Thickness
5.9mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
157x151
Handles
FL
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
Ebenholz NCT V (5)
Stiga Ebenholz NCT V is a 5-ply all-wood offensive blade built for the modern attacking player. It combines hand-selected Ebenholz veneers, known for their hardness and distinctive grain, with Nano Composite Technology (NCT) to enhance speed and control. This blade delivers a well-balanced performance with excellent speed, spin generation, and sufficient dwell time, making it a versatile choice for players who rely on variable topspin and fast attacks. Developed with input from the Chinese National Team, it offers a consistent, high-quality feel that helps players at various skill levels maximize their potential.
This is a symmetrical 5-ply all-wood construction. The outer layers are made of hard Ebenholz (Ebony), while the inner plies and core consist of unspecified wood. This classic structure contributes to the blade's balanced combination of speed and dwell time.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Ebenholz NCT V is consistently rated as a fast, offensive blade. The hard Ebenholz outer layers, enhanced by NCT treatment, provide significant elasticity and power, enabling powerful topspins and decisive counter-attacks. It delivers more speed than many traditional 5-ply all-wood blades, placing it firmly in the OFF/OFF+ category for players seeking aggressive shot-making.
For its speed, Ebenholz NCT V offers surprising control. The 5-ply construction and the nature of the wood provide good dwell time, allowing for precise ball placement and effective touch play. Players report it remains controllable for blocking and looping, making it a well-rounded offensive tool that doesn't sacrifice accuracy for power.
Ebenholz NCT V delivers a crisp, medium-hard feel. The hard outer plies give a direct sensation on light contact, while a firm stroke engages the blade's flex, providing a softer, more elastic feedback and excellent connection with the ball.
Ebenholz NCT V produces a medium-high throw angle, ideal for creating steep, attacking shots like loops. This trait, combined with its speed, supports aggressive play both close to the table and from mid-distance.
This blade provides very good dwell time for its speed level. This characteristic allows players to generate heavy spin on loops and offers a satisfying, connected feel during ball contact, effectively balancing pace with the ability to 'hold' the ball.
Ebenholz NCT V possesses a good degree of flex, especially considering its hard outer layers. This flexibility contributes to its dwell time and spin generation, particularly noticeable during looping strokes. It is not an overly stiff blade, which adds to its balanced and responsive character.
Players report a noticeable vibration that delivers clear, sharp feedback on contact, which many appreciate for feeling connected to their shots. While the vibration is more pronounced than some other 5-ply blades, it remains within a manageable and informative range that aids control.
The blade is generally considered a high-quality product with excellent materials and playing characteristics. While most praise its build and stunning visual appeal, some users have noted occasional inconsistencies in finish, such as raw edges upon arrival. Overall, its performance and feel are highly valued, representing solid craftsmanship for its class.
Technology
Stiga Ebenholz NCT V utilizes Nano Composite Technology (NCT) on its outer Ebenholz veneers. This nano-treatment process hardens the surface ply while aiming to preserve or even enhance its natural elasticity and control. The goal is to optimize the interaction between the wood and rubber, leading to improved speed and a more responsive feel without compromising the blade's inherent playing qualities. The use of hand-selected, high-quality Ebenholz wood further contributes to its performance and distinctive aesthetic.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Guo Yue
Former world champion Guo Yue has used the Ebenholz NCT V. Her powerful, offensive style—featuring strong forehand loops and aggressive play—aligns perfectly with a blade that offers speed, spin, and control. The blade provides the necessary power and dwell time for her dynamic game, enabling powerful attacking shots while maintaining consistency.
Similar Blades
Stiga Rosewood NCT V
Stiga Rosewood NCT V is a direct sibling, sharing the 5-ply all-wood construction and NCT treatment. However, TTSensei experts note the Rosewood version tends to be slightly heavier and softer, offering more dwell time and flex. Players who enjoy the Ebenholz's feel but desire a bit more ball-holding and a softer touch might prefer the Rosewood NCT V.
Stiga Offensive Classic
Ebenholz NCT V is often viewed as a faster, harder evolution of the classic Stiga Offensive Classic. While the Offensive Classic remains a benchmark for balanced 5-ply blades, the Ebenholz NCT V delivers more speed and a crisper feel, making it a more aggressive option for players who love the linear response of the Classic but want added offensive power.