Weight
85g
Thickness
5.9mm
Plies
5-ply
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Dima SawTec AR
Donic Dima SawTec AR is a 5-ply all-wood blade that masterfully balances control and speed, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of playing styles. Its unique Sawtec construction method, where wood veneers are sawn for enhanced stability, delivers a consistent and predictable feel. The combination of Koto and Kiri woods creates a responsive medium-hard touch, while the signature cork-covered handle provides exceptional comfort and a secure grip. This blade excels in close-to-the-table attacks and measured rallies, offering players a classic feel with modern performance.
This symmetrical 5-ply construction features Koto wood on the outer layers for hardness and direct speed, with Kiri wood forming the inner core for flexibility and enhanced feel. The unique Sawtec method of preparing these veneers is central to the blade's claimed stability.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Dima SawTec AR delivers respectable speed for an all-wood blade, sitting comfortably in the ALL+ to OFF- range. It provides enough pace for active offensive shots and quick counter-hits, but doesn't rely on raw power. This balanced speed profile makes it ideal for players who integrate spin and strategic placement into their attacking game, offering a controlled yet assertive playing experience.
Control is where this blade truly shines. Its consistent feel and predictable ball trajectory make it exceptionally easy to handle for every shot, from delicate pushes and blocks to powerful loops. This high level of control gives players the confidence to place the ball accurately and execute their strokes with precision, even during the most intense and fast-paced rallies.
The combination of Koto outer plies and Kiri inner core, enhanced by the Sawtec construction, creates a medium-hard feel. This provides clear, crisp feedback on ball contact while retaining enough flexibility for effective spin generation. The cork handle further refines this feel, offering a comfortable and secure connection to the blade.
The blade's good dwell time and spin-generating capability typically produce a medium-high throw angle. This is ideal for effective looping and topspin shots, allowing the ball to travel with a good arc over the net.
Players report very good dwell time, a crucial feature for spin generation. This allows the ball to stay on the racket face slightly longer, enabling players to impart significant spin on serves, loops, and returns. It's a key characteristic for those who build their game around spin-based tactics.
Dima SawTec AR is considered on the stiffer side for an all-wood blade, which contributes to its directness and speed. However, it maintains enough inherent flexibility to allow for good spin production and a connected feel, striking a balance between rigidity and responsiveness.
The blade delivers a classic wood feel with a moderate level of vibration. The construction aims for a balanced sensation, providing enough feedback to feel the ball without introducing harsh or uncomfortable vibrations, contributing to a pleasant playing experience.
The blade earns consistent praise for its excellent build quality and the incredibly comfortable cork handle. The Sawtec method of veneer preparation contributes to a stable and durable construction that holds up over time. Many players report long-term satisfaction, with some choosing to repurchase the blade multiple times, which speaks volumes about its reliability and overall quality.
Technology
Donic Dima SawTec AR utilizes the proprietary 'Sawtec' construction method. This technique involves sawing the wood veneers instead of slicing them, which is reported to enhance the structural stability of the wood and provide a more uniform, consistent feel across the entire blade face. A key ergonomic feature is the cork-covered handle, designed to offer superior comfort, a secure grip, and reduced player fatigue, ultimately boosting confidence during play.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Dima Ovtcharov
This blade was developed in close collaboration with German superstar and European Champion Dima Ovtcharov to complement his famously adaptable style. His game is built on exceptional touch, tactical variation, and versatility at the table. The Dima SawTec AR was designed to support every facet of his play, from soft, controlled pushes to powerful smashes, aiming to help players of all levels unlock their full potential.
Similar Blades
Donic Waldner Senso V1
The Donic Waldner Senso V1 is another excellent 5-ply all-wood blade known for its all-around capabilities and control-oriented nature. Both blades are praised for their comfortable feel and are superb choices for players developing their game. While the Senso V1 often features vibration-dampening handle technology, the Dima SawTec AR distinguishes itself with its unique cork handle and the Sawtec veneer preparation method. Both represent reliable, high-quality options for an all-around playing style.