What Equipment Have You Tested?

[GolfSpy AFG]

32 minutes ago, cnosil said:

Depending on what you want to work on why not just buy a single iron that matches your set?    Maybe just get a 6 iron?

Because club hoes gon be club hoes Chris.

[Merlin1313]

I checked out the Paradym irons- chances are REALLY good that they're gonna end up in my bag. The only decision left is which shaft to go with. I have it narrowed down to the PX Rifle 105 Tour Flighted and the Nippon Pro Modus 3 Tour 105. The spin/launch/descent numbers were all right on the money. It all boils down to feel

Edited January 22, 2023 by Merlin1313

[GolfSpy_APH]

1 hour ago, Merlin1313 said:

I checked out the Paradym irons- chances are REALLY good that they're gonna end up in my bag. The only decision left is which shaft to go with. I have it narrowed down to the PX Rifle 105 Tour Flighted and the Nippon Pro Modus 3 Tour 105. The spin/launch/descent numbers were all right on the money. It all boils down to feel

Haven't tried the PX Rifle before, but the Nippon is one of my all time favourites. I am sure either one will be good for you! 

What made you look at those irons vs some of the other new offerings that are out? Or what made those stand out vs the others?

[edingc]

Had my 2023 driver "fitting" this morning. Fitting in quotes because I went in with no desire to try anything but the Paradym and Paradym Triple Diamond. I would have strayed to try the PING G430 line, but my local shop and PING are having a dispute about a pricing mistake and currently the shop can't order/sell any of the new line.

Couple good things I learned today, not regarding clubs, but rather my swing and practice setup at home:

• The Mevo+ is wickedly accurate with the latest RCT firmware update all the way up to driver now. I had suspected that the Mevo+ was misreading spin a little bit, but within 10 swings with my current gamer driver I saw the same things I see in my garage. Club speed and ball speed are right around the ball park as well.
• Regarding club speed, I'm down 3-4 MPH both in cruising speed and top end from my peak about a month ago. I attribute that to actively trying to lose some weight so far this year. The fall was spent on what would be considered a "dream bulk" and my swing speed really improved during that period.

I hit just fewer than 20 balls with my current gamer (Epic Max LS @ 9, Motore X F1 X) and saw exactly what I've struggled with in the garage. Low launch knuckleballs that create a wicked two way miss with some really bad hooks. My averages below don't look so bad, but there were eight shots in this grouping with less than 1,900 RPM spin, and my ball speed is up slightly due to the hook misses that were low screamers.

 

I've been texting with my coach who thought I should go with the Triple Diamond, I personally felt like the Paradym would be the better fit for me. While I enjoyed hitting both, I was more consistent with the standard Paradym at the expense of some ball speed. My fitter felt like it was a toss up, but he did really like my consistency with the standard Paradym model. I had a nice baby fade going on for most of the fitting.

I tried all of the stock shaft options and a few upcharge options, but nothing could match the performance of my Motore X F1. 

I didn't see improvements in ball speed, but with the 10.5 Paradym head turned down to 9.5 my launch and spin came up a bit, leading to improved carry, while also taking away some of the left miss.

It would appear, at least for me, that Callaway's story about down range accuracy is not wrong.

I wasn't all that worse with the TD, but I really gravitated to the standard Paradym. I didn't hit as many shots with the TD:

I tried a few different shafts, none of which felt as good or bested my Motore:

• Tensei White 60X and 70X
• Tour AD IZ 7X
• Kai'li White 60 X

My fitter also snuck in a TSR3 with a HZRDUS Black. It felt really good in my hands but I couldn't keep it on the planet and I wasn't all that interested in it.

All together, a successful $80 spent for the hour on Trackman. I'm a little torn on what I want to do. I know the Epic Max LS is not the best fit for me at the moment, the Paradyms were noticeably better, especially in sound/feel. The carbon sound is addicting. I do hope to see my speed return when I come off this calorie cut, so that has me debating whether the Triple Diamond is a better long term fit. I did spin some of the standard Paradym shots closer to 2,700, which might be a little high. I could change balls and shave a little spin from the ProV1x/MTB-X that I fit with. But with the additional spin comes some accuracy, which I desperately need. Though I could also flips the weights in the TD and potential add some spin and forgiveness back.

I really did like the look of the Triple Diamond. The face didn't look as open as my Max LS and the slightly smaller shaping was pleasing. Decisions, decisions!

Anyway, here's my whole dispersion for every swing today. Driver is the worst part of my game and this begins to show why.

[CarlH]

Another fine writeup @edingc

[MattWillGolf]

1 hour ago, edingc said:

Had my 2023 driver "fitting" this morning. Fitting in quotes because I went in with no desire to try anything but the Paradym and Paradym Triple Diamond. I would have strayed to try the PING G430 line, but my local shop and PING are having a dispute about a pricing mistake and currently the shop can't order/sell any of the new line.

Couple good things I learned today, not regarding clubs, but rather my swing and practice setup at home:

• The Mevo+ is wickedly accurate with the latest RCT firmware update all the way up to driver now. I had suspected that the Mevo+ was misreading spin a little bit, but within 10 swings with my current gamer driver I saw the same things I see in my garage. Club speed and ball speed are right around the ball park as well.
• Regarding club speed, I'm down 3-4 MPH both in cruising speed and top end from my peak about a month ago. I attribute that to actively trying to lose some weight so far this year. The fall was spent on what would be considered a "dream bulk" and my swing speed really improved during that period.

I hit just fewer than 20 balls with my current gamer (Epic Max LS @ 9, Motore X F1 X) and saw exactly what I've struggled with in the garage. Low launch knuckleballs that create a wicked two way miss with some really bad hooks. My averages below don't look so bad, but there were eight shots in this grouping with less than 1,900 RPM spin, and my ball speed is up slightly due to the hook misses that were low screamers.

 

I've been texting with my coach who thought I should go with the Triple Diamond, I personally felt like the Paradym would be the better fit for me. While I enjoyed hitting both, I was more consistent with the standard Paradym at the expense of some ball speed. My fitter felt like it was a toss up, but he did really like my consistency with the standard Paradym model. I had a nice baby fade going on for most of the fitting.

I tried all of the stock shaft options and a few upcharge options, but nothing could match the performance of my Motore X F1. 

I didn't see improvements in ball speed, but with the 10.5 Paradym head turned down to 9.5 my launch and spin came up a bit, leading to improved carry, while also taking away some of the left miss.

It would appear, at least for me, that Callaway's story about down range accuracy is not wrong.

I wasn't all that worse with the TD, but I really gravitated to the standard Paradym. I didn't hit as many shots with the TD:

I tried a few different shafts, none of which felt as good or bested my Motore:

• Tensei White 60X and 70X
• Tour AD IZ 7X
• Kai'li White 60 X

My fitter also snuck in a TSR3 with a HZRDUS Black. It felt really good in my hands but I couldn't keep it on the planet and I wasn't all that interested in it.

