Weight
87.5g
Thickness
5.9mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
158x149
Handles
FL
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
RAGE 301 Kevlar Carbon (DHS 301)
XVT RAGE 301 Kevlar Carbon, also known as the DHS 301, is a hybrid offensive blade that masterfully blends modern power with classic feel. Its innerforce construction places composite layers near the core, enhancing dwell time and delivering a softer, more controlled touch compared to outer-carbon designs. This makes it an ideal upgrade for players moving from all-wood blades, offering a significant power boost without losing precision. Praised for its excellent feedback and versatility, it provides outstanding value for intermediate to advanced attackers seeking a balanced, high-performance weapon.
The 5 wood + 2 composite construction uses a symmetrical, innerforce style. Hard Koto outer plies offer spin grip and a crisp feel, while the inner Kevlar Carbon layers enhance speed and stability when the blade is swung forcefully, creating a unique blend of feel and power.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
XVT RAGE 301 Kevlar Carbon is a potent offensive blade with significant speed that activates during strong swings. Our testing shows its power progresses linearly—more effort translates directly into more pace, making it both controllable and threatening. While some sources categorize it at the higher end of the offensive spectrum, many players find its speed sits comfortably in the upper offensive range, providing a powerful yet manageable weapon for aggressive play.
Despite its offensive nature, this blade offers a remarkably high level of control. The innerforce construction and hard Koto outer plies provide exceptional stability and precision, inspiring confidence during delicate short-game exchanges and fast rallies. Players report its balanced design allows for both finesse and power, making it a reliable partner for controlled attacks and consistent placement.
XVT RAGE 301 Kevlar Carbon delivers a unique 'woody with a kick' sensation. The inner composite layers filter vibrations, resulting in a crisp yet softened impact that provides excellent, clear feedback on everything from soft touches to full-power drives.
Many players find the throw angle sits in the medium-low range, especially on powerful shots. This can produce flatter, more penetrating trajectories that are challenging to return, though it may require slight technique adjustment to ensure the ball clears the net on heavy attacks.
The innerforce construction significantly enhances dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the blade. This extended contact is excellent for generating heavy spin and provides greater control, especially when executing looping techniques.
Possessing a moderate degree of flexibility, this blade offers a engaging feel during strokes. This characteristic supports its dwell time and spin production, contributing to a dynamic and responsive looping game.
Vibrations are well-filtered by the blade's construction, where composite layers are embedded within the wood. This damping creates a comfortable, controlled feel that minimizes harsh feedback while still delivering clear information on ball contact.
XVT RAGE 301 Kevlar Carbon is praised for its very good build quality and robust craftsmanship. While occasional minor finishing notes like sharp edges have been mentioned, the overall construction is considered durable and well-made for its price point. It delivers a solid, reliable feel that holds up well to regular play.
Technology
XVT RAGE 301 Kevlar Carbon utilizes an 'innerforce' construction, embedding its composite layers (Kevlar Carbon or Arylate Carbon) between wood plies, closer to the core. This technology, akin to DHS's Blade Balancing concept, aims to enhance consistency and durability by reducing susceptibility to environmental factors. The placement optimizes dwell time and provides a softer, controlled feel while still reserving explosive power that activates with strong strokes.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Ma Long
While not confirmed for his professional matches, TTSensei experts note that the blade is frequently described as having the 'same character' as blades used by Ma Long. It's considered a similar alternative that complements his famed attacking style, particularly when paired with Hurricane-style tacky rubbers.
Similar Blades
DHS Hurricane Long 5
Often called the 'little brother' to the Long 5, both share a similar 5+2 inner composite construction. The 301 typically uses Koto outer plies versus the Long 5's Limba, is more accessible in price, and offers a crisper, more pronounced 'wood feel' compared to its sibling.
DHS Hurricane 301X
The 301X is a newer, higher-powered iteration. It builds on the original 301 with a thicker core and potentially refined fiber composition, resulting in improved speed. Players find the 301X is faster and has a less distinctly 'woody' feel than the classic 301 model.