Weight
82g
Thickness
6.5mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
156.5x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
5P-2A
Darker's 5P-2A stands as a classic 5-ply offensive all-wood blade celebrated for its exceptional Hinoki feel and Japanese craftsmanship. Made entirely in Japan, this blade features a unique construction that balances power, control, and dwell time beautifully. It's particularly well-suited for loop-oriented offensive players who prioritize spin and touch. The blade delivers a distinctive feel that's both soft and stiff, offering responsive performance while maintaining excellent control. What sets it apart from other Hinoki blades is how it moderates the extreme catapult effect, giving you power without sacrificing precision.
The Darker 5P-2A features a 5-ply all-wood construction with outer plies and the core ply made of Hinoki wood, complemented by two intermediate plies of Japanese Linden wood.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Our analysis places the 5P-2A solidly in the OFF to OFF- category, with some players describing it as Allround+. Many players find it comparable to blades like the Korbel in speed but with enhanced feeling. The overall consensus points to a strong OFF-leaning speed that provides plenty of power while maintaining excellent control.
Control stands out as one of this blade's strongest attributes. Our testing reveals exceptional control that players describe as outstanding for precision play. Many users report that the control feels almost limitless, making it particularly well-suited for players who value accuracy and placement in their game.
Players consistently describe the feel as soft, thanks to the Hinoki outer plies that deliver the distinctive Hinoki touch with a springy nature. While some note a combination of softness and stiffness, the predominant characteristic during ball contact is that welcoming soft feel that Hinoki lovers appreciate.
While not explicitly rated, the emphasis on generous dwell time and exceptional spin capability strongly suggests a medium-high throw angle. This characteristic particularly benefits topspin-oriented players who want good arc and clearance over the net.
Our testing shows the 5P-2A provides generous dwell time, making it excellent for looping and spin generation. Players find they can really feel the ball on the rubber, allowing for precise spin manipulation and controlled offensive play.
The 5P-2A delivers a medium-stiff flexibility that combines solid feel with springy responsiveness from the Hinoki construction. This balance provides a stable platform for powerful shots while maintaining the lively character that makes Hinoki blades so appealing.
The blade offers a medium level of vibration feedback that provides good feel without becoming distracting. This balanced vibration gives players valuable information about ball contact while maintaining comfort during extended play sessions.
The Darker 5P-2A consistently earns praise for its superior craftsmanship and build quality. Our experts note the exceptional production standards and attention to detail that reflect Darker's reputation for handmade Japanese blades. Players frequently comment on the excellence and high-quality feel that sets this blade apart from mass-produced alternatives.
Technology
Darker brings decades of expertise to the 5P-2A, drawing from their long tradition of crafting premium Hinoki wood blades that dates back to 1955. The blade's core technology centers on its specific 5-ply all-wood construction, carefully layering three plies of Japanese Hinoki wood with two intermediate plies of Japanese Linden wood. This thoughtful combination delivers the signature Hinoki touch—a soft ball contact with excellent dwell time and controlled catapult. The Linden wood stabilizes the blade's character, creating a linear response that works beautifully for both powerful offensive drives and delicate touch shots. Each blade undergoes meticulous handmade manufacturing in Japan, ensuring exceptional quality and consistency that meets JTTA approval standards.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Korbel
Many players compare the Darker 5P-2A to the Butterfly Korbel, noting similar feel characteristics but with slightly better speed and significantly enhanced craftsmanship. Both are well-regarded 5-ply offensive all-wood blades known for their excellent feel and control, though the Darker offers that premium Japanese manufacturing touch.
Nittaku Septear
Our testing shows the Darker 5P-2A shares similar speed characteristics with the Nittaku Septear. However, many players prefer the 5P-2A for its enhanced control, superior feeling, and additional power, particularly appreciating the explicit wood composition and craftsmanship of the Darker blade.