All together, a successful $80 spent for the hour on Trackman. I'm a little torn on what I want to do. I know the Epic Max LS is not the best fit for me at the moment, the Paradyms were noticeably better, especially in sound/feel. The carbon sound is addicting. I do hope to see my speed return when I come off this calorie cut, so that has me debating whether the Triple Diamond is a better long term fit. I did spin some of the standard Paradym shots closer to 2,700, which might be a little high. I could change balls and shave a little spin from the ProV1x/MTB-X that I fit with. But with the additional spin comes some accuracy, which I desperately need. Though I could also flips the weights in the TD and potential add some spin and forgiveness back.

I really did like the look of the Triple Diamond. The face didn't look as open as my Max LS and the slightly smaller shaping was pleasing. Decisions, decisions!

Anyway, here's my whole dispersion for every swing today. Driver is the worst part of my game and this begins to show why.

You do write the most thorough posts. They are greatly appreciated. 

[edingc]

2 hours ago, CarlH said:

Another fine writeup @edingc

1 hour ago, MattWillGolf said:

You do write the most thorough posts. They are greatly appreciated. 

Thanks!

Heavily leaning toward the 10.5 Triple Diamond, turned to 9.5, with the heavy weight in back. I texted my coach again and he was getting 200-400 more RPM with weight in back, which would put me into a very comfortable range.

Going to have to sleep on it.

[GolfSpy_SHARK]

3 hours ago, edingc said:

Had my 2023 driver "fitting" this morning. Fitting in quotes because I went in with no desire to try anything but the Paradym and Paradym Triple Diamond. I would have strayed to try the PING G430 line, but my local shop and PING are having a dispute about a pricing mistake and currently the shop can't order/sell any of the new line.

Couple good things I learned today, not regarding clubs, but rather my swing and practice setup at home:

• The Mevo+ is wickedly accurate with the latest RCT firmware update all the way up to driver now. I had suspected that the Mevo+ was misreading spin a little bit, but within 10 swings with my current gamer driver I saw the same things I see in my garage. Club speed and ball speed are right around the ball park as well.
• Regarding club speed, I'm down 3-4 MPH both in cruising speed and top end from my peak about a month ago. I attribute that to actively trying to lose some weight so far this year. The fall was spent on what would be considered a "dream bulk" and my swing speed really improved during that period.

I hit just fewer than 20 balls with my current gamer (Epic Max LS @ 9, Motore X F1 X) and saw exactly what I've struggled with in the garage. Low launch knuckleballs that create a wicked two way miss with some really bad hooks. My averages below don't look so bad, but there were eight shots in this grouping with less than 1,900 RPM spin, and my ball speed is up slightly due to the hook misses that were low screamers.

 

I've been texting with my coach who thought I should go with the Triple Diamond, I personally felt like the Paradym would be the better fit for me. While I enjoyed hitting both, I was more consistent with the standard Paradym at the expense of some ball speed. My fitter felt like it was a toss up, but he did really like my consistency with the standard Paradym model. I had a nice baby fade going on for most of the fitting.

I tried all of the stock shaft options and a few upcharge options, but nothing could match the performance of my Motore X F1. 

I didn't see improvements in ball speed, but with the 10.5 Paradym head turned down to 9.5 my launch and spin came up a bit, leading to improved carry, while also taking away some of the left miss.

It would appear, at least for me, that Callaway's story about down range accuracy is not wrong.

I wasn't all that worse with the TD, but I really gravitated to the standard Paradym. I didn't hit as many shots with the TD:

I tried a few different shafts, none of which felt as good or bested my Motore:

• Tensei White 60X and 70X
• Tour AD IZ 7X
• Kai'li White 60 X

My fitter also snuck in a TSR3 with a HZRDUS Black. It felt really good in my hands but I couldn't keep it on the planet and I wasn't all that interested in it.

All together, a successful $80 spent for the hour on Trackman. I'm a little torn on what I want to do. I know the Epic Max LS is not the best fit for me at the moment, the Paradyms were noticeably better, especially in sound/feel. The carbon sound is addicting. I do hope to see my speed return when I come off this calorie cut, so that has me debating whether the Triple Diamond is a better long term fit. I did spin some of the standard Paradym shots closer to 2,700, which might be a little high. I could change balls and shave a little spin from the ProV1x/MTB-X that I fit with. But with the additional spin comes some accuracy, which I desperately need. Though I could also flips the weights in the TD and potential add some spin and forgiveness back.

I really did like the look of the Triple Diamond. The face didn't look as open as my Max LS and the slightly smaller shaping was pleasing. Decisions, decisions!

Anyway, here's my whole dispersion for every swing today. Driver is the worst part of my game and this begins to show why.

Think you’ll hold off, wait to get to the weight ya want and maybe go back? 
blasphemous words on this site I know,,,,hold off

[GolfSpy SAM]

Had my TrueSpec full bag fit this past Friday - still waiting on the PDFs with all the results to come in, but I can already tell you it was one of the most fun things I've ever gotten to do.  I was gifted the fitting for Christmas from some of my wife's aunties (knowing that TrueSpec was running a Black Friday 1/2 off sale helped a lot, lol), and since I don't have the budget to buy anything new, I just went in and told the fitter that this was a dream scenario, so not to hold anything back.  I got to hit all the new toys (drivers: Paradym, Stealth 2, Aerojet, TSR2; irons: i525, JPX HMP, T200, ZX5; 3-wood: Paradym, Stealth 2), and about 15 different shaft combinations all-told.  

I'll give a fuller write-up later on this week once I have numbers to add in, but just being able to hit everything and not have to be worried about "what I can afford" was so freeing, and VERY worth the fitting fee (even discounted as it was).  If it weren't for the unbelievable case of the yips I had with the irons ("this never happens to me, I swear"...) which was, you know, hilarious and mortifying at the same time, it would have been a pretty much perfect day

But seriously, I can't recommend the experience of a day like this enough, if you're AT ALL into gear - and why the hell else would you be reading this if you weren't?

(In case you can't wait for the longer write-up, the Paradym is fantastic: would have gone with that in the 3/5 wood, hands-down, and the TSR2 was almost can't-miss - that would've been the driver for me.  The ZX5's were my fave of the irons that I could hit post-yips...just absolutely gorgeous and fantastic performers (and shockingly forgiving, coming as I am from Sim Max irons).

[GolfSpy_SHARK]

6 minutes ago, GolfSpy_SAM said:

Had my TrueSpec full bag fit this past Friday - still waiting on the PDFs with all the results to come in, but I can already tell you it was one of the most fun things I've ever gotten to do.  I was gifted the fitting for Christmas from some of my wife's aunties (knowing that TrueSpec was running a Black Friday 1/2 off sale helped a lot, lol), and since I don't have the budget to buy anything new, I just went in and told the fitter that this was a dream scenario, so not to hold anything back.  I got to hit all the new toys (drivers: Paradym, Stealth 2, Aerojet, TSR2; irons: i525, JPX HMP, T200, ZX5; 3-wood: Paradym, Stealth 2), and about 15 different shaft combinations all-told.  

