Weight
85.5g
Thickness
5.6mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
158x151.5
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
In-Force PBO-PC OFF
GEWO In-Force PBO-PC OFF is an offensive blade built for modern, high-performance play, masterfully blending power, precision, and feel. Its unique 5+2 ply construction uses innovative PBO-PC fibers layered between Limba outer veneers and an Ayous core. This design delivers exceptional acceleration and control, offering a balanced yet fairly soft feel with substantial power reserves for aggressive strokes. The fine Limba outer plies contribute to extended ball contact, facilitating high spin potential and dynamic play close to the table.
The 5+2 construction features two inner PBO-PC fiber layers surrounding an Ayous core, with Limba outer veneers. This configuration aims to provide a softer feel and increased dwell time compared to outer carbon blades, while still delivering significant power and speed due to the PBO-PC fibers.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
This blade offers high speed suitable for aggressive offensive play. The PBO-PC fibers and 5+2 construction contribute to excellent acceleration, allowing for powerful drives and topspins. Our testing shows it delivers a controlled speed rather than raw, uncontrolled power, making it fast but highly manageable for attacking shots.
Despite its speed, the In-Force PBO-PC OFF offers impressive control. The inner fiber placement and Limba outer plies contribute to a longer ball contact time, providing a good feel and allowing for precise placement and spin manipulation. Players report it is forgiving on off-center shots, which enhances consistency during fast rallies.
This blade provides a balanced and fairly soft touch, attributed to the inner fiber placement and Limba outer veneers. The feel is often described as great, offering a comfortable connection with the ball that enhances touch shots and spin generation.
Given its offensive nature and focus on speed and spin, the blade produces a medium-high throw angle. This is beneficial for clearing the net with powerful topspin shots and creating effective attacking arcs.
The blade is noted for exceptionally high dwell time. This is a key characteristic that allows for significant spin generation and better ball control during aggressive shots, giving players more time to impart their desired effect.
The combination of wood and inwardly placed fiber layers creates a blade that offers a good blend of stiffness for power and flexibility for feel. It provides sufficient power reserves for hard strokes while maintaining a playable and responsive character.
The blade provides a moderate level of vibration feedback, typical for hybrid constructions. It offers enough sensation to feel the ball contact without being overly harsh or dead, contributing to its balanced and communicative feel.
The blade is praised for its excellent build quality and finish. The integration of advanced PBO-PC fiber technology indicates sophisticated manufacturing. Many players find it offers outstanding value for money, positioning it as a premium option that doesn't compromise on performance or craftsmanship.
Technology
The GEWO In-Force PBO-PC OFF features a 5+2 ply construction integrating PBO-PC fibers. PBO (para-phenylene-2,6-benzobisoxazole) is a high-performance synthetic fiber known for its strength and elasticity. In this blade, the PBO-PC fibers are positioned inwardly, a design choice that differentiates it from blades with outer fiber layers. This placement aims to enhance dwell time and feel, creating a unique playing characteristic that combines the power of composite materials with the softer touch of wood. The use of fine Limba outer veneers further enhances spin generation and ball feedback.
Similar Blades
DHS Hurricane Long 5 (HL5)
TTSensei experts note the GEWO In-Force PBO-PC OFF is frequently discussed as a strong alternative to the DHS Hurricane Long 5. Both blades share a similar inner fiber construction, feel, speed, spin, and control characteristics. The primary differences are the handle shape and the significantly more accessible price point of the GEWO blade, making it an attractive option for players seeking similar performance.