Weight
88.5g
Thickness
5.4mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
165x155
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Victas Koji Matsushita
Victas Koji Matsushita is a premium Japanese defensive blade developed in collaboration with legendary player Koji Matsushita. This hand-crafted masterpiece prioritizes ultimate control and spin-oriented defense through its five-ply all-wood construction, featuring carefully selected veneers like Japanese cedar fir for a soft, responsive feel. It offers a surprising amount of power for offensive transitions, making it ideal for modern defenders who integrate attacks. The increased head size enhances stability, delivering exceptional ball feedback and precision for chops, blocks, and strategic counter-play.
The five-ply all-wood construction is designed to maximize control and feel. The specific combination of woods, including Japanese cedar fir, provides a soft touch and extended dwell time crucial for defensive play. This layering allows for precise chops and controlled blocks while retaining enough inherent power for offensive strokes.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
While primarily a defensive blade, Koji Matsushita offers a surprising amount of speed for offensive transitions. It's not a speed demon, but it provides enough power for controlled attacks and counter-hits, especially when paired with faster rubbers. The speed rating reflects its ALL+ classification, capable of offensive plays without sacrificing the control that is its hallmark.
Control is the paramount characteristic of the Koji Matsushita. Its soft feel, ample dwell time, and precise feedback allow for exceptional placement and manipulation of the ball. This level of command is essential for executing defensive strategies and patient, calculated offensive play, making it a top choice for players who value touch above all.
The blade offers a soft and remarkably responsive feel, providing excellent feedback on ball contact. This tactile sensation is crucial for defensive players who rely on sensing the ball's trajectory and spin for precise chops and blocks. The soft feel directly contributes to a longer dwell time, enhancing spin generation.
This blade tends to produce a medium-high throw angle, which is particularly beneficial for generating heavy topspin on forehand attacks. This characteristic allows players to execute aggressive looping and counter-attacking shots from various distances, blending defense with offense.
Koji Matsushita excels in dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the blade for prolonged contact. This characteristic significantly aids in generating heavy spin on defensive chops and provides more time to shape aggressive loops, giving players superior command over shot placement and spin variation.
Exhibiting a medium level of flexibility, the blade contributes to its excellent dwell time and spin generation. This flexibility allows it to flex slightly during powerful shots, adding a catapult effect for speed and spin, while remaining sufficiently stiff for controlled, precise defensive actions.
The blade manages vibration effectively, offering a dampened feel that contributes to overall control and reduces hand fatigue during long defensive rallies. While not completely devoid of sensation, the vibration is controlled and informative, providing valuable feedback for touch shots without being harsh.
This blade is renowned for its superior Japanese craftsmanship, being hand-made with meticulously selected veneers. This attention to detail results in excellent build quality, durability, and a premium feel in the hand. The consistent construction and finish justify its status as a top-tier defensive blade trusted by serious players.
Technology
The Victas Koji Matsushita series embodies a philosophy of precision engineering and player-centric design, evident in its hand-made construction in Japan. While the standard model is an all-wood masterpiece, variants like the 'Special' and 'ZC' incorporate advanced materials. The 'Special' model features 'Fleece Carbon' plies strategically placed to enhance control and speed potential with minimal vibration. The 'ZC' variant utilizes 'Z Carbon' with a Dynacore design, further optimizing trajectory stability for cuts and power for attacks. These technological inclusions aim to provide modern defensive players with the tools for both steadfast defense and potent offense.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Koji Matsushita
Koji Matsushita himself developed this as his signature blade. As a renowned defensive player and multiple-time Olympian, his focus was on creating equipment that offered unparalleled control for modern spin-based defense and blocking. The blade's characteristics, such as its dwell time and soft feel, are tailored to his style of defending away from the table while seamlessly transitioning into powerful forehand attacks.
Yuto Muramatsu
Yuto Muramatsu, a prominent Japanese defender, is associated with the 'Koji Matsushita Offensive' variant. This version is designed for defenders who actively seek counter-attacking opportunities. Muramatsu's style involves strong defensive capabilities coupled with a proactive offensive game, making this blade's balance of control for defense and added speed for attacks ideal for his strategic approach.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Joo Se Hyuk
Butterfly Joo Se Hyuk is a direct competitor often compared to the Victas Koji Matsushita. Both are premium defensive blades known for exceptional control and dwell time, catering to players who prioritize defense and spin. However, the Joo Se Hyuk is generally heavier and can feel stiffer, while the Koji Matsushita is often described as lighter with a softer feel, offering a different tactile experience for similar defensive playstyles.
Tibhar IV-L (S) Special
Tibhar IV-L (S) Special is another highly regarded defensive blade that shares similarities. Both blades offer excellent control and a soft touch, making them suitable for defensive players and those employing long pips. The IV-L (S) Special is also known for its high dwell time, aiding in spin generation much like the Koji Matsushita, providing a comparable feel for precise defensive maneuvers.