The most important thing for distance is hitting the center of the clubface. Shorter works better because you can control the strike consistently . If you could control the strike better with a longer shaft, it would fly longer.
Men try to win arguments by leavi ng 1/2 the facts out and women win arguments by leaving all the facts out. Studies show slower swi ngers hit it farther with longer shafts.
Not surprised at the results Andy. I started gripping down on every club in my bag last year and noticed an instant improvement in strike and consistency with no loss of distance at all.
@@TheAverageGolfer I think a test with a 60gram Stiff, one inch shorter… would interesting….what would the dispersion and ball speed look like. This is a great test, I saw a similar video by a club maker, using foot powder, lead tape and choking down on the club. Once you dial in your contact position.. take it to the fitting… it is a good place to start. This is a little bit more challenging if you need or require a longer stick…
One of the lads I play golf with, who's a low single figure handicap, has a shorter shaft, and his driving is so consistent. He thought he'd lise distance, but being in play was more important. He really hasn't lost any distance, and before the lockdown, he was playing really good golf. I'm thinking of shortening my driver shaft, but will need to test it first.
You hear so many people say that a shorter shaft results in less ball speed and thereby less distance but if strike improves as a result, the speed of the club face more than makes up for it. That is as long as strike is your issue.
Similar experience for me. I game a 44" Driver shaft... way better dispersion and increased distance because I'm finding the middle with more confidence. I imagine it's different for everyone and worthy of testing.
Thanx for the data on the Epic driver head as I use the exact one with a regular flex and shaft length and in the beginning sliced a lot till I set the head loft and lie which has made a huge difference. Am still fine tuning my lofts and lies only due to injuries and limitations with my shoulders and left hand wrist. I love the game and the advances technology has made towards golf clubs being adjustable for the average ardent golfer like myself an absolute blessing! Very interested in shortening my grip an inch and see how that goes after watching this demo.
Great comparison...Gamed the G410 plus last year with the Alta 55 Stiff 1” short and have never been more confident in a driver ,hit more fairways than ever ! 🍻
With my regular Epic driver I had the shaft shortened from the standard 45.25" to 44.5" and I saw no real loss of distance but a big improvement in control. Since then I have definitely improved my swing (sadly still a long way to go) and could probably go back to the longer shaft but we change when it feels so comfortable. The weight of the shaft is interesting. I play a 62g cut down slightly so probably a 60g shaft in regular with a swing speed at the time (I am working on increasing in speed) of 95-96 mph. The idea of playing a lighter shaft simply wasn't presented as an option when I got my Epic driver some 4 years ago.
I’ve been using a 3 wood length shaft in my drive for years now, it really makes finding the fairway off the tee really easy plus I only loose 5 yards distance over all from using a regular driver shaft with is around 260 yards carry.
Anthony Kim used to choke down significantly on his all shots and produced enormous smash factors and distance. I choke down on my driver about 2” and hit longer and straighter than ever. Cutting down the shaft can alter the sw so much so be careful.
True David, but I found that if it is done to a slightly heavier shaft it should not be an issue, at least that has been my experience. I’m currently gaming a Diamana Ahina 72 stiff cut down to about 44.5, which I initially thought would be way too short and also have an affect on sw (my ss is around 105-108 mph). However I have never hit the ball more consistently, dispersion-wise and distance-wise. Yes, many things are relative here, but again that has been my own personal experience, tbh the best thing to happen to my driving in a long while, but to each their own. Good luck to everyone seeking more fairways and consistent & respectable distance💥🏌️♂️🙌
The swing weight on the shorter shaft probably changed by 3 or 4 swing weight points. I would like to see how the short shaft performs if you add weight to the head keep the same swing weight.
Great video Andy and love how you relate to us average golfers. I got interesting results couple weeks ago when I got fitted as well. My best combination of spin, dispersion, launch angle and still maintaining ball speed/carry was with a heavier stiff shaft cut down 1 inch, tipped a half inch - 105 club speed. My fitter analyzed my launch angle, swing path and apex to determine the best shaft for me and the tiny amount of club speed I lost going shorter was more than made up for with better spin and launch angle so that my carry was still better by nearly 10 yards than the longer shaft. I never would’ve been able to come to those conclusions without the proper fitting. Keep up the great work!
This just proves what I saw in a Wishon video from like 5 years ago. Your swing speed isn't high enough for the shaft flex rating to play as big a part as it might for others. Also watched an old Doc Griffin fitting video and part of his fitting process was testing different shaft lengths on the driver. His customer had the same results as you saw here. Very good info and more proof why a proper fitting is so important 👌
After a LOT of trial and error I keep going back to the KuroKage TiNi 60 gram R for drivers. I've tried it in many heads and it's a great fit for me so far. I only swing 90-95, but hit 9º drivers because I tend to hit the ball high. Lighter/whippier shafts and lighter heads don't work for me with the woods, even though on paper it looks like they "should." (They do work in the irons, though!) The KuroKage produces a nice medium flight. It feels on the firmer side of regular to me, which works just fine. Now I need to get that speed up a tad and work on delivering less loft at impact, too, probably.
Great video Andy I've never played a driver , as never got on with one . After coming back to golf and finding all the different youtube channels with all the reviews ,info ,lessons I bought a mini driver on the fact that most videos said they where more of a fairway finder being in the shorter bracket. This follows your results of the video the only difference between the two clubs is yours still uses a head you would normally use and a shorter shaft where the mini drivers have a higher loft as well
Another great subject, I cut down my f7 driver and use f8 1 length irons,I also cut down the 8 iron down to wedge to produce a more consistent performing set,I love thr 4 iron hybrid,shorter shafts are the answer.
Great test, Andy. Very eye opening. I think you’re correct with the shorter shaft, you hit it more on the sweet spot. For me that would make a big difference. I would try anything to hit it more in the middle of my driver, including a shorter shaft. Great stuff!
