Weight
85g
Thickness
5.4mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
156x149
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
Samsonov Alpha SGS
Tibhar Samsonov Alpha SGS is a 5-ply all-wood blade crafted for the versatile, attacking all-round player. It delivers extraordinary ball control and optimal speed potential, making it a top choice for players who prioritize precision. The blade features a flexible surface and a forward center of gravity, enhancing speed while maintaining excellent wrist feel. It excels in close-to-table play, particularly in blocking, flipping, and looping, offering a continuous loop with good bounce and a low throw angle. While heavy attacks may require extra effort, its superb control and feeling suit a wide range of strokes. The unique SGS (Sponge Grip System) handle enhances grip and comfort.
This blade uses a standard 5-ply all-wood construction with symmetrical layers, known for providing a good blend of speed, control, and feel. The specific wood types are not disclosed by the manufacturer, but the construction follows traditional principles for offensive all-round blades.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Tibhar Samsonov Alpha SGS offers good speed for an all-wood offensive all-round blade, rated around OFF-. It provides optimal speed potential for controlled attacks, particularly for players focused on precision. While sufficient for close-to-the-table play and rallies, our testing shows it requires more effort for powerful attacks from mid-to-far distances, making it better suited for precision-oriented offensive play rather than raw power.
Control is consistently cited as this blade's strongest attribute. It delivers extraordinary ball control, allowing for precise placement and consistent execution of strokes. This makes it highly suitable for blocking, chopping, and short game play, providing a secure and confident feeling. Players report that this level of control is a standout feature, enabling refined technique and tactical play.
Tibhar Samsonov Alpha SGS offers an exceptional feeling and good dwell time, particularly for close-to-table play. This allows players to feel the ball's contact clearly, aiding in shot execution and control. It provides a medium feel that's softer than harder, faster blades but firm enough for offensive strokes, contributing significantly to its precision-oriented character.
Tibhar Samsonov Alpha SGS provides a low-medium throw on loops, advantageous for players who prefer flatter trajectories and greater control over their attacking shots. This characteristic is complemented by good spin and bounce, making it effective for precise offensive play rather than high-arc looping.
This blade provides good dwell time, which is crucial for generating spin on serves and loops. The extended contact with the ball allows players to impart more rotation, making it effective for spin-oriented attacks and controlled play. Players report this characteristic is particularly noticeable during blocking and looping near the table.
This blade offers a moderate level of flexibility that contributes to its dwell time and feel, allowing for good spin generation and control. It's not as stiff as carbon blades but provides enough resilience for offensive strokes. The SGS handle may introduce additional flex while maintaining a structure that's on the stiffer side for an all-wood blade.
Tibhar Samsonov Alpha SGS exhibits moderate levels of vibration, which contributes to its feel without being overly harsh or distracting. This balance allows players to sense the ball's impact while maintaining comfort during extended play sessions, typical of well-constructed 5-ply all-wood blades.
Tibhar Samsonov Alpha SGS is generally considered to be of good quality, with players appreciating its classic 5-ply construction and excellent feel. While most users report satisfactory build quality, TTSensei experts note there have been occasional historical comments about inconsistencies in finishing or handle fit. These appear to be isolated incidents or may have been addressed in later production runs.
Technology
Tibhar Samsonov Alpha SGS features the 'Sponge Grip System' (SGS), which integrates a sponge material within the handle. This design improves grip comfort and stability, offering a more secure feel during aggressive play and influencing weight balance. The blade utilizes a classic 5-ply all-wood construction that provides a harmonious blend of speed, control, and dwell time. The construction emphasizes a forward center of gravity and a flexible surface to enhance speed and ball feedback, creating a blade that responds well to technical input.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Vladimir Samsonov
This blade is named after Vladimir Samsonov, the legendary Belarusian player known for his strong all-round game, excellent defense, and effective counter-attacking. While specific details of his current setup with the SGS model aren't widely publicized, the blade's design philosophy aligns perfectly with his controlled, precise, and versatile playing style that emphasizes powerful yet controlled offensive play and exceptional blocking and looping near the table.
Similar Blades
Tibhar Samsonov Pure Wood
Tibhar Samsonov Pure Wood is another all-wood, 5-ply blade from the same series. It offers a similar feel and control profile but with slightly less speed than the Alpha SGS. Many players find it a good alternative for those who want a more classic all-round feel or find the Alpha SGS a bit too fast for their current technique.
Tibhar Samsonov Premium Contact
Tibhar Samsonov Premium Contact is noted to be very similar to the Alpha SGS, with TTSensei experts suggesting it offers more control but slightly less speed. This 5-ply all-wood construction is recommended for players who might find the Alpha SGS a bit too fast or less controlled, providing a slightly softer and more sensitive feel for technical play.