Weight
85g
Thickness
6.8mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
158x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
HC-3S
Sanwei HC-3S is an offensive table tennis blade built for aggressive players who demand a potent mix of speed, power, and control. Its 5+2 ply construction pairs premium Hinoki outer layers with 3K carbon fiber, creating a fast and powerful platform that still offers a clear, responsive feel. Designed for dynamic topspin attacks and spin-oriented play, it suits intermediate to advanced players looking to elevate their offensive game. Available in Flare, Straight, and Chinese Penhold handles, it features optimized weight distribution for excellent maneuverability during fast rallies.
The blade uses a 5+2 ply construction. Outer layers are Hinoki wood for touch and spin. These are followed by two layers of 3K carbon fiber to increase speed and power while keeping weight down. The core is Kiri wood, a lightweight and flexible material that contributes to the blade's overall balance. This hybrid design aims for a fast, powerful blade with good control and feel.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Sanwei HC-3S is a very fast blade, firmly in the OFF++ category. The integration of 3K carbon fiber provides a substantial boost to its speed capabilities, enabling vigorous and powerful shots perfect for direct attacks and fast rallies. Our testing shows it excels at generating high pace, making it a formidable weapon for aggressive, offensive playstyles.
Despite its high speed, the HC-3S manages to offer very good control. The Hinoki outer plies contribute to a clear shot feeling and precise feedback, which aids significantly in ball placement and executing touch shots. Players report that the construction provides control with confidence, meaning this fast blade remains manageable and predictable for offensive players.
Sanwei HC-3S delivers a medium-hard feel, characteristic of offensive carbon blades. The Hinoki outer plies provide a clear shot-feeling and engaging feedback, making it feel less numb than some other carbon constructions. It's a firm feel that effectively transfers power while maintaining a good connection to the ball.
Sanwei HC-3S produces a medium-high throw angle. This is beneficial for offensive play, particularly for looping and spin-heavy attacks, as it allows the ball to clear the net with a sufficient arc while maintaining speed and penetration.
Dwell time is medium. The carbon layers facilitate fast, crisp shots, but the softer Hinoki outer plies allow for slightly more dwell than other woods might with carbon. This helps players generate effective spin during the contact phase of fast attacking strokes.
This is a stiff blade. The multiple carbon layers, designed for high speed and power, create a rigid structure that efficiently transfers energy for powerful shots. While the core wood offers a hint of flex, the overall characteristic is decidedly stiff, which is a key contributor to its offensive capabilities.
Vibration is noticeable but controlled. The carbon fiber contributes to a more pronounced feedback, but the multiple wood layers, especially the Hinoki, work to dampen some of the jarring sensation. This results in a vibration level that provides clear information without being overly harsh.
Sanwei HC-3S demonstrates superior craftsmanship with its use of premium materials like Hinoki wood and 3K carbon fiber. TTSensei experts note that Sanwei consistently delivers excellent build quality at a competitive price point. The blade feels solid, reliable, and well-constructed, living up to its reputation for offering great value and performance.
Technology
Sanwei HC-3S employs a 5+2 ply construction that merges traditional wood with advanced 3K carbon fiber. The 3K carbon is noted for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, being significantly harder than iron yet very light, which is crucial for achieving high speed and power with the modern plastic ball. Outer layers of Hinoki wood are selected for their excellent touch, spin generation, and ability to provide clear feedback. The core uses lightweight and flexible Kiri wood to balance the blade's overall characteristics. This technological blend aims to create a powerful offensive tool that retains a commendable level of control and feel.
Similar Blades
Sanwei HC-5S
Sanwei HC-5S is another model from the same HC series, often discussed alongside the HC-3S. While specific performance details are less documented, the naming suggests a related design philosophy with Hinoki and carbon construction. It may present a slightly different balance of speed, control, or feel, serving as a viable alternative for players who find the HC-3S a bit too fast or stiff, or who simply want to explore a similar playing experience with minor variations.