LION Firearms is a short pips-out table tennis rubber designed for fast-paced, disruptive backhand play near the table. With a low trajectory and stiff feel, it caters to aggressive players who rely on punch blocks, counter-hits, and early ball contact to pressure opponents. It excels in spin rejection and control during fast exchanges, making it ideal for flat hitters, counter-attacking styles, and modern short pips users looking to pressure with active backhands.
| Aspect | Rating | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 4.0 | Provides quick rebound on flat hits and counters, especially on stiff blades. |
| Control | 4.5 | Excellent placement and timing forgiveness during fast-paced rallies. |
| Spin Capability | 2.5 | Limited spin generation, but possible to brush lightly for variation. |
| Spin Tolerance | 4.5 | Handles incoming spin well; great for returning tricky serves and loops. |
| Disruption | 4.0 | Produces a low, flat trajectory that disturbs opponent rhythm. |
| Flat Hit & Countering | 4.5 | Sharp and direct, making it reliable for punchy hits and counters. |
| Blocking Efficiency | 4.0 | Very stable in passive and punch blocks; precise with minimal effort. |
| Durability | 4.0 | Good build quality with consistent performance over extended use. |
LION Firearms is tailored for crisp, direct shots. The stiff topsheet and responsive sponge allow for quick ball release, ideal for backhand punches and counter-attacks. Players who take the ball early and like a linear response will appreciate its behavior.
This rubber performs solidly during blocking. It neutralizes topspin with minimal effort and produces a flat trajectory that stays low. Punch blocks are particularly effective, maintaining stability even against heavy loopers.
Thanks to its high spin tolerance, Firearms simplifies serve receive, especially against sidespin. Short pushes stay low and controlled, although a slight adjustment is needed to avoid float on softer strokes.
While spin generation is not a main strength, the rubber allows some brushing on serves or opening flicks. The topsheet has enough grip for occasional topspin but isn’t intended for spin-heavy exchanges.
In the short game, LION Firearms offers precision and predictability. Drop shots and flicks are effective, particularly when executed with confidence. It rewards compact mechanics and quick hand speed.
LION Firearms sits between classic control-oriented short pips (like Butterfly Raystorm) and modern disruptive models (e.g., Dr. Neubauer Killer Pro Evo). It’s less bouncy than some tensor short pips but offers more stability.
Thinner sponges (1.5 mm) provide more control and better blocking feel, while thicker options (2.0 mm) increase hitting power and pace, especially on fast blades.
Pairs best with medium-to-stiff blades, such as carbon or composite blades. This setup enhances the rubber’s directness and helps with fast-paced counter shots.
LION Firearms is ideal for intermediate to advanced players who play close to the table, especially those using short pips on the backhand for fast counters and punch blocks. It suits modern backhand pressure play and classic pips attackers.
LION Firearms offers a well-rounded short pips experience with a clear focus on speed, control, and disruption. It’s a great fit for players who emphasize fast counters, stable blocks, and spin rejection without sacrificing precision. While it won’t suit those looking for spin-heavy play, it stands out for its direct, low-arc performance in close-table rallies.
If you’re looking for a short pips rubber that combines high control, disruptive blocking, and excellent counter-hit ability, LION Firearms is worth considering. Its flat trajectory and spin tolerance make it a strong choice for modern backhand play or traditional pips-out attackers.
