Weight
88g
Thickness
6.4mm
Plies
7-ply
Handles
FL
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
V-6
Friendship V-6 is a hybrid table tennis blade that delivers a compelling balance of offensive power and precise control, making it a versatile choice for players looking to enhance their attacking game. Its 7-ply construction with Aramid and Aromatic Carbon layers provides a unique feel—soft enough for delicate short game play yet powerful for dynamic offensive strokes. Recognized for its exceptional value, the V-6 offers performance that rivals more expensive options, making it an attractive proposition for developing and intermediate players. It delivers a consistent and forgiving playing experience, allowing you to focus on improving technique and executing a wider range of shots with confidence.
The 5+2 construction features Aramid Carbon and Aromatic Carbon layers sandwiched between wood veneers. The carbon layers are placed closer to the core to enhance speed and stiffness while maintaining flexibility and feel through the outer wood. This combination aims to offer a larger sweet spot and improved power for offensive shots, while the aramid component contributes to vibration dampening and a softer touch.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Friendship V-6 is generally classified as an OFF- to OFF+ blade. Our testing shows it's not the fastest blade but can be enhanced with faster rubbers. It offers good offensive capability for looping and attacking, with a clear slingshot effect for powerful shots, making it a reliable choice for players seeking controlled aggression.
Control is a major strength of the V-6. Players report very good control, providing great short game and placement shots with amazing precision. This high level of control makes it forgiving and allows for consistent shot-making, which is ideal for players looking to build confidence in their offensive play.
V-6 is described as having a soft feel, which is advantageous for control and the short game. Despite its carbon layers, the Aramid Carbon and overall construction contribute to a dampened vibration and a softer touch than many other composite blades, allowing players to feel the ball well and reduce mistakes in delicate play.
The blade's construction, including carbon layers and wood plies, tends to produce a medium to medium-high throw angle. This is conducive to generating aggressive loops with good arc, allowing players to hit with depth and power over the net.
The dwell time on V-6 is considered longer for a composite blade, contributing to its good control and ability to impart spin. The combination of softer feel and inner carbon layers allows the ball to sink into the blade, facilitating better spin generation and placement, especially during powerful strokes and loops.
While classified as an OFF+ blade, V-6 is not considered extremely stiff. Its construction allows for moderate flex, which aids in dwell time and control, particularly for looping and placing shots. This flexibility provides a good balance between power and maneuverability, making it adaptable to various playing styles.
Reviewers note V-6 has a muted sound and dampened vibration, especially for a composite blade. The inclusion of Aramid Carbon contributes to this characteristic, leading to a less pingy and more controlled hitting sensation that enhances comfort and improves the player's ability to feel the ball.
Friendship V-6 is praised for its exceptional value, but TTSensei experts note that build quality can be inconsistent. While the design is appealing and construction adequate for the price, some users mention minor issues like rough edges or variability in weight and feel between blades. This suggests manufacturing precision might not always match premium brands, but it remains a strong performer for its cost.
Technology
Friendship V-6 utilizes a 5+2 ply construction, integrating Aramid Carbon and Aromatic Carbon layers within its wood structure. This hybrid design optimizes the performance characteristics of both traditional wood and modern composite materials. The carbon layers, positioned between wood plies, increase the blade's speed and enlarge its sweet spot, while the Aramid component enhances vibration dampening and provides a softer, more controlled feel. This approach aims to offer a blade that excels in both offensive power and precise control, making it a versatile choice for players seeking a blend of speed, spin, and feel. The blade is manufactured in China, known for producing competitive table tennis equipment.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Timo Boll Spirit (TBS)
Friendship V-6 is frequently compared as a budget-friendly alternative to Butterfly Timo Boll Spirit. Many players find V-6 offers a similar playing feel, with some suggesting it has better touch and control, at a significantly lower price point. While V-6 is often described as softer and more balanced, TBS remains a benchmark composite blade known for its speed and control in its class.
Xiom Stradivarius
V-6 has been discussed in relation to Xiom Stradivarius, with initial speculation about it being a clone. However, TTSensei experts note differences: V-6 is perceived as softer and better balanced, while Stradivarius often has a harder feel. The Xiom blade generally sits in a higher price bracket, making V-6 an attractive value-oriented alternative for similar hybrid performance.