Weight
85g
Plies
7-ply
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Custom
Balance
Balanced
Dual Property Monster King
Sword Dual Property Monster King is a uniquely engineered table tennis blade crafted for players who embrace a mixed or dual-style game, particularly those utilizing pimple rubbers. Its defining feature is an asymmetric construction, offering a harder, more rigid side for offensive power and a softer, more controlled side ideal for defensive shots and pimple play. This dual-property design provides a versatile platform for players who switch between attacking and defensive tactics or use different rubbers on each wing. The blade is well-regarded for its comfortable Chinese Penhold handle and solid overall finish, making it a specialized tool for strategic players.
The Monster King is a 7-ply all-wood blade. While the exact wood types for each layer are not definitively specified, the key design principle is the use of different outer plies: one 'hard' and rigid for speed on one side, and one 'soft' and less elastic for control on the other. This asymmetric layer construction is central to creating its dual playing properties.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
The blade delivers a clear speed distinction between its two sides. The designated 'hard' side provides good offensive pace, rating around an 8, suitable for powerful drives and loops. The 'soft' side is noticeably slower, around a 7, prioritizing control and stability for defensive shots and softer touches, which is ideal for pimple rubber play.
Control is a standout feature, especially on the softer side, which excels with precise placement and is highly beneficial for long pimple play. This side offers top-tier control, rating around a 9. The harder side still maintains very good control for an offensive blade, around an 8, allowing for confident attacking shots without sacrificing too much accuracy.
This blade provides a distinctly dual feel due to its asymmetric construction. The 'hard' side offers a more direct, solid, and medium-hard sensation, providing crisp feedback. In contrast, the 'soft' side delivers a noticeably softer, more cushioned, and forgiving feel, which players find beneficial for control-oriented shots.
Throw angle differs per side. The harder side produces a medium-high throw angle, which is excellent for generating spin on loops and offensive shots. The softer side has a significantly lower throw angle, which is ideal for controlling the short game, executing drop shots, and managing defensive actions with pimples.
Dwell time varies between the sides. The softer side likely offers a medium to medium-high dwell time, aiding in spin generation and control, especially with pimples. The harder side has a shorter dwell time, facilitating quicker, more direct shot execution for offensive play.
Flexibility is notably low. The blade is described as stiff, with 'no flex' being a key characteristic, particularly on the hard side. This rigidity is advantageous for executing fast, direct shots and for maintaining stability and control when using pimple rubbers.
The blade is described as having a solid feel with no significant flex, which is considered beneficial for controlling pimple rubbers. This stiffness suggests a moderate level of vibration, providing enough feedback for touch without being overly harsh or numb.
The build quality is consistently noted as very good. Players report the blade is very well finished, feels balanced in the hand, and features a Chinese Penhold handle that is praised for its exceptional comfort. This attention to detail in construction and ergonomics contributes to a positive overall user experience.
Technology
The core technology of the Sword Dual Property Monster King is its asymmetric 'Dual Property' construction. This design intentionally uses different material properties—specifically hardness and elasticity—on each side of the blade. One side is engineered to excel in offensive play, providing enhanced speed and power for attacks. The opposite side is optimized for control and defensive play, offering a softer, more forgiving platform that is particularly effective with pimple rubbers. This specialization allows players with mixed styles to have distinct, optimized characteristics for forehand and backhand tactics within a single blade.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Huang En
Huang En, recognized as a top long pimple player in China, used this blade while playing a mixed, close-to-the-table style. His endorsement and the production of a teaching DVD featuring the blade underscore its effectiveness and reputation within the pimple-playing community, particularly for those who blend defensive control with opportunistic attacks.
Similar Blades
Sword Strange King III (SK3) & Strange King IV (SK4)
The Monster King is also known under the 'Strange King' name. The Strange King series, including the SK3 and SK4, shares the core asymmetric design philosophy and target audience, being highly regarded for long pimple play. For instance, the SK4 is described as a 9-ply blade with a Hinoki outer on the forehand for speed and a softwood backhand outer for control, offering a similar concept of distinct side properties.