This is the exact type of video I’ve been waiting for! It just proves that there’s not much difference between any of the modern drivers out there. Would you say that maybe as consumers we would be better off at having a shaft fitting and then just buy whatever driver head we prefer the look of or could afford?
Great video. I broke out my old M2 2016 driver today. I have a SIM Max, but I'm now going back to the M2. I have more confidence in hitting fairways with it, while losing only a few yards in distance compared to the SIM Max.
Just shows that you are talking tiny differences in most cases with the new equipment that comes out and love the honesty piece about if its not broke don't always look to fix it
I'm a huge Titleist fan, and I'm saving up for a TSI model, but the 2016 M2 is the best driver I've ever had, I've even have had 2 of them over the years
Refreshing to hear that the latest most expensive clubs aren't necessarily the best option all the time. That said I've got the same 2016 m2 but wasn't fitted for it so think I could definitely make some gains with a proper fitting. Great video as always 👍
I was using a TaylorMade Jetspeed driver for several years and recently got fitted for a TSi2. I gained roughly 15 metres and I feel a bit more control. I also tested it against several others and I feel there isnt much difference between the brands in the current generation. I'm not one to chop and change so the TSi2 will likely stay in the bag for a few years at least. I am really enjoying it.
Great unbiased review, which support the adage "if it isn't broke don't fix it". Thankfully, I'm not in this category and looking for first full-bag fit in 25 years. Hence, looking forward to testing modern technology and splashing a few quid when the fitters, ranges and courses are open again on 12 April 21.
With golf equipment a lot of people talking about “why change if not more distance” but why buy new shoes, cars, mobile phones etc.....if you can afford it than sometimes it’s simply nice to buy new stuff....driver performance is already limited by USGA and R&A for years . So if you have a well fitted driver that is only a few years old than there will be (almost) no distance gains.That is if you strike it in the middle. But most people miss the middle quit frequently and than new drivers can give more distance because the MOI/ ballspeed across the face is better than with older drivers. But play what you like and can afford and enjoy the game🏌🏼♂️😎👍🏽
I’m currently playing a 2016 M2 since may 2021 after getting custom fit for a Hzdrus Smoke Yellow CB shaft 5.5 and just recently an EvenFlow Riptide CB 6.0 S which I gained 5 years compared to the smoke yellow. Now I’m so intrigued by the TSI drivers most noticeably the TSI3 that this video really caught my attention! I’m getting hip replacement surgery in January 2022 and come next late spring I’ll be comparing the TSI3 to my 2016 M2 and see what the numbers are and see if it’s worth changing into. My last custom fit with my 2016 M2 just about 2 months ago i averaged about 2,050 rpm with both shafts. Excited to see how it matches up to the TSI3 next spring! May come down to feel and sound if the numbers don’t increase a lot or stay about the same.
Still using a Yonex Ezone XPG HD that I bought secondhand in 2017. Works well and I've just reshafted it with a more modern shaft (from a later Yonex model). I have tried later drivers but I'll stick with what I have!!!
Have a TM M2 and got a driver fitting booked beginning of April. Will be interested in seeing whether the new ones can create a measurable improvement !!!!!!
I have the 2016 M2 10.5 degree playing it at 9 degrees. Best driver I have ever hit. I am actually looking to pick up at least one more in a 9 degree head. The heads run around $150 bucks here in the US and I can just swap the shafts.
Hi Dan. Love the content and the team involved in making it. I have used a 2016 taylormade M2 since getting fitted for it new. I’ve never been tempted to change. I did see a big improvement in performance when I got it compared to the R11s I had before that both in forgiveness and length particularly into the wind due to better spin numbers. Since then members of my four ball have changed drivers numerous times and I’m just not seeing any of the gains their fitters are telling them they’re getting. I agree with A lot of people that drivers have gone as far as they can already due to limits on C.O.R. Anything now is just marketing in my opinion but in another 3 or 4 years I’ll realistically still probably be looking at a new driver but more down to wanting something shinny and fresh in the bag.
I tried to pick up an M2 last year but couldn't get a decent condition one for sensible money. Ended up with a brand new Srixon Z565 and I'm very pleased with it.
I love my 2016 M2 Dan. Have tried newer models but not found anything to better it. Playing off 6, I still game my TM R9 tour irons with the r9 3 wood, 11 years old, just had new grips and they are as good as the day I bought them. Enjoying the excellent content Dan, don’t really get why the channel hasn’t grown faster. Keep up the great work..it will come!