I'll give a fuller write-up later on this week once I have numbers to add in, but just being able to hit everything and not have to be worried about "what I can afford" was so freeing, and VERY worth the fitting fee (even discounted as it was).  If it weren't for the unbelievable case of the yips I had with the irons ("this never happens to me, I swear"...) which was, you know, hilarious and mortifying at the same time, it would have been a pretty much perfect day

But seriously, I can't recommend the experience of a day like this enough, if you're AT ALL into gear - and why the hell else would you be reading this if you weren't?

(In case you can't wait for the longer write-up, the Paradym is fantastic: would have gone with that in the 3/5 wood, hands-down, and the TSR2 was almost can't-miss - that would've been the driver for me.  The ZX5's were my fave of the irons that I could hit post-yips...just absolutely gorgeous and fantastic performers (and shockingly forgiving, coming as I am from Sim Max irons).

One of the best things to do in the off season I think. So much fun especially when the fitter is personable

[sirchunksalot]

35 minutes ago, GolfSpy_SAM said:

Had my TrueSpec full bag fit this past Friday - still waiting on the PDFs with all the results to come in, but I can already tell you it was one of the most fun things I've ever gotten to do.  I was gifted the fitting for Christmas from some of my wife's aunties (knowing that TrueSpec was running a Black Friday 1/2 off sale helped a lot, lol), and since I don't have the budget to buy anything new, I just went in and told the fitter that this was a dream scenario, so not to hold anything back.  I got to hit all the new toys (drivers: Paradym, Stealth 2, Aerojet, TSR2; irons: i525, JPX HMP, T200, ZX5; 3-wood: Paradym, Stealth 2), and about 15 different shaft combinations all-told.  

I'll give a fuller write-up later on this week once I have numbers to add in, but just being able to hit everything and not have to be worried about "what I can afford" was so freeing, and VERY worth the fitting fee (even discounted as it was).  If it weren't for the unbelievable case of the yips I had with the irons ("this never happens to me, I swear"...) which was, you know, hilarious and mortifying at the same time, it would have been a pretty much perfect day

But seriously, I can't recommend the experience of a day like this enough, if you're AT ALL into gear - and why the hell else would you be reading this if you weren't?

(In case you can't wait for the longer write-up, the Paradym is fantastic: would have gone with that in the 3/5 wood, hands-down, and the TSR2 was almost can't-miss - that would've been the driver for me.  The ZX5's were my fave of the irons that I could hit post-yips...just absolutely gorgeous and fantastic performers (and shockingly forgiving, coming as I am from Sim Max irons).

It sound like you had the golf geeks perfect scenario. I'm glad you got the opportunity to do this and I'm looking forward to hearing about your experience in more detail. 

[GolfSpy SAM]

Just now, sirchunksalot said:

It sound like you had the golf geeks perfect scenario. I'm glad you got the opportunity to do this and I'm looking forward to hearing about your experience in more detail. 

Other than the yips (think Roy McAvoy on the range, asking "who hit that shot?? Who did that?" and you'll know exactly what was happening), it was pretty dreamy.  I can't recommend it enough.

[edingc]

17 hours ago, Lacassem said:

Think you’ll hold off, wait to get to the weight ya want and maybe go back? 
blasphemous words on this site I know,,,,hold off

Blasphemy!

I dug further into the data last night. After looking back on both the standard and Triple Diamond models, my numbers with the Triple Diamond were actually better to my eyes. My concern about spin and height with the standard Paradym were re-validated after looking at landing angle and also removing a few outliers where my spin was low enough to drag the average down a bit.

I also feel that the Triple Diamond gives me a little more versatility in golf ball choice and builds in some flexibility for any speed that comes back after my cut. I think with the weights switched around I'll be at a very comfortable level of spin at 9.5, or I can play at the stamped 10.5 degrees with the weight forward. 

[Merlin1313]

On 1/22/2023 at 12:50 AM, GolfSpy_APH said:

Haven't tried the PX Rifle before, but the Nippon is one of my all time favourites. I am sure either one will be good for you! 

What made you look at those irons vs some of the other new offerings that are out? Or what made those stand out vs the others?

I've been playing for MANY years and have tried a BUNCH of different iron sets. I've been playing Callaways since the late 1990s/early 2000s (and apparently have somewhat of a Callaway bias). I didn't think I was going to be getting a new set, but these are the best I've tried for a long time (although the new Mizunos gave them a REALLY close run for the money). I tried TM, Cobra, Titleist, Mizuno. The design, weight and head size are very appealing to me. They're incredibly accurate, workable either way (for me a fade is easier than a draw, but these made a draw really easy). You can readily flight them up/down. They're so smooth, feel and sound great. Mishits caused me minimal loss of distance or dispersion. But in the end, the Paradyms just suits.

 I obviously like the Modus shafts but both shafts had GREAT distance, spin and descent numbers (Spin was usually in the 4000-4800 range and descent was usually between 38*-47* with a 7 iron). I've got a borderline smooth/fast transition. The PX Rifle seemed a little bit stiffer in the mid-section to tip and better equipped to handle the faster/more aggressive transition. The Modus was great at the moderate to quicker/smoother transitions. I think that a blind test would be difficult either way.

Sorry I got so long winded- but I hope this helps.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[GolfSpy SAM]

WARNING: The following post is VERY long, and pretty silly, but 100% intended to entertain. If you do not like long posts, just skip it (TLDR version: I had an amazing time at TrueSpec, you should probably go if you get the chance.)

Alright, so let's talk about this True Spec fitting in full. I think I've digested the experience at this point enough to feel like I've learned what I needed to in order to write about it.  (I have a habit of enthusing IMMEDIATELY after most experiences, and then on reflection, feel like I might have over-done it, so I wanted to give this at least a few days to really settle in)

Okay, so let's start with the facilities.  I had my appointment in the Beverly Hills (fancy, I know - but it might make you less impressed to know I rolled up in my wife's 2010 Blue Corolla...lol) True Spec, located directly next to Nieman Marcus' Men's Shop, in case you're interested in a pair of genuinely insane-looking shoes that only cost 

I feel like those were worth pausing this diatribe to let you marvel. Perhaps you’ve wondered what it would feel like to wear tires?  Or maybe you’re interested in someone’s dirty sneakers for the price of a Stealth 2? No matter what, they. have. It.  (As an aside, they actually do have some good-looking golf shoes…which gets us back to the point at hand)

Okay, so continuing on.  My appointment was at the crack of 10, so after dropping the kids off at school, I threw my clubs into the Blueberry and headed the hour-ish south from my place to the land of Brandon, Brenda, Dylan and Kelly (we shall not speak of Donna in this place, for this is a safe space).  I found a VERY fancy, overpriced sandwich shop and got some fuel in me before the estimated 4-hour fitting.

I opened the doors right at 10, and was greeted by my fitter, Michael, poking his head around the corner and asking, “Matt?”  I wiped the excess cheese from my beard, and said hello, and followed him to the main bay at the front of the store, past the wall-o-shafts and the drawers filled with all the goods.  

