QUESTION: Hi,

My driver swing speed is in the 85 mph range. My 6 iron distance 150 yards. I am
looking at the new Adams A4 irons, and one of the shaft options is the Nippon
850-would this be a good fit for me?
Thank you,Norm

 

ANSWER: Hi Norm,

The Adams A-4 irons are a wonderful design and especially effective for golfers with medium speeds like yourself. The lower center of gravity aids in getting the ball up in the air and headed at your target.

The tricky part of any set of irons is proper shaft selection.

The NS PRO 850GH is one of our premium ultra-light steel models made with our exclusive NSGS8655V shaft material. With the combination of our specialized heat treatment processes and our fanatical adherence to razor thin production tolerances, you are contemplating a great choice.

Shaft selection based on power or swing speed is only a guess. Shaft sleection based on actual testing is the preferred method.

Actual testing options to consider are;

-purchase one A4 iron with the 850 model installed

-contact one of our Authorized Installation Centers and ask to try the 850 model, (many of our centers are Adams dealers as well)

-contact the Adams Company as to any scheduled demo days in your area 

-find any store, driving range, or demo day that has some of our models- our 950 model is often in Callaway, Titleist, and Mizuno demo/fitting cart clubs, and this model is our 10 gram heavier sister to our 850 model. If the 950 is too light, the 850 is not the club for you. If this model feels good and could even go a little lighter, than most likely the 850 is a good choice.

Finally, choose the flex and length based on what you have had success with in the past.

Best regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hi,

Nippon NS Pro 1100 Uniflex Shafts? Can you please tell me if the flex of these
shafts is what might be called “REGULAR FLEX”?
I can no longer handle a Stiff 6.0 shaft and need to know if these Nippon NS
Pro 1100 Uniflex Shafts will be more flexible.
Thank you, Ian

ANSWER: Hi Ian,

Typically, a Uniflex means a shaft flex somewhere between a R and an S flex.

So, Yes, a Uniflex will be more flexible than a Stiff flex.

One word of caution. Us human golfers all feel things differently. Just because a shaft carries a “label” that says ‘R’ or ‘S’ or ‘Uniflex’ is not always a true measure of how a given club will play. The length, head design, sole design, shaft weight, shaft kick point, swingweight, club lie, and shaft balance, are all factors that make a club play a certain way.

Use the shaft label as a guide, but use live testing as the serious method of determining a clubs playability.

Regards, Mark 

QUESTION: Hi Mark,
I’m trying to verify the launch characteristics of your various models,
specifically 750, 850 and 950.  Do they all follow the same Mid to High launch
that is characteristic of the 950GH, or do the lighter models have different
characteristics?
Thanks for all your help in answering these diverse questions.
Tom

 

ANSWER: Hi Tom,

These 3 models all have a similar launch design, which is mid to high.

However, the greater effect is the human element. Golfers do not simply hit a shot with out measuring, interpreting, and adjusting their stance and swing to best match their performance needs.

Also, we have tested these models on a TRACKMAN system with varying levels of golfers and have found them to be similar in trajectory, but the part that varies is that some golfers will achieve more or less trajectory based on which shaft weight interacts best with their body, swing, and ability. 

So, the crazy answer is that some golfers will hit the 850 lower than the 950, and some golfers will hit the 950 lower than the 750, etc. And some golfers will achieve inconsistent trajectories if they require a completely diffferent weight/shaft geometry.

The best approach to determine the optimum performing shaft is through live testing of the different shaft models, hopefully in the same head geometry and with the same installation specifications.

Another information source to consider is our Authorized Installation Center network available at www.shaftology.com.

Best regards, Mark

QUESTION: Dear Mark,

I play Mizuno MP-57 with 950GH S flex. I am considering
replacing the long irons with Mizuno MX-200. The readings for my MP-57 #6 iron is 
D3 Swgwt, 303 CPM, +3/4″ Length and +2* Up Lie.  I find them sometimes
playing a little too stiff.

I demoed a Mizuno MX-200, 6 iron (standard lie and length), with a 950GH R flex. Nice smooth feeling. The readings are D1 Swgwt and 297 CPM. If I order them +3/4″ longer, the swgwt will be D3.
What will be the effect on flex? What is the best way to inform them to get the best possible fit? I hope you can me give an indication.