4 hdcp. and I was using an Epic Speed, 9*, neutral, MMT, stiff, 60gm for the past two years with decent results. I used my buddies 2017 TM, 10.5*, m1, Kuro Kage, 60gm, Stiff… no track man #’s, just on course (where it matters) results. I lost. About 10 yards in distance, while increasing fairways hit by 50%. I now have a 2017 m1 and have a 2016 m2, 9.5* (10.5* launches too high) and can work the ball a bit more. Less is more! I used a Ping Anser 9* for 10 years until it cracked. Tried the new equipment and just don’t equate the hype to the $$$.
Recently upgraded my driver from epic to epic flash, the new ones just as good, but. I’ve gone back to my old driver and 100% love it. Great vid, good honest sense.
I had the 2016 M2 with a custom fit shaft and it was awesome. Maybe the best driver I’ve ever had. I won some pro shop money in a tournament and decided to move to something newer, a Ping G400. The Ping was great, but I still wish I had that M2 back. The feel, the sound, it was really about as good as it gets.
Had the M2 2017 stiff, really liked it and was consistent, went to get fitted for Taylormade irons and tried the new TSI drivers out of curiosity, I sadly ended up listening to the normal sales pitch and bought the TSI 2 which I now regret and am currently looking at M2 2017 with the shaft I had originally. If it works don't change unless its broken.
I recently cracked the head of my M2(2016), searched everyone for the same model and had no luck. So I ended up buying the newer M2, lucky some retailers are still carrying it! Though the 2016 version was still my favourite!
I had a G400, but changed it to the 2017 M2, found my ball flight was a little lower and new for £250 a bargain wish I had got one ages ago, thanks for the vid.
Cheers Dan, great to give guys confidence in not wasting money on new drivers unless they really make a jump, looks like every 6-8 years for driver tech to make a big diff for most players.
I just dropped my M2 for the Mizuno ST-Z finally found something with better performance in distance and side to side. It was a great run for a great club.
Great content Dan, such a true statement. I had the M2, for 2 years, moved to M6, not as good as the M2. Moved into Sim Max last year, not enough time to state if better than M2, not always best to buy a shiny new toy, lol. Keep up the great work. 👍👍
Another great video Dan. A driver is such a personal club. If you like the look of it behind the ball and hit it consistently why pay close to £500 for a new club that may only give you 2 yards more distance.
Literally just upgraded from a 2016 m2 into a tsi3 after 4 years of using the M2. The M2 was off the rack and retrofitted once I found out about fitting and gotten better at golf. I'm now a mid handicap (17) and to be fair the only difference I felt between the tsi3 and m2 were the hotter face, better acoustics, and a better fit. Which essentially means it was personal preference being why I liked the tsi3 better. In terms of performance it was only marginally better. The tech sure was better but only better by a fraction. So unless you really want the newest driver on the market go for it it's your money but don't discount older driver within the past 2-4 product cycles. Moral of the story get fitted, but also take in account if it feels good to you. For me the tsi3 just felt better and the adjusted settings were really dialed in for me. I would still be happy to put my old m2 once in a while to be honest
Traded in my 2016 m2 when the new cobra f9 came out purely for price and was getting more carry but the two went the same total distance and it’s taken two seasons the get my confidence back in my driving. Wish I still had my m2 could of worked with my coach to get more carry. 🥲
It also has to do with dispersion and the biggest factor confidence. You cannot buy confidence off the tee. That is built throughout years with your driver and knowing exactly what it's going to do for you. I am stuck with the R1 and my back up driver is the ping g10 with a ust v2 shaft.
I sold an immaculate 2016 M2 with a 45 inch Tour AD DI shaft. Could smash at that thing and I'd find sweetspot. No idea why I sold it, not yet got used to TSI3.
I have 10.5 M2 bought of shelf goes 10 yards longer on course than Ping G30 Lstec I was fitted for by Ping. Also have Callaway Xrspeed and M2 is longer on course than it as well alough all produced same numbers on trackman.
I did switch from actually a 2016 and 2017 M1 (had both) and replaced them with a Ping G410+. No I did not see more distance but my mis-hits just seemed way straighter. I don't know if I'd ever get a new driver for that modest a distance gain -- it would have to be a massive distance increase.
Nice vid! 👍 4 mph faster ball speeds with the TSi is hard to argue with though...That's a fairly decent potential increase in carry if your fitted well. Roughly 10 yards...I would probably buy a new driver if someone showed me those numbers in a fitting.
I'm still using an R1 head. I have however moved from a oban kiyoshi white shaft to a VA Drago as this set up gives me my most consistent shot shape, I have tried many of the new heads , but and I mean a big but, I haven't seen a good enough reason to change heads as the R1 preformed the best. Much like your test, it's not worth spending money for very little difference in my shots.
