Weight
85g
Thickness
6mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
159x152
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Oversized
Balance
Head-Heavy
Skachkov Carbon
Donic Skachkov Carbon is a 7-ply hybrid blade developed with Russian champion Kirill Skachkov, designed for dynamic, spin-oriented topspin players. Its 5+2 construction with Koto outer plies and Aramid-Carbon layers beneath delivers a blend of speed, control, and a crisp, medium-hard feel. The larger head size and head-heavy balance support powerful attacks with precise feedback, making it a compelling choice for players seeking an outer-carbon blade that bridges power with manageability.
This 5+2 ply construction features Aramid-Carbon composite layers placed directly under the Koto outer veneer. This configuration balances the directness and power of outer-carbon blades with a more forgiving and controllable feel, reminiscent of inner-fiber blades.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Skachkov Carbon is a fast blade rated between OFF- and OFF, providing ample speed for aggressive attacking play. The Aramid-Carbon layers contribute significant power, making it suitable for fast rallies and powerful shots. Players often compare its speed to the Viscaria, though some find its power delivery slightly more linear.
Despite its speed, Skachkov Carbon is praised for excellent control and feel, which is unusual for an outer-carbon blade. The construction provides clear ball feedback, allowing for accurate shot placement and effective short game management. This balance makes it ideal for players who value spin and precision alongside power.
Skachkov Carbon delivers a medium-hard feel with crisp contact from the Koto outer plies. It provides informative vibrations that offer good feedback without being overly harsh or muted, striking a balance between directness and sensitivity for touch shots.
The construction produces a more dramatic arc and stronger rotation compared to ordinary outer-type blades, resulting in a medium-high throw angle that works well for spin-oriented attacks.
The blade offers medium dwell time, designed for dynamic, spin-oriented play. While sufficient for generating spin, some players note it's not too bouncy, favoring faster strokes and a more direct response.
Skachkov Carbon is described as almost stiff, contributing to its speed and directness. This characteristic provides solid support for powerful shots while maintaining consistency in stroke execution.
It provides good, informative vibrations that offer clear feedback to the player. These vibrations are noticeable without being excessive or uncomfortable, helping players sense ball contact and adjust their strokes.
Build quality is generally good for its price point, with core construction and materials well-regarded. However, some users have reported minor finish imperfections or occasional handle adhesion issues. While not matching premium blades that cost significantly more, it offers solid performance and durability for most players.
Technology
Donic Skachkov Carbon employs an outer-type fiber construction with a 5+2 ply setup. The key technology involves placing Aramid-Carbon composite layers directly beneath the Koto outer veneers. This design enhances offensive capabilities with significant power boost and energy efficiency while offering a more controlled feel and precise ball feedback. The material composition bridges traditional outer-carbon blades and inner-fiber constructions, allowing for powerful, spin-heavy topspin strokes with improved arc and consistency, aligning with Kirill Skachkov's dynamic playing style.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Kirill Skachkov
Kirill Skachkov is a Russian champion and Olympic competitor who uses this as his signature blade. Developed in collaboration with him, it's tailored to his dynamic, spin-oriented topspin style that emphasizes strong rotation and powerful attacks, particularly in doubles play.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Viscaria
Skachkov Carbon is frequently compared to the Viscaria due to similar 5+2 ply construction with outer Aramid-Carbon layers and Koto top sheets. While the Viscaria is considered the benchmark, Skachkov Carbon offers comparable speed and performance at a significantly lower price point. Many players find it provides more control and slightly different vibration feedback.
Donic Ovtcharov True Carbon (OTC)
Some reviews place Skachkov Carbon's speed in a similar range or slightly below the Donic Ovtcharov True Carbon, with Skachkov Carbon often cited as having more control or a slightly softer feel for players who want offensive power with added touch.