Weight
92g
Thickness
5.5mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Nittaku Acoustic Carbon Outer Large Handle
Nittaku Acoustic Carbon Outer Large Handle is a hybrid offensive blade that masterfully blends the cherished feel of the classic Acoustic series with the modern power of outer carbon layers. It delivers a solid, lively playing experience with a larger sweet spot and enhanced stability, ideal for players looking to upgrade their attacking game. The FE-carbon layers beneath the outer Limba plies provide direct feedback and immediate power. Crafted in Japan with a substantial Large Handle, it offers superior grip comfort and balance for players with larger hands, representing Nittaku's dedication to quality and innovative construction for competitive play.
This 5+2 construction features outer FE-Carbon layers sandwiched between Limba plies with a Tung core. This configuration provides faster, more powerful performance with a larger sweet spot and enhanced stability while retaining desirable wood-like feel. The outer carbon placement delivers direct feedback and immediate power response.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Designed for offensive play, Acoustic Carbon Outer Large Handle delivers a significant speed increase over its all-wood predecessor. The outer FE-carbon layers provide immediate power, making it a fast blade rated for OFF+ play. Players find it generates powerful shots, especially effective for close-to-table topspin and dynamic looping, giving a noticeable boost to attacking rallies.
Despite its offensive nature, this blade maintains a commendable level of control. Players report good precision for close-to-table play and effective blocking, allowing for accurate shot placement even during fast exchanges. This balance of power and accuracy makes it suitable for players who need to maintain consistency in their aggressive game.
Acoustic Carbon Outer Large Handle offers a distinctive feel that blends traditional wood characteristics with composite stiffness. The FE-carbon adds power and firmness, while the Limba outer plies provide enough feedback for good ball sensitivity and touch. This creates a responsive feel that isn't overly harsh, allowing for nuanced shot execution.
This blade produces a medium-high throw angle, creating a good arc on the ball during loops and drives. This trajectory makes it easier to clear the net and land shots effectively, supporting consistent offensive play with margin for error.
The Limba outer plies contribute to good dwell time, enabling players to generate substantial spin on serves and loops. This connection with the ball allows for effective spin variation and deep engagement, which is crucial for aggressive topspin play and controlled attacking shots.
This blade is relatively stiff due to the carbon layers and thicker core, contributing to its speed and power. However, it maintains more flex than some other composite blades, offering a balanced response that benefits control-oriented offensive players who need both stability and touch.
Players generally report low to moderate vibration, which is a positive trait for a composite blade. The FE-carbon properties and overall construction provide a solid feel without excessive jarring feedback, resulting in comfortable play even during powerful strikes.
Nittaku Acoustic Carbon Outer Large Handle exemplifies superior craftsmanship with excellent build quality and attention to detail. The use of fine veneers and precise Japanese manufacturing results in a blade with consistent feel, solid construction, and aesthetic appeal. This high-quality execution reflects Nittaku's commitment to premium materials and reliable performance.
Technology
Nittaku Acoustic Carbon Outer Large Handle utilizes unique wood lamination technology inspired by stringed instruments, combined with FE-carbon material. The 'outer' construction places FE-carbon layers directly beneath the outer Limba plies. This design maximizes carbon benefits like increased speed and a larger sweet spot while preserving traditional wood feel and control. The Large Handle version offers a more substantial grip for players who prefer thicker handles or desire different weight distribution and hand feel, enhancing comfort and stability during play.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Mima Ito
Mima Ito uses the Nittaku Acoustic Carbon blade, which complements her dynamic, offensive playing style. The blade's blend of speed, control, and spin supports her powerful attacks and rally consistency. The responsive feel aids her precise shot placement and effective defensive transitions, allowing her to execute a wide range of shots with high effectiveness during matches.
Similar Blades
Nittaku Acoustic Carbon Inner
Acoustic Carbon Inner positions its carbon layers closer to the core, generally resulting in a softer feel, more dwell time, and potentially greater control compared to the outer carbon version. Players seeking similar Nittaku composite characteristics with different tactile feedback might prefer this Inner variant.
Butterfly Viscaria
Viscaria serves as a popular benchmark for outer carbon blades, often compared to Acoustic Carbon. While both offer speed and offensive capabilities, Acoustic Carbon typically provides more dwell time and a distinct wood-like feel from its Limba outer plies and FE-carbon. Viscaria may feel faster with a straighter trajectory, appealing to players seeking different response characteristics.