TIBHAR Bernadette Szocs Signature 1

Scoring Breakdown

Core Performance Aspects

Looping & Topspin Play

TIBHAR Bernadette Szocs Signature 1 blade excels in topspin exchanges. Thanks to its 7-ply wood build, it provides generous dwell time and a medium-high arc, making brush loops feel safe yet loaded with spin. Looping against underspin is intuitive, and the blade allows for heavy topspin generation with proper technique. It supports both slow, spinny loops and faster, power loops without becoming overly bouncy.

Driving & Flat Hitting

While not as crisp or explosive as carbon blades, this blade still holds its own in flat hits and drives. There is sufficient rigidity to deliver solid acceleration during fast strokes, though elite power hitters might find it lacking in the absolute top-end punch. It rewards good timing.

Blocking & Passive Control

This blade provides a stable and predictable blocking experience. Its medium stiffness allows for controlled redirection, and the vibration feedback helps players react quickly. It doesn’t catapult the ball unpredictably, making it ideal for counter-hitters and those who like to absorb and redirect spin-heavy attacks.

Serve & Short Game

Touch play is where this blade feels very refined. It excels in short pushes, flicks, and service control due to its all-wood composition. Soft hands are rewarded with excellent precision and minimal bounce, allowing for deception in serves and precise placement in returns.

Mid-to-Far Distance Play

From mid-distance, the blade provides a consistent arc and dwell, allowing confident power-looping. However, at a far distance, it requires more physical input to maintain depth and speed compared to carbon-infused blades. It rewards footwork and timing but does not offer “free power.”

Strategic Considerations

Comparison to Similar Blades

Compared to something like the Butterfly Petr Korbel or Stiga Clipper Wood, the Szocs Signature 1 offers slightly more dwell and vibration feedback, possibly due to construction adjustments unique to Tibhar. It’s more linear than Viscaria, and while it lacks the kick of ALC blades, it compensates with a more connected feel and control in the short game.

Rubber Pairing Recommendations

To get the most out of this blade, pairing it with medium-hard or hard rubbers is ideal. Examples include Tibhar Evolution MX-P, Donic Bluefire M1, or Butterfly Tenergy 05. Softer rubbers feel too mushy due to the blade’s dwell. Tacky Chinese rubbers like Hurricane 3 also work well for spin emphasis, but lack punch on passive strokes unless boosted.

Ideal Playstyle Fit

This blade is perfect for spin-oriented offensive players, aggressive all-rounders, and loopers who value dwell time and control over raw speed. It’s also a good choice for intermediate-to-advanced players transitioning from control blades into the offensive category.

The TIBHAR Bernadette Szocs Signature 1 is a well-rounded, all-wood offensive blade that blends traditional feel with modern speed demands. Loopers and spin attackers will appreciate its natural feedback, excellent dwell, and fine control in both rallies and short play. It stands out in its class by offering a pure-wood alternative to carbon-dominated options without sacrificing dynamic offense.

If you’re a topspin-focused offensive player seeking a blade with natural feel and reliable control, the TIBHAR Bernadette Szocs Signature 1 is a fantastic choice. Check the latest prices and availability from trusted table tennis retailers below.