Spot on mate !! Excellent content and very interesting!! I’m now using a 50g stiff shaft which I never have used before and never thought I would use !! I was 60g and above !! But just shows you what a custom fit can unearth 👍
I play 44.5 inches and my accuracy has been incredible. I gained distance on top of it. Going on 2 years now with no plans to try and and go long again. Also play regular flex with a 100mph driver speed. If someone wants to try it just butt trim a inch off. If it doesn't work out add a extention back in to get the stock length back. I did add a couple grams to the head in order to maintain the feel I like.
Great advice! What distance do you get now? If I can't hit the centre of face and get a good efficient strike then long shaft benefits are unseen for me. I'm Shite with a long shaft
@@stuboy13 245/50yd is pretty much my standard distance. Like I said before I have no interest in 45.5 inch drivers anymore. The tour average is 45 inches(creeping up over the last few years) so the extended length crap is all marketing. Most people would be much better off playing a inch less than they currently are unless making center contact every time isn't a issue. Some people don't notice the swing weight changes but others do. Lead tape or heavier weights (if available) will do the job. Adding 3 grams back to the head was enough for me to be comfortable with the feel again. Cobra sells a tour length driver each year for its flagship models, 44.5 inch.
Great video, I’m having a fitting next week, my first in 8 years and I’m taking your advice and going with an open mind with clubs, shafts , etc. thanks
Andy I have always used a driver shaft 43 inches long. If I go up to 44 or 45 inches my dispersion and swing control suffer enormously and I hit less fairways. It has worked for me for last 30 years and I see no reason to alter this. Keep up the really informative and objective comment. Positively helpful to this very average golfer. Cheers. Colin
Interestingly, I’ve been struggling with the Rogue sub zero driver. A couple of weeks ago as an experiment, I got an old driver out of the cupboard, TaylorMade Burner with a fujikura 50g stiff shaft. I cut 2 inches off the shaft! I love it, I love the light feeling, I love the confidence the shorter club length gives me but most of all I love the fact that it goes straight almost every time I hit it. Oh, and it doesn’t appear to have lost any distance. I’m now temped to cut 2 inches off the Rogue 🥴
@@sixstringsdown1 No I didn’t. I used the shorter driver till I worked out my problem, basically confidence and tempo where my issues. I’ve since switched back to my full length driver and it’s ok(ish). I still use the shortened driver if I’m having a bad day, still works 👍
glad i saw this today....tomorrow i am going for a fitting for a driver / a fairway wood or two / and a hybrid......will for sure try an inch shorter for all.....i am 5'7 and 56 years old swing speed of around 90 - 94 with driver...leaning to the Ping G425 in all of them and gonna for sure try out the 7 wood cause of your previous review of that club....again great video...cheers from Canada
I swing my driver at similar speeds to you. I use a 40 gram regular shaft. I carry 220 meters! It is how you load the shaft when you swing. I found this shaft by accident after swinging a standard 60 gram stiff. I tried an Epic with a 40 gram senior shaft and bombed it pass all the other shafts. Then after a while I have just changed to a air speeder 40 gram regular to keep the dispersion tighter.
Andy if you say it’s straight down the middle - down the middle it is. It would be interesting to see if you were putting a draw or fade on them ! I have gone to a 50g stiff shaft from a 70 and got a big improvement.
Middling it more often by using a shorter shaft probably more benefit to average golfers than (possible) ball speed gain from the longer shafts fitted as standard by most manufacturers these days. Good video Andy!
Great vid Andy!ive been tinkiering with these as well and found exactly the same exept the lighter shaft gave me too much spin as my spin is already on the line...therefore i was lauching higher and losing carry but also fading more often...
So it would be nice to know what the difference in swing weight was for each combination. I have found that lower swing weight can improve club head speed.
This is the exact video I needed although would've been nice to see what the stiff done. That driver is something else and with the shaft selections available I think it will be the best seller this year. I use a 45 inch driver so the 1 inch shorter is perfect for me.
Andy, off the wall question. Why is it with drivers that the manufacturers all seem to set the shaft into the head in a very upright position. By this i mean when one grips the club, gets into the stance, the toe end of the driver sits up. It is like from the centre of the head to the heel is where the head "sits' on the ground sending the club head toe high.Which means the axis of the head is skewed. If you set the club head down without a shaft in it, one naturally sets it so the the centre line of the bottom of the head sits square. Not toe end up. You can rock the head either side. Yet when you get ready to hit the ball, the toe sticks up. Anyway, not sure if you can answer but always wondered...🏌️
@@TheAverageGolfer Andy, just for giggles, when you're back in the bay take any driver and put it down so the head is level. See where the shaft lies, can you grip it and hit it from there? That's kinda what i'm talking about. Obviously not the end of the world stuff as this has been this way for years. Just was curious.
This is exactly what I’m also experience. When I adress my driver then te toe is also upright and the driver rest between middle and heel of the club. Maybe to do with a to long shaft length? I’m 5,8 feet long (177cm) and using a 45,75 inch long driver shaft. I’m thinking that the driver shaft is to long for me. (Also struggle with a 3 wood) Want to go later this year for a fit and clear this out.
Those shafts are some of the most stable on the market! Dispersion has been one of the biggest sale points of those shafts. Have this shaft in my Srixon driver and I've never been more consistent with fairways hit!
Great review, Andy - I had a Callaway Fusion Big Bertha driver that has a shorter shaft and surprised how more accurate it was, but didn't see any distance gains. Agree what you say - try different options at a fitting!
About a year ago I switched from a 60g stiff flex to a 50g regular flex and was surprised that feel wise I didn't really notice a difference but my swing speed increased by a couple mph which translates into more yardage and I have a lot more control which leads to a lot more fairways hit. It was like getting an entirely new driver.
@@sixstringsdown1 I feel like the lag is definitely a contributing factor but with the lighter shaft I'm able to increase my swing speed which enables me to create the lag. So it's definitely a combination
@@keithwalker1780 thanks! What is your Swing Speed, if you don't mind my asking? I am 61, started playing 3 years ago and have worked up to 94 mph. I would REALLY like to get to 100, but my 2 handicap neighbor says there is no way I can get there. Which, of course, only makes me want it more! ;)
@@sixstringsdown1The last time i was on a launch monitor which was close to a year ago my swing speed was averaging around 104 mph. I'm 62 now and feel like I'm still pretty close to that. I may have lost one or two mph to father time but not much. Good luck in your quest to hit that 100 mph. You can do it.