Please note I figured I’d have plenty of time to take this picture, and then completely forgot, so this is courtesy of TrueSpec’s website.  I’m a terrible reporter. That’s not me on the right, nor is that my fitter on the left. 

This, however, is absolutely me, being about as excited as a 44-year old can get (note the ridiculous thumbs-up).

Quick club background:  I’m currently gaming Sim Max irons (28.5 degree 7-iron, typical carry 170-175, on course), 4-PW (though I don’t keep the 4 or 5 in the bag anymore), Kirkland wedges (52, 56, 60), Warrior Golf 7- and 5-woods, and the PXG 0811 XF with my version of an “Otto Phlex” (Project X Riptide CB 40g 4.0 flex).

Even Quicker Fitting Background:  This was a present (facilitated by my wife) - I’ve wanted to do something like this for several years, ever since becoming a fan of TXG.  The idea of having an entire day where you just get to hit all the newest stuff, and find out if there’s something out there that could actually better your game, was just the BEST idea to me, and that’s what this fitting was.  I told Michael up front, that I was absolutely not buying anything that day, but that this was a dream fit.  He totally understood, and said “awesome - so let’s have some fun today.”  We were on the same page.  However, I’ll also add that I am definitely interested in new irons this year, so I was hoping to use this fit as a way to see if a Player’s Distance iron could be a good fit for me, as a kind of natural progression from my game improvement set.

Michael had me warm up - I chose my 52-degree, then my 7, and just attempted to get loose a little while talking about life, the Forum, Ian at TXG, how freakishly delicious the Subway breakfast sandwich was; you know, the normal stuff you talk to your fitter about.

Anyway, he had me hit my 6 iron, as that’s what they test off of at TS.  Michael’s quote was something along the lines of “everyone can hit a 7-iron.  You can’t hide from a 6-iron.”  It was then, and later on, that I’d wished I’d warmed up with the 6 iron. 

Now, a VERY small caveat here:  while I *had* managed to hit a small bucket of balls two weeks prior, I was coming off effectively zero golf for almost a month.  Christmas was crazy, and then my wife and I got Covid (where I tested positive for FOUR. TEEN. DAYS.), and then I was out of town for a wedding.  This was the longest layoff of golf I’ve had in well over a year, and…lol…well, I’ll explain. 

I have a tendency to get lazy firing my hips - my coach has been working on this with me, and every time I leave the club face open, it’s a DEAD giveaway that I’m not firing that front hip through.  Apparently, aside from one or two shots after we hit the irons, I forgot I had hips at all.  My 6 iron was PEELING right, and going all of 155 yards.  LOL.  Let me say that again - ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-FIVE YARDS.  My regular, on-course distance for my 8-iron is 160.  This was … alarming.  

I hit 5 “good ones” (these were NOT good ones. I tried telling my “friend,” Michael (who suddenly was wearing red horns and had a pointy tail, laughing maniacally behind me), this fact, and he simply said he was “fitting me for today, not for tomorrow” which…while maddeningly fair and the correct thing to do, was not what I wanted to hear.),

(this may or may not have been my fitter. Time will tell.)

and then he said “Okay, what do you want to hit?”  The ONLY thing I really wanted to hit was the Cobra King Tour, but they didn’t have that in stock, and honestly, given the “five good ones,” I wasn’t sure I had the cojones to ask to hit them.  So I chickened out and said “probably the Ping G430?” In the wimpiest voice imaginable.  Michael, bless him, rolled his eyes, and said “you’re not hitting those - there’s no point in coming all this way to hit the same kind of clubs you already have.”  Again, same page - I didn’t WANT to hit Game Improvement irons (even if that IS what I should be in, as that’s not what TODAY was about), and he knew that.  He said, “okay, I’ll be right back with some choices.”  

Michael came back with five heads.  I’m not sure he could have done better, honestly, with the exception of no Forged Tec being in the mix. The heads were: Titleist T200, Srixon ZX5 Mark II, TM P790, Ping i525, and the Mizuno Hot Metal Pro.  Drool.

From a first-looks perspective, I was immediately drown to the Srixon, the Mizuno, and (a little to my shock) most of all, the P790s.  I’ve seen so many pictures of them, and they’re so prevalent, I think I forgot just how absolutely gorgeous the design is.  

I fully (!) expected that this Player’s Distance type of iron would look TINY behind the ball compared to my Game Improvement Sim Max irons.  And while smaller, they were smaller in the best way possible - no chunk coming out of the back-side, good blade-length, confidence-inspiring top-lines - I was pretty surprised, overall, at how comfortable I was standing over them.  Part 1: look at address? Check.

I swing the Hot Metal Pro a few times to get accustomed to the weight, while Michael plugs in the label into the computer to track that data.  It feels nice.  It looks nice.  I’m excited.  I step up to the ball (Pro-V1s, btw).  I waggle.  I get comfortable.  I waggle again.  I swing.

I cold top the ball into the right-hand corner of the fitting bay, missing the screen entirely.  

“Huh.  I’m gonna try that again.”  (Silence from Michael.). I step up, I waggle, I’m comfortable, I swing.  I hit the ball!  3 feet off the ground, it carries a total of 37 yards and rolls for another 49.  The projected flight path is a thing I will have nightmares about for weeks. 

“Umm…wow.” I say, trying to laugh.  I mean, that’s hilarious, right?  I try again.  Exact same shot.  EXACT.  Maybe the roll is less this time.  

I look at the shaft - Modus 105s - same as in my Sims.  Huh.  I look at the head again, thinking maybe there’s an answer there (“faulty head, probably,” is dancing around my head - I’m trying to swat the thought away, knowing it’s literally not possible).

I try again.  And again.  Two more nightmare shots.  

“Okay, bring that back here,” Michael says.  I can’t make eye contact.  I’m horrified.  Clearly, I’m not made for Mizunos.  Clearly, I don’t belong in an establishment like this.  Clearly, I’ve never swung a golf club before.  

We try the next head.  

Let me just skip ahead here, and spare you the “and then I waggled” - all 5 heads.  I think I hit THREE shots that were airborne.  I genuinely couldn’t stop laughing - it was miraculous.  I honestly don’t think I could have done it on purpose.  Michael - sweet, sweet friendly Michael - says “if this were only an iron fitting, it’s at this point I’d tell you to go home and come back another day.” lol.  Not really what I wanted to hear, but I appreciated the truth. 

To his great credit, he said that once a quarter, this just…happens to someone.  This.  The dreaded “y”-word.  Of all the days for me to experience it for the first time, here and now, I had the Yips.  I asked if putting all the stuff in my left-hand pocket into my right-hand pocket would help.  Michael told me I was no Roy McAvoy (hurtful, but oh so true).

I’m flummoxed.  I’m mystified.  I’m swearing so much I’m afraid I’m going to offend Michael.  I take a big breath, and Michael (god love him), says “How ‘bout we hit driver?”  THANK. GOD.  Driver’s hardly my strong point, but it can’t be worse than this misery. 

