Weight
84g
Thickness
7.3mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
150x153
Handles
FL
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
VSG-1000
Butterfly VSG-1000 is an all-wood, 5-ply blade engineered for aggressive, close-to-the-table play. Its OFF+ speed rating makes it a powerful tool for players who prioritize smashes, fast counter-drives, and putting immediate pressure on opponents. While built for speed, it maintains a good balance of control and a dynamic feel, supporting effective blocking and spin variability. The blade offers a relatively lightweight and maneuverable experience, making it a compelling choice for intermediate to advanced attackers adapting to the modern 40mm ball.
VSG-1000 uses a 5-ply all-wood construction. While Butterfly does not consistently disclose the specific wood types for this model, the layup is designed to provide a classic balance of speed and feel, characteristic of offensive 5-ply blades, aiming for a dynamic response and power suitable for attacking play.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
VSG-1000 is consistently rated as a very fast blade, often described as the fastest in its series. Its OFF+ designation is well-earned, ideal for players who want to apply immediate pressure with powerful shots and rapid counter-attacks. Our testing shows it is particularly effective for generating pace with the modern 40mm ball.
While speed is its primary attribute, VSG-1000 offers a respectable level of control, rated around 8.1. This allows for effective blocking and dynamic offensive play. However, players report it is less forgiving for delicate touch shots, indicating its control is best utilized within an aggressive, direct style rather than for finesse.
The blade provides a dynamic and intensive feel, which enhances variability in spin attacks. Players describe it as having a medium-hard character; it can feel softer than expected for its speed, aiding spin feedback, but also presents a stiff, direct sensation on impact, especially with its vibration-dampening technology.
VSG-1000 generally has a lower to medium-low throw angle. This suits players who prefer to drive through the ball with more topspin or hit flatter, faster shots, rather than those who rely on extremely high, arcing looping trajectories.
VSG-1000 offers a medium dwell time, sufficient for generating spin on loops and maintaining good contact during blocks. This characteristic helps achieve a balance between speed and spin, although it is not considered a blade with an exceptionally long dwell time for extreme spin-heavy play.
The blade is on the stiffer side, contributing to its high speed and direct power transfer. While not completely rigid, its limited flexibility aids in powerful, flat shots and fast counter-hits, favoring a direct hitting style over a flexible, looping arc.
A key feature is its low vibration. The VSG handle system incorporates a carbon tube and rubber dampeners to absorb shock, resulting in a very clean, consistent feel on impact with minimal feedback, even on off-center hits.
Quality perceptions for the VSG-1000 appear mixed. Some users report good build quality and durability, while others have expressed it may not reflect the premium finish often associated with higher-end Butterfly blades. This variance could be linked to its reported manufacturing origin.
Technology
The Butterfly VSG-1000 features the proprietary VSG handle technology. This system incorporates a carbon tube and two rubber dampeners within a hollow handle. The design aims to minimize vibration, resulting in a cleaner feel on impact and a more consistent response, particularly on off-center shots. Combined with its all-wood construction, this technology seeks to deliver a lightweight blade with enhanced power and a dynamic, intensive feel suitable for aggressive spin attacks.
Similar Blades
Butterfly VSG-2000
The VSG-2000 is a sibling blade in the VSG series. While the VSG-1000 is noted for its speed and close-to-the-table attacking prowess, the VSG-2000 is described as being slightly slower but offering better control and a higher throw angle. Players considering the VSG-1000 might look at the VSG-2000 if they desire a similar technological feel but with more emphasis on control and effective play from mid-distance.
Butterfly Korbel
Korbel is a classic all-wood 5-ply blade often compared in terms of construction and accessibility. While the Korbel is generally considered a more all-round blade with excellent feel and control, the VSG-1000 is distinctly faster and more specialized. Players who find the VSG-1000's speed too demanding might consider the Korbel for its more balanced, controllable performance and superior touch.