Regards, Peter

 

ANSWER: Hi Peter,

The benefit of working with a Mizuno dealer is that you have some great choices and the prices are very reasonable.

The benefit of working with an independent clubmaker is that you are able to “dial in” exactly the fitting and installation specifications that you desire.

If you choose to work through a Mizuno dealer, and since you have tested both an S and an R flex in their models, I would consider ordering the 950GH ‘R’ flex. The question of the effect on flex by going to a +3/4″ longer length depends on the individual, but typically will not have a major impact.

So, if you decide to work with a Mizuno dealer, communicate your specifications as MX-200, 950GH, R Flex, +3/4″, +2 Deg, D3.

Always remember that quality sets like those of the Mizuno Company are adjustable for future needs. You don’t hope to need adjustments, but the possibility exists.

Of course, if you are serious about your performance needs, the best option to pursue is to work with one of our Authorized Installation Centers, many of whom are also Mizuno dealers. The first step is to contact one of our centers and ask your questions about their services, pricing, warranty, etc. Next, the benefits of working with a competent independent center is direct communication, the ability to work on your new MX-200 irons and adjust your MP-57 irons, taking into account the individual hosel/bore depth designs of the two models, choosing an exact sub-flex for your specific needs, and also making adjustments on the varying head weights.

Working with one of our centers gives you the opportunity to have all of your questions answered, and the best in installation services.

One word of caution, you will pay more for specialized services, and you will receive more performance, however, it is up to you to be your own advocate. Good independent clubmakers have their own way of doing things and their own biases, but you must be a partner in communicating exactly what you expect. If you work as a partner in your search for the best performing set, you will find the best set you have ever owned.

Best regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hi,
I’m currently playing with a Callaway X-Forged irons with the Project X 5.0. I’m
having trouble hitting these irons. I don’t feel like I getting the feel or the
distance off of these. They felt stiff to me and I’m hitting all my irons with a
fade. I’ve tried hitting the Nippon NS PRO 100 and the NS PRO 950. I like how
they feel. Especially, it seems like it give you that kick at impact. I’m
thinking of switching to them. My questions is? I’m currently a 12-14 handicap.
I’m hitting my 6 iron about 145-150 yards. My ball flight is high. The Project X
seems to bring it down. I would like a medium, penetrating ball flight.  What
kind of Nippon shaft would you recommend I put in my X-forged? I know Callaway
has the NS PRO 990 uniflex recommended. Should I go with that? Or should I go
with something heavier like the NS Pro 1050 or the 1150? Another question is
this. My friend has a set of Titleist NS PRO 100 shafts pulled. The NS PRO 100
was made for Titleist. I know the X-Forged tip size diameter is .355 and the
Titleist irons tip size is also .355. Can I install that in without any
problems? How would that combo play? Does it change how the X-Forged play? Thank
you for your help, Jim

 

ANSWER: Hi Jim,

You have several questions here. The easiest to answer is that your current set is either too stiff or too heavy, or both. If you are losing feel and distance, shafts that are too stiff for you or too heavy for you are the culprit.

If you liked the feel and the distance of the NS PRO 100 or NS PRO 950, then I would think these are good choices. The NS PRO 990 offered by Calloway is a premium shaft, but you must hit it first in a demo to see if you get that same feel and “snap” at impact or you would just be guessing at the feel and performance.

The question of height is a difficult one. Lighter shafts and lower trajectories typically do not go together. You might consider installing one shaft into a test club, seeing how you like the trajectory and then making your choice.

Based on your comments, you most likely fit into the NS PRO 950, 990, or 1050.

You may also do well with the NS PRO 100, however I am not a fan of shafts that were designed for one model and then trying to make them work for another model simply because the tip diameter is the same.

Best of luck on your search, Mark

 

 

QUESTION: Hi Mark,
I have Nippon 1050 regular shafts in my irons, 6 through lob wedge. I like them,
but I was wondering what the benefits are if the set was frequency matched. Also
what is the procedure? I was told they are butt trim only.

Thanks, Les

 

ANSWER: Hi Les,

Many years back, the True Temper and Precision Shaft companies went to court over the definition and use of the term frequency matching. This debate continues among shaft companies and clubmakers as to what exactly constitutes a true frequency matched set.

