Weight
90g
Thickness
6.5mm
Plies
7-ply
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Clipper CR
Stiga Clipper CR is a legendary 7-ply all-wood offensive blade celebrated for its masterful blend of speed and control, delivering a crisp playing feel. Enhanced with Stiga's CR technology, the UV-finished surface hardens the outer layers, boosting rebound efficiency and adding noticeable speed over traditional wood blades. This construction is a favorite among aggressive attackers who demand power and stability. Its balanced weight distribution and excellent feedback enable precise shot-making, making it versatile for a wide range of offensive techniques from close to mid-distance. Trusted for decades, the Clipper CR remains a top choice for players who value direct feel and powerful offensive capabilities.
The blade features a symmetrical 7-ply all-wood construction. It uses Limba wood for the outer plies, which contributes to a crisp feel and direct feedback. The inner core consists of multiple plies of Ayous wood, known for providing stability, a solid feel, and contributing to the blade's overall power.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Clipper CR is widely recognized for its speed, enhanced by the CR technology's UV-treated surface which increases hardness and rebound efficiency. While not the absolute fastest blade available, it provides ample pace for aggressive offensive play, particularly excelling in drives and smashes. Our testing shows its speed sits comfortably in the OFF- to OFF+ range, making it a potent weapon for fast-paced rallies where power is essential.
Despite its notable speed, Clipper CR offers excellent control, a hallmark of Stiga's classic wood blades. This allows for precise shot placement, effective short game play, and confident blocking. The blade provides clear, informative feedback, enabling players to feel the ball and make fine adjustments for accurate returns, making it forgiving even during powerful strokes.
Clipper CR offers a direct and crisp feel, best described as medium-hard. The CR treatment hardens the surface, contributing to this immediate, clear feedback upon ball contact. Players can distinctly feel the ball hitting the blade, which aids in control and shot placement, though those seeking maximum dwell time might prefer a softer touch.
The throw angle is typically medium-low to medium, producing a flatter, more penetrating trajectory ideal for drives and smashes. It can generate effective loops, especially when paired with rubbers that have a medium-to-high throw, suiting players who prefer a direct attacking game.
Dwell time on the Clipper CR is considered medium. The 7-ply construction and CR treatment create a balance that allows sufficient ball contact for effective spin generation, but it is not excessively long. This keeps the blade responsive and quick for faster shots, blocks, and counter-attacks.
Clipper CR leans towards the stiffer side due to its 7-ply construction and CR surface treatment. It's not completely rigid, offering a moderate amount of flex that aids in generating spin, but it is significantly stiffer than most 5-ply all-wood blades. This results in a direct, powerful, and linear response.
Players report a noticeable and pleasant vibration with the Clipper CR, which contributes significantly to its good feel and feedback. This vibration is informative, helping players gauge the impact and control their shots effectively, especially useful in the short game and for touch shots.
Clipper CR is generally regarded as a high-quality blade, crafted with durable wood plies. While some minor inconsistencies in finish or weight variation are occasionally noted, the overall build is solid and reliable, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. The CR treatment adds to its durability, making it a robust choice for regular play.
Technology
Stiga Clipper CR utilizes 'CR technology', a UV-finish surface treatment applied to the outer wood plies. This process hardens the wood, increasing its stiffness and rebound efficiency, which boosts the blade's speed compared to conventional wood blades. Some variants also incorporate the WRB (Weight Balance, Recovery, Ball sensitivity) system, which aims to reduce overall weight, shift the balance point forward for more power, and enhance ball feel through subtle, informative vibrations.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Misaki Morizono
Misaki Morizono has used the Clipper CR WRB. This blade's combination of speed and control suits her dynamic offensive style, allowing for powerful attacks while maintaining the precision needed for consistent play. The 7-ply construction provides the necessary power, while the CR system ensures a lively response.
Sun Chen
Sun Chen has been noted using the Clipper CR WRB. As a player known for his offensive capabilities, the blade's speed and direct feel complement his aggressive strategy. Its ability to generate power and maintain stability during fast rallies makes it a suitable choice for his attacking style.
Li Hu
Li Hu has been associated with the Clipper CR WRB. The blade's versatility supports players who rely on a strong offensive game with powerful shots and quick transitions. The reliable feel and speed of the Clipper CR would effectively support his attacking maneuvers.
Jean-Michel Saive
Legendary player Jean-Michel Saive has used the Clipper CR WRB. His powerful offensive game was well-served by the blade's speed, control, and classic wood feel, allowing him to execute precise and forceful shots throughout his long career.
Shiho Matsudaira
Shiho Matsudaira has been associated with the Clipper CR WRB. The blade's blend of speed and control benefits offensive players who need both power in their shots and the ability to place them accurately, likely enhancing her attacking game.
Similar Blades
Stiga Clipper Wood
The precursor to the Clipper CR, sharing the same 7-ply all-wood construction. It offers a similar power and control profile but lacks the CR treatment. Consequently, the Clipper Wood provides a slightly softer, more traditional feel, while the Clipper CR is generally faster due to its hardened surface. Both are excellent for offensive players.
Tibhar Force Pro Blue
A 7-ply blade suggested as a similar option to the Clipper, known for offering a slightly sweeter touch. It is fast and works well with specific rubber hardnesses. Priced competitively, it's a viable alternative for players seeking a comparable feel with potentially a bit more refinement in touch.
Nittaku Adelie
Described as very similar to the Clipper CR but more flexible. This difference appeals to players seeking a slightly softer, more forgiving feel while retaining much of the Clipper's inherent speed and control. It's a good alternative for those who find the Clipper CR a bit too stiff.
Nittaku Ludeack
Mentioned as being similar to the Clipper CR but typically heavier. The added weight can provide more momentum and plough-through for powerful shots, making it an option for players who prefer a blade with more substantial heft while maintaining a comparable performance profile.