Weight
85g
Thickness
6.3mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Outerforce CAF
Butterfly Outerforce CAF is an outer-type blade built for intermediate players who want a perfect blend of control and moderate speed. Its 5-wood and 2-CAF (Control Assist Fiber) construction places the fiber layers right under the top veneer, delivering a natural, all-wood-like feel with enhanced dwell time and stability. This blade is an ideal step up from entry-level gear, suited for players who favor a controlled offensive style over raw power. It emphasizes ease of use, excellent control, and a soft touch, making it a great tool for developing players looking to refine their technique and master strokes, especially in close-to-the-table play.
This blade features a 5+2 ply construction. The outer layers are Ayous wood, followed by CAF (Control Assist Fiber) layers, then another Ayous wood layer. The core is Kiri wood. Placing CAF fibers close to the surface contributes to its controlled offensive characteristics and natural feel.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Outerforce CAF delivers moderate speed, sitting comfortably between all-wood blades and high-performance composites like ALC or ZLC. Our testing shows it's designed for control-oriented play, offering enough pace for offensive shots while remaining highly manageable. It's faster than pure wood but easier to handle than faster outer-type blades, making it a great match for developing players and all-round attackers.
Control is where this blade truly excels. TTSensei experts note its 'excellent control' and 'ease of use,' thanks to the CAF material and thoughtful design. It provides a stable, predictable platform for every stroke, from tight blocks to controlled drives, making it ideal for players who prioritize precision and consistency in their game.
Players report a natural, all-wood-like touch that feels relatively soft, thanks to the Ayous top layers and CAF material. This provides excellent feedback during ball contact, helping you feel the spin and control shot placement with confidence.
The outer construction with CAF material likely creates a medium-high throw angle, providing good clearance for topspin shots and facilitating a dynamic, aggressive playing style that excels in looping and attacking.
The CAF (Control Assist Fiber) and overall construction are designed to increase dwell time, letting the ball grip the blade longer. This enhances spin generation and delivers a softer, more controlled feel on your shots, which is perfect for spin-oriented play.
Outerforce CAF strikes a nice balance with medium flexibility—it's reasonably stiff but has some give too. This blend supports good power generation while maintaining ball-holding capability, contributing to its controlled feel and spin potential.
The blade offers a comfortable, natural level of feedback without being harsh. This manageable vibration aids in control and helps reduce player fatigue during extended sessions, making it pleasant to use.
Crafted in Japan, the Outerforce CAF showcases excellent build quality that players can rely on. This high standard of craftsmanship ensures durability and consistent performance over time, providing a trustworthy and reliable playing experience that meets Butterfly's renowned reputation.
Technology
Butterfly Outerforce CAF utilizes 'Control Assist Fiber' (CAF) technology, integrating special plant-derived fiber layers directly beneath the top veneer. Unlike high-elasticity carbon, CAF (made from cellulose acetate) offers a more natural, wood-like feel and enhanced controllability. This tech strikes a balance between the improved speed and dwell time of outer-fiber blades and the easy handling of all-wood blades. Placing CAF under the Ayous top ply maximizes dwell time and spin potential while keeping a softer touch, ideal for players transitioning from pure wood or seeking a controlled offensive game.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Timo Boll CAF
Butterfly Timo Boll CAF is a predecessor that also uses CAF (Cellulose Acetate Fiber) technology, aiming for a natural feel and enhanced control. While both share the core CAF benefit, the Outerforce CAF is part of a newer series focused on intermediate players and ease of use, which may result in a slightly different performance profile due to variations in construction or material application.