Hammond experience

I began using the Nittaku Hammond max rubber sometime in the middle of December 2006 after reading numerous comments/testimonials about its comparable, if not a bit more superior, performance and durability qualities with Bryce. As to performance, i indeed found the Hammond to have speed equal to Bryce, and in fact felt that it can generate more spin on controlled shots (service and medium-pace loops). No question about the Hammond's power when all-out loopdrives are executed. I play 4 times a week on the average, and i don't speed glue.

But just 2 days ago (or just over a month and a half since i played with it), while in my practice sessions at my club, the Hammond suffered an almost 1/4-inch tear near the middle. No hitting the table edge or blade dropping happened. So it must have occured during game proper.

Hammond's durability has thus become a question to me. But I unfortunately may have just purchased an "exceptionally poor" unit of the Hammond. Its grip, however, is still very good.

When my Hammond totally dies out, I'll be going back to Bryce.

Same or different views from Hammond users will be appreciated.

Just sharing my 2-cents worth of experience. Thanks.