Weight
79g
Thickness
6.3mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
162x156
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Oversized
Balance
Balanced
Defensor
Der Materialspezialist Defensor is a specialized defensive blade built for players who value control and spin variation above all. Its unique 7-ply hybrid construction combines five wood layers with two carbon layers, creating an enlarged playing surface and a distinct sweet spot that enhances defensive capabilities. This blade excels in classical defense, allowing for significant spin changes and extreme backspin, while its controlled speed enables effective counter-attacks and effortless looping from mid-distance. Renowned for its exceptional precision, the Defensor is a top choice for defensive players seeking to dominate through disruption and placement.
Defensor features a 7-ply construction consisting of five wood layers and two carbon layers arranged symmetrically. This hybrid composition provides the high control characteristic of defensive blades while the carbon layers add stiffness, stability, and a defined sweet spot for improved power and spin generation.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Der Materialspezialist Defensor offers a speed level perfectly suited for defensive play, with enough dynamism for effective counter-attacks and mid-distance loops. Our testing shows it provides controlled speed rather than outright power, which allows for versatile defensive strategies without sacrificing the ability to finish points when needed.
With a near-perfect control rating, Defensor delivers exceptional precision that is its primary strength. This high level of control allows players to execute precise defensive strokes, place the ball with pinpoint accuracy, and master spin variations with ease. The enlarged surface area further contributes to its superior command over the game.
The combination of multiple wood plies and two carbon layers gives Defensor a relatively hard and stiff feel that provides direct feedback during play. This contributes to its defined sweet spot and is beneficial for controlling different types of shots, yet the blade still maintains good touch for delicate defensive maneuvers.
While primarily a defensive blade, Defensor can produce a medium-high throw angle on offensive shots like topspins. The combination of wood and carbon allows for sufficient energy transfer to get the ball over the net with good trajectory, especially when looping from mid-distance.
Defensor offers excellent dwell time, characteristic of top defensive blades. This longer contact with the ball allows players to impart more spin during chops and blocks while providing the necessary time to feel the ball for precise placement and control.
Defensor features medium-stiff flexibility where the five wood plies provide some inherent give, but the two carbon layers make the blade stiffer and more direct than pure all-wood defensive options. This stiffness aids in generating pace on counter-attacks while maintaining the control essential for defense.
The vibration level of Defensor is generally medium-low. While carbon layers can sometimes increase vibration, the blade's defensive design and wood integration help dampen excessive vibrations, contributing to a controlled feel and stable performance during defensive exchanges.
Der Materialspezialist Defensor demonstrates a high level of build quality, with players reporting excellent construction and durability. The use of quality wood and carbon layers contributes to reliable performance that withstands rigorous defensive play, making it a well-made blade that inspires confidence during long matches.
Technology
Der Materialspezialist Defensor incorporates a unique 7-ply construction that blends five layers of wood with two strategically placed carbon fiber layers. This hybrid approach is central to the blade's performance, providing an enlarged playing surface that significantly enhances defensive control. The carbon layers are integrated to create a defined sweet spot engineered specifically to boost precision and stability in defensive play rather than raw power. This design philosophy allows Defensor to offer exceptional spin reversal and variation in classical defense while still providing controlled speed for counter-attacks and mid-distance loops, setting it apart from traditional defensive blades.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLF
Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLF is a 7-ply defensive blade similar to Defensor in ply count and defensive orientation. It utilizes ZLF composite layers instead of carbon, aiming to provide excellent control and stability for defensive play. Both blades feature enlarged surfaces and are designed to aid in generating spin and executing precise defensive shots.
Victas Koji Matsushita Special / Defensive
Victas Koji Matsushita Special and Defensive blades are also designed for defensive play, featuring multiple wood plies. While construction details vary, they share the core objective of providing high control and spin-friendliness essential for a defensive game. These blades offer stability and spin reversal comparable to other top defensive options like Defensor.