Weight
78g
Thickness
5.2mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
SK Carbon
Butterfly SK Carbon is a lightweight offensive blade that masterfully blends speed with a surprisingly soft touch. Introduced in 2017, its 3+2 ply construction uses TAMCA 5000 carbon fiber to create a larger sweet spot and enhance power while maintaining exceptional maneuverability. This design offers a feel closer to a soft ZLC or ALC blade rather than a stiff carbon one, making it an excellent choice for players transitioning from all-wood setups or seeking a more controlled offensive option.
The 3+2 ply construction features an outer layer of Koto, followed by a TAMCA 5000 carbon fiber layer, a central Kiri wood core, another TAMCA 5000 carbon layer, and an outer Koto layer. This configuration reduces weight and enhances elasticity while providing a softer feel than typical carbon blades.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
SK Carbon delivers strong offensive speed amplified by its TAMCA 5000 carbon layers. Our testing shows its thinner construction provides a more controlled pace compared to thicker carbon blades, making it accessible for players transitioning from all-wood setups. It excels in generating good pace on close-table drives and loops, offering a speed that supports aggressive play without being overwhelming.
Despite its carbon composition, SK Carbon is praised for excellent control, particularly in passive shots like blocking and pushing. The thin construction and moderate elasticity contribute to a superior feel for the ball, offering forgiveness and precision that benefits developing players. Many players find it provides a reliable platform for both defensive and controlled offensive maneuvers.
SK Carbon provides a notably softer feel compared to many stiff carbon blades, offering ball feedback similar to ALC or softer ZLC models. This creates a more natural, less rigid playing surface that benefits players who prefer or are transitioning to a carbon feel.
SK Carbon generally produces a medium-high throw angle, facilitating effective looping and attacking shots. This characteristic works well with rubbers that enhance spin for a potent offensive combination.
The combination of wood plies and specific carbon integration allows for decent dwell time, enabling players to impart good spin on loops and controlled drives. The softer feel contributes to this extended ball contact.
This blade exhibits moderate flexibility, striking a balance between the stiffness of pure carbon blades and the pliability of all-wood models. This characteristic aids in spin generation and provides a forgiving feel during various shots.
SK Carbon offers relatively low vibration, providing a comfortable playing experience and enhanced control. Its construction effectively dampens excessive vibrations while retaining sufficient ball feel for feedback.
Manufactured in Japan under Butterfly's stringent standards, the SK Carbon exhibits excellent build quality and durability. The use of select woods and TAMCA 5000 carbon results in a consistently performing blade that meets high expectations for craftsmanship and material integrity.
Technology
Butterfly SK Carbon utilizes a specialized 3+2 ply construction with TAMCA 5000 carbon fiber. This high-performance synthetic fiber is engineered not primarily for stiffness but to significantly reduce blade weight while maintaining elasticity and enlarging the sweet spot. The blade's thin 5.2mm construction further enhances its lightweight nature and maneuverability. This technological approach bridges the gap between carbon blade power and traditional wood blade control, creating an accessible yet potent offensive tool.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Primorac Carbon
SK Carbon is often compared to Primorac Carbon, with our experts noting SK Carbon as a thinner, marginally slower, and softer-feeling alternative. Players seeking more control or a less bouncy feel than Primorac Carbon might prefer SK Carbon, while those wanting faster, stiffer carbon performance might lean toward Primorac Carbon.
Butterfly InnerForce Layer ALC.S
While SK Carbon offers a softer feel and moderate speed, blades like InnerForce Layer ALC.S provide a different balance with inner Arylate Carbon construction. SK Carbon is generally considered more accessible and affordable, serving as a distinct option within the controlled carbon category.