Weight
90g
Thickness
6.25mm
Plies
7-ply
Handles
FL
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
KTL (LKT) Black Coffee
KTL Black Coffee is a 7-ply all-wood blade designed for offensive players who value a strong blend of speed and control. It delivers a crisp, medium-hard feel with excellent feedback, making it ideal for powerful loops, precise blocks, and spin-focused serves. Often seen as a high-value alternative to premium blades, it provides a balanced, responsive playing experience suitable for advancing attackers looking for quality without a steep price.
The blade is a symmetrical 7-ply all-wood construction. While the exact species for each layer are not publicly specified, TTSensei experts note it uses a combination of hardwood outer plies and different wood types for the inner layers, including a core that differs from common alternatives. The grain is often described as smooth.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
KTL Black Coffee operates firmly in the OFF- category. It generates good pace for loops and smashes, providing a clear step up in power from medium-speed, control-oriented blades. This makes it a strong choice for players transitioning to a more offensive style who still want a manageable speed threshold.
Control is a standout feature. The blade offers excellent feel and feedback, allowing for precise shot placement, consistent blocks, and reliable serves. This high level of control gives players confidence to execute tactical plays even at higher speeds.
The blade provides a crisp, medium-hard feel upon contact. It offers substantial feedback and a solid sensation, though it may feel slightly less dwell-oriented compared to softer five-ply blades. This characteristic supports a direct, attacking style of play.
KTL Black Coffee produces a medium to high throw angle, especially when paired with dynamic rubbers. This trait is beneficial for creating heavy, arcing loops that clear the net with safety and dive onto the table.
Dwell time is good, allowing the blade to grip the ball effectively for spin generation on loops and drives. It strikes a balance between a quick release and enough contact time for brush-looping techniques.
The blade exhibits a medium level of flexibility. It has some give, which aids in dwell time and feel, but remains primarily stiff and direct, contributing to its balanced offensive character.
Vibration is present at a medium level, providing valuable tactile feedback on shots without becoming excessive or uncomfortable. This contributes to a good sense of ball contact and shot quality.
For its price segment, build quality is highly regarded. The finish is good, construction feels durable, and the selection of wood veneers results in a blade that performs reliably. It represents strong value, punching above its weight in terms of craftsmanship.
Technology
KTL Black Coffee is engineered using seven layers of selected wood veneers. The manufacturing focuses on achieving a specific harmonic balance between the plies to replicate the playing characteristics of more expensive European blades. By carefully pairing woods for stiffness and feel, the technology aims to deliver a high-performance, all-wood offensive experience that emphasizes both power and touch, all through traditional craftsmanship.
Similar Blades
Stiga Ebenholz 7
This is the most frequent comparison. Many players find the KTL Black Coffee offers a remarkably similar 7-ply all-wood feel and offensive performance profile, often at a more accessible price point. It's considered a direct and value-oriented alternative.
Yasaka Sweden Extra
For players using a control-oriented blade like the Sweden Extra, KTL Black Coffee represents a clear offensive upgrade. Our testing shows it provides significantly more speed and power while maintaining a high degree of control, making it a logical next step for developing attackers.