Weight
82g
Thickness
5.71mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
161x151
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Zen
Gambler Zen is a 5-ply all-wood table tennis blade designed for players seeking a balanced blend of control and offensive capability. Its Ayous outer plies and Kukui wood core create a soft, moderately flexible feel that supports precise ball placement and stroke development. The blade features a light hand lacquer finish to prevent splintering, enhancing durability and ease of maintenance. This classic construction provides a solid foundation for various playing styles, making it an excellent choice for those building their game.
The blade features a symmetrical 5-ply all-wood construction. Ayous wood forms the outer and inner plies, sandwiching a central core of Kukui wood. This classic configuration aims to balance speed, control, and feel, with the Ayous providing a good surface for spin and the Kukui contributing to flex and dwell time.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Gambler Zen is classified as an ALL+ (Allround Plus) speed blade. While not designed for explosive power, it offers sufficient pace for offensive shots, particularly loops, when paired with fast rubbers. Our testing shows its speed is comparable to, or slightly stiffer and faster than, other classic all-wood blades in its category.
Control is a standout feature of the Gambler Zen. Players report an exceptional ability to guide the ball, making it easy to place shots accurately on the table. This high level of control is crucial for developing consistent strokes and executing tactical plays with confidence.
Gambler Zen delivers a soft, comfortable feeling with moderate flexibility. This provides excellent ball feedback, allowing players to feel the contact clearly and make subtle adjustments, which is beneficial for developing touch and control.
Given its all-wood construction and moderate flexibility, Gambler Zen produces a medium-high throw angle. This is conducive to generating looping shots with a good arc and depth, aligning perfectly with its ALL+ playing style.
The all-wood construction, moderate flexibility, and soft feel combine to create a good dwell time. This allows the ball to sink into the blade, enhancing spin generation and control, especially during slower, deliberate strokes and loops.
Gambler Zen is characterized by moderate flexibility. This flex allows for good control and spin, as the blade bends slightly on impact to pocket the ball, offering a more forgiving experience compared to stiffer blades.
The soft and flexible nature of the blade suggests medium levels of vibration. This provides a pleasant playing experience without excessive harshness, while still allowing players to feel the ball's impact adequately.
Despite its budget-friendly price, Gambler Zen impresses with its solid build quality and finish. The hand-lacquered finish effectively prevents splintering, and users often note the smoothness of the handle and well-sanded wing edges, offering good value for the investment.
Technology
Gambler Zen focuses on delivering value through a classic, feel-oriented design. It utilizes top-quality Ayous outer layers for a smooth spin-generating surface and a Kukui wood core that contributes to the blade's moderate flexibility and dwell time. This combination is engineered for a balanced playing experience ideal for skill development. A practical light hand lacquer finish is applied to prevent splintering during rubber changes, emphasizing durability and ease of maintenance. This thoughtful construction, paired with an accessible price, makes it a sensible entry into the custom racket market.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Grubba All Wood
Gambler Zen is frequently compared to the Butterfly Grubba All Wood. TTSensei experts note the Zen tends to be slightly stiffer and faster while maintaining similar all-round characteristics, soft feel, and control. Players who enjoy the classic feel of the Grubba might find the Gambler Zen a comparable and often more budget-friendly alternative.