Butterfly Hadraw SR vs Sanwei Nova Carbon: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Hadraw SR | Sanwei Nova Carbon | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| feel | firm, crisp, high rebound with woody dwell | stiff, linear, direct |
| handle | FL / AN / ST | FL/ST/AN |
| plies | 7-ply all wood | 5-ply: Hinoki + carbon + Kiri core |
| speed | OFF+ | OFF |
| thickness_mm | 6.6 | 6.2 |
| weight_g | 91 | 90 (plus or minus 5g) |
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These blades target different budget tiers and technical levels. Hadraw SR is a premium all-wood OFF+ blade requiring technique and careful setup; it costs significantly more and is harder to source. Nova Carbon is an accessible entry into carbon construction using Hinoki outer plies and Kiri core, marketed at intermediate attackers learning carbon’s directness and linear feel.
Hadraw SR feels lively and communicative; Nova Carbon feels stiff and linear. Hadraw SR demands rubber discipline; Nova Carbon tolerates a wider range but its stiffness punishes brushy spin technique. Hadraw SR is for wood purists wanting speed; Nova Carbon is for budget-conscious intermediate players curious about carbon without flagship pricing.
FAQ
Is Nova Carbon a good entry to carbon?
Yes, for intermediate players with 2-3 years experience who attack decisively. Its Hinoki feel is more accessible than pure carbon blades.
Which is more user-friendly?
Nova Carbon. Its stiffness is straightforward—less finesse required. Hadraw SR requires thoughtful rubber pairing and technique.
Do they differ in sound?
Hadraw SR has a warm wood sound. Nova Carbon has a crisp composite ping that polarizes players.
Which is faster?
Hadraw SR is OFF+ versus Nova Carbon’s OFF. But Nova Carbon’s linear feel sometimes surprises players with its directness.
Can beginners use either?
No. Both demand established stroke fundamentals. Nova Carbon is more forgiving but still intermediate-plus minimum.