Weight
82g
Thickness
6.6mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Factive Carbon
Nittaku Factive Carbon is a hybrid offensive blade designed for players seeking a powerful yet controlled upgrade. Its 5-ply wood core is reinforced with two thin carbon layers, creating a stiff, hard-hitting feel that delivers direct feedback and efficient power transfer. The blade excels in aggressive topspin rallies and counter-attacks, offering a surprising level of control for its speed. A protective wooden edge guard enhances durability and helps maintain a consistent sweet spot. It's an excellent choice for intermediate players transitioning to carbon technology or anyone wanting to add more punch to their offensive game without losing touch.
The blade is built with seven total plies: five layers of wood and two layers of carbon fiber. The carbon layers are positioned inwardly, creating a symmetrical, stiffening sandwich around the wood core to enhance speed and stability.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Factive Carbon delivers significant offensive speed, rating firmly in the fast category. The carbon layers provide a noticeable boost in power, making it effective for strong loops, drives, and counter-attacks. Players report it has enough pace to put opponents under pressure, yet it's not so extreme that it becomes uncontrollable, striking a good balance for developing attackers.
Despite its speed, this blade maintains impressive control. The wood plies and construction provide a stable, predictable feel that aids in precise ball placement, especially during blocks, pushes, and service returns. Many players find it offers a forgiving sweet spot, giving them the confidence to play aggressive shots without fearing a loss of accuracy.
The blade provides a distinctly medium-hard, firm feel upon contact. This creates a direct and crisp feedback, which some players love for its clarity. To soften the overall sensation and add dwell, TTSensei experts often recommend pairing it with softer, grippy rubbers.
It produces a medium-high throw angle, which helps in generating deep, arcing loops that clear the net with safety. This characteristic is beneficial for offensive players who rely on heavy topspin to initiate attacks and apply pressure.
Dwell time is moderate, not exceptionally long or short. This allows for adequate ball pocketing and spin generation during brushing strokes, while the inherent stiffness ensures a quick rebound that supports a faster, more direct attacking rhythm.
This is a stiff blade. The carbon layers create a firm, unyielding platform that excels at transferring power efficiently. This stiffness supports powerful drives and blocks but offers less of the catapult or flex found in more flexible all-wood or composite blades.
Vibration is very low, a hallmark of stiff carbon blades. The energy from impact is transferred directly into the ball with minimal dissipation, resulting in a clean, solid sensation that favors power and precision over a soft, woody feedback.
Nittaku's reputation for craftsmanship is evident here. The Factive Carbon is consistently praised for its clean construction, seamless layer integration, and durable finish. The inclusion of a wooden edge guard is a thoughtful touch that protects the plies from table damage. It's a solidly built blade that feels premium and reliable in hand.
Technology
Nittaku Factive Carbon utilizes a core 5-ply wood construction symmetrically reinforced with two ultra-thin carbon layers placed close to the outer surfaces. This hybrid design aims to amplify speed and power through the carbon while the wood preserves a connected feel and manages vibration. A key feature is the integrated wooden edge guard, which serves a dual purpose: it protects the blade's delicate plies from chipping during accidental table contact, and some players believe it subtly expands the effective hitting area. This technology package is engineered to deliver a performance boost suitable for players advancing their offensive game.