Weight
77g
Thickness
5.3mm
Plies
3-ply
Head Size
157x156
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
KTL (LKT) Toxic 3
KTL Toxic 3 is a specialized defensive blade built for players who prioritize supreme control and spin manipulation. Its 3-ply all-wood construction delivers a very slow speed, creating exceptional dwell time for precise shot placement. The blade excels in chopping, blocking, and short-game tactics, offering a soft, flexible feel that provides excellent ball feedback. While its core strength is defense, pairing it with faster rubbers can unlock powerful attacks for a more aggressive style. The unique tactical handle design provides a tactile grip and orientation aid, especially useful for players using different rubbers on each side.
The Toxic 3 features a simple 3-ply all-wood construction. The specific wood types are proprietary, but this construction is known for providing a very slow speed, high flexibility, and excellent dwell time, which are crucial for defensive play.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
KTL Toxic 3 is intentionally designed to be one of the slowest blades available, prioritizing control over outright speed. This characteristic is essential for defensive players who need ample time to react and execute precise chops and blocks, allowing for deliberate shot construction.
Control is the standout feature of the Toxic 3. Its slow speed and high flexibility allow for exceptional manipulation of the ball's trajectory and spin, making it ideal for precise placement and all defensive maneuvers. Players report amazing feel and perfect placement capability.
The blade offers a soft and flexible feel, which greatly enhances dwell time and provides players with a clear, tactile sense of the ball's contact. This feedback is crucial for executing delicate defensive shots and controlling spin with precision.
The defensive nature and long dwell time suggest a medium-low throw angle. This allows for controlled, safe placement and reduces the risk of hitting out of bounds, which is ideal for consistent defensive shots and rallies.
The combination of its 3-ply wood construction, slow speed, and flexibility results in a very long dwell time. This allows the ball to sink into the blade, enabling players to impart significant spin and achieve high levels of control, especially during chops and short game exchanges.
Toxic 3 is characterized by its high flexibility, a key component in its exceptional dwell time and control. This flexibility allows the blade to absorb ball energy effectively, contributing to spin generation and a forgiving feel on defensive shots.
The flexible nature of the 3-ply wood construction means the blade transmits noticeable vibrations, contributing directly to its excellent feel and ball feedback. This vibration helps players understand the ball's impact and placement without being excessive.
While specific material details are proprietary, the consistent performance and positive reception among defensive players suggest reliable build quality. The blade is designed for durability in defensive play, offering a functional and dependable construction for its intended purpose.
Technology
KTL Toxic 3 utilizes a unique 3-ply all-wood construction with proprietary wood types and layering optimized for maximum spin manipulation and control. It features a large sweet spot and a specialized 'tactical handle' with notches. These notches are designed to improve grip, provide ventilation to reduce moisture, and serve as a tactile reminder of the blade's orientation. This is particularly beneficial for players who switch between different rubber types on their forehand and backhand, giving defensive players enhanced confidence and precision.
Similar Blades
Yinhe Galaxy 980 DEF
Yinhe Galaxy 980 is often cited as a comparable defensive blade, known for its good control and suitability for chopping. Like the Toxic 3, it is a multi-ply wood construction designed for defensive players seeking exceptional feel and precision in their game.
Palio CHOP NO.1
Palio CHOP NO.1 is another defensive blade that shares similarities with the KTL Toxic 3. It is characterized by its excellent control and suitability for chopping and defensive tactics, making it a solid alternative for players seeking a similar playing experience focused on control.