Butterfly SK Carbon Blade Review
The SK Carbon is Butterfly's compact 5-ply T5000 carbon blade at 78g and 5.2mm thick, delivering 8.0/10 speed and 7.5/10 control for $100.
· Updated
Specifications
| Composition | 3W + 2 T5000 Carbon |
| Plies | 5 |
| Weight | 78g |
| handleType | FL |
| bladeThickness | 5.7mm |
| speedClass | ALL+ |
| reaction | 10.5 |
| vibration | 10.5 |
| Top Thickness | 5.2mm |
| headSize | 157x150mm |
A Thin Carbon Blade for Controlled Offense
The Butterfly SK Carbon measures 5.2mm thick, noticeably thinner than standard 7-ply blades that run 6.0-6.5mm. This 3-wood, 2-carbon construction creates a compact profile that sits closer to the hand, giving players a direct feel on short game strokes like flicks and pushes. Speed reaches 8.0/10, moderate by carbon blade standards, while control stays at 7.5/10.
T5000 carbon (also called TAMCA 5000) has been Butterfly’s traditional carbon fiber since the 1980s. Compared to the newer Arylate-Carbon in blades like the Viscaria or Timo Boll ALC, T5000 produces a stiffer response with less vibration dampening. On hard contact, the blade feels crisp and metallic rather than soft and woody. Players who want clear tactile feedback on every stroke will appreciate this characteristic.
At $100, the SK Carbon fills a gap between all-wood blades ($30-60) and premium ALC blades ($135-185). The Balsa Carbo X7 ($83) costs less but uses a softer balsa core that plays very differently. Players who want a firm, stiff carbon feel at a budget price will find more value in the SK Carbon.
Who Benefits Most from the SK Carbon?
Close-to-table players gain the most from this blade’s thin profile. Quick exchanges at the table reward the SK Carbon’s fast response time and light 78g weight. The stiff T5000 carbon returns incoming pace efficiently, making counter-drives and flat hits effective without large backswings.
Mid-distance loopers may find the 8.0/10 speed limiting against heavy backspin. The blade lacks the raw power of 9.0+ speed options like the Zhang Jike ALC ($185), which costs nearly twice as much but offers significantly more gear on third-ball attacks. For players still developing their loop technique, the SK Carbon’s controlled speed prevents wild misses while building consistent form.
Related Blades
Is the SK Carbon good for intermediate players?
Yes. At 8.0/10 speed and 7.5/10 control, the SK Carbon gives intermediate players enough power for mid-distance loops without the uncontrollable pace of 9.0+ speed blades. The $100 price keeps the investment reasonable.
What makes T5000 carbon different from Arylate-Carbon?
T5000 (TAMCA 5000) carbon produces a stiffer, harder feel with less vibration dampening. Arylate-Carbon blends arylate fibers with carbon for a softer touch and more feedback on contact.