Weight
85g
Thickness
5.95mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
158x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
SWAT
Victas SWAT is a 7-ply all-wood table tennis blade celebrated for its masterful balance of speed, control, and feel. Developed under the guidance of former world-class player Koji Matsushita, it redefines touch and craftsmanship. The construction delivers a soft ball sensation with a slight top-heaviness, making it an ideal platform for variable topspin players who value a sensitive and stable feel. This versatile blade offers offensive power and precise control, appealing to a wide range of players seeking a natural, high-performance wood blade.
Victas SWAT features a symmetrical 7-ply all-wood construction. The outer layers are heat-treated Limba, providing good feel and spin capability. The inner layers are composed of Ayous, with some also heat-treated, contributing to the blade's balanced flexibility and stability. This design offers a softer feel and greater dwell time compared to traditional 7-ply blades, enhancing spin generation and control.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Victas SWAT is generally categorized as an OFF- blade, indicating a medium-fast speed. While not the fastest blade available, it provides sufficient pace for aggressive topspin play and quick attacks. Players report it has decent speed—not too fast but definitely not slow. This balanced speed allows for effective offensive maneuvers while maintaining a strong connection to the ball, making it manageable for developing techniques.
Control is a standout feature of the Victas SWAT. Its well-balanced construction and emphasis on feel allow for exceptional maneuverability and precision. Players consistently praise its high control, making it forgiving for developing players and reliable for executing tactical shots, blocks, and precise placement. The blade's inherent stability further enhances these control characteristics, providing a confident platform for all aspects of play.
Victas SWAT delivers a soft or medium-soft feel with excellent dwell time, which is central to its appeal. This characteristic allows players to feel the ball securely on the racket face, aiding significantly in spin generation and control. While some players note a distinct, sensitive touch, others describe it as slightly mushy, but the consensus highlights a soft and connected sensation.
The blade's combination of dwell time, flexibility, and spin-friendly nature suggests a medium-high throw angle. This is particularly evident when executing powerful topspin loops, allowing for a good arc on the ball that facilitates topspin consistency and safety over the net.
The blade is noted for its significant dwell time, a key factor in its spin-generating capabilities and soft feel. This extended contact allows players to impart substantial spin on the ball during serves, loops, and drives, making it a favorite for spin-oriented players.
SWAT possesses a good degree of flex, contributing to its dwell time and spin-friendly nature. This flexibility allows the blade to bend slightly upon impact, helping to absorb the ball and generate spin. It is less stiff than many modern composite blades, offering a more traditional and forgiving wood feel.
Vibration levels on the Victas SWAT are generally considered moderate. It provides good tactile feedback that contributes to the blade's distinct feel and dwell time. Some players find the vibration level pronounced, describing it as mushy, but for most, it offers a clear connection with the ball without being overly jarring.
Victas SWAT is recognized for its solid build quality and craftsmanship. Our testing shows it is beautifully made with a high-quality finish. The attention to detail in its construction, combined with the durable all-wood nature, contributes to its reputation as a reliable and well-made piece of equipment that offers excellent value for its performance tier.
Technology
Victas SWAT is a testament to traditional Japanese table tennis craftsmanship, highlighted by its 7-ply all-wood construction. Developed under the guidance of Koji Matsushita, the design focuses on achieving superior feel and exceptional workmanship. Key technologies include the use of heat-treated Limba for the outer plies and Ayous for the inner plies. This careful selection and treatment of woods contribute to the blade's signature soft touch, enhanced dwell time, and balanced flexibility, setting it apart from many modern composite blades and providing a reliable platform for spin-oriented offensive play.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Ni Xia Lian
Ni Xia Lian, a legendary European champion and multiple-time Olympian, uses the SWAT model. Her playing style is characterized by exceptional control, strategic placement, and effective use of spin, often employing a variety of strokes including defensive chopping and offensive looping. The Victas SWAT's balance of control, feel, and dwell time aligns perfectly with her tactical approach, allowing her to execute precise defensive shots and generate significant spin on her attacks.
Similar Blades
Nittaku Ludeack
Players report the Victas SWAT can be compared to the Nittaku Ludeack, as both are 7-ply wood blades. However, the SWAT is often described as feeling slower and mushier with more vibration. This suggests the Ludeack might provide a crisper feel or different speed characteristics, serving as a potential alternative for players seeking a similar construction but with a potentially firmer and more direct playing sensation.