Fire Dragon Fast

Weight

86g

Thickness

5.75mm

Plies

7-ply

Head Size

156x150

Handles

FL / ST

Material

Hybrid

Head Shape

Standard

Balance

Balanced

Gambler

Fire Dragon Fast

2017

Gambler Fire Dragon Fast is engineered for the aggressive attacker who demands maximum speed and spin. Its 7-ply hybrid construction features a Limba and Koto outer feel, reinforced with two layers of proprietary F.L.C. carbon composite. This technology expands the sweet spot and provides exceptional flex recovery, delivering relentless power for loops and drives. A formidable choice for players who dominate rallies with offensive firepower.

7-Ply Construction

The construction features an outer Limba and Koto veneer for a good topspin feel, followed by two layers of F.L.C. carbon composite. This carbon is placed under the outer wood layers and above the inner wood core, designed to enhance speed, stiffness, and the sweet spot, while maintaining some degree of flex and feel. The clearwood core provides stability.

TT Sensei Ratings

Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics

Speed
9.6

Fire Dragon Fast delivers blistering offensive speed, rated highly for its explosive power. The two F.L.C. carbon layers significantly boost acceleration for fast attacks, powerful drives, and aggressive loops, making it a true weapon for players who want to dictate the pace of the rally.

Control
8.0

Despite its high speed, players report surprisingly good control and dwell time. The strategic placement of the F.L.C. carbon and the medium flex provide a balanced feel that allows for precise ball placement and effective blocking. A medium throw angle further contributes to manageable control during powerful strokes.

Feel
Medium-Hard
SoftMedium-HardHard

Fire Dragon Fast offers a direct, responsive feel that leans toward the stiffer side. The combination of Limba, Koto, and F.L.C. carbon provides solid feedback and power, while the described 'optimum flex recovery' prevents it from feeling overly rigid, creating a balanced medium-hard touch ideal for aggressive play.

Throw Angle
Medium
LowMediumHigh

A medium throw angle offers versatility for various shots. It provides enough lift to clear the net comfortably on loops and powerful strokes, while maintaining control to prevent the ball from sailing long, especially in fast exchanges.

Dwell Time
7.0

The blade provides sufficient dwell time for effective spin generation. The F.L.C. carbon layers are designed for 'optimum flex recovery,' which helps maintain ball contact on the rubber, allowing players to impart significant rotation during loops and topspin exchanges.

Flexibility
5.5

Fire Dragon Fast features a balanced medium flex. This provides enough give for spin generation while maintaining sufficient stiffness to support fast, powerful shots. It avoids the extremes of very stiff all-carbon blades or overly flexible all-wood designs.

Vibration
4.0

Our testing shows a responsive feel without excessive harshness. The F.L.C. composite technology helps absorb unnecessary vibrations, resulting in a more comfortable and controlled hitting experience even during powerful strokes, reducing player fatigue.

Quality
8.5

This blade is praised for its excellent build quality and finish. The wood surfaces are smooth and the construction is precise, indicating careful manufacturing that ensures durability and a pleasant in-hand feel, especially notable for its price point.

Technology

Gambler Fire Dragon Fast incorporates proprietary F.L.C. technology—a high modulus carbon interwoven with multi-stranded tempered filament. This advanced composite is strategically placed beneath the outer wood veneers. It's engineered to expand the optimal striking surface, enhance flex recovery for powerful shots, and maintain crucial tactile feel and touch. This construction delivers the exceptional speed and spin capabilities demanded by aggressive, professional-level play.

Similar Blades

Butterfly Zhang Jike ZLC

TTSensei experts note the Fire Dragon Fast is often compared to the Butterfly Zhang Jike ZLC, serving as a more affordable alternative designed to replicate its performance. Both blades utilize composite carbon layers and focus on delivering high speed and spin for dominant offensive play.