Never been consistent enough with a driver to be confident in having a fitting, but over the years I've bought a few ladies drivers and the lighter, shorter shafts have felt better for me. Interesting video as always, keep them coming 👍
@@TheAverageGolfer Driving distance has always been an issue, so definitely something to work on. Watching your videos is inspiring me to try and play more this year - once we can.
Great video. I as a mid handicapper got fitted last year. Tested various but went for the 1 inch shorter shaft in 55g regular. Most data was comparable (launch, spin etc) but got more distance, better dispersion and ball speed in the shorter one. Probably mostly down to improved confidence but helped me no end.
The shaft I have in my current driver is absolutely fantastic! But during lockdown boredom I have bought the same shaft but 10 grams lighter. Can't wait to see if it makes a difference!
Good video Andy. My swing speed is around 100 always been told to use stiff but always use regular. I find I'm more consistent with regular and prefer a light shaft aswell.
Andy, I for some unknown reason found this informational video very interesting. Thank you for making my old gray matter start lighting up again with more questions 🤯😳
I started with a shorter shaft 6R, now playing stock length Ventus Black 5x. Best decision ever. Longest, straightest and most consistent I've ever been. Swing speed 95-105.
Andy, since I switched from playing my drivers at 45.5" and longer to playing no driver longer than 44.75" in length. I have improved the numbers of fairways hit quite dramatically. I am also hitting some really long drives whenever I make good contact, which is significantly more often with the shorter driver length. I just hope that my golf game doesn't suffer too badly after spending close to two months in the hospital, plus another six weeks on IV medication at home thanks to a very nasty bone and blood infection which also cost me about 27 pounds of weight loss. Hopefully, I will be back on the golf course by late April to early May.
Food for thought and I'd agree about getting fit for shafts....1 inch shorter = 6 swingweights lighter which is a significant reduction, it would have been interesting to see your numbers with all 3 shafts 1 inch shorter, it's made me think about reshafting my driver and going down from S to R and a tad lighter as I have the same swingspeed.
I'm 5'8" with long arms and got fitted into a 44.25" driver. Gained yardage and increased dispersion. My fairway woods (3&5) and hybrid (4) are both cut down and my consistency has skyrocketed. So much confidence attacking par 5s now
Andy I'd like to see you do the same test with the Epic Max SL. That's My Golf Spy's most wanted driver. But I went with a light shaft and 1" shorter last year with a mavrik standard.
Andy, a real eye opener and very interesting. Would seem your comment about finding the sweet spot with a shorter shaft makes all kinds of sense and explains the distance. Ricky Fowler did it. I've started gripping down on my driver and it seems to get rid of my tendency toward heel hits. Also I think a shorter shaft can make the driver sit flatter rather than toe up. That help? Seems to.
I’ve been for the the LS one inch shorter. It hasn’t arrived yet though. I can’t remember the shaft. I just remember the fitter saying my swing speed sat in around between a standard and stiff flex.
Out of interest, what was the playing length of the driver with the 1 inch shorter shaft? 44.5? I play my current driver at 45, half inch shorter than standard but find I strike more toe side very often, very rare from the heel. Tempted to try a 44.5 to see if it helps bring strike more central.
I put in a Recoil 46g senior/light shaft in my driver that is 1 inch shorter (45 inch). What a difference....I am hitting it at least 15 yds further and hitting nearly every fairway. I think I have found the magic formula.
Enjoyed this video about shaft differences. I purchased a "no name" driver on line some years ago and had it made to my specs but made it to maxim legal length (I hope). Still using it today and hit it every bit as far and streight as the new drivers (name brands) that I have tried recently. I think we all get caught up in the advertising hype of the Big 4 and discard clubs for the wrong reasons.
@@MXJEFF94 - I use a 47 inch driver, but that is because I have a high waist and relatively short arms which puts my hands farther off the ground. I am more accurate, more consistent, and more comfortable with it than I ever was with standard length clubs (all are long).
I have been told from driver fittings that my ideal shaft is 44.5 inches-- and I usually choke up the necessary difference of a half inch to inch (not quite Brooke Henderson) to reach that. I figure that if I had to sell the club, the normal length shaft may be easier to sell.
@@TheAverageGolfer i have just begun your video. Please take your short driver testing one step further. Make it three inches shorter and give it to a 18 handicapper. 6 years ago. I cut 3 inches off my G25 and never looked back. Also. When set to 12 deg. I hit it strait-ish. At 10.5 I spray it right and left. If pro's only go up to about 46 inches. What makes everyone think a mid to upper handicapper can hit a 45 in constantly. Please try it at 43 inches. Thanks
I experimented with old shafts in the past and discovered that cutting an inch from the top or half inch from the bottom, as well the grip weight, changed the characteristics of the shaft. Some worked , some didn't. Thank god they were old shafts. I like your hat. That hat must cost more than the driver. Lol
Curious as to what the swing weight is of each of the builds you tested. Would have to believe the shorter shaft swing weight if not reweighed would drop about 6 swing weights.
I play a 46" driver only because I hit it constantly in the center and tried shorter shafts but don't hit it in the middle as often. I would like to see smash factor also on your chart
I used to use a 60g x-flex, 43.5” but dispersion was all over. I changed to a 70g, s-flex, 43.5”. 105-108 club speed. Impressive that you can generate 146-147 ball speed with a 96 swing. At 108 I’m only seeing 152. Could that be down to the driver head, or is it my swing?
Back in the day I bought a Taylormade Superspeed 2.0.......light and longer shaft to create inertia. at only 5'8" height, I quickly learnt longer wasn't faster for me....
Thanks. I enjoy your videos and perspective, as our swings are very similar. I agree it is worth the money to get properly fitted clubs. It definitely helps from the confidence perspective!
