DHS Hurricane 301 vs Nittaku Acoustic: Which Should You Buy?
| DHS Hurricane 301 | Nittaku Acoustic | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| feel | medium-hard, crisp, direct inner arylate-carbon with deep dwell on power shots | Crisp all-wood feel with a large sweet spot, long dwell and a signature acoustic sound |
| handle | FL | FL/ST |
| plies | 5W+2 Aramid-Carbon (Koto outer, Ayous middle and core, inner Arylate-Carbon) | 5-ply all wood (Limba outer veneers over a tung and ayous core) |
| speed | OFF | OFF- |
| thickness_mm | 5.8 | 5.7 |
| weight_g | 90 | 88 |
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The Hurricane 301 and Nittaku Acoustic both reward looping, but through different builds. The 301 is a 5W+2 inner arylate-carbon blade rated OFF, with a wide gear range from controllable touch to power loops, long dwell, high spin and exceptional value, often around a third the price of premium inner-ALC blades. The Acoustic is a 5-ply all-wood OFF- blade with class-leading control, a large sweet spot, long dwell and the signature crisp acoustic sound, though it commands a premium price.
Choose the 301 if you are an improving, forehand-dominant looper or third-ball attacker who wants spin-friendly inner-carbon punch with a wide control range at an affordable price, and you do not mind sealing the surface before gluing. Choose the Acoustic if you are a mid-distance looper who prizes control, feel and short-game touch over raw carbon speed, and you want top all-wood build quality.
Ratings are close, so the decision is build and budget: the 301 gives more carbon power for far less money, while the Acoustic delivers the purest all-wood feedback.
FAQ
Which blade is faster?
The Hurricane 301, rated OFF with a gear range up to OFF+ on power loops. The Acoustic is OFF-, a slightly slower all-wood blade.
Which has the better feel and control?
The Acoustic is class-leading for all-wood control and feedback, while the 301 offers a crisp, direct inner-carbon feel with a wide control range and long dwell.
Why is the 301 so much cheaper?
It is frequently cited at around one third the price of premium inner-ALC blades, making it a strong value pick versus the premium-priced Acoustic.
Does the 301 need any preparation before use?
Yes. It can splinter when changing rubbers, so sealing or sanding the surface is recommended. The Acoustic does not have this issue noted.