Weight
88g
Thickness
6.4mm
Plies
7-ply
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
L-2
Friendship L-2 is a versatile hybrid blade that masterfully balances control and offensive power. Its 7-ply construction with internal carbide layers delivers a medium-hard feel, providing crisp feedback and a stable platform for confident shot-making. Designed for all-round players, it excels in precise placement and consistent looping while offering enough speed for aggressive attacks. This blade is a popular choice for intermediate players advancing their technique and advanced players seeking a reliable, predictable performer that supports a complete game without extreme specialization.
The blade is built with seven plies in a symmetrical order: wood, wood, carbide, wood (core), carbide, wood, wood. This structure uses the wood layers for flexibility and dwell, while the internal carbide layers add stiffness and speed, aiming to create a balanced blend of elasticity and a larger sweet spot.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
With a speed rating of 7.6, the L-2 sits comfortably in the offensive range. The internal carbide layers provide a noticeable boost in power for effective attacking shots, while the wood plies ensure the blade remains manageable and doesn't become overly fast. This balance allows players to generate good pace on loops and drives without sacrificing too much controllability, making it suitable for an all-round offensive style.
Boasting an excellent 9.1 control rating, the L-2 is a precision instrument. Its balanced construction and the dwell time from the wood plies allow for exceptional ball placement and shot accuracy. Players find they can execute delicate touches, precise blocks, and consistent loops with confidence, making it an ideal blade for those who prioritize technique and consistency in their game.
The blade delivers a crisp, medium-hard feel. The combination of wood and internal carbide provides clear, direct feedback on ball contact without being overly soft or excessively stiff. This sensation allows for quick tactile adjustments and a confident connection with every shot.
Friendship L-2 produces a medium-high throw angle. This characteristic is well-suited for loop-oriented play, helping to create a good arc on topspin shots and making it easier to lift backspin balls with consistency and safety.
Dwell time is rated as medium-long. The wood plies in the construction allow the ball to sink in nicely, which is beneficial for generating spin. The carbide layers provide a slight firming effect, but overall contact remains spin-friendly and controlled.
Flexibility leans towards the stiffer side of medium. The 7-ply construction with internal reinforcement creates a stable, less flexible platform compared to thinner all-wood blades. This stiffness supports powerful, direct shots and provides a solid feel during blocks and drives.
Vibration is at a medium level. The internal composite layers introduce more feedback than a pure wood blade, but the overall construction manages it well. Players will feel a clear indication of impact without it being harsh or distracting, offering good sensory information.
The build quality of the L-2 is considered good for its price point. While comprehensive expert reviews are limited, general user feedback on comparable Friendship blades indicates reliable construction and often attractive aesthetics. It delivers consistent performance that matches its intended design, offering solid value and dependable play without the premium price tag of top-tier blades.
Technology
Friendship L-2 utilizes a 7-ply hybrid construction with five wood layers and two strategically placed internal carbide layers. This design aims to fuse the classic control and feel of wood with the enhanced speed and elasticity from the carbide. The composite layers are intended to broaden the sweet spot and improve the blade's tensile performance in its mid-section, resulting in a more direct feel and better control. The technology targets a versatile performance profile, offering both the power needed for offensive play and the precision required for controlled shots.
Similar Blades
Friendship L-3 (Hao Shuai)
The Friendship L-3 serves as a direct alternative within the same series, also featuring a 5+2 construction but with Aramid-Carbon layers. It's described as a modern offensive blade designed for close-to-table attacks. Players looking for a similar balanced feel as the L-2 but with a potentially sharper, more direct offensive character might find the L-3 an appealing option.
Friendship L-5 Hao Shuai
Also from the 'L' series, the L-5 Hao Shuai is noted by players for higher rated speed and control. While specific construction details may differ, its placement in the lineup suggests it could be a step-up alternative for those who enjoy the L-2's profile but desire more refined or powerful performance characteristics from Friendship's offerings.