I have the M2 2016 and am in the market for one of the latest drivers. Have been to demo days and tried most of them. I think the newer ones possibly have a bigger sweet spot and better dispersion, however they don't go any further. For me its all about the shaft. So put a quality shaft in the M2 and nothing is going to outperform it, especially against the new drivers with stock shafts options. So my question is do i go for a new TM driver and use a OEM stock shaft/ Use my current Speeder shaft or go for a shaft upgrade $$$$ ???? Cobra Radspeed have good stock shaft options so that's also a option. Geez might as well keep what i've got.
Dan! Rick shiels has mentioned on his podcast that you're one of the best golfers on RUclips, but he thinks he can beat you! Challenge on for 2021?! I think your consistency and clutch putting would make you a strong favourite. Call him out!!!
Great vlog dan , I think most of us get brain washed into the latest gear promising that extra distance but in reality as you pointed out this is not usually the case, I am still waiting to test my new pxg Proto the anticipation is let’s say testing, love this channel , but are we missing out ????
I’m always shouting at these tests whenever it’s a this versus that and the shafts aren’t the same! Surely it’s not a true comparison and all the data is flawed. When testing you need as many constants as possible to provide parity. Loving what you are doing Dan and like everyone we are all counting the days until we can play again and enjoy you’re course vlogs.
I was using a Ping K15 driver albeit with a shaft upgrade and was usually outdriving my fourball , now upcycled to a Cobra SZ Extreme and now putting 20 yards on them so maybe there is a difference between early 90's and late 2000's, I think a driver from 4-5 years ago has in all honesty little difference from the latest model as your video has demonstrated, like one of the other platforms has found clubs from back in the 70-80's clubs like the Ping Zings have little difference from modern clubs, it's just we all like shiny new things.
Currently gaming a g400 max driver with ping tour 65 reg shaft(swingspeed about 98-100mph), just not happy with the distance. Managed to get a 2016 m2 head in mint condition. Can any recommend a decent shaft to go in the M2 head based on my swing speed?
I have owned and tried many drivers since my M2. I keep going back to it for reliability, less dispersion, like the shorter length and distance gains on others ranging from Tahoe ping 410lst, to sim max and several several others very marginal. Dispersion and rip off least on the M2 and fairway finder significantly higher on the m2. Will try if I get an opportunity- being a leftie- the pxg, mizuno new range and the epic speeds but not holding my breadth. Do need to replace my 5 wood -sim ti and am thinking that maybe worth getting the M2 to match if I can find it.
2 or 3 of my mates went for a new driver fitting, all came home with the old Head and a new fitted Shaft. Guess the Head?? I myself have high spin so I built a Frankenstick🙈🙈. 2016 M1 took 1.5 inches off the shaft and put a 2nd weight in the front track and upped the loft to 11.5 could carry 265 yrds and run to 300ish. TM always says it's the best they've built😊😊
I moved last year from a Taylormade R15 regular shaft to the TS1 driver I picked up 25+ yards and lost my slice ,I only ever change if there’s an improvement to be made 🏌🏻♂️
If I was Paul, I'd definitely be looking to change as it is the distance off the tee thats limiting his chances of competing on Tour. Fair enough it was only 2 yards but the ball speed was up which should equate to 2.5 yards per mph... so potentially it has 10 yards on the M2.
Seems like a lot of pros are using older drivers on tour now example Bryson with 4 odd year old driver at the weekend winning again just shows really in the last 5 years not to much difference, also have noticed some players using older irons aswell , I fitted last year tried everything ended up with rouge which is a few years old now and was under half price when new 👍
I must say that I do have one myself from 2016 @ 10.5. Check with Lee as Taylormade have been known to set 9.5 drivers at 13.5 😉. Lester & co. Totally right, new one slightly better but not worth it. Only if someone else is paying.
Thanks to the performance limitations set by the USGA and R&A we will see this more and more, where new products perform virtually the same as older products. From the manufacturer's standpoint, it must be really hard to commit Millions of Dollars to develop a new product that is no better than their existing offerings.
DHG can you do a gapping video of your true gaps with the whole bag. Something I would like to see and it’s always good to know how different people chose there gaps. Thanks.
The two yards is down to lower loft 9.0 vs 9.5 and slightly shorter shaft. At two yards...you have to look at dispersion. If you are hitting the center of fairway more often with the M2. Then that is worth more yards and strokes gained than anything else.
When you mentioned the visual experience, and the M2 appears shorter, it is part of an optical illusion. Similar in respect of people who have a feature wall in their living room - it makes it look smaller. As the eye is fixed on the difference. If everything is the same colour (rooms and drivers) they appear longer as the view is all around and not drawn to the difference.