@@TheAverageGolfer Hi I’ve just subscribed to your channel having seen you pop up from time to time. What got me interested was your coverage on PXG. I saw recently that you had the 2021 0211s in your bag but more recently I see you have gone to the callaway apex. How come you have moved away from the 0211s ? Also what device do you use to gather your dry ball data ? Love the content though 👍
Best tip I can give you that will add way more distance for your drives...loosen up your wrists. You have pretty much zero lag. You will never hit it far without creating a whip with a lot of lag.
Callaway has a "LD" lineup out for all its driver heads with a 47 inch shaft. Thinking about trying with BB 21 head. Know the swing weight will increase from D2 to D5. They offer lighter individual weights to screw into the head as well as a 40 g Project x cypher shaft. Your thoughts? Maybe do another video on their "LD" line?
You have to add weight back to get the swing weight where it was. I used to use lead tape but most drivers now have weights that you can change. Golf works sells replacement weights for most drivers. You can calculate how much weight to add per inch removed in length.
I have used a Reg three wood shaft in my R15 with not much if any loss in distance to the stiff driver shaft. I think I get a more consistent strike with it
V interesting would have been nice to see a 1" longer shaft... I went into 1" longer in my g400max and my new driver just b4 lockdown both give greater distance with no real dispersion concerns.. we can all smash it left and right with any club 😃
Andy, when you say the shafts are at the opposite ends of the spectrum, there's only 10g difference. Ideally would need at least a 40g vs a 60g Vs an 80g......
It was a big thing a few years ago, getting a shorter driver shaft, even for the pros! Then the way power was delivered changed and longer shafts are now the thing!
@@TheAverageGolfer I totally agree. Most players should never play the equipment pros play. It's a completely different set of parameters for us. The biggest difference is that it should be fun for us! For the pros it's their job. We shouldn't chase scores but just look to hit shots the best we can.
Keep up the good work! Love your videos! All this commotion about the Autoflex shaft; would be interesting to see results for a 43, 43.5, 44, and 44.5" A or L flex clone shaft. I made one using Prolaunch blue senior flex (down 2 flexes) 45 (44g) cut to 44.5" Epic Max LS, heavier 20g slider weight to get s/w back to D3. Let me tell you I am in love with the driver again, gained 20 yds carry with incredibly tight dispersion on the course.
That crazy results the biggest for me was the light shaft which u think bout bein a senior shaft did just as good if not better we have basically same swing speed and i use 50 gram stiff riptide in my mavrik driver and 60 gram stiff in 3 wood max same riptide shaft really makes me wonder
I've been playing my drivers at 44.5 or 44.75 for years. I hit it much more solidly and just as long on average. I'm a 5 hc and don't see how anyone can control a 46" driver. The pros can't because they are all around 45" or less with a few exceptions. And it doesn't matter if you're tall because I'm 6'2" and have no issue with it.
It’s all down to the individual and his/her swing. The new hot trend is counterbalanced drivers. So the manufacturers put a 40-50 gram shaft in a driver for Seniors and then add weight to the butt of the shaft to counter the head weight. WHAT A CROCK! At 75 and an 11 index, I use a 70 gram Senior flex shaft and hit the ball a descent distance (200-230 yards) and the dispersion is excellent, hitting 12 or 13 fairways out of 14 in a normal round.
Andy I'm 6.1" and have used 44.5" in the past but now I'm using 45.5" and honestly i get no difference in dispersion at all. I feel more confident with the longer shaft to be honest
@@TheAverageGolfer very true Andy forgot to mention i gamed 65g shafts based on my swing speed and perception but last year got a proper fitting and results increased dramatically by moving to a 50g shaft. Like you said test results don't lie
The most important thing for distance is hitting the center of the clubface. Shorter works better because you can control the strike consistently . If you could control the strike better with a longer shaft, it would fly longer.
Men try to win arguments by leavi ng 1/2 the facts out and women win arguments by leaving all the facts out. Studies show slower swi ngers hit it farther with longer shafts.
Not surprised at the results Andy. I started gripping down on every club in my bag last year and noticed an instant improvement in strike and consistency with no loss of distance at all.
Thats interesting
@@TheAverageGolfer except the putter, putting is still a mystery to me.
@@TheAverageGolfer I think a test with a 60gram Stiff, one inch shorter… would interesting….what would the dispersion and ball speed look like. This is a great test, I saw a similar video by a club maker, using foot powder, lead tape and choking down on the club. Once you dial in your contact position.. take it to the fitting… it is a good place to start. This is a little bit more challenging if you need or require a longer stick…
One of the lads I play golf with, who's a low single figure handicap, has a shorter shaft, and his driving is so consistent. He thought he'd lise distance, but being in play was more important. He really hasn't lost any distance, and before the lockdown, he was playing really good golf. I'm thinking of shortening my driver shaft, but will need to test it first.
You hear so many people say that a shorter shaft results in less ball speed and thereby less distance but if strike improves as a result, the speed of the club face more than makes up for it. That is as long as strike is your issue.
Come on mate, no man wants to admit his shaft is an inch shorter than everyone else's! 🙈
@@landongeorge706 wow! Where is all this nonsense spam coming from on RUclips?
Unless it’s extra stiff 😂
Been sporting a -1 inch shaft for 2 years. Will never go back. Much more control
My wife says that 😅
Similar experience for me. I game a 44" Driver shaft... way better dispersion and increased distance because I'm finding the middle with more confidence. I imagine it's different for everyone and worthy of testing.
Thanx for the data on the Epic driver head as I use the exact one with a regular flex and shaft length and in the beginning sliced a lot till I set the head loft and lie which has made a huge difference. Am still fine tuning my lofts and lies only due to injuries and limitations with my shoulders and left hand wrist. I love the game and the advances technology has made towards golf clubs being adjustable for the average ardent golfer like myself an absolute blessing! Very interested in shortening my grip an inch and see how that goes after watching this demo.
