Weight
93g
Plies
5-ply
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
PF4 08
DHS PF4 08 is a legendary 5-ply all-wood blade that has defined Chinese table tennis training for decades. Built from Chinese poplar and limba, it prioritizes control and dwell time, making it an exceptional tool for developing foundational technique and spin-oriented offensive play. While not inherently fast, its stable platform rewards proper stroke mechanics, allowing players to generate power through spin and timing. This classic construction offers a direct, consistent feel that provides clear feedback, cementing its reputation as a staple for players focused on mastering the fundamentals of the game.
The blade is a symmetrical 5-ply construction. It alternates layers of poplar and limba wood, creating a uniform and stable feel that provides excellent dwell time and control, which are central to its performance character.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
DHS PF4 08 is not a blade built for extreme speed. Its strength lies in providing a controlled, stable platform. Players report that speed is generated through proper technique and spin rather than the blade's inherent power. When paired with suitable offensive rubbers, it supports powerful loops and fast rallies, but it excels as a tool for developing controlled aggression rather than delivering outright pace.
Control is the defining characteristic of the PF4 08. Its stable construction and excellent dwell time allow for precise shot placement and consistent execution across all strokes, from delicate pushes to aggressive loops. This high level of control makes it a favorite for players developing their technique and for anyone who prioritizes accuracy and consistency in their game.
The blade offers a solid and crisp feel upon contact. This medium-hard character provides clear, direct feedback without being overly harsh, allowing players to sense the ball and make fine adjustments to their strokes with confidence.
The combination of its dwell time and construction typically produces a medium-high throw angle. This is beneficial for creating spinny loops that arc over the net and dip sharply onto the table, a key trait for spin-focused attackers.
The 5-ply all-wood construction creates exceptional dwell time. This allows the ball to stay on the racket surface longer, which is crucial for loading the ball with heavy spin and executing controlled, brushing loops—a cornerstone of the playing style it supports.
The PF4 08 finds a middle ground in flexibility. It has enough flex to aid spin generation and dwell time but remains firm enough to support quick, direct attacks. This balance makes it particularly effective for offensive play paired with tacky rubbers.
Our testing shows a moderate level of vibration, characteristic of all-wood blades. It provides enough tactile feedback to feel the ball contact clearly but absorbs enough impact to avoid being jarring, contributing to its crisp and informative feel.
The PF4 08 is known for its solid build quality and good feel. Crafted from premium woods and manufactured with precise lamination techniques, it results in a durable blade with consistent performance. While vintage models are highly sought after, current productions maintain a respectable standard of quality, offering reliable construction that stands up to rigorous training.
Technology
DHS PF4 08 utilizes a classic 5-ply all-wood construction crafted from premium Chinese poplar and limba. The woods are hand-selected and laminated under precise pressure to ensure uniform density and a consistent vibration response. The 'PF4' designation refers to a proprietary lamination pattern where the outer plies are thinner and denser than the inner core. This design aims to enhance ball rebound for offensive play while retaining the sensitivity and control crucial for developing advanced technique and spin.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Deng Yaping
Legendary Chinese champion Deng Yaping was known to use equipment from the PF4 series, which emphasizes the control and spin generation that defined her technically masterful and dominant playing style during the era of 38mm balls.
Similar Blades
DHS PF4-032 / PF4-86
These are other variants within the classic DHS PF4 series. They share the core philosophy of control and dwell time but may use slightly different wood selections (like mahogany in specific plies), which can result in nuanced differences in speed and flex. The PF4-08 is often noted for having a bit more inherent power compared to these siblings.