I pull out my Otto Phlex, which I have been LOVING since putting in the bag this past summer, and my confidence returns.  A few dry swings, and I let one rip…and the ball actually flies in the air.  Into the screen.  And the projection shows it traveling my pretty standard 245-250 and rolling out to 270ish.  Granted, it’s got a little peel to the right, but I will TAKE that all day.  

“Theeeere we go,” says Michael.  

And thank God he held out and didn’t just send me home.  I logged five (actual) good ones, and then we started diving into the drivers.  Quick note here - I REALLY like my driver.  I was honestly tempted to not spend any time in the fitting with drivers, since I’m feeling in a good place (for the first time maybe ever) with this set-up.  I feel like I get great swing speed with the shaft, and the ONLY issue is my timing (because of the flexibility of the shaft), which is on me, not the driver.  I could tell Michael was … reticent about my set-up, which was okay by me.  I wanted him to beat my set-up, which is what he was looking for, too.  Again, same page.  

He brought out the Cobra Aerojet, Titleist TSR2, Stealth 2, and Paradym.  Immediately I was drawn to the Paradym - I was really, really surprised, to be honest.  I think it looks fine in the pictures I’ve seen online, but in person, I just couldn’t look away.  

We started with the Aerojet, which was fine, but didn’t do anything to beat either ball-speed or ball-flight, so we moved on pretty quickly.  

Stealth 2, while cool looking, was an absolute no-go for me.  Came out super low, super low spin, and WAY right.  Next.

Paradym.  Good god this thing looks good behind the ball.  Again - I was VERY surprised.  Sound and feel were delightful.  Ball flight, much better.  Ball speeds better.  Definitely a contender.  

Titelst TSR2.  My first sentence when I got it at address: “this looks like my father’s driver.”  (Side note: my father is 83.  Take from that comment what you will.). Then I hit it.  Wow.  It was legit like point and shoot.  Better in every way for me than the Paradym.  Big face made me feel like I could mis-hit all day without being punished.  Both Michael and I kept looking at the spin, the launch…it was in a GREAT window.  Mishits weren’t dipping WAY down (like they did for me on the others) in spin, and still holding the “fade” line I’d been presenting all day.  

It wasn’t even close really.  We went back to the Paradym again, then back to the TSR2.  Again, not really a big question.  

(Btw, the only thing I would have liked to have tried was the Ping G430, but I think we were running pretty late on time, and honestly, the TSR2’s numbers were going to be hard to beat.  I think if I had pressed, Michael would have gone and got it, but as I was cognizant he had another fit after me, I was happy to move on.)

Now we tried shafts.  Holy HELL did we try shafts.  I don’t have numbers for EVERY shaft, as a) that would be overwhelming, and b) they weren’t provided to me anyway, lol.  But I can say that this might have been my favorite part of the day - feeling and then watching how small differences in weight/flex/bend profile affected the numbers.  Here’s a quick list of what we did try, for those of you interested:  Ventus TR Blue and Red 6s, Diamana PD 60s and TB 50s, Hashimoto 65 4, VA Drago 65 4 and Oban Devotion TR 65 4.  We tested the Devotion TR 65 4 pretty early - might even have been 2nd?  I honestly can’t remember, but it IMMEDIATELY felt incredible, and then numbers were just right.  I think I ended up trying it three separate times, and it was pretty indisputable - it was the shaft for me with the TSR2.  

After getting a few good ones with that combo, and confirming it was the right windows Michael was looking for, he had me hit mine again.  My comfort level with my set-up is VERY high, and it showed immediately.  Higher swing speed, slightly better (or same) carry.  I do, however, have a tendency to mis-time with this shaft, and there was at least one in there that didn’t happen with the Oban.  It would have been a tough call, honestly, as the TSR2+Oban price tag is pretty significantly (nearly $575) more than what I paid for the PXG/Riptide.  If I were in the market, I would have to weigh pros/cons.  Luckily, my set-up actually performed WAY better in comparison to this new fit.  

 

Okay, so we finish this.  Michael, trepidatiously, asks if I want to try the irons again.  “YES!” I say, so grateful he has it in him to attempt again.  

And this time we find a little bit (and I mean LITTLE) of a groove.  I hit the Srixon ZX-5s, as those were the ones that I liked the most behind the ball.  That squared-off top line that doesn’t look TOO thin (like the i525/P790 (the latter surprised me, actually), and I think I just like looking at it more than the T200 and only SLIGHTLY more than the HMP’s.  Considering I hit all of them about the same (3-feet high, ground balls to right), we tried the one I liked looking at the best, lol.

And suddenly I could hit an iron shot again.  Sure, a TAD right, but that’s my general “lazy/tired” miss anyway, and at this point, we’d hit a lot of shots.  But Good. Lord.  These things feel so, so lovely.  Good contact is rewarded with a gentle thud in the hands (I played a lot of baseball, and that “non-feeling” of when you absolutely crush the ball is the only way I can correlate it), crisp sound.  But it was the mis-hits (and there were still plenty) where I was shocked the most - I really expected to be penalized with a club like this, and … I just wasn’t.  Not feel-wise, anyway.  Sure, it “clicked” more, and I could feel I was getting it out of the toe or heel (I’m very fair to the whole face of the club - I’m not one of these “middle-only” a-holes you read about), but the flight and distance were NOT far from the “good” hits.  

Now, the 6-iron I was hitting in this set is 27 degrees - so a degree-and-a-half weaker than my current 7-iron, and it was carrying 170 and rolling to 184 (per numbers).  This is roughly the same as my current 7 - which I’m VERY okay with.  I also know with more practice with these, more centered hits, and continuing my lessons/practice-regimen, these would for sure fly further than the numbers I was getting here.  

Considering that in my head, every set I’ve put together of PD irons always is 6-PW/GW, this was AWESOME to see. 

Shaft-wise, for the irons, we tried: Modus 105 (both reg and stiff), CTaper Lite 105/110, CT Steel 100R, Accra Steel 105r and 105s, and finally (and kind of, again, overwhelmingly) the Project X IO 5.5.  These were a really great find.  I like the Modus 105s I have in my Sims just fine, but the IO’s felt lighter, easier to load, but still presented enough stiffness and the ball flight was perfect. 

(Good lord - look at that red dot.  Could I be any closer to an AVERAGE shank? That's my AVERAGE. With my own club. Yikes.)

Phew.  We made it.  Only thing left was to talk about gapping, and see if a 3-wood made sense.  I hit my current 5-wood (lofted at 21 degrees) a few times, and it was very clear it’s essentially a 7-wood.  The numbers weren’t BAD by any means, but it was spinning too much and flying 195 and rolling to 205.  