Still gaming my G400. No point getting new driver until I have a better driver swing. Would like to have seen the standard deviations of your ball speed from the TSI3 and M2. When I scanned your list, it seemed smaller deviation with the Titleist than the older club.
That M2 seems to be a standout "old" driver that still hangs with the best. Hear about it all over the place. I'd be curious what you think of the old RBZ driver of your favoured 5 wood era. I know those fairways were hot (I have one too), but wonder about the driver for someone looking for a decent cheaper driver?🤷
I did send a question to Lester, you've got £400+ quid burning a hole in your pocket, spend it on a new driver (2>5 yards extra) or spend it on lessons/coaching......... no contest, I think Lessons/coaching 👍
I think a great video would be a budget of £250 for a driver should buy a new one from less well marketed brand or a new one from3 to 4 year ago from one of the big brands or a second hand or demonstrator from last year from a big brand
Even dan and lester I have to agree with and lester no real point in changing drivers if there is no real distance obviously it’s different if your sponsored but then again if there’s no improvement it does seem pointless so no I wouldn’t change myself
I own the M2 2016 version - and it is an amazing driver - Tiger called it the GOD Driver from a launch perspective - i.e. 13 launch 2100 spin - and you've just shown it yet again to be true. I've just been seduced into a Callaway Max LS - but it's the slightly longer shaft that was giving me the extra 5 yards. The M2 will go down as one of, if not the best, Driver in history.
M2 was so far ahead of its time. Its basically the most legendary driver of the past 10 years at least. TS/TSi is very good though and much better than the 9 series of the past several years at least for me.
Okay, this has to be said.......Paul - we gotta do something about that hairstyle :) And Jordan Spieth's biggest issues in the past few years has NOT been putting....... He's a terrible driver of the ball. He is coming back though and he's one of the nicest guys around, so I'm pulling for him!!!!
Those original M drivers were really good, I have to admit that I am guilty of changing my driver every 12 months just coz I want something new! But performance never gets any better, all drivers are much the same!
I think the manufacturers have realized that they can no longer rely on claims of added distance with the new drivers and are now pushing stability and the resulting accuracy improvements. Of course, the improved accuracy is something that is not likely to manifest itself on the course in real life but it may help sell drivers.
I think the answer is to keep going to your pro and having a lot of testing of new drivers (hopefully they will charge to use their studio). If you can't beat your current driver, then why spend £500?
Why when I watch club reviews someone always mention the sound it makes does the sound make the club longer or shorter a better looking club or make the club perform better in anyway?
Manufacturers are constantly making claims of more this, and more that, when folk like Cobra can't even put a new driver in the hands of their star attraction.
That 2016 M2 driver was one of the best. I regret selling mine!
This is the exact type of video I’ve been waiting for!
It just proves that there’s not much difference between any of the modern drivers out there.
Would you say that maybe as consumers we would be better off at having a shaft fitting and then just buy whatever driver head we prefer the look of or could afford?
Great video. I broke out my old M2 2016 driver today. I have a SIM Max, but I'm now going back to the M2. I have more confidence in hitting fairways with it, while losing only a few yards in distance compared to the SIM Max.
Just shows that you are talking tiny differences in most cases with the new equipment that comes out and love the honesty piece about if its not broke don't always look to fix it
I'm a huge Titleist fan, and I'm saving up for a TSI model, but the 2016 M2 is the best driver I've ever had, I've even have had 2 of them over the years
Refreshing to hear that the latest most expensive clubs aren't necessarily the best option all the time.
That said I've got the same 2016 m2 but wasn't fitted for it so think I could definitely make some gains with a proper fitting.
Great video as always 👍
I was using a TaylorMade Jetspeed driver for several years and recently got fitted for a TSi2. I gained roughly 15 metres and I feel a bit more control. I also tested it against several others and I feel there isnt much difference between the brands in the current generation. I'm not one to chop and change so the TSi2 will likely stay in the bag for a few years at least. I am really enjoying it.
Great unbiased review, which support the adage "if it isn't broke don't fix it". Thankfully, I'm not in this category and looking for first full-bag fit in 25 years. Hence, looking forward to testing modern technology and splashing a few quid when the fitters, ranges and courses are open again on 12 April 21.
