Weight
80g
Thickness
5.5mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
160x165
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Oversized
Balance
Balanced
Oversize Kevlar
Gambler Oversize Kevlar is a modern defensive blade built for players who value control and a forgiving sweet spot. Its oversized head and unique 5-ply wood and Kevlar construction create a stable, controlled feel perfect for chopping and blocking away from the table. While not built for outright speed, it offers enough power for well-timed counter-attacks, making it an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced players who blend defense with opportunistic offense. The blade's design prioritizes feel and consistency, helping you focus on precise shot placement and spin generation.
The blade uses a symmetrical 5-ply construction with alternating layers of wood and Kevlar fiber. This specific layup—wood, Kevlar, wood, Kevlar, wood—is designed to create a balanced flex profile, expand the sweet spot towards the edges, and provide the unique dampened, controlled feel that defines this defensive-oriented blade.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Gambler Oversize Kevlar is not a speed demon; its design prioritizes control. The blade generates enough pace for controlled attacks, especially when you put your weight into the shot. Our testing shows its primary strength is providing a stable, predictable platform for defensive play, where its moderate speed is actually a benefit for precise placement and spin variation.
Control is the defining characteristic of this blade. The combination of a slower pace, oversized sweet spot, and Kevlar-stabilized construction results in exceptional precision. Players find they can execute defensive chops and blocks with incredible consistency, and placement shots become remarkably easy. This high level of control builds confidence for players whose game revolves around accuracy and tactical placement over brute force.
Gambler Oversize Kevlar offers a medium feel that is communicative without being overly stiff. The Kevlar integration helps create a pleasant, dampened sensation on contact, providing good tactile feedback for touch shots while avoiding the harsh vibration sometimes found in defensive blades. It strikes a nice balance between solidity and feedback.
The blade produces a medium-low throw angle, which is typical for control-oriented designs. This trajectory supports defensive play, making it easier to keep chops and blocks low over the net. It requires a slightly more upward stroke to lift the ball for offensive loops, which adds to the overall control and consistency.
The blade's construction promotes a moderately long dwell time. The combination of wood and the specific flex from the Kevlar allows the ball to stay on the racket face longer, which is ideal for generating heavy spin on loops and imparting deceptive spin on chops and pushes.
Gambler Oversize Kevlar exhibits noticeable flex, which is a key component of its defensive character. This flexibility aids in absorbing the pace of incoming shots, contributes to the longer dwell time for spin generation, and provides a softer, more controlled sensation on impact, especially valuable for chopping.
Vibration is well-managed in this blade. The Kevlar layers act as a damper, absorbing much of the shock from impact. This results in a comfortable, solid feel that doesn't transmit excessive vibration to the hand, which is a key advantage during long defensive rallies.
Based on user feedback for Gambler products, the Oversize Kevlar offers good craftsmanship for its price point. The integration of Kevlar into the ply construction suggests a modern manufacturing approach. While specific details on this model are limited, the brand is generally recognized for providing reliable build quality and good value, making this a solid choice for players seeking advanced materials without a premium price tag.
Technology
The core technology of the Gambler Oversize Kevlar is the strategic integration of a Kevlar weave within its 5-ply structure. This specialized material is engineered to mechanically enlarge the sweet spot, making the outer edges of the blade more effective. The Kevlar enhances overall stability, contributes to vibration dampening for a cleaner feel, and allows the construction to maintain a beneficial flex. This synthesis aims to deliver a unique playing characteristic that blends the control needed for modern defense with enough responsiveness for controlled attacking play.
Similar Blades
Gambler Zebra Classic Oversize
For players who like the oversized concept but prefer a pure wood feel, the Gambler Zebra Classic Oversize is a compelling alternative. It shares the large head and 5-ply construction but uses all-wood plies. TTSensei experts note it offers a fantastic touch and a huge sweet spot, making it suitable for all-around and hard-bat play. It provides similar control benefits without the specific dampening and feel characteristics of Kevlar.
Gambler Oversize Carbon
The Gambler Oversize Carbon explores a similar oversized design philosophy but with carbon fiber instead of Kevlar. Players report it is also slower than expected with good touch, aimed at those needing control and a larger sweet spot. The primary difference lies in the playing feel; carbon typically provides a crisper, more direct feedback compared to the dampened, flex-oriented sensation of the Kevlar version.