Weight
83.5g
Thickness
5.9mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
155x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Intensity NCT
Stiga Intensity NCT is a 5-ply all-wood offensive blade that masterfully blends speed with outstanding control. Its lightweight design and balanced feel make it a favorite for controlled attackers who value maneuverability and a crisp, satisfying sound on impact. The blade offers a fantastic trajectory for effortless looping, supported by good dwell time for spin generation. While providing solid offensive power, it maintains a high level of precision, making it an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced players focused on mid-distance play and technical development.
The blade uses a symmetrical 5-ply construction. Hard walnut outer plies provide a crisp hitting surface and direct feedback, while spruce second layers and a soft ayous core work together to add dwell time, flex, and a balanced feel, creating the blend of speed and control.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Intensity NCT delivers a controlled offensive speed, rated OFF-. It's fast enough for powerful attacks and counter-loops from mid-distance, but the speed feels integrated and manageable rather than overwhelming. This allows players to execute aggressive shots while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and placement, perfect for those who build points with technique.
Control is where this blade truly excels. Players report exceptional accuracy and placement, making it feel like an extension of your arm. The balance between its inherent speed and this high level of control allows for confident, precise shot-making in all phases of the game, which is why it's often recommended for players looking to refine their attacking consistency.
The feel is medium-hard, offering a crisp and direct feedback upon ball contact. There's a noticeable underlying stiffness that provides clarity, but it also possesses a degree of flex during powerful strokes, which helps in absorbing impact and adding dwell time for spin.
Intensity NCT produces a medium-high throw angle, which is ideal for attacking play. This trajectory helps lift the ball over the net with good safety margin on loops, making it easier to execute consistent and heavy topspin shots that challenge opponents.
Intensity NCT provides good dwell time, allowing the ball to stay on the racket face a fraction longer. This characteristic is a key asset for generating heavy spin, especially on loops and opening attacks, giving players more time and control to brush the ball effectively.
It offers a medium level of flexibility. This flex is most apparent during looping and heavy topspin strokes, where the blade works with the ball to create a dynamic, catapult-like effect that aids in spin generation and arc control.
Vibration is low to medium. While you get clear tactile feedback, hard hits do not produce uncomfortable or jarring vibrations. This controlled feedback level helps maintain consistency and reduces fatigue during long playing sessions.
Stiga Intensity NCT features good build quality with decent durability. It produces a distinctive, satisfying crackling sound on solid contact, which players often associate with a quality feel. The construction feels solid and consistent, contributing to a reliable playing experience over time.
Technology
Stiga Intensity NCT incorporates Nano Composite Technology (NCT), a specialized treatment applied to the wood plies. This technology optimizes the surface hardness and responsiveness, aiming to enhance power transfer and speed without a significant trade-off in control or the natural wood feel. It creates a more potent and consistent hitting surface.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Xu Xin
The legendary penhold attacker Xu Xin has used the Stiga Intensity NCT. The blade's characteristics—lightweight design, excellent control for his precise touches, and good dwell time for his legendary spin loops—aligned perfectly with his style that blends power, finesse, and incredible consistency from all distances.
Similar Blades
Yasaka Extra Offensive (YEO)
Many players find the Yasaka Extra Offensive (YEO) to be a close relative. Both are revered 5-ply all-wood blades that prioritize control, spin, and a lightweight feel for controlled offensive play. They share a similar performance profile, making the YEO a top alternative for players who enjoy the Intensity NCT's balanced, looping-oriented character.