Stiga Intensity NCT Carbon vs Tibhar Samsonov Alpha: Which Should You Buy?
| Stiga Intensity NCT Carbon | Tibhar Samsonov Alpha | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| feel | medium-soft, good dwell, large sweet spot | medium-stiff, good dwell time, controllable |
| handle | Flared, Anatomic, Straight, Chinese Penhold | FL/ST |
| plies | 5 wood + 2 carbon NCT | 5-ply all wood (Limba outer plies, Koto/Ayous middle layers) |
| speed | OFF- | ALL |
| thickness_mm | 5.9 | 5.9 |
| weight_g | 82 | 85 |
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The Intensity NCT Carbon is a midsized carbon blend optimized for topspin loops with large sweet spot, excellent dwell, and medium softness that makes it friendly to sticky rubbers—a true bridge from all-wood to full carbon.
The Samsonov Alpha remains an all-wood allround blade with gentle speed and superior forgiving geometry, ideally suited to close-table play and learners.
Choose the Intensity if you are an intermediate looper ready for carbon and want consistent dwell and trajectory; pick the Alpha if you prize control and ease of learning. Neither suits defensive play, and the Intensity demands solid fundamentals.
FAQ
Is the Intensity NCT Carbon a good first carbon blade?
Yes, it is an excellent bridge from all-wood to full carbon because of its large sweet spot, medium-soft feel, and forgiving off-center response.
Can I use the Intensity NCT on the backhand if I am a beginner?
It is possible but not recommended unless you have solid fundamentals. Beginners should stick with the Samsonov Alpha for maximum forgiveness.
Which blade is faster?
The Intensity NCT Carbon is faster due to its carbon plies and stiffer construction. The Samsonov Alpha is moderate allround speed.
How does dwell time compare?
The Intensity NCT has excellent dwell time for topspin loops. The Samsonov Alpha has medium dwell suitable for all-round play.