Weight
82g
Thickness
6.1mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
155.6x149
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Vector Target
Gambler Vector Target is a high-control, mid-speed offensive blade built for precision and consistency. Its unique 5-ply construction combines Ayous and Softwood layers with Zylon Carbon fibers, creating a harmonious blend of power and feel. Designed for players who prioritize placement and strategic play, it offers a stable platform for controlled attacks and defensive maneuvers. This blade delivers a premium playing experience at an accessible price, making it an excellent choice for developing and intermediate players looking to enhance their offensive game without sacrificing control.
The blade features an Ayous outer ply for good feel, followed by a softwood layer. Sandwiched in the core are Zylon Carbon layers providing stiffness and speed, balanced by inner softwood layers. This construction aims for a blend of control, speed, and a relatively stiff feel.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Gambler rates the Vector Target at 7.7 (ALL+), indicating a mid-speed offensive blade. However, our testing shows it often feels faster, with many players placing it closer to an OFF- category. This perceived increase comes from the Zylon Carbon composite layers, which add stiffness and a higher speed ceiling compared to all-wood blades, making it responsive for offensive play.
Players report exceptional control and precision with the Vector Target, noting the ball goes exactly where intended. This high level of accuracy makes it excellent for placement shots, blocks, and drives, allowing for consistent tactical execution. The blade's construction provides a stable platform that forgives minor errors while rewarding precise strokes.
The Vector Target delivers a relatively stiff feel due to its Zylon Carbon layers, providing direct feedback to the player. This stiffness supports powerful shots and crisp contact, though it may reduce dwell time slightly for spin-oriented strokes compared to more flexible blades.
The combination of composite layers and a stiffer feel creates a medium-high throw angle, helping offensive drives and loops clear the net with good trajectory. This makes it effective for attacking play while maintaining control.
The blade's stiffness and composite layers result in a medium dwell time. While it offers good control for blocks and drives, spin shots require near-perfect execution as it provides less margin for error than more flexible, wood-heavy blades.
Though Gambler rates the flex as 'mid,' our testing shows it plays stiffer than expected. The Zylon Carbon layers add rigidity, enhancing speed and directness in play while maintaining enough flex for controlled offensive strokes.
The Zylon Carbon construction and relative stiffness suggest moderate to low vibration feedback. Many players describe a solid, vibration-free feel that provides clear information without being overly harsh or muted.
The Vector Target is well-constructed with a high-quality finish, featuring metal inlays and a preservative lacquer that eliminates the need for sealing. Gambler's emphasis on precision weight ranges through proprietary methods adds to its quality assurance, resulting in a blade that feels solid and reliable in hand.
Technology
Gambler Vector Target features a unique 5-ply construction integrating Zylon Carbon (30-ton, 60K graphite weave) with traditional Ayous and Softwood layers. This hybrid design balances speed, control, and feel for high-performance offensive play. Gambler emphasizes manufacturing standards including a preservative lacquer finish that eliminates sealing needs and high-polish metal lens inlays. Their proprietary grain density testing and moisture content regulation ensure a guaranteed weight range, providing consistency across production runs.
Similar Blades
Gambler Fire Dragon Touch
Many players find the Fire Dragon Touch offers a more woody and softer feel with its carbon layer closer to the center, providing good dwell time, flex, and control while remaining a capable offensive option. It's an excellent alternative for those who find the Vector Target too stiff or fast.
Gambler Vector Speed
Part of the same series with Zylon Carbon construction, the Vector Speed is rated OFF (92) compared to the Vector Target's ALL+ rating. Players looking for similar construction but more outright speed might consider the Vector Speed, though it may sacrifice some of the Vector Target's control.