Flame has received overwhelming feedback in the professional team, with excellent reviews for penhold and mixed reviews for shakehand, so the brand decided to only release penhold. If you are a penhold player, and mainly use the mid-to-near fast loop playing style, then Flame is a choice you deserve.Ply: 5 2 ALCThickness: 6.0±0.2mmWeight: 85±5gHandle: CSStyle: Fast LoopClick here to learn more about the Sword brand In-Depth User ReviewConfiguration & SpecsForehand: DHS Hurricane 3 Provincial Orange Sponge (40°, 2.15mm), 2 layers of booster applied Backhand: Yasaka Rakza Dragon, Medium Soft Total Weight: 179gOverall Impressions This blade is designed for a two-winged looping style. It doesn’t excel at traditional blocking, but truly shines when you unleash full, rotational strokes on both sides. Compared to popular models from DHS and Yinhe in this price range, this blade delivers a noticeable leap in performance. It offers easier access to power and superior support, while still maintaining good flex, making it a well-balanced blade for both wings. Among the commercial 301-structure blades I’ve tried, this one pairs with DHS Hurricane the best.Backhand PerformanceThe backhand pairing follows the general rule I’ve found for this structure: it works best with rubbers that offer good dwell time and a direct, quick response. I was initially skeptical about Yasaka’s Rakza Dragon series, but the Medium Soft version recommended by my friend really changed my mind—so much so that I bought a sheet for myself. On the backhand of the Flame, the Rakza Dragon provides excellent dwell, a quick rebound, and allows for easy quality in shots. It’s particularly effective for flipping or lifting backspin and smoothly transitioning into powerful loops to both corners, with a very high margin for error.Forehand PerformanceThe 40° Provincial Orange sponge on the forehand feels just right—no lack of power or bottoming out. This suggests the blade pairs well with harder, tacky rubbers. It would also likely perform excellently with firm tensioned rubbers, such as the K2 Pro.Comparison & Final ThoughtsCompared to the Sword VD blade, the Flame has clear advantages: its superior synergy with Hurricane rubbers, and its more familiar built-in ALC character that still offers decent passive blocking. The VD’s special built-in Polyethylene fiber requires a specific technique and understanding to unlock its potential; many players find it lacking in power simply due to inexperience with that fiber. The Flame doesn’t have this issue—it’s a conventional built-in ALC blade that performs well even with standard rubber pairings. While my personal experience with Polyethylene fibers makes the VD appealing, the Flame’s user-friendly and forgiving nature when it comes to rubber selection is a significant advantage for most players.Like this:Like Loading...