Michael came back with two 3-woods (again, time being an issue, but also I like to think he had a pretty good sense of what was going to work for me).  He showed me two:  Stealth (not the “2”, as it wasn’t in stock yet, but they’re effectively the same design), and the Paradym.  Again, the look of the Paradym just absolutely won for me - not just the top-down, but the fact that it’s a low, shallow face vs. the Stealth’s higher, deeper face (not sure I described that very well, but the Callaway is considerably shorter top to bottom, and longer front-to-back.  The Stealth the opposite, taller top to bottom, but shorter front-to-back).

And sure enough, hitting them was a clear-cut victory for the Callaway.  Spin numbers were in check, carry was 216 (avg), roll-out to just shy of 240.  Ideal, for where my speed/swing is at.  (Michael literally said, while talking about gapping before grabbing the 3-woods, “I want your three wood flying 220 and rolling to 240, your five-wood flying 205 and rolling to 220.”  The VERY first one I hit with the Paradym flew 221 and rolled out to 242.  That was cool.)

 

So that’s pretty much it.  I stretched a little bit, put my stuff away, talking with Michael the whole time.  We talked about our Italian wives (and their tradition of saying things that in no way are spelled that way:  prime example, the below picture is pronounced “Gaba-ghoul”.  The first time I went to the store looking for this, I called my wife and told them they didn’t have it.  I nearly lost my mind when she told me how it was spelled.) 

We talked some more about MyGolfSpy, the forum, golf balls (amazing tidbit he kind of threw in at the end - I should be playing a high-spin ball - so the Pro-V1X, or the Maxfli Tour X, etc. - I tend to be pretty low-spin, so playing a high-spin ball better suits me.  I would have NEVER, EVER played an “X” variant without this info.  I just didn’t think that would apply to me.), etc. 

If you’ve gotten this far, thanks for reading.  It’s pretty clear that I can’t really say enough about what an incredible experience this was for me.  I’m so grateful to my wife for making this happen, to TrueSpec for being a company that even exists, but mostly to Michael for making the day a genuine delight - ESPECIALLY because it so easily could have just been a nightmare.  He was so calm, and so easily suggested we keep going and try a different route, and we got there eventually. 

Thanks, Michael!

If there’s anything I didn’t cover here ( and looking at the length of this post, that seems…impossible?), please don’t hesitate to reach out or comment and I’ll do my best to answer any questions!

Thanks for reading, y’all!  (Hey look, I’m Southern now!)

-Samsonite

Small Video to follow with some shots of the store, but I'm tired so I'm going to post that tomorrow

 

[Syks7]

I've been mulling over stepping back into something a bit more forgiving iron wise.  The instant impact of the 2021 0211 Driver's forgiveness is a big driving factor.  I've found myself asking what would my scores look like if I could trust my irons to perform like that driver (everywhere on that face is baby fade city for me).  I've been looking into the previous gen ZX5 which I was fit into but couldn't afford 18 months ago.  I popped into Roger Dunn today and for whatever reason it was a ghost town.  They had the previous gen ZX5's, a used set of 2018 Z585's, and the new ZX5 MKII's.  Handily enough all three sets were in Modus 120.     I spent about an hour taking full advantage of the empty bays and hitting all three sets.  I spent more time with the GI/PD versions and came up with a couple observations.  The feel on the MkII's is much better than the OGZx5.  Not necessarily a better flight but its a much more pleasant feel on a good strike.  The big surprise, I hit the 585's the most consistently.  Though through all three there's not a ton between them for me.  I brought in some other manufacturers to test against and I hit the Srixons (even the player sets) better than I do anything else.  Who knows why, but I find myself thinking I might be pulling the trigger on a new set of either the OG ZX5's or, if I can find one, a mint set of the 585s.  

If anyone's curious I did not find there to be too much between the three in regards to Launch, spin, and ball speed.  If I'd spent more time actually looking at the Data rather than hitting I probably could have found some differentiation but there isn't a lot between them which I think is pretty cool.  They've found a solid formula and aren't altering it a bunch from generation to generation.

Edited January 31, 2023 by Syks7

[GolfSpy SAM]

43 minutes ago, Syks7 said:

If anyone's curious I did not find there to be too much between the three in regards to Launch, spin, and ball speed.  If I'd spent more time actually looking at the Data rather than hitting I probably could have found some differentiation but there isn't a lot between them which I think is pretty cool.  They've found a solid formula and aren't altering it a bunch from generation to generation.

I've been hearing incredible things about the lineup since (at least) the 585s, so it makes sense there's not a whole lot of change - they've got something amazing. I hit and loved the Mark II's but in  the market for something on the less-expensive side. Time will tell if I can avoid the temptation

[Grand Stranded]

On 1/13/2023 at 5:15 PM, flaridaMarlin said:

I've been using the Sun Mountain 2.5 golf bag for the past few months and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. It's lightweight, easy to carry and has a sleek design that makes it stand out on the course. The straps are comfortable and well-padded, which makes it easy to carry even when it's fully loaded with clubs and accessories.

One of the things I love most about this bag is the ample storage space it provides. It has multiple pockets that are perfect for keeping all my golfing essentials organized. I no longer have to fumble around looking for a tee or a ball, everything is right there in its designated pocket. The stand system is reliable and keeps the bag upright when not being carried, it is also very easy to access the clubs, which saves a lot of time when you are on the course.

Overall, I highly recommend the Sun Mountain 2.5 golf bag to any golfer looking for a high-quality and functional bag. It is durable and well-designed, and it has made my golfing experience much more enjoyable. I've received many compliments on the bag from my golfing buddies, and I'm very proud of my purchase.

I’ll second this. I have been using a 2.5 for the past two years. 
I won a 2.5 14 way last summer in a scramble and although I’ve always preferred a 14 way, I just can’t bring myself to take this one out of the box and move on from my 4 way 2.5.
It’s such a great golf bag. As you said, comfortable, light and fully functional.

 

[Merlin1313]

@GolfSpy_SAM- I noticed that you play the Nippon Modus Tour 105s. They're one of the 2 shafts I'm trying to decide between for my Paradym irons. Would you give me a brief idea of what you like/dislike about them? They're going up against the PX Rifle 105 Tour Flighted. I appreciate any info that you can share with me. I currently carry my 7I about 165-170

[GolfSpy SAM]

3 minutes ago, Merlin1313 said:

@GolfSpy_SAM- I noticed that you play the Nippon Modus Tour 105s. They're one of the 2 shafts I'm trying to decide between for my Paradym irons. Would you give me a brief idea of what you like/dislike about them? They're going up against the PX Rifle 105 Tour Flighted. I appreciate any info that you can share with me. I currently carry my 7I about 165-170

Hey Hey! I really don't have any complaints about the Modus 105s, honestly.  In my recent fit, we hit the 105s and also the Project X IOs, and the feel of those was just better all around for me - I really liked the slightly softer flex (it's a 5.5 (R+ is the Project X designation)) vs the Stiff of the 105s, but I wouldn't say it was hands-down better or worse in any real way.  I know the 105s have a lot of love around these parts - @GolfSpy_APH I'm pretty sure is a big fan, as well. 

