Butterfly Korbel vs Butterfly Primorac: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Korbel | Butterfly Primorac | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.6/10 | 8.3/10 |
| feel | medium, soft and flexible all-wood with long dwell | medium, classic all-wood, long dwell and high control |
| handle | FL/ST | FL/ST |
| plies | 5W (all wood) — limba-limba-ayous-limba-limba | 5W (all wood) — Limba/Limba/Ayous/Limba/Limba |
| speed | OFF- | OFF- |
| thickness_mm | 6 | 6 |
| weight_g | 88 | 85 |
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These two Butterfly all-wood blades are close cousins. Both are 6mm, medium-speed OFF-minus 5-ply blades built for control, long dwell and an honest, classic feel rather than raw pace. The Korbel stands out for its high throw and spinny serves, making it especially friendly for learning to loop, and it tends to be the better value. The Primorac counters with Butterfly’s renowned build quality and durability, a genuine long-term keeper that is hard to wear out.
In practice the choice is small and personal. Pick the Korbel if you prize spin, throw and price and want a forgiving blade to develop looping and the short game. Pick the Primorac if longevity and a durable first serious custom setup matter most. Both pair with a wide range of European, Japanese and tacky Chinese rubbers, and both ask you to supply power for far-table attack.
FAQ
Which is easier to loop with?
The Korbel has a high throw and spinny serves that make it excellent for looping and short-game touch, so it edges ahead for developing your loop. The Primorac is also forgiving and spin-friendly, just slightly more neutral in character.
Which lasts longer?
The Primorac is singled out for outstanding Butterfly build quality and durability, a genuine long-term keeper. Note both blades benefit from sealing before changing rubbers to avoid wood chips.
Is either fast enough for far-table play?
Not really. Both are medium-speed all-wood blades, so you must supply your own power for far-table attack. Many players outgrow this speed as their level rises and then move to a carbon blade.