Butterfly Primorac vs Nittaku Septear: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Primorac | Nittaku Septear | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.3/10 | 8.2/10 |
| feel | medium, classic all-wood, long dwell and high control | Soft with high dwell time |
| handle | FL/ST | Straight or Concave (flared) |
| plies | 5W (all wood) — Limba/Limba/Ayous/Limba/Limba | 7-ply all wood (Kiso Hinoki) |
| speed | OFF- | ALL+ |
| thickness_mm | 6 | 6.7 |
| weight_g | 85 | 85 |
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Both are soft, high-dwell all-wood blades—Butterfly Primorac offers classic control-first Butterfly engineering, while Nittaku Septear provides premium Japanese Kiso Hinoki emphasizing versatility across all stroke types. Both suit developing and intermediate all-around players prioritizing control and touch over raw speed.
Primorac’s Limba-based construction delivers long dwell and clean feel ideal for placement-focused topspin and blocking. Septear’s soft hinoki enables loops, blocks, pushes, flicks, and smashes with equal versatility. Septear requires medium-hard or harder rubbers to unlock potential; Primorac adapts across rubber families. Septear’s premium Japanese craftsmanship and superior versatility justify higher cost, though Primorac’s established Butterfly reputation and availability offer reliability. Both are control-focused; pick Primorac if classic Butterfly dwell and availability matter, or Septear if you seek versatile all-stroke performance and premium craftsmanship.
FAQ
Why does Septear need harder rubbers?
Soft hinoki lacks snap, so soft rubber fails to return adequate energy. Medium-hard or hard sponge compensates.
Is Septear worth the premium?
For intermediate all-around players, yes—superior versatility and premium craftsmanship justify higher cost.
Which is more durable?
Primorac (if sealed) is durable long-term. Septear’s soft hinoki surface dents over time, requiring gentle care.
Which develops all-around technique better?
Septear’s versatility across all strokes is superior. Primorac favors placement and topspin over blocks and flicks.
Can Primorac compete with Septear versatility?
For traditional attack, yes. Septear’s versatility across all stroke types—flicks, pushes—is superior.