Montana Table Tennis Racket – PBW Japan Rubber (c. 1965–1975)

A classic European–Japanese hardbat from the golden age of pips-out play

Own a beautifully preserved piece of table tennis history with this rare Montana racket, fitted with original PBW short pips rubber from Japan. Manufactured during the hardbat era, this racket combines the elegant simplicity of a European 5-ply allwood blade with the crisp performance of PBW pips-out rubber — approved by the Japan Table Tennis Association (J.T.T.A.A.) and produced by Nakakura Co., Tokyo.

• Blade: Montana – 5-ply allwood, made in Europe (likely Germany or Austria)

• Rubber: PBW pips-out rubber, no sponge
  – J.T.T.A.A. approved
  – Manufactured by Nakakura Co. Tokyo

• Handle: Vintage straight handle with decorative Montana crest

• Era: Approx. 1965–1975

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minor wear — a collectible gem

This racket reflects a unique cross-cultural moment in the sport: when Japanese rubber technology merged with European craftsmanship during the shift from hardbat to sponge play. These rackets were used in schools, clubs, and local leagues across Central Europe and now serve as nostalgic collector items.