Weight
85g
Thickness
5mm
Plies
3-ply
Head Size
156.5x157
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
X Series Defensive Combi
TSP X Series Defensive Combi is a specialized blade for modern defensive players who incorporate attacking elements. Its unique combi design features distinct playing surfaces—one side optimized for controlled defense and the other for quicker offense—enabling seamless tactical shifts. Built with a soft feel and exceptional control, it excels in precise placement, chopping, and blocking while retaining enough power for counter-attacks. This blade empowers players to dictate game pace with smooth transitions between defensive and offensive strokes.
The blade uses a 3-ply all-wood construction, typical for blades prioritizing feel and control. This setup offers a softer touch and increased dwell time compared to multi-ply or composite blades. The combi nature suggests deliberate differences in outer ply properties or treatment to create distinct speed characteristics on each side, though specific wood types are not detailed.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
This blade features two distinct sides: a slower defensive side for maximum control and a moderately faster offensive side for effective counter-attacks. The overall speed rating reflects this duality, leaning toward the slower end due to its defensive primary function, providing enough pace for tactical offense without sacrificing stability.
Control is the standout feature of the TSP X Series Defensive Combi. The softer wood construction and combi design with a dedicated defensive side deliver exceptional feel and precision for all defensive strokes like chopping, blocking, and pushing. Even the offensive side maintains high control, ensuring accurate placement and consistency in attacking shots.
Players report a fine, sensitive touch with enormous ball sensations in the hand. This softer feel benefits defensive players who rely on precise feedback to execute varied shots and subtle placements, enhancing control during rallies.
While primarily defensive, the presence of a faster offensive side and wood construction results in a medium-high throw angle, especially on offensive shots. This allows for sufficient arc on drives and loops, enhancing shot consistency and spin potential.
The 3-ply all-wood construction, combined with an emphasis on control, provides a longer dwell time. This allows the ball to sink into the blade, enabling more spin-based defensive shots and better control during active play, ideal for touch-oriented strategies.
As a defensive blade focused on control, it offers a medium to medium-flexible characteristic. This flexibility supports good dwell time and a controlled arc on defensive shots while providing enough flex for stable, controlled attacking strokes when needed.
The natural wood construction results in moderate vibration. While not excessively dampened, the softer wood absorbs a good portion of vibrations, contributing to a controlled and comfortable feel without being overly harsh on impact.
This blade is generally regarded as well-constructed, offering good feel and consistent performance. The materials contribute to precise ball control and excellent feedback. However, the wood grain can be sensitive, so careful handling and varnishing are advisable to maintain integrity over time, as some players report potential fragility during rubber removal.
Technology
TSP X Series Defensive Combi features a unique combi-blade design with specialized wood veneer arrangement in its 3-ply construction. One side is optimized for slower, controlled defensive play—ideal for chopping and blocking—while the other offers a slightly faster response for offensive actions like counter-attacks and drives. This design enables fluid tactical switches, allowing players to leverage each side's strengths to disrupt opponents and control game pace. The construction prioritizes a soft feel and excellent ball feedback, enhancing precision and adaptability.
Similar Blades
Donic Alligator Combi
Donic Alligator Combi is a prominent combi blade for modern defensive players using long pips or anti-spin rubbers. Similar to the TSP X Series Defensive Combi, it offers distinct speed characteristics on each side—a slower, controlled backhand for defense and a faster forehand for offense—enabling tactical variations and a balanced game approach.
Sword Strange King IV / III
Sword Strange King IV and III are combi blades suitable for defensive players seeking a blend of control and attack. They represent the category of blades with differentiated playing surfaces, aligning with the core concept of the TSP X Series Defensive Combi for tactical depth and varied shot-making.