Friendship 729 Focus 3 Snipe vs Stiga DNA Pro M: Which Should You Buy?
| Friendship 729 Focus 3 Snipe | Stiga DNA Pro M | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 |
| best_side | backhand; also suitable forehand with 44 or 46 sponge | Forehand or Backhand |
| control | 11 out of 15 | High |
| speed | 12 out of 15 | OFF+ |
| spin | 11 out of 15 | Very High |
| sponge_hardness | 42, 44, or 46 degrees (Chinese scale; approximately 36-40 European) | 47.5 degrees ESN |
| type | pips-in, non-tacky tensor/hybrid | Inverted / Pimples-In |
| weight_uncut_g | approx 50-54g uncut | 69 |
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Focus 3 Snipe and Stiga DNA Pro M are separated by three skill levels. Snipe (8.1 rating) is a lightweight pips-in rubber for beginners and club improvers pursuing forgiving control, defensibility, and off-center hit forgiveness. Its non-tacky grippy topsheet plays like European rubber and is particularly suited to learning reverse penhold backhand and short game. DNA Pro M (8.5 rating, now discontinued) is a 47.5-degree ESN tensor for intermediate-to-advanced players who want high speed (off-plus) and very high spin with forgiving medium-high arc that reduces net errors.
Snipe achieves exceptional control (11/15) at ultra-light weight (approx 50-54g uncut), making it ideal for technique-building phases where arm fatigue limits learning. DNA Pro M trades weight (69g uncut) for speed-spin balance and closer-to-table power, demanding stronger technique to prevent over-brushing and long balls. Snipe’s sponge durability is poor; DNA Pro M lasts four to five months under regular training before durability declines. Snipe is actively available and under 10 USD. DNA Pro M is discontinued with limited stock and higher cost. Beginners should choose Snipe for control and comfort during learning. Intermediate players ready for offensive development should seek DNA Pro M (or equivalents still in production) for speed-spin balance and backhand versatility.
FAQ
Which is better for beginners?
Focus 3 Snipe. Exceptional control, forgiving on off-center hits, and ultra-lightweight design reduce arm fatigue during learning. DNA Pro M is for intermediate-to-advanced players.
Which is more durable?
DNA Pro M lasts four to five months under regular training. Snipe’s sponge durability is below average, and re-gluing often ruins it. However, Snipe is still available; DNA Pro M is now discontinued.
Which has better speed and spin?
DNA Pro M. Off-plus speed and very high spin for close-to-table power and looping. Snipe trades speed and spin for exceptional control and forgiveness.
Which is best for both wings?
DNA Pro M is suitable for both forehand and backhand. Snipe is best on backhand and for learning, where its control and forgiveness shine.