Great comparison...Gamed the G410 plus last year with the Alta 55 Stiff 1” short and have never been more confident in a driver ,hit more fairways than ever ! 🍻
With my regular Epic driver I had the shaft shortened from the standard 45.25" to 44.5" and I saw no real loss of distance but a big improvement in control. Since then I have definitely improved my swing (sadly still a long way to go) and could probably go back to the longer shaft but we change when it feels so comfortable.
The weight of the shaft is interesting. I play a 62g cut down slightly so probably a 60g shaft in regular with a swing speed at the time (I am working on increasing in speed) of 95-96 mph. The idea of playing a lighter shaft simply wasn't presented as an option when I got my Epic driver some 4 years ago.
I’ve been using a 3 wood length shaft in my drive for years now, it really makes finding the fairway off the tee really easy plus I only loose 5 yards distance over all from using a regular driver shaft with is around 260 yards carry.
very good idea. can't get my silly slicing friend to try that.
Anthony Kim used to choke down significantly on his all shots and produced enormous smash factors and distance. I choke down on my driver about 2” and hit longer and straighter than ever. Cutting down the shaft can alter the sw so much so be careful.
Curious...driver shaft length? Been experimenting with doing it. Thanks.
True David, but I found that if it is done to a slightly heavier shaft it should not be an issue, at least that has been my experience. I’m currently gaming a Diamana Ahina 72 stiff cut down to about 44.5, which I initially thought would be way too short and also have an affect on sw (my ss is around 105-108 mph). However I have never hit the ball more consistently, dispersion-wise and distance-wise. Yes, many things are relative here, but again that has been my own personal experience, tbh the best thing to happen to my driving in a long while, but to each their own. Good luck to everyone seeking more fairways and consistent & respectable distance💥🏌️♂️🙌
Choking down alters the swing weight just the same.
The swing weight on the shorter shaft probably changed by 3 or 4 swing weight points. I would like to see how the short shaft performs if you add weight to the head keep the same swing weight.
Great video Andy and love how you relate to us average golfers. I got interesting results couple weeks ago when I got fitted as well. My best combination of spin, dispersion, launch angle and still maintaining ball speed/carry was with a heavier stiff shaft cut down 1 inch, tipped a half inch - 105 club speed. My fitter analyzed my launch angle, swing path and apex to determine the best shaft for me and the tiny amount of club speed I lost going shorter was more than made up for with better spin and launch angle so that my carry was still better by nearly 10 yards than the longer shaft. I never would’ve been able to come to those conclusions without the proper fitting. Keep up the great work!
This just proves what I saw in a Wishon video from like 5 years ago. Your swing speed isn't high enough for the shaft flex rating to play as big a part as it might for others.
Also watched an old Doc Griffin fitting video and part of his fitting process was testing different shaft lengths on the driver. His customer had the same results as you saw here.
Very good info and more proof why a proper fitting is so important 👌
After a LOT of trial and error I keep going back to the KuroKage TiNi 60 gram R for drivers. I've tried it in many heads and it's a great fit for me so far. I only swing 90-95, but hit 9º drivers because I tend to hit the ball high. Lighter/whippier shafts and lighter heads don't work for me with the woods, even though on paper it looks like they "should." (They do work in the irons, though!) The KuroKage produces a nice medium flight. It feels on the firmer side of regular to me, which works just fine. Now I need to get that speed up a tad and work on delivering less loft at impact, too, probably.
Great video Andy I've never played a driver , as never got on with one . After coming back to golf and finding all the different youtube channels with all the reviews ,info ,lessons I bought a mini driver on the fact that most videos said they where more of a fairway finder being in the shorter bracket. This follows your results of the video the only difference between the two clubs is yours still uses a head you would normally use and a shorter shaft where the mini drivers have a higher loft as well
Another great subject, I cut down my f7 driver and use f8 1 length irons,I also cut down the 8 iron down to wedge to produce a more consistent performing set,I love thr 4 iron hybrid,shorter shafts are the answer.
Great test, Andy. Very eye opening. I think you’re correct with the shorter shaft, you hit it more on the sweet spot. For me that would make a big difference. I would try anything to hit it more in the middle of my driver, including a shorter shaft. Great stuff!
Really interesting results there Andy. Not what I would have expected. The most interesting was the 1" shorter shaft
Spot on mate !! Excellent content and very interesting!!
I’m now using a 50g stiff shaft which I never have used before and never thought I would use !!
I was 60g and above !! But just shows you what a custom fit can unearth 👍
I play 44.5 inches and my accuracy has been incredible. I gained distance on top of it. Going on 2 years now with no plans to try and and go long again. Also play regular flex with a 100mph driver speed. If someone wants to try it just butt trim a inch off. If it doesn't work out add a extention back in to get the stock length back. I did add a couple grams to the head in order to maintain the feel I like.
Great advice! What distance do you get now? If I can't hit the centre of face and get a good efficient strike then long shaft benefits are unseen for me. I'm Shite with a long shaft
@@stuboy13 245/50yd is pretty much my standard distance. Like I said before I have no interest in 45.5 inch drivers anymore. The tour average is 45 inches(creeping up over the last few years) so the extended length crap is all marketing. Most people would be much better off playing a inch less than they currently are unless making center contact every time isn't a issue. Some people don't notice the swing weight changes but others do. Lead tape or heavier weights (if available) will do the job. Adding 3 grams back to the head was enough for me to be comfortable with the feel again. Cobra sells a tour length driver each year for its flagship models, 44.5 inch.
