Weight
97g
Thickness
5.9mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
165x152
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Oversized
Balance
Head-Heavy
Joo Se Hyuk
Butterfly Joo Se Hyuk is a specialized defensive blade developed with the legendary Korean defender. Its oversized head and slightly thicker profile create an exceptional surface for chopping and blocking, delivering superior control and stability. While built for defense, the blade's hard and stiff character provides potent counter-attacks and offensive options, making it a versatile choice for modern defenders who integrate aggressive forehand topspins. This construction balances control for defensive maneuvers with enough power for offensive exchanges, appealing to players who demand precision and adaptability.
A 5-ply all-wood construction, typical for many blades, is designed for a balance of feel, speed, and control. The specific wood types are proprietary, but the overall construction contributes to the blade's distinctive stiff and hard character.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
While classified as a defensive blade, Joo Se Hyuk is noted for its surprising speed, particularly for a blade designed for chopping. Its stiffness allows for effective counter-attacks and drives, making it suitable for players who attack more than pure defensive players. Our testing shows it delivers a fast, direct response that supports an aggressive defensive style.
The oversized head and 5-ply construction provide a large sweet spot and stability, which are crucial for control in defensive play. While it offers speed, it still retains a high level of control necessary for precise defensive shots and maintaining rallies. Players report excellent consistency for chopping and blocking from mid-distance.
The blade is consistently described as having a hard and stiff feel. This characteristic contributes to its speed and power in offensive shots while still allowing for effective defensive play, giving a solid, direct feedback on contact.
Due to its stiffness and speed, the blade tends to produce a medium-high throw angle. This can be advantageous for offensive shots like drives and loops, allowing the ball to clear the net with a good, attacking trajectory.
While primarily described as stiff and hard, it can hold the ball adequately for spin generation, especially in counter-attacks. Many players find it offers sufficient dwell time for creating heavy spin on both defensive and offensive strokes.
Joo Se Hyuk is consistently described as stiff, which aids in its speed and directness for offensive actions. This stiffness is a key characteristic contributing to its suitability for modern, aggressive defensive play.
The blade generates some vibrations during hard smashes or heavy top spins, which might require players to counter-drive such shots. However, it is generally reported as very stable during normal defensive play.
Butterfly is known for its high manufacturing standards, and the Joo Se Hyuk blade is no exception. Developed in close cooperation with the professional player, it shows meticulous attention to detail and premium construction quality, ensuring durability and consistent performance.
Technology
Butterfly Joo Se Hyuk blade features a 5-ply all-wood construction, designed through direct collaboration with the professional player. This partnership ensured the blade's characteristics—specifically its enlarged head size, stiffness, and hard feel—were optimized for a modern defensive style that incorporates aggressive counter-attacks and heavy spin. The construction focuses on delivering a balance of control for defensive maneuvers like chopping and blocking, alongside the power needed for offensive topspins and drives.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Joo Se Hyuk
Joo Se Hyuk is the legendary Korean defensive player who was instrumental in developing this blade. He utilized its oversized head, stiff and hard characteristics for his signature aggressive chopping and powerful forehand counter-attacks. The blade was designed to complement his dynamic playing style, allowing him to effectively control the game from mid-distance and transition into offensive threats.
Similar Blades
Victas Koji Matsushita Offensive
This blade is frequently mentioned as a strong alternative. It shares a similar oversized head size and is also designed for defensive players with offensive capabilities. While it might be slightly slower and lighter, it offers a comparable hard feel and is made in Japan with high-quality construction, making it suitable for players looking for a similar playing experience.
Darker 7P-2A.DF
This Japanese-made blade is noted for being very similar in size. It offers a slightly softer feel and is a step slower but with higher control. It is also considerably lighter. While it may not have the same kill power, it is easier to control and more spin-focused, making it a good alternative for defenders who prioritize control and feel.