With golf equipment a lot of people talking about “why change if not more distance” but why buy new shoes, cars, mobile phones etc.....if you can afford it than sometimes it’s simply nice to buy new stuff....driver performance is already limited by USGA and R&A for years . So if you have a well fitted driver that is only a few years old than there will be (almost) no distance gains.That is if you strike it in the middle. But most people miss the middle quit frequently and than new drivers can give more distance because the MOI/ ballspeed across the face is better than with older drivers. But play what you like and can afford and enjoy the game🏌🏼♂️😎👍🏽
I’m currently playing a 2016 M2 since may 2021 after getting custom fit for a Hzdrus Smoke Yellow CB shaft 5.5 and just recently an EvenFlow Riptide CB 6.0 S which I gained 5 years compared to the smoke yellow.
Now I’m so intrigued by the TSI drivers most noticeably the TSI3 that this video really caught my attention! I’m getting hip replacement surgery in January 2022 and come next late spring I’ll be comparing the TSI3 to my 2016 M2 and see what the numbers are and see if it’s worth changing into.
My last custom fit with my 2016 M2 just about 2 months ago i averaged about 2,050 rpm with both shafts. Excited to see how it matches up to the TSI3 next spring! May come down to feel and sound if the numbers don’t increase a lot or stay about the same.
I am currently gaming the 16 M2 and haven’t found anything that has enough gains to swap it out. If it ain’t broke don’t fix it. 😂
Ive had my 2016 M2 TaylorMade driver since 2018. I'm extremely happy with this club!
Still using a Yonex Ezone XPG HD that I bought secondhand in 2017. Works well and I've just reshafted it with a more modern shaft (from a later Yonex model). I have tried later drivers but I'll stick with what I have!!!
I picked up about 10 carry yards when I changed from the Mizuno 190 to the Ping 410. I'm loving it right now.
Have a TM M2 and got a driver fitting booked beginning of April. Will be interested in seeing whether the new ones can create a measurable improvement !!!!!!
I have the 2016 M2 10.5 degree playing it at 9 degrees. Best driver I have ever hit. I am actually looking to pick up at least one more in a 9 degree head. The heads run around $150 bucks here in the US and I can just swap the shafts.
Hi Dan. Love the content and the team involved in making it. I have used a 2016 taylormade M2 since getting fitted for it new. I’ve never been tempted to change. I did see a big improvement in performance when I got it compared to the R11s I had before that both in forgiveness and length particularly into the wind due to better spin numbers. Since then members of my four ball have changed drivers numerous times and I’m just not seeing any of the gains their fitters are telling them they’re getting. I agree with A lot of people that drivers have gone as far as they can already due to limits on C.O.R. Anything now is just marketing in my opinion but in another 3 or 4 years I’ll realistically still probably be looking at a new driver but more down to wanting something shinny and fresh in the bag.
Dan before lockdown you were building one of the best channels on you tube. Won't be long now until you can get the boys back on a course blog.
I tried to pick up an M2 last year but couldn't get a decent condition one for sensible money. Ended up with a brand new Srixon Z565 and I'm very pleased with it.
I love my 2016 M2 Dan. Have tried newer models but not found anything to better it. Playing off 6, I still game my TM R9 tour irons with the r9 3 wood, 11 years old, just had new grips and they are as good as the day I bought them. Enjoying the excellent content Dan, don’t really get why the channel hasn’t grown faster. Keep up the great work..it will come!
4 hdcp. and I was using an Epic Speed, 9*, neutral, MMT, stiff, 60gm for the past two years with decent results. I used my buddies 2017 TM, 10.5*, m1, Kuro Kage, 60gm, Stiff… no track man #’s, just on course (where it matters) results. I lost. About 10 yards in distance, while increasing fairways hit by 50%. I now have a 2017 m1 and have a 2016 m2, 9.5* (10.5* launches too high) and can work the ball a bit more. Less is more! I used a Ping Anser 9* for 10 years until it cracked. Tried the new equipment and just don’t equate the hype to the $$$.
Recently upgraded my driver from epic to epic flash, the new ones just as good, but. I’ve gone back to my old driver and 100% love it. Great vid, good honest sense.
I had the 2016 M2 with a custom fit shaft and it was awesome. Maybe the best driver I’ve ever had. I won some pro shop money in a tournament and decided to move to something newer, a Ping G400. The Ping was great, but I still wish I had that M2 back. The feel, the sound, it was really about as good as it gets.
Had the M2 2017 stiff, really liked it and was consistent, went to get fitted for Taylormade irons and tried the new TSI drivers out of curiosity, I sadly ended up listening to the normal sales pitch and bought the TSI 2 which I now regret and am currently looking at M2 2017 with the shaft I had originally. If it works don't change unless its broken.
I recently cracked the head of my M2(2016), searched everyone for the same model and had no luck. So I ended up buying the newer M2, lucky some retailers are still carrying it! Though the 2016 version was still my favourite!