For me, the differences were slight, but I liked the ball-flight with the IOs better than my current Modus 105s.  Again, it was subtle.  I don't have any experience with the "Tour Flighted", but considering how much I liked the IOs, and depending on what kind of flight you're looking for, you might not go wrong in either direction.  

Here's a quote I found over at Golfworks.com (which is a GREAT site when it comes to info, btw), when I was researching the idea of building the clubs myself (sourcing the shafts from them and possibly getting a set of heads from Takomo):

Q: What other shafts that have the same specs as the 5.5 XO that are comparable or better

A:  When you get into the 105 gram weight range of the PX IO 5.5 (TT0168) there are not many options for matching shafts. The Dynamic Gold 105 (TT0122) which is designed for a low/mid trajectory compared to the IO 5.5 which is designed for a mid/high trajectory. The DG 105 would be stiller in the tip section compared to the IO 5.5. The new KBS Tour Lite in the S flex weights 100 grams and is also designed for a mid/high trajectory. The Nippon N.S. Pro Modus3 Tour 105 (NP0016) which is designed for a mid trajectory. It is also a little stiffer tip shaft compared to the IO 5.5 but not as tip stiff as the DG 105.

Hope this helps!

[Merlin1313]

4 hours ago, GolfSpy_SAM said:

Hey Hey! I really don't have any complaints about the Modus 105s, honestly.  In my recent fit, we hit the 105s and also the Project X IOs, and the feel of those was just better all around for me - I really liked the slightly softer flex (it's a 5.5 (R+ is the Project X designation)) vs the Stiff of the 105s, but I wouldn't say it was hands-down better or worse in any real way.  I know the 105s have a lot of love around these parts - @GolfSpy_APH I'm pretty sure is a big fan, as well. 

For me, the differences were slight, but I liked the ball-flight with the IOs better than my current Modus 105s.  Again, it was subtle.  I don't have any experience with the "Tour Flighted", but considering how much I liked the IOs, and depending on what kind of flight you're looking for, you might not go wrong in either direction.  

Here's a quote I found over at Golfworks.com (which is a GREAT site when it comes to info, btw), when I was researching the idea of building the clubs myself (sourcing the shafts from them and possibly getting a set of heads from Takomo):

Q: What other shafts that have the same specs as the 5.5 XO that are comparable or better

A:  When you get into the 105 gram weight range of the PX IO 5.5 (TT0168) there are not many options for matching shafts. The Dynamic Gold 105 (TT0122) which is designed for a low/mid trajectory compared to the IO 5.5 which is designed for a mid/high trajectory. The DG 105 would be stiller in the tip section compared to the IO 5.5. The new KBS Tour Lite in the S flex weights 100 grams and is also designed for a mid/high trajectory. The Nippon N.S. Pro Modus3 Tour 105 (NP0016) which is designed for a mid trajectory. It is also a little stiffer tip shaft compared to the IO 5.5 but not as tip stiff as the DG 105.

Hope this helps!

Thanks for the info- it's greatly appreciated. I did notice that (to me) the PXs were a little bit stiffer but they're both great- might have to go back a little bit closer to order time and try them both again. I probably spend more time on Golfworks than I should, but they do have a lot of great info. My fitter said that my numbers were great with either of the 2 (to the point where he was thinking about re-evaluating his shafts), just comes down to feel. 

[Merlin1313]

@GolfSpy_APH- @GolfSpy_SAM informed me that you also play the Nippon Modus Tour 105s. They're one of the 2 shafts I'm trying to decide between for my Paradym irons. Would you give me a brief idea of what you like/dislike about them? They're going up against the PX Rifle 105 Tour Flighted. I appreciate any info that you can share with me. I currently carry my 7I about 165-170

[GolfSpy_APH]

19 minutes ago, Merlin1313 said:

@GolfSpy_APH- @GolfSpy_SAM informed me that you also play the Nippon Modus Tour 105s. They're one of the 2 shafts I'm trying to decide between for my Paradym irons. Would you give me a brief idea of what you like/dislike about them? They're going up against the PX Rifle 105 Tour Flighted. I appreciate any info that you can share with me. I currently carry my 7I about 165-170

Nearly everything in the Nippon range I'm a fan of. 

The 105 are a great lighter weight/feel shaft. Some will say they play or feel a little soft to flex so depending on your swing going to an X  isn't out of the question. 

They are just a great shaft for feel, performance and consistency. 

 

[Grand Stranded]

On 1/26/2023 at 2:26 AM, GolfSpy_SAM said:

WARNING: The following post is VERY long, and pretty silly, but 100% intended to entertain. If you do not like long posts, just skip it (TLDR version: I had an amazing time at TrueSpec, you should probably go if you get the chance.)

Alright, so let's talk about this True Spec fitting in full. I think I've digested the experience at this point enough to feel like I've learned what I needed to in order to write about it.  (I have a habit of enthusing IMMEDIATELY after most experiences, and then on reflection, feel like I might have over-done it, so I wanted to give this at least a few days to really settle in)

Okay, so let's start with the facilities.  I had my appointment in the Beverly Hills (fancy, I know - but it might make you less impressed to know I rolled up in my wife's 2010 Blue Corolla...lol) True Spec, located directly next to Nieman Marcus' Men's Shop, in case you're interested in a pair of genuinely insane-looking shoes that only cost 

I feel like those were worth pausing this diatribe to let you marvel. Perhaps you’ve wondered what it would feel like to wear tires?  Or maybe you’re interested in someone’s dirty sneakers for the price of a Stealth 2? No matter what, they. have. It.  (As an aside, they actually do have some good-looking golf shoes…which gets us back to the point at hand)

Okay, so continuing on.  My appointment was at the crack of 10, so after dropping the kids off at school, I threw my clubs into the Blueberry and headed the hour-ish south from my place to the land of Brandon, Brenda, Dylan and Kelly (we shall not speak of Donna in this place, for this is a safe space).  I found a VERY fancy, overpriced sandwich shop and got some fuel in me before the estimated 4-hour fitting.

I opened the doors right at 10, and was greeted by my fitter, Michael, poking his head around the corner and asking, “Matt?”  I wiped the excess cheese from my beard, and said hello, and followed him to the main bay at the front of the store, past the wall-o-shafts and the drawers filled with all the goods.  

Please note I figured I’d have plenty of time to take this picture, and then completely forgot, so this is courtesy of TrueSpec’s website.  I’m a terrible reporter. That’s not me on the right, nor is that my fitter on the left. 

This, however, is absolutely me…

 

Matt, you’ve come long way here in the short time since we were chosen as testers for the LAB putters last year! I didn’t know about your “Spy promotion” until I saw this post, and the powers that be couldn’t have made a better choice. 
For those of you who aren’t familiar with this guy, besides the obvious outgoing personality and writing skills, Matt is one of the nicest people and upbeat people on the site. Although we were both first time testers here, he had many more computer type skills than I, and he was quick to reach out and offer me any help I might need.

We had a great group of people in that test, but imo both our mod Tony and Matt were invaluable to me. Tony for his patience and guidance, and Matt for just being who he is!