Great video, I’m having a fitting next week, my first in 8 years and I’m taking your advice and going with an open mind with clubs, shafts , etc. thanks
Andy I have always used a driver shaft 43 inches long. If I go up to 44 or 45 inches my dispersion and swing control suffer enormously and I hit less fairways. It has worked for me for last 30 years and I see no reason to alter this. Keep up the really informative and objective comment. Positively helpful to this very average golfer. Cheers. Colin
Interestingly, I’ve been struggling with the Rogue sub zero driver. A couple of weeks ago as an experiment, I got an old driver out of the cupboard, TaylorMade Burner with a fujikura 50g stiff shaft. I cut 2 inches off the shaft! I love it, I love the light feeling, I love the confidence the shorter club length gives me but most of all I love the fact that it goes straight almost every time I hit it. Oh, and it doesn’t appear to have lost any distance. I’m now temped to cut 2 inches off the Rogue 🥴
Did you do it? If not, maybe try 1 inch at a time. Would love to hear the results! 👍
@@sixstringsdown1 No I didn’t. I used the shorter driver till I worked out my problem, basically confidence and tempo where my issues. I’ve since switched back to my full length driver and it’s ok(ish). I still use the shortened driver if I’m having a bad day, still works 👍
@@HampshireGary That is why it's called "THE CRUEL GAME"!
glad i saw this today....tomorrow i am going for a fitting for a driver / a fairway wood or two / and a hybrid......will for sure try an inch shorter for all.....i am 5'7 and 56 years old swing speed of around 90 - 94 with driver...leaning to the Ping G425 in all of them and gonna for sure try out the 7 wood cause of your previous review of that club....again great video...cheers from Canada
I swing my driver at similar speeds to you. I use a 40 gram regular shaft. I carry 220 meters! It is how you load the shaft when you swing. I found this shaft by accident after swinging a standard 60 gram stiff. I tried an Epic with a 40 gram senior shaft and bombed it pass all the other shafts. Then after a while I have just changed to a air speeder 40 gram regular to keep the dispersion tighter.
Andy if you say it’s straight down the middle - down the middle it is. It would be interesting to see if you were putting a draw or fade on them ! I have gone to a 50g stiff shaft from a 70 and got a big improvement.
Yes we will see that shot shape soon
Middling it more often by using a shorter shaft probably more benefit to average golfers than (possible) ball speed gain from the longer shafts fitted as standard by most manufacturers these days. Good video Andy!
Your spot on
Great vid Andy!ive been tinkiering with these as well and found exactly the same exept the lighter shaft gave me too much spin as my spin is already on the line...therefore i was lauching higher and losing carry but also fading more often...
So it would be nice to know what the difference in swing weight was for each combination. I have found that lower swing weight can improve club head speed.
This is the exact video I needed although would've been nice to see what the stiff done. That driver is something else and with the shaft selections available I think it will be the best seller this year. I use a 45 inch driver so the 1 inch shorter is perfect for me.
Andy, so happy to see your test. I'd like to try the Epic Speed with Project X Smoke IM10 50g shaft cut down to 45".
Andy, off the wall question. Why is it with drivers that the manufacturers all seem to set the shaft into the head in a very upright position. By this i mean when one grips the club, gets into the stance, the toe end of the driver sits up. It is like from the centre of the head to the heel is where the head "sits' on the ground sending the club head toe high.Which means the axis of the head is skewed. If you set the club head down without a shaft in it, one naturally sets it so the the centre line of the bottom of the head sits square. Not toe end up. You can rock the head either side. Yet when you get ready to hit the ball, the toe sticks up. Anyway, not sure if you can answer but always wondered...🏌️
In short....I dont know, I assume that position changes from golfer to golfer depending on positioning of hands at address?
@@TheAverageGolfer Andy, just for giggles, when you're back in the bay take any driver and put it down so the head is level. See where the shaft lies, can you grip it and hit it from there? That's kinda what i'm talking about. Obviously not the end of the world stuff as this has been this way for years. Just was curious.
This is exactly what I’m also experience. When I adress my driver then te toe is also upright and the driver rest between middle and heel of the club.
Maybe to do with a to long shaft length? I’m 5,8 feet long (177cm) and using a 45,75 inch long driver shaft.
I’m thinking that the driver shaft is to long for me. (Also struggle with a 3 wood) Want to go later this year for a fit and clear this out.
Those shafts are some of the most stable on the market! Dispersion has been one of the biggest sale points of those shafts. Have this shaft in my Srixon driver and I've never been more consistent with fairways hit!
Among some of the best videos on RUclips regarding golf. Thank you.
Great review, Andy - I had a Callaway Fusion Big Bertha driver that has a shorter shaft and surprised how more accurate it was, but didn't see any distance gains. Agree what you say - try different options at a fitting!
About a year ago I switched from a 60g stiff flex to a 50g regular flex and was surprised that feel wise I didn't really notice a difference but my swing speed increased by a couple mph which translates into more yardage and I have a lot more control which leads to a lot more fairways hit. It was like getting an entirely new driver.
Do you attribute it to the regular shaft bending more & getting more power into the ball as the shaft flex catches up with your turn at impact?
@@sixstringsdown1 I feel like the lag is definitely a contributing factor but with the lighter shaft I'm able to increase my swing speed which enables me to create the lag. So it's definitely a combination
@@keithwalker1780 thanks! What is your Swing Speed, if you don't mind my asking? I am 61, started playing 3 years ago and have worked up to 94 mph. I would REALLY like to get to 100, but my 2 handicap neighbor says there is no way I can get there.
Which, of course, only makes me want it more! ;)
@@sixstringsdown1The last time i was on a launch monitor which was close to a year ago my swing speed was averaging around 104 mph. I'm 62 now and feel like I'm still pretty close to that. I may have lost one or two mph to father time but not much. Good luck in your quest to hit that 100 mph. You can do it.
@@keithwalker1780 Thanks! 🙌
Never been consistent enough with a driver to be confident in having a fitting, but over the years I've bought a few ladies drivers and the lighter, shorter shafts have felt better for me. Interesting video as always, keep them coming 👍
If it works then great Steven
@@TheAverageGolfer Driving distance has always been an issue, so definitely something to work on. Watching your videos is inspiring me to try and play more this year - once we can.
Great video. I as a mid handicapper got fitted last year. Tested various but went for the 1 inch shorter shaft in 55g regular.
Most data was comparable (launch, spin etc) but got more distance, better dispersion and ball speed in the shorter one. Probably mostly down to improved confidence but helped me no end.
The shaft I have in my current driver is absolutely fantastic! But during lockdown boredom I have bought the same shaft but 10 grams lighter. Can't wait to see if it makes a difference!
