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The Butterfly Viscaria has long been a go-to blade for professional and amateur players alike. Known for its incredible balance of speed, spin, and control, it’s a blade that caters to aggressive attackers and spin-oriented players. Over the past few weeks, I tested it with three popular rubbers—Tenergy 05, Dignics 09C, and a boosted DHS Hurricane 3 National Neo on the forehand. Here’s how each setup performed.

First Impressions of the Viscaria Blade

The Butterfly Viscaria features Arylate-Carbon layers, similar to the Timo Boll ALC, but it has a slightly softer feel. The dwell time is excellent, and the larger sweet spot ensures consistent performance, especially in high-speed rallies. It’s a blade that rewards offensive play while still offering enough touch for control in the short game.

Butterfly Viscaria + Tenergy 05

Tenergy 05 is a classic pairing for the Viscaria, and it’s clear why so many players prefer this combination.

• Loops and Spin: The Viscaria enhances the high-arc, spinny loops that Tenergy 05 is famous for. It’s ideal for opening against backspin and mid-distance rallies.

• Speed: The combination feels fast but controllable, making it easy to execute powerful shots without losing accuracy.

• Short Game: Like with most bouncy rubbers, precision is key in the short game, but the Viscaria’s touch helps keep pushes and flicks under control.

This setup is best for players who prioritize spin-heavy offense and fast-paced rallies.

Butterfly Viscaria + Dignics 09C

When paired with Dignics 09C, the Viscaria takes on a more controlled and versatile character.

• Spin and Control: The tacky nature of Dignics 09C paired with the Viscaria offers incredible precision in the short game, allowing for tight pushes and sharp flicks.

• Loops: Dignics 09C’s harder sponge demands more effort but rewards you with extremely heavy spin, particularly in open rallies.

• Blocking and Counterplay: The Viscaria’s softer feel enhances the stability of blocks and counter-loops, giving you an edge in fast exchanges.

This pairing is ideal for players who want a mix of power, spin, and control, excelling in both offensive and all-around playstyles.

Butterfly Viscaria + DHS Hurricane 3 Neo (Boosted)

Adding a boosted DHS Hurricane 3 National Neo to the forehand transformed the Viscaria into a weapon for close-to-table dominance and spin-oriented play.

• Loops and Spin: The tacky surface of the Hurricane 3 Neo generates an insane amount of spin, especially in the short game and on slow, deliberate loops. The boosted version adds extra speed, making it viable for mid-distance play as well.

• Short Game: This rubber shines in controlled touches, allowing for tight pushes and deceptive serves. The tackiness keeps the ball low and spinny.

• Power Shots: With boosting, Hurricane 3 Neo feels explosive on the forehand, perfect for power loops and counter-looping at the table. The blade’s carbon layers add just enough kick for a balanced feel.

This setup is for players who enjoy a Chinese-style forehand—spin-focused with an emphasis on precision and control. Pairing it with a dynamic rubber like Tenergy 05 or Dignics 09C on the backhand makes it even more versatile.

Verdict

The Butterfly Viscaria is an exceptional blade that adapts well to different rubbers. If you’re looking for explosive spin and speed, Tenergy 05 is a great choice. For a more controlled and versatile game, Dignics 09C is the way to go. Meanwhile, pairing a boosted DHS Hurricane 3 National Neo on the forehand creates a deadly combination for spin and precision, especially for players who like to dominate the short game and loop with heavy topspin.

This blade with any of these rubbers can elevate your game, and the choice ultimately comes down to your style and preferences.

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