Most independent clubmakers will define frequency matching as a set that has been numerically matched from club to club using a cycles per minute measurement obtained from a frequency meter. If after charting the individual iron’s lengths and cpms, and if the data points form a straight line, this set is said to be “frequency matched”. 

Typically, a set that meets this definition is most likely installed in a very consistent manner, however the reality is that this is not always the case, and I urge you to go one step beyond this in your thinking. It is possible to take a mismatched set of heads, grips and shafts and by adding or subtracting weight from the shaft butt and tip ends, and by trimming varying amounts from the butt and tip ends of each shaft, achieve a set that has a linear frequency matched set of cpms. However, the balance on these sets is not so great. It just happens that with one qualitative measurement, that of shaft butt frequency, the set seems to be of good manufacture.

Our goal at Nippon Shaft is to manufacture our models to the tightest tolerances possible, based on the limits of today’s manufacturing technology. We know that if our shaft models are properly installed with respect to uniform hosel depth, uniform head weights, uniform lengths, uniform grip weights, and matched lie angles, that you will have a set that is of a premium balance. Also, because of the tight uniformity of our shaft models, if you measure this set on a frequency meter and chart the data, you will find that 99.99% of these sets are a perfect linear frequency match.

The answer to your question is- that your set, if installed in a uniform manner and with uniform components, and utilizing our shaft models, you already will have both a premium balance, and frequency matching.

Best regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hi,

I purchased a Taylor Made Burner when it first came out - R shaft & 10.5 
loft and I was hooking and consistently pulling my drives. An instructor at

Golf Galaxy that I took lessons from, mentioned that the 50 gram shaft

was too soft and that I should go with a stiff shaft eventhough my swing

speed is between 85-90 mph. I put an Aldila MOI S
Proto shaft in my Burner and I’m not hooking the ball as much, but I’ve lost
15-20 yards off the tee. I want to get the new 2009 Burner and when I hit a 
R shaft, I pulled 90% of the balls that I hit. Should I get the Burner
club in a stiff shaft, since the the weight is only 50 grams? The sales rep at
Golf Galaxy mentioned that a stock stiff Taylor Made shaft is probably not as
stiff as a Aldila MOI stiff shaft. Please advise. Tom

ANSWER: Hi Tom,

When discussing the optimal fit of a driver, there are a combination of specifications that add up to good or bad performance.

For sure, you do not want a 50 gram R shaft since you performed so poorly with that combination. So, what direction should you head to begin your search? First, I suggest that you forget most of what anyone tells you and rely primarily on your feel and ultimately on your performance.

If you are contemplating purchasing a stock club, I would test an S flex and see how this works for you. Ideally, the best is live testing, through a demo day, fitting event, or demo trial opportunity. Also, for most golfers, a 50 gram graphite is too light. You might consider a shaft in the 60 to 70 gram range.

If you are contemplating purchasing a custom club, I strongly urge you to connect with a competent clubmaker. This requires more time, money and a definite learning curve as to this foreign process, but most golfers who go down this road hit it with more distance and control. Ask lots of questions regarding fitting, pricing, warranty, etc.

Best regards, Mark
 

Hi Mark,

First off, thanks for a most informative and interesting site!

Okay, I plan on ordering a set of Miura irons, but a standard length 6-iron demo
I have (with a Tour Concept S3) feels too heavy, more specifically, it feels
really too head heavy.  I want a more balanced feel.  I measured the swing
weight at D5.

I’m thinking of getting the 1150 or possibly the cool looking 999 shafts.  What
will the swing weights be, respectively, compared to the TC S3?

Also, on the Nippon site, what exactly does balance point (%) mean?  For
example, the 1150 lists the balance point as 53% and the 950 as 51.9%.  Is this
point a distance from the grip or the club head?  So a 53% means more head heavy
than a 51.9%, or vice-versa?

And one more thing please, what does the 999’s bronze metallic/ion plate shaft color look like?  Similar to a Black Gold?  I’ve yet to see a picture of it anywhere.

Bunch of thanks, Joe

 

ANSWER: Thanks Joe for the kind words,

Miura irons - certainly great quality

Swingweights - a heavier shaft model will make the swingweight heavier, but even a lighter swingweight, say D2 or D3 will still feel quite heavy with a heavier shaft model. The swingweight AND the overall weight will be lighter with either the NS PRO 1150GH Tour or the NS PRO 999GH. I know demo clubs can be hard to find, but live testing is the best.