Good luck!
Good video Andy.
My swing speed is around 100 always been told to use stiff but always use regular.
I find I'm more consistent with regular and prefer a light shaft aswell.
Andy, I for some unknown reason found this informational video very interesting. Thank you for making my old gray matter start lighting up again with more questions 🤯😳
Those carry yardages are impressive. My head speed runs 105-107 and top out at maybe 250 carry.
Interesting results Andy. Food for thought. Thanks.
Really good and interesting test! These are the tests we average players need. Keep doing these shaft tests as this one!💪🏻
Definitely something to look at when I go for a fitting maybe the shorter length would suit me, as always a great video
Sporting a 44.75 inch shaft and hitting it longer than ever.
Same here and more accurate
Andy, liked the video but had a question. What was the swing weight difference between the standard length 50g shaft and the 1” shorter 50g shaft?
I started with a shorter shaft 6R, now playing stock length Ventus Black 5x. Best decision ever. Longest, straightest and most consistent I've ever been. Swing speed 95-105.
Andy, since I switched from playing my drivers at 45.5" and longer to playing no driver longer than 44.75" in length. I have improved the numbers of fairways hit quite dramatically. I am also hitting some really long drives whenever I make good contact, which is significantly more often with the shorter driver length.
I just hope that my golf game doesn't suffer too badly after spending close to two months in the hospital, plus another six weeks on IV medication at home thanks to a very nasty bone and blood infection which also cost me about 27 pounds of weight loss. Hopefully, I will be back on the golf course by late April to early May.
Food for thought and I'd agree about getting fit for shafts....1 inch shorter = 6 swingweights lighter which is a significant reduction, it would have been interesting to see your numbers with all 3 shafts 1 inch shorter, it's made me think about reshafting my driver and going down from S to R and a tad lighter as I have the same swingspeed.
I'm 5'8" with long arms and got fitted into a 44.25" driver. Gained yardage and increased dispersion. My fairway woods (3&5) and hybrid (4) are both cut down and my consistency has skyrocketed. So much confidence attacking par 5s now
That’d make me buy one
I went 1” shorter on my speedzone driver and it really helped with dispersion, distance didn’t really increase but was much more consistent
When I got fitted for my Ping G400 we went with a 1” shorter shaft and my results we similar....more distance and much better dispersion.
Great videos as always, minimal fluff and good information.
Andy I'd like to see you do the same test with the Epic Max SL. That's My Golf Spy's most wanted driver. But I went with a light shaft and 1" shorter last year with a mavrik standard.
I will do this
Andy, a real eye opener and very interesting. Would seem your comment about finding the sweet spot with a shorter shaft makes all kinds of sense and explains the distance. Ricky Fowler did it. I've started gripping down on my driver and it seems to get rid of my tendency toward heel hits. Also I think a shorter shaft can make the driver sit flatter rather than toe up. That help? Seems to.
I’ve been for the the LS one inch shorter. It hasn’t arrived yet though. I can’t remember the shaft. I just remember the fitter saying my swing speed sat in around between a standard and stiff flex.
Out of interest, what was the playing length of the driver with the 1 inch shorter shaft? 44.5?
I play my current driver at 45, half inch shorter than standard but find I strike more toe side very often, very rare from the heel. Tempted to try a 44.5 to see if it helps bring strike more central.
Great topic. Would love to have seen a single screen with all three shafts’ data (i.e., launch angle, spin, carry, etc.).
blurred vision ;)
@@TheAverageGolfer LOL. I just mean the averages of all three shafts.
I put in a Recoil 46g senior/light shaft in my driver that is 1 inch shorter (45 inch). What a difference....I am hitting it at least 15 yds further and hitting nearly every fairway. I think I have found the magic formula.
Enjoyed this video about shaft differences. I purchased a "no name" driver on line some years ago and had it made to my specs but made it to maxim legal length (I hope). Still using it today and hit it every bit as far and streight as the new drivers (name brands) that I have tried recently. I think we all get caught up in the advertising hype of the Big 4 and discard clubs for the wrong reasons.
Try a senior shaft! Reg and 1” shorter. I’m guessing you might get some shaft wip that could drive the ball further than you are now
always surprises me when I chock down but hit it further, makes sense
suppose to choke down a tick on every club
I went from 46" to 45" and gained yards and dispersion.
Good to hear
A 46" driver...? Jesus. lol.
@@MXJEFF94 - I use a 47 inch driver, but that is because I have a high waist and relatively short arms which puts my hands farther off the ground. I am more accurate, more consistent, and more comfortable with it than I ever was with standard length clubs (all are long).
@@bobpegram8042 short arms long pockets your fellow golfers tell me 😂
Great video. Surprise on the numbers. I'll have to check it out!👍🏌⛳😀
You and me both
I went for lessons and was advised to try softer flex shafts, the results were so visible everybody was commenting on the results and performance
I have been told from driver fittings that my ideal shaft is 44.5 inches-- and I usually choke up the necessary difference of a half inch to inch (not quite Brooke Henderson) to reach that. I figure that if I had to sell the club, the normal length shaft may be easier to sell.
Thats fair comment Alex as long as doesnt affect your swing
Did the shorter shaft feel any better on the swing Andy. And more importantly would you feel more confident with it. Great video mate cheers
Yes I loved it and felt more in control
@@TheAverageGolfer i have just begun your video.
Please take your short driver testing one step further.
Make it three inches shorter and give it to a 18 handicapper.
6 years ago. I cut 3 inches off my G25 and never looked back.
Also. When set to 12 deg. I hit it strait-ish. At 10.5 I spray it right and left.
If pro's only go up to about 46 inches. What makes everyone think a mid to upper handicapper can hit a 45 in constantly.
Please try it at 43 inches.
Thanks
I experimented with old shafts in the past and discovered that cutting an inch from the top or half inch from the bottom, as well the grip weight, changed the characteristics of the shaft. Some worked , some didn't. Thank god they were old shafts.
