Friendship 729 Battle II vs Nittaku Hammond Z2: Which Should You Buy?
| Friendship 729 Battle II | Nittaku Hammond Z2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| best_side | FH | forehand |
| control | 8 | 7.5 |
| speed | 8 | 9.0 |
| spin | 9 | 9.5 |
| sponge_hardness | hard | 52 |
| type | tacky | inverted |
| weight_uncut_g | 68 | 70 |
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The 729 Battle II is a budget tacky rubber with elite serve spin and consistent loops near the table, but durability drops noticeably after two months. Nittaku Hammond Z2 is a premium Japanese tensor delivering exceptional looping and counterlooping power with above-average durability compared to typical ESN tensors and superior longevity than Battle II.
Hammond Z2 rates 8.8 overall and commands strong community consensus on Revspin with one of the highest ratings in its category. It demands active, well-timed strokes and rewards aggressive playstyles. Battle II also rewards technique but is more forgiving due to its lower hardness and longer dwell time.
Choose Battle II for learning loops on a budget with immediate gratification through high serve spin. Pick Hammond Z2 for serious looping and counterlooping specialists willing to invest in premium performance and durability that outlasts Battle II by months.
FAQ
Which spins more?
Hammond Z2 rates 9.5 spin versus Battle II’s 9.0. Z2 delivers exceptional looping and counterlooping power with broader mid-distance gearing.
Which lasts longer?
Hammond Z2 offers above-average durability compared to typical ESN tensors. Battle II noticeably declines after two months, making Z2 superior long-term.
What about control?
Battle II rates 8.0 control versus Hammond Z2 at 7.5. Battle II is slightly more forgiving, while Z2 demands precise, active strokes.
Speed comparison?
Hammond Z2 at 9.0 is moderately faster than Battle II’s 8.0. Z2 enables more explosive counterloops and smash opportunities.
Which is better for beginners?
Battle II is more forgiving and better for learning. Hammond Z2 demands active, well-timed strokes and polarizes early impressions for players transitioning from softer rubbers.