I had a G400, but changed it to the 2017 M2, found my ball flight was a little lower and new for £250 a bargain wish I had got one ages ago, thanks for the vid.
Cheers Dan, great to give guys confidence in not wasting money on new drivers unless they really make a jump, looks like every 6-8 years for driver tech to make a big diff for most players.
I just dropped my M2 for the Mizuno ST-Z finally found something with better performance in distance and side to side. It was a great run for a great club.
Great content Dan, such a true statement. I had the M2, for 2 years, moved to M6, not as good as the M2. Moved into Sim Max last year, not enough time to state if better than M2, not always best to buy a shiny new toy, lol. Keep up the great work. 👍👍
Another great video Dan. A driver is such a personal club. If you like the look of it behind the ball and hit it consistently why pay close to £500 for a new club that may only give you 2 yards more distance.
Literally just upgraded from a 2016 m2 into a tsi3 after 4 years of using the M2. The M2 was off the rack and retrofitted once I found out about fitting and gotten better at golf. I'm now a mid handicap (17) and to be fair the only difference I felt between the tsi3 and m2 were the hotter face, better acoustics, and a better fit. Which essentially means it was personal preference being why I liked the tsi3 better. In terms of performance it was only marginally better. The tech sure was better but only better by a fraction. So unless you really want the newest driver on the market go for it it's your money but don't discount older driver within the past 2-4 product cycles. Moral of the story get fitted, but also take in account if it feels good to you. For me the tsi3 just felt better and the adjusted settings were really dialed in for me. I would still be happy to put my old m2 once in a while to be honest
Traded in my 2016 m2 when the new cobra f9 came out purely for price and was getting more carry but the two went the same total distance and it’s taken two seasons the get my confidence back in my driving. Wish I still had my m2 could of worked with my coach to get more carry. 🥲
It also has to do with dispersion and the biggest factor confidence. You cannot buy confidence off the tee. That is built throughout years with your driver and knowing exactly what it's going to do for you. I am stuck with the R1 and my back up driver is the ping g10 with a ust v2 shaft.
I sold an immaculate 2016 M2 with a 45 inch Tour AD DI shaft. Could smash at that thing and I'd find sweetspot.
No idea why I sold it, not yet got used to TSI3.
What about a change in shaft in an older head to improve performance?
I’m sure another shaft could definitely help in both models to be honest 👍
Much better than Crossfield now, nothing against him but i look forward to seeing your episodes more
I have 10.5 M2 bought of shelf goes 10 yards longer on course than Ping G30 Lstec I was fitted for by Ping. Also have Callaway Xrspeed and M2 is longer on course than it as well alough all produced same numbers on trackman.
I did switch from actually a 2016 and 2017 M1 (had both) and replaced them with a Ping G410+. No I did not see more distance but my mis-hits just seemed way straighter. I don't know if I'd ever get a new driver for that modest a distance gain -- it would have to be a massive distance increase.
Nice vid! 👍
4 mph faster ball speeds with the TSi is hard to argue with though...That's a fairly decent potential increase in carry if your fitted well. Roughly 10 yards...I would probably buy a new driver if someone showed me those numbers in a fitting.
I'm still using an R1 head. I have however moved from a oban kiyoshi white shaft to a VA Drago as this set up gives me my most consistent shot shape, I have tried many of the new heads , but and I mean a big but, I haven't seen a good enough reason to change heads as the R1 preformed the best. Much like your test, it's not worth spending money for very little difference in my shots.
I have the M2 2016 and am in the market for one of the latest drivers. Have been to demo days and tried most of them. I think the newer ones possibly have a bigger sweet spot and better dispersion, however they don't go any further. For me its all about the shaft. So put a quality shaft in the M2 and nothing is going to outperform it, especially against the new drivers with stock shafts options. So my question is do i go for a new TM driver and use a OEM stock shaft/ Use my current Speeder shaft or go for a shaft upgrade $$$$ ????
Cobra Radspeed have good stock shaft options so that's also a option. Geez might as well keep what i've got.
Dan! Rick shiels has mentioned on his podcast that you're one of the best golfers on RUclips, but he thinks he can beat you! Challenge on for 2021?! I think your consistency and clutch putting would make you a strong favourite. Call him out!!!
I play with a Cobra F8 that I just like the look of. I think its 4 models old now but it performs well for me.
I haven't loved a driver since I got rid of my Cleveland Launcher 460. I hope to find a new love some day.