Edited February 1, 2023 by Grand Stranded

[GolfSpy SAM]

9 minutes ago, Grand Stranded said:

Matt, you’ve come long way here in the short time since we were chosen as testers for the LAB putters last year! I didn’t know about your “Spy promotion” until I saw this post, and the powers that be couldn’t have made a better choice. 
For those of you who aren’t familiar with this guy, besides the obvious outgoing personality and writing skills, Matt is one of the nicest people on the site. Although we were both first time testers here, he had many more computer type skills than I, and he was quick to reach out and offer me any help I might need.

We had a great group of people in that test, but imo both Tony and Matt were invaluable to me. Tony for his patience and guidance, and Matt for just being who he is!

Gah! What an awesome message - thanks, man! So happy to be a part of this community, and to help in any way I can.  Here's to me being able to visit family back in NY/CT and arranging a Spy Meetup! 

[GolfSpy_APH]

30 minutes ago, Grand Stranded said:

Matt, you’ve come long way here in the short time since we were chosen as testers for the LAB putters last year! I didn’t know about your “Spy promotion” until I saw this post, and the powers that be couldn’t have made a better choice. 
For those of you who aren’t familiar with this guy, besides the obvious outgoing personality and writing skills, Matt is one of the nicest people and upbeat people on the site. Although we were both first time testers here, he had many more computer type skills than I, and he was quick to reach out and offer me any help I might need.

We had a great group of people in that test, but imo both our mod Tony and Matt were invaluable to me. Tony for his patience and guidance, and Matt for just being who he is!

Shout out to @DriverBreaker

[juspoole]

I hit a couple drivers yesterday.  The Titleist TSR3 and Callaway Paradym and Paradym Triple Diamond.

I have to say I was blown away by the look and feel of the TSR3.  It was the winner for me on that day.  Part of it could have been shaft a bit.  I currently use the Ventus TR blue and I was hitting a Black Ventus with the TSR, but was hitting the Kalil with Callaway.  Very good shaft as well, but I am familiar with the feels of the ventus line and was swinging a bit faster with the TSR/ventus combo.

The standard paradym seemed to sit much too closed for my eyes.  I really thought the Callaway would be going in the bag this year, but the TSR3 was just too good.  The triple diamond was also very good, but just not quite as forgiving and a little less ball speed and distance.  I also like that I can move the weight around side to side with the TSR3 as this helps me get the club closed a bit easier when I have the weight in the heel.  

I would say that the Paradym and the TSR3 were the closest when it came to mis hits and forgiveness.  The triple diamond was definitely still better than my current Mavrik SZ in that department, but I can certainly notice a bit more of a punch with the new drivers.  I don't think they will be adding much to my good hits, but the off center hits are definitely looking tighter and straighter.

Indoors and on a simulator is so much different than real golf, so hopefully when I was seeing will translate to the course when I do make the plunge.

[Merlin1313]

Ok- so this doesn't really fit in to the "What Equipment Have I Tested " category- but I recently acquired a set of Ben Hogan Apex Irons 3-"Equalizer". The wedge doesn't fit the rest of the clubs but its really close. They still have the original grips (Equalizer has a leather grip). They're what I consider to be "Fair" condition for their age and they're probably goin up for sale as I'm not that much of a collector. I'm trying to decide if it would be better to regrip them( the current grips are WELL worn/ cracked etc.) or leave the grips "as is" or offer the regripping as an option after I cheer them up. Any input would be greatly appreciated

[GolfSpy_APH]

Tested... well hit 5-10 shots with each so demoed may be a better term some irons today. 

Mizuno JPX 923 Forged
Thoughts - The club just felt heavy to me. I did have the Nippon 115 shaft in it vs the 105 in the others, but it wasn't only the club itself but the head just felt heavy. Ball speeds were fine, distance and spin was solid, but I truly really struggled finding the middle with much consistency. I really wanted to like this club... almost too much? However it just didn't jive with me. Maybe if I do a real fit I will go try a few different shafts and see how much of a difference that makes. 

Ping i525
Thoughts - As soon as this was put in my hand I felt a massive difference. It felt ... like home... weight was way more in line with what I am comfortable with and had significantly better performance immediately. Balls speeds reached up to 120 and 170 with a 7 iron for for distance. I really really liked this club. Spin rates were solid being low 5000s and had a decent angle 46-48 degrees so no worries in stopping power. 

Ping i230
Thoughts - Felt a bit heavier, but more in line with what I am use to. Solid shots were definitely a well different feel from the i525. Still strong and powerful with plenty of pop, but also just solid. Not super soft and definitely an improvement on the i210. Numbers were a bit shorter being 165 ish with similar height. Ball speeds were don from the i525 by about 4-6 mph in general... but the spin rates were through the roof! 6500 plus on all strikes. 

End thoughts - I guess I am just a ping guy? I loved the look of both the i525 and i230. They look so freaking good and the main difference being a slightly higher toe sections in the i525. Top lines are small, offset doesn't have much in it and if I was to go ahead and make a purchase today I would really be torn. My initial thought is to go i230 and make them a degree or two strong to knock the spin down a bit and gain that distance... its a real thinker!

[GaryF]

47 minutes ago, GolfSpy_APH said:

Tested... well hit 5-10 shots with each so demoed may be a better term some irons today. 

Mizuno JPX 923 Forged
Thoughts - The club just felt heavy to me. I did have the Nippon 115 shaft in it vs the 105 in the others, but it wasn't only the club itself but the head just felt heavy. Ball speeds were fine, distance and spin was solid, but I truly really struggled finding the middle with much consistency. I really wanted to like this club... almost too much? However it just didn't jive with me. Maybe if I do a real fit I will go try a few different shafts and see how much of a difference that makes. 

Ping i525
Thoughts - As soon as this was put in my hand I felt a massive difference. It felt ... like home... weight was way more in line with what I am comfortable with and had significantly better performance immediately. Balls speeds reached up to 120 and 170 with a 7 iron for for distance. I really really liked this club. Spin rates were solid being low 5000s and had a decent angle 46-48 degrees so no worries in stopping power. 

Ping i230
Thoughts - Felt a bit heavier, but more in line with what I am use to. Solid shots were definitely a well different feel from the i525. Still strong and powerful with plenty of pop, but also just solid. Not super soft and definitely an improvement on the i210. Numbers were a bit shorter being 165 ish with similar height. Ball speeds were don from the i525 by about 4-6 mph in general... but the spin rates were through the roof! 6500 plus on all strikes. 

End thoughts - I guess I am just a ping guy? I loved the look of both the i525 and i230. They look so freaking good and the main difference being a slightly higher toe sections in the i525. Top lines are small, offset doesn't have much in it and if I was to go ahead and make a purchase today I would really be torn. My initial thought is to go i230 and make them a degree or two strong to knock the spin down a bit and gain that distance... its a real thinker!

Curious if you have tried Titliest T200?  If so, how does it compare to i525s and others?

Edited February 15, 2023 by GaryF