Weight
90g
Thickness
6.1mm
Plies
9-ply
Head Size
158x151
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
Barwell
Nittaku Barwell Fleet is a premium offensive blade crafted for professional players who demand a powerful yet controlled playing experience. Its hybrid construction combines a 7-ply wood core with two integrated glass fiber layers, delivering enhanced speed and spin while preserving the classic feel of a wood blade. The outer walnut veneer provides a crisp, solid impact sensation, making it exceptionally versatile for aggressive mid-to-far distance play. Meticulous Japanese craftsmanship ensures outstanding durability and consistent, high-level performance.
The construction features a 7-ply wood core, primarily Ayous, with outer walnut layers. Two integrated glass fiber layers enhance speed and power while controlling vibration, offering a crisper feel and improved spin compared to all-wood blades.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
The 7-ply wood core combined with glass fiber layers gives the Barwell Fleet substantial speed, making it highly effective for offensive attacks, loops, and smashes. While not the absolute fastest blade available, its speed is well-integrated with control, supporting aggressive play from mid to far distances without feeling uncontrollable.
Despite its offensive power, the Barwell Fleet maintains good control, especially for players who can manage its pace. The design supports precise ball placement and touch play, aided by its dwell time. Some earlier versions may have lower control ratings, but the Fleet iteration balances power with a manageable level of precision.
Players report a crisp, solid, and somewhat hard feel upon impact, attributed to the walnut outer plies and glass fiber layers. Despite the firm outer veneer, there's a pleasant, responsive sensation that provides good feedback without being overly harsh.
The blade's construction supports a medium to high throw angle, ideal for offensive looping and spin-oriented aggressive play, helping players generate effective topspin arcs.
The blade offers a good amount of dwell time, which helps in generating heavy spin on loops and executing delicate touch shots. This characteristic allows players to better control the ball and impart significant spin during rallies.
While the 7-ply construction and glass fiber make the blade relatively stiff, it isn't overly rigid. There's a slight flex that contributes to a balanced combination of power and tactile feedback, suitable for offensive play.
Glass fiber layers help manage vibration, delivering a clear, informative feel without excessive harshness. This controlled vibration aids in shot execution and enhances overall playing comfort.
Nittaku is renowned for exceptional manufacturing standards, and the Barwell Fleet exemplifies this with flawless construction, premium materials, and a meticulous finish. The blade feels solid and durable, reflecting the high-quality craftsmanship players expect from top-tier Japanese equipment.
Technology
Nittaku Barwell Fleet employs a sophisticated hybrid construction that places two glass fiber layers within a 7-ply wood core. This design optimizes performance by boosting speed and spin while maintaining a desirable feel and controlling vibration. The outer walnut plies contribute to a crisp sound and solid impact, refining the experience for aggressive players. This technology delivers the power and responsiveness of composite blades without sacrificing the nuanced control and feel of traditional wood designs.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Not specifically named
The blade is frequently described as being made to the specifications of top players and designed for professional athletes. Many table tennis experts and top players who have tested it regard it highly, though specific endorsements from sponsored elites are not commonly publicized, possibly due to Nittaku's sponsorship strategies.
Similar Blades
Nittaku Ludeack series (Ludeack, Ludeack Power, Ludeack Fleet)
The Barwell Fleet is often compared to the Nittaku Ludeack series, sharing a similar design philosophy. Players note the Barwell Fleet feels harder and has less vibration than the Ludeack Fleet, with some considering it a superior option for those seeking a crisp, powerful response.
Butterfly Viscaria / Marcos Freitas ALC
Some advanced offensive players consider the Viscaria or Marcos Freitas ALC in the same category as the Barwell Fleet, indicating a perceived similarity in performance for premium, speed-oriented blades. The Barwell Fleet offers a distinct feel with its glass fiber construction compared to the arylate-carbon layers of these Butterfly models.