Plies
5-ply
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
SA-01
Butterfly SA-01 is a 5-ply all-wood table tennis blade crafted for developing players who value a balance of control and feel. Its construction emphasizes a soft touch, making it ideal for mastering fundamental techniques and executing precise, controlled strokes. Positioned as an excellent stepping stone from recreational rackets, its lightweight nature enhances maneuverability, allowing players to focus on shot execution without feeling weighed down. This blade is a strong choice for those prioritizing consistency and a comfortable playing experience over raw power.
SA-01 features a classic 5-ply all-wood construction. This design is known for providing a softer feel, increased dwell time, and good control, which are beneficial for developing players. The absence of composite materials contributes to its lighter weight and more traditional touch.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
SA-01 offers below-average speed, aligning perfectly with its focus on control and feel for developing players. This makes it suitable for those who rely on placement and spin rather than raw power. It allows for controlled looping and blocking, though generating aggressive, fast drives will require more effort from the player.
With a very high control rating, SA-01 excels in this area. Its soft feel and predictable response allow players to place the ball accurately and maintain consistency during rallies. This high level of control is crucial for beginners learning proper technique and for intermediate players focusing on tactical play and spin generation.
SA-01 delivers a consistently soft feel, attributed to its all-wood construction. This soft touch enhances dwell time for better ball grip and spin generation, while providing a comfortable sensation on impact that reduces shock and vibration.
Given its control-oriented nature and soft feel, SA-01 likely has a medium to medium-high throw angle. This aids in generating spin and clearing the net comfortably, particularly for looping and pushing strokes.
The soft feel and 5-ply wood construction provide good dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the blade surface briefly. This extended contact is beneficial for imparting spin and offers sensitive feedback, aiding in shot control and placement.
SA-01 possesses moderate flexibility, characteristic of 5-ply all-wood blades. This allows for a degree of flex during strokes, contributing to dwell time and spin generation, without being so flexible that it compromises power on drives.
Vibration is moderate, contributing to the soft feel without being overly muted. This level provides adequate feedback, helping players feel ball contact and make adjustments, while avoiding the harshness of stiffer blades.
User feedback indicates good overall build quality for its price point and intended market. The blade is described as well-balanced and suitable as a stepping stone for developing players, offering reliable performance for its category.
Technology
Butterfly SA-01 features a traditional 5-ply all-wood construction. This classic design emphasizes natural wood characteristics, providing a softer feel, enhanced ball dwell time, and excellent control. Unlike blades with composite materials, it relies solely on carefully selected wood layers. This method is favored for its tactile feedback and predictability, making it ideal for players focused on developing fundamental techniques, spin-oriented play, and consistent shot-making. The design prioritizes a comfortable playing experience and a forgiving response.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Primorac
Butterfly Primorac is another classic 5-ply all-wood blade that shares similarities with SA-01 in its focus on control and feel. It is also often recommended for developing players as a good all-round option. While SA-01 is described as having a softer feel, Primorac offers a slightly different, but still controlled, playing experience.
Yasaka Ma Lin Extra Offensive
This 5-ply all-wood blade from Yasaka is known for its good control and all-round capabilities, making it a comparable option for developing players. It aims to provide a balance between speed and control, similar to SA-01's objective, though specific characteristics like feel and dwell time may vary.