Weight
85g
Thickness
6.6mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
15.6x15
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
L 1
Friendship L1, also known as the 729 L-1, is an offensive table tennis blade built for aggressive players who demand speed and power. Its 7-ply hybrid construction combines wood with composite layers to deliver a fast, stiff feel that excels in driving and looping. Designed to offer a compelling balance, it provides significant attacking force while maintaining a surprising degree of control for precise shot placement. This blade is an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced players looking to dominate rallies with consistent offensive pressure.
The blade features a symmetrical 5+2 construction with five wood layers and two fiberglass composite layers. This arrangement is designed to provide a fast, stiff feel with enhanced dwell time from the composites, supporting significant spin generation while maintaining a good level of control.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
L1 is recognized as a fast blade, ideal for aggressive attacking play. The hybrid construction provides the necessary power for forceful drives and heavy loops, allowing players to consistently apply pressure and dictate the pace of rallies with its lively response.
Despite its speed, L1 is highly praised for its exceptional control. This balance allows for accurate shot placement and effective execution of various strokes, even during high-tempo exchanges. The composite layers may contribute to a forgiving sweet spot, enhancing overall consistency.
The fiberglass layers create a stiffer, more direct feel compared to all-wood blades. This provides crisp, clear feedback on ball contact, which benefits players who rely on precise timing and touch in their offensive game.
The blade's characteristics promote a medium-high throw angle, which is advantageous for powerful topspin loops. This helps the ball clear the net with a good arc and dip effectively onto the opponent's side of the table.
The hybrid construction promotes good dwell time, allowing the ball to stay on the blade slightly longer. This characteristic is key for generating heavy spin on loops and serves while still supporting the blade's inherent speed for attacking play.
As a 5+2 hybrid designed for offense, L1 is on the stiffer side with limited flexibility. This stiffness is fundamental for generating the direct power and speed required for consistent attacking shots.
Composite layers help dampen some of the harsher vibrations, resulting in a comfortable playing feel that offers clear feedback without being overly jarring, even during powerful shots.
Friendship products are generally known for offering good value. User feedback suggests satisfactory performance and durability for the price point, though some notes on finishing details indicate typical craftsmanship for this category. It delivers reliable performance that meets expectations for an offensive blade in its class.
Technology
Friendship L1 utilizes a 5+2 ply construction, integrating two specialized hard composite layers, likely fiberglass, within a five-wood core. This hybrid design is engineered to deliver a potent mix of speed and spin. The composite layers enhance stiffness and power transfer, creating a distinct feel that amplifies energy for aggressive shots. Simultaneously, the selected wood plies help maintain desirable ball dwell time and control, which is crucial for spin generation. This technology aims to provide an offensive tool that excels in both powerful, direct drives and controlled, heavy looping maneuvers.
Similar Blades
Friendship 729 L-2
The 729 L-2 is another blade from the same Friendship L-series, sharing a similar design philosophy and target player type. While specific comparisons are nuanced, it likely caters to a comparable offensive playstyle, potentially offering slight variations in the balance of speed, control, or feel for players exploring options within this family.
Friendship C-1
Friendship C-1 is an all-wood, five-ply blade focused on control and balanced play. It presents an alternative for players transitioning from an all-round to a more offensive style who may prefer a slightly more controlled and traditional wood feel compared to the hybrid, offense-oriented L1.