Great vlog dan , I think most of us get brain washed into the latest gear promising that extra distance but in reality as you pointed out this is not usually the case, I am still waiting to test my new pxg Proto the anticipation is let’s say testing, love this channel , but are we missing out ????
Great vid dan, just goes to show.... many a good tune and all that!! I use a 2018 Cobra f9 speedback . and i love it.
I’m always shouting at these tests whenever it’s a this versus that and the shafts aren’t the same! Surely it’s not a true comparison and all the data is flawed. When testing you need as many constants as possible to provide parity.
Loving what you are doing Dan and like everyone we are all counting the days until we can play again and enjoy you’re course vlogs.
I was using a Ping K15 driver albeit with a shaft upgrade and was usually outdriving my fourball , now upcycled to a Cobra SZ Extreme and now putting 20 yards on them so maybe there is a difference between early 90's and late 2000's, I think a driver from 4-5 years ago has in all honesty little difference from the latest model as your video has demonstrated, like one of the other platforms has found clubs from back in the 70-80's clubs like the Ping Zings have little difference from modern clubs, it's just we all like shiny new things.
I used to sell a lot of the G15 & K15, really good drivers 👍
Hi Dan I'm still using same as paul m2 hi spin set at 11deg best driver iv used just dont miss fairways so why change .
I'm still using the TM R7 Dan. No point in changing.
Hi Dan is a low spinning Driver suitable for a player with a moderate swing speed ?
Still rocking the 913 in the driver and fairway woods
Rocking a Ping G400MAX. Love it...and for $500, can’t see trading it.
Still hitting my 2017 Callaway Rouge 9 degree driver. Don't hit it very high, but in runs out forever, and goes straight.
Currently gaming a g400 max driver with ping tour 65 reg shaft(swingspeed about 98-100mph), just not happy with the distance. Managed to get a 2016 m2 head in mint condition. Can any recommend a decent shaft to go in the M2 head based on my swing speed?
I have owned and tried many drivers since my M2. I keep going back to it for reliability, less dispersion, like the shorter length and distance gains on others ranging from Tahoe ping 410lst, to sim max and several several others very marginal. Dispersion and rip off least on the M2 and fairway finder significantly higher on the m2. Will try if I get an opportunity- being a leftie- the pxg, mizuno new range and the epic speeds but not holding my breadth. Do need to replace my 5 wood -sim ti and am thinking that maybe worth getting the M2 to match if I can find it.
any chance you could do a video on your thoughts on the release in the golf swing?
Love my 2017 M2 with a Speeder shaft….the Paradigm fitter couldn’t match my numbers
2 or 3 of my mates went for a new driver fitting, all came home with the old Head and a new fitted Shaft. Guess the Head?? I myself have high spin so I built a Frankenstick🙈🙈. 2016 M1 took 1.5 inches off the shaft and put a 2nd weight in the front track and upped the loft to 11.5 could carry 265 yrds and run to 300ish. TM always says it's the best they've built😊😊
Nice review makes sense to keep what works in the bag. Save that money for beers and nuts
I moved last year from a Taylormade R15 regular shaft to the TS1 driver I picked up 25+ yards and lost my slice ,I only ever change if there’s an improvement to be made 🏌🏻♂️
If I was Paul, I'd definitely be looking to change as it is the distance off the tee thats limiting his chances of competing on Tour. Fair enough it was only 2 yards but the ball speed was up which should equate to 2.5 yards per mph... so potentially it has 10 yards on the M2.
Seems like a lot of pros are using older drivers on tour now example Bryson with 4 odd year old driver at the weekend winning again just shows really in the last 5 years not to much difference, also have noticed some players using older irons aswell , I fitted last year tried everything ended up with rouge which is a few years old now and was under half price when new 👍
Just bought a Tour Issue 2016 M2 with a 60g X flex shaft. 💪😎
I must say that I do have one myself from 2016 @ 10.5. Check with Lee as Taylormade have been known to set 9.5 drivers at 13.5 😉. Lester & co. Totally right, new one slightly better but not worth it. Only if someone else is paying.
Thanks to the performance limitations set by the USGA and R&A we will see this more and more, where new products perform virtually the same as older products.
From the manufacturer's standpoint, it must be really hard to commit Millions of Dollars to develop a new product that is no better than their existing offerings.
DHG can you do a gapping video of your true gaps with the whole bag. Something I would like to see and it’s always good to know how different people chose there gaps. Thanks.
Love my 2016 M2 Driver👍🏽💪🏽
The two yards is down to lower loft 9.0 vs 9.5 and slightly shorter shaft. At two yards...you have to look at dispersion. If you are hitting the center of fairway more often with the M2. Then that is worth more yards and strokes gained than anything else.
