate speed, offering enough pace for controlled offensive play without prioritizing raw power. Its speed is sufficient for developing players and those who rely on spin and control, though players seeking high-speed attacks might find it lacking. Pairing it with faster rubbers can effectively enhance its pace for more aggressive styles.
Control is the standout feature of the Grubba Pro, with high dwell time and flexible nature providing exceptional ball feedback and precision. This makes it ideal for various strokes like blocks, pushes, and loops where accurate placement is paramount, allowing players to execute shots with confidence and consistency.
The all-wood construction and flexible nature provide a soft to medium-soft feel, offering excellent ball feedback and long dwell time that benefits spin generation and delicate shot execution.
The combination of flexibility and dwell time tends to produce a medium-high throw angle, beneficial for executing powerful and spinny loops.
Extended dwell time is a significant characteristic, allowing the ball to sink into the blade longer to greatly enhance spin generation and give players more time to react and control the ball.
Grubba Pro is notably flexible, contributing to its excellent control, dwell time, and spin-generating capabilities while allowing for a softer feel on impact.
The blade exhibits noticeable vibration that many users find beneficial for feeling the ball and understanding its trajectory. This vibration is often described as pleasant and contributing to feedback rather than being jarring.
Butterfly maintains high manufacturing standards, and the Grubba Pro reflects this with solid construction and good attention to detail. Players report that it's built very well and known to last for years, contributing to its durability and consistent performance over time.
Technology
Butterfly Grubba Pro embodies a traditional approach to blade construction, focusing on the synergy of all-wood plies to achieve optimal feel and control. Its design prioritizes long dwell time and flexible character, allowing for significant spin generation and enhanced ball feedback. While specific proprietary technologies aren't heavily marketed for this classic blade, its enduring popularity stems from consistent performance and ability to foster fundamental table tennis skills. The construction demonstrates Butterfly's long-standing expertise in crafting high-quality wooden blades that cater to a wide spectrum of players.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Andrzej Grubba
Andrzej Grubba, the legendary Polish player for whom this blade is named, was known for his exceptional all-round game with strong emphasis on control and spin. He utilized blades like the Grubba Pro to execute his signature defensive chops, precise blocks, and powerful forehand loops. The blade's flexibility and dwell time perfectly complemented his style, allowing him to dictate rallies and exploit opponents' weaknesses with heavy spin and strategic placement.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Petr Korbel
Petr Korbel is another highly regarded 5-ply all-wood blade from Butterfly, often compared to Grubba Pro. It offers similar balance of speed and control with a slightly harder feel and bit more speed, making it suitable for players transitioning to more offensive game while still valuing control and feel. Both blades are excellent for developing players and those who prefer classic wooden blades.