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Hi from San Carlos,
Last week we learned from Kim Braley that Steve Stricker put the new Constant Taper (CT) shafts in his bag at the Byron Nelson. The CT shafts are described as the “New Project X”.
If you’re looking for proof that 2011 is the “Year of the Steel Iron Shaft”, Stricker took care of that.
At the Memorial, Stricker was incredibly accurate with his irons, bagging eagles in early rounds and “throwing darts” in the final round to birdie three of the first four holes and go five under after nine.
I posted two articles about the new iron shafts that are causing a shift away from True Temper Dynamics on Tour. The first two installments of the heavy steel shaft story can be found here:
Live from the Byron Nelson:
http://calgolflab.com/blog/?p=116
New Heavy Steel Shafts for Good Players:
http://calgolflab.com/blog/?p=91
If you play “heavy” steel shafts – over 115 grams – you should set some time aside to test the new models from KB Tour (FST), Nippon and Shimada.
Shaft fitting is a combination of electronic testing confirmed with outdoor range time. The new radar launch monitors compare the “behavior” of each shaft just prior to impact. We can “see” consistency with radar at a level that is impossible to detect with a naked eye. “Radar tracings” are very helpful in determining shaft bend profile and flex.
Radar uncovers unexpected results from misunderstood shafts. No golfer expects iron shafts to be exciting. Get ready for a surprise.
Nippon Modus 3
There’s another shaft on Tour that’s been unappreciated – and consequently undiscovered – since it was released several months ago. It is the Nippon Modus 3. It is the most misunderstood shaft in the world. The butt flex measurement says the shaft should be good for ladies and seniors. The “flex profile” shows soft butt and midsection and very stiff tip.
V.J. Singh is a Modus 3 and he didn’t do that badly at the Memorial – posting 65 in his final round to tie low round for the day. This is another new shaft that deserves a test.
The Modus 3 is another challenge to the “conventional wisdom” that shaft flex should be matched to swing speed. That belief is no longer true.
Iron Shaft Fitting Special
The best way to find out if one of the new shafts is right for you is to start with an Iron Shaft Fitting. We’re focused on six shaft models: the KB Tour Constant Taper, KB Tour, Nippon Modus 3, Shimada Pro, Aerotech Steel Fiber and Matrix Program.
Our shaft fittings include radar launch monitor testing, a trip to the range to confirm test results and a “wrap-up” session. We think it is imperative for a golfer to have hands-on testing experience with recommended clubs to make an informed choice.
Even if you you’re “steel only” for life – you owe yourself a quick check on Aerotech – Matt Kuchar would recommend it – his Steel Fibers have him at the top of the money list again this year. Same goes for the Matrix Program shaft. The Program is a serious effort from an important shaft company to establish a “Tour Grade” price point.
Iron Shaft Fitting
1.5 hours – 2 sessions.
(1 hour radar diagnostic, range visit, half hour wrap-up)
Total time required: 4 hours
$150
Call Dian Terova to schedule a convenient appointment. Office hours: Weekdays 10-12. (650) 654-1770.
Best regards,
Leith Anderson, David Balbi, Clint Smith, Dian Terova, Joel Whittom.
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