I like your hat. That hat must cost more than the driver. Lol
Curious as to what the swing weight is of each of the builds you tested. Would have to believe the shorter shaft swing weight if not reweighed would drop about 6 swing weights.
I play a 46" driver only because I hit it constantly in the center and tried shorter shafts but don't hit it in the middle as often. I would like to see smash factor also on your chart
I actually extended my driver to 47”
Not for power but for fit and working out great
Wow thats seems madness
"No skippin' to the end either." LOL. Hilarious.
I used to use a 60g x-flex, 43.5” but dispersion was all over. I changed to a 70g, s-flex, 43.5”. 105-108 club speed. Impressive that you can generate 146-147 ball speed with a 96 swing. At 108 I’m only seeing 152. Could that be down to the driver head, or is it my swing?
Interestingly, the shorter shaft produced 20% less spin than the 50g Reg and 26% less spin than the light flex shaft with similar dispersion.
Very interesting Andy .. what was the length of the shorter shaft ?
Been thinking of getting shorter shaft Andy...you have def made my mind up now great video cheers
Back in the day I bought a Taylormade Superspeed 2.0.......light and longer shaft to create inertia. at only 5'8" height, I quickly learnt longer wasn't faster for me....
Thanks. I enjoy your videos and perspective, as our swings are very similar. I agree it is worth the money to get properly fitted clubs. It definitely helps from the confidence perspective!
Trying to sell a guy on the benefits of a shorter shaft is a tough sell 😳🤣
hahaha so true
A stiff shaft is good for control though
longer is better in everything, my friend..no shrimps allowed in golf
@@goutfromfriedokra7099 💯👊🏼
@@TheAverageGolfer Hi I’ve just subscribed to your channel having seen you pop up from time to time. What got me interested was your coverage on PXG. I saw recently that you had the 2021 0211s in your bag but more recently I see you have gone to the callaway apex. How come you have moved away from the 0211s ?
Also what device do you use to gather your dry ball data ? Love the content though 👍
Excellent info!!! What an eye opener!! Thanks for sharing! 🙏
Best tip I can give you that will add way more distance for your drives...loosen up your wrists. You have pretty much zero lag. You will never hit it far without creating a whip with a lot of lag.
I've played a one inch short driver and gained control and hitting the fairway. No loss in distance that I could tell
I’d like to hear about the difference in kick points of shafts in conjunction with the different flex’s, how does this affect distance and accuracy.
Callaway has a "LD" lineup out for all its driver heads with a 47 inch shaft. Thinking about trying with BB 21 head. Know the swing weight will increase from D2 to D5. They offer lighter individual weights to screw into the head as well as a 40 g Project x cypher shaft. Your thoughts? Maybe do another video on their "LD" line?
Do you know how much difference in swing weight? Did the shorter shaft feel much lighter? You'd be going from D3 to C7, seems like a big difference!
You have to add weight back to get the swing weight where it was. I used to use lead tape but most drivers now have weights that you can change. Golf works sells replacement weights for most drivers. You can calculate how much weight to add per inch removed in length.
I have used a Reg three wood shaft in my R15 with not much if any loss in distance to the stiff driver shaft. I think I get a more consistent strike with it
V interesting would have been nice to see a 1" longer shaft... I went into 1" longer in my g400max and my new driver just b4 lockdown both give greater distance with no real dispersion concerns.. we can all smash it left and right with any club 😃
Andy, when you say the shafts are at the opposite ends of the spectrum, there's only 10g difference. Ideally would need at least a 40g vs a 60g Vs an 80g......
Great video Andy,I put full trust in my club fitter,and shafts turn out to b spot on👍🏌️⛳
Nice to have a good custom fitter Mark
It was a big thing a few years ago, getting a shorter driver shaft, even for the pros! Then the way power was delivered changed and longer shafts are now the thing!
Thats where we get confused following trends of the pros
@@TheAverageGolfer I totally agree. Most players should never play the equipment pros play. It's a completely different set of parameters for us. The biggest difference is that it should be fun for us! For the pros it's their job. We shouldn't chase scores but just look to hit shots the best we can.
i have been using a three wood shaft in my driver for a couple of years, and it works.
Good to hear
Shorter shaft should give you tighter dispersion I’d think.
Keep up the good work! Love your videos! All this commotion about the Autoflex shaft; would be interesting to see results for a 43, 43.5, 44, and 44.5" A or L flex clone shaft. I made one using Prolaunch blue senior flex (down 2 flexes) 45 (44g) cut to 44.5" Epic Max LS, heavier 20g slider weight to get s/w back to D3. Let me tell you I am in love with the driver again, gained 20 yds carry with incredibly tight dispersion on the course.
That crazy results the biggest for me was the light shaft which u think bout bein a senior shaft did just as good if not better we have basically same swing speed and i use 50 gram stiff riptide in my mavrik driver and 60 gram stiff in 3 wood max same riptide shaft really makes me wonder
I've been playing my drivers at 44.5 or 44.75 for years. I hit it much more solidly and just as long on average. I'm a 5 hc and don't see how anyone can control a 46" driver. The pros can't because they are all around 45" or less with a few exceptions. And it doesn't matter if you're tall because I'm 6'2" and have no issue with it.
It’s all down to the individual and his/her swing. The new hot trend is counterbalanced drivers. So the manufacturers put a 40-50 gram shaft in a driver for Seniors and then add weight to the butt of the shaft to counter the head weight. WHAT A CROCK! At 75 and an 11 index, I use a 70 gram Senior flex shaft and hit the ball a descent distance (200-230 yards) and the dispersion is excellent, hitting 12 or 13 fairways out of 14 in a normal round.
Andy I'm 6.1" and have used 44.5" in the past but now I'm using 45.5" and honestly i get no difference in dispersion at all. I feel more confident with the longer shaft to be honest
Thats why everyone should test for themselves Darren
@@TheAverageGolfer very true Andy forgot to mention i gamed 65g shafts based on my swing speed and perception but last year got a proper fitting and results increased dramatically by moving to a 50g shaft. Like you said test results don't lie
@@darrenbell6376 Really is interesting how much difference it can make