Balance points- Yes, 53% means more weight in the tip end versus the butt end

999GH shaft- Go to www.shaftology.com and click on the 999GH link on the home page.

Best regards, Mark 

QUESTION: Hi Mark,

I have been using a set of irons with a flat frequency system.  Seems to work
great for me, but would like to go to slightly longer lengths (38.75-39.0″
5iron).  Could I achieve this with one of the Nippon shafts?  I currently use
KZG Evolution iron heads, think the 5 iron heads weighs 258 grams.

What are your thoughts on the flat frequency system? 

Thanks, Ron

 

ANSWER: Hi Ron,

One of the best features of today’s golf equipment is the ability to adjust the specifications to match your performance desires.

A single frequency or flat frequency system is typically chosen by golfers who experiment with different shaft installation methods and find a match with the single flex installation method.

In a typical frequency measurement, each iron is clamped at the butt end of the shaft in a frequency meter and deflected. As the club is released and set in motion, the shaft is counted as it flexes back and forth. A number is calculated in CPM’s or cycles per minute. In a traditional set of irons, this calculated number represents a flex value, and will show a numerical increase as the set is tested from 3 iron through PW, meaning that the shaft flex is increasing in stiffness. If charted on a graph, with the two points being shaft length and butt frequency, the graph will show a line with an upward slope. In a flat frequency system, with all the raw butt frequency numbers being the same, the graph will show a flat line.

Most golfers, prefer a traditional “upward” slope because this is the system they have learned on, and also, their golf swings, and to some extent, their desired ball flight, demand this.

Some golfers, who have a similar length backswing, and a similar tempo with each iron, find value in a flat frequency method. Eventhough the major manufacturers produce traditional sloped frequency sets, and the major tour players use sloped sets, some golfers will perform better with a flat frequency system. In the past, companies like Iso-Vibe, Swing Sync, and many independent clubmaking shops have offered this method.

Like many equipment methodologies, it is not a system for most golfers, but it does have value for some golfers as I have described.  

Regarding the use of Nippon Shaft models to achieve a flat frequency installation- I have performed several different installation variations for golfers, including flat-line and or slope adjustment methods, with our shaft models. However, our shafts are designed for traditional installation methods, and in achieving a flat line type slope, other relationships of balance points, shaft butt diameters, etc., will be affected.  

My best recommendation is to contact one of our Authorized Installation Centers to learn more about how to achieve not only the best slope method, but to also maintain the proper length, weight, and set balance. You may have to interview a few different centers to find the best center for you. A place to start is at www.shaftology.com.

Regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hi, I was fitted for Callaway FT irons, with the recommended shafts being Dynamic Gold S300. I bought a set off of EBAY but they have Nippon NS PRO 1100. My question is- How does the Nippon NS PRO 1100 compare to the Dynamic Gold S300?
Please help. CSW

ANSWER: Hello CSW,

It is our practice never to compare our shaft models and our colleagues shaft models. This is like asking Pepsi to compare their products with Coke. Not the best of methods to achieve un-biased information. However, I will give you some good ideas to consider.

First, I recommend that you contact one of our Authorized Installation Centers for the best product comparisons. They carry most of all the premium shaft brands and work with these models everyday and have first hand performance knowledge for different player types. The list of centers is available at www.shaftology.com.

You can also check out the shaft specifications for these models on the web at www.callawaygolf.com and www.truetemper.com. This is not like testing the shafts in a live setting, but it is a place to start.

Next, if you were “fitted” for a Dynamic Gold shaft model by an interview process, or by a swing speed formula, or by some other predictive method, you really have not been comprehensively fitted for a shaft model. If you were able to test the Dynamic Gold and compare shaft models or compare the results with your current set and had success, then I would recommend that you choose the shaft model and flex that was recommended to you.

The NS PRO 1100 model that is manufactured by Nippon Shaft exclusively for the Callaway Company is certainly a premium shaft model, but also, is a different model in weight, feel and geometry versus a Dynamic Gold model. 

Finally, the most important gift that you can give to your game, body and swing is to choose a fitted set of clubs with regards to the exact specifications of shaft model, weight, length, flex, head and sole style, and the most serious installation options.

With your current set, or your next set, you might consider choosing a more comprehensive approach to equipment selection.

Regards, Mark