That M2 is state of the art compared with my 915 d3 - and that's ultra modern compared with anything I've had before.
Really good advice, its not just Paul and Will, look at Bryson.
When you mentioned the visual experience, and the M2 appears shorter, it is part of an optical illusion. Similar in respect of people who have a feature wall in their living room - it makes it look smaller. As the eye is fixed on the difference. If everything is the same colour (rooms and drivers) they appear longer as the view is all around and not drawn to the difference.
These compares to older clubs are great
I changed from an original Epic SZ to a Mavrik. Found the newer model easier to draw, compared to the fade bias Epic
did you try the draw setting in the Epic SZ , just asking :)
@@adrianrice354 Yes, did not work for me. Just pushed the ball right with the club set in Draw. Same with the Ping driver and other manufacturers
Absolutely loved my m2 driver I have changed to m4 but not had chance to hit it yet due to lock down.Can’t go wrong 😂😂👍👎great vlog as always
Still gaming my G400. No point getting new driver until I have a better driver swing. Would like to have seen the standard deviations of your ball speed from the TSI3 and M2. When I scanned your list, it seemed smaller deviation with the Titleist than the older club.
I looked at dispersion and the M2 was tighter , that is what I saw . :)
That M2 seems to be a standout "old" driver that still hangs with the best. Hear about it all over the place. I'd be curious what you think of the old RBZ driver of your favoured 5 wood era. I know those fairways were hot (I have one too), but wonder about the driver for someone looking for a decent cheaper driver?🤷
Good stuff, Dan!
M2 is a legend this will be interesting 👍
Yep got one
I did send a question to Lester, you've got £400+ quid burning a hole in your pocket, spend it on a new driver (2>5 yards extra) or spend it on lessons/coaching......... no contest, I think Lessons/coaching 👍
I have the 2016 M2 and have tried plenty of newer drivers but none give me anything that stands out enough to make me change it.
I think a great video would be a budget of £250 for a driver should buy a new one from less well marketed brand or a new one from3 to 4 year ago from one of the big brands or a second hand or demonstrator from last year from a big brand
Even dan and lester I have to agree with and lester no real point in changing drivers if there is no real distance obviously it’s different if your sponsored but then again if there’s no improvement it does seem pointless so no I wouldn’t change myself
No denying how amazing the new Titleist stuff sounds....
I own the M2 2016 version - and it is an amazing driver - Tiger called it the GOD Driver from a launch perspective - i.e. 13 launch 2100 spin - and you've just shown it yet again to be true. I've just been seduced into a Callaway Max LS - but it's the slightly longer shaft that was giving me the extra 5 yards. The M2 will go down as one of, if not the best, Driver in history.
You could be right Paul 👍
Bought one last year for £115 on ebay. It's superb.
M2 was so far ahead of its time. Its basically the most legendary driver of the past 10 years at least. TS/TSi is very good though and much better than the 9 series of the past several years at least for me.
Okay, this has to be said.......Paul - we gotta do something about that hairstyle :) And Jordan Spieth's biggest issues in the past few years has NOT been putting....... He's a terrible driver of the ball. He is coming back though and he's one of the nicest guys around, so I'm pulling for him!!!!
Big difference from the 2016 m2 and the 2017 m2. 2017 had better sound and better material in the face, and a sunken toe to help with off center hits.
Basically my driver there, except mines has a 70g stiff Aldila Rogue
Those original M drivers were really good, I have to admit that I am guilty of changing my driver every 12 months just coz I want something new! But performance never gets any better, all drivers are much the same!
I think the manufacturers have realized that they can no longer rely on claims of added distance with the new drivers and are now pushing stability and the resulting accuracy improvements. Of course, the improved accuracy is something that is not likely to manifest itself on the course in real life but it may help sell drivers.
I think the answer is to keep going to your pro and having a lot of testing of new drivers (hopefully they will charge to use their studio). If you can't beat your current driver, then why spend £500?
Why when I watch club reviews someone always mention the sound it makes does the sound make the club longer or shorter a better looking club or make the club perform better in anyway?
No, just personal preference 👍
I have a ping g driver, and I won’t change it for a newer driver that will only give me a few yards extra. I’d rather spend the money on lessons
eh new T-shirt required Lester - “DH, a little bit lower in the spin!”
Dan, it looks like you're hitting a titleist 3 wood.
Manufacturers are constantly making claims of more this, and more that, when folk like Cobra can't even put a new driver in the hands of their star attraction.
Has to be the best TM driver ever made the pros only change as its free 👍
I have a Ping G400 Max will probably be in the bag for 10 years