A butted spoke is drawn to its specific profile, which defines its high strength. The Laser is a reasonable priced lightweight spoke. The thin middle section of 1,5mm needs special care while building up the wheel. You may have to use a pliers to hold the spoke to prevent the spokes from winding up. Only experienced wheel builders should mount up wheels with this spoke. Longlasting. Highly flexible. Better shock absorption thanks to the thin middle section