ukok

I have been playing the Titleist VG3 irons for a few months (A1+ condition when purchased) and have noticed that the amount of dings and marks on the club head are significantly more than my previous irons at such an early stage of use. My previous irons which were all one piece forgings and in in no particular order, Miura MB 5003, Epon AF-501, Yamaha Inpress Tour and Fourteen TC-770 all looked relatively unmarked after such a short period of use. If i was to compare the VG3's against my very old and used Fourteen's and well used Yamaha's, I would say the VG3's are the most used. As my previous irons were all soft forged, I would have thought the opposite to be the case. I would stress that, I am only refering to the dings and pings associated with using the clubs, the manufacture and finish of the clubs is top notch. Any thoughts?

I totally agree with your comments on the M5 V10 (current model), I had two of them and in town in the wrong gear and power ratio you would go nowhere but set up correctly on a nice A road or motorway the car flew. I remember sitting at a set of traffic lights playing with the launch control not realising I had activated it, it was like a bullet out of gun, I have never slammed the brakes on so quickly. My told me I had to get a smaller car so I got a M3, far better in every way apart from the HUD which I loved.

You can work the ball both ways, my natural shot is a big draw and remains so with the VG3's.

Hey Vegaman, surprised you have not criticised the red paint fill on the drivers, they look like they were done with spray paint and masking tape. :-)

I can only give a direct comparison with an AP2 7 iron which was being used as a test club in the bay next to me at the driving range. The size of the heads are similar although the VG3 looks bigger which I think is down to the chrome finish. The VG3 was noticeably longer with superior (forged) feel and forgiveness. The AP2 felt dead by comparison. I am not saying the AP2 is a bad club in fact it was one of the best I was testing but if you like the AP2's you will like the VG3's even more.

Although, the lofts are strong, the ball flight is high therefore a heavier shaft may assist on a mid height flight if that is your game.

Any chance of sending a demo to the UK (London). :-)

Been speaking to my son who is living in Sapporo for a year. Although the earthquakes caused no damage there and life goes on as normal, my main concern is the nuclear reactors which scare the bejezzers out of me. Here is an article from the BBC website which explains the current situation. I wish Tario, his family and all those affected by this tradegy health and safety. There have been two explosions at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan, following Friday's earthquake and tsunami, and a third reactor is reportedly at risk of fuel-rod meltdown. How great a danger do these problems pose for people in Japan and further afield? Has there been a leakage of radioactive material? It appears so. An American warship, the USS Ronald Reagan, has detected low levels of radiation at a distance of 100 miles (161km) from the Fukushima plant. How much radioactive material has escaped? This is not clear. The Japanese authorities say only very low levels of radiation have been detected outside the plant. The IAEA has described it as a level four event on the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale (INES), which is used for an accident "with local consequences". No abnormal levels of radiation have yet been detected in Russia. What type of radioactive material has escaped? There are reports of radioactive isotopes of caesium and iodine in the vicinity of the plant. Experts say it would be natural for radioactive isotopes of nitrogen and argon to have escaped as well. There is no evidence that any uranium or plutonium has escaped. What harm do these radioactive materials cause? Radioactive iodine could be harmful to young people living near the plant. After the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster there were some cases of thyroid cancer as a result. People who were promptly issued with iodine tablets ought to be safe, however. Radioactive caesium, uranium and plutonium are harmful, but do not target any particular organ of the body. Radioactive nitrogen decays within seconds of its release, and argon poses no threat to health. How did the radioactive materials escape? It appears that there have been problems with the power supply to pumps that fill the reactors with water, causing the reactors to overheat. When steam has built up to dangerous levels, small amounts have been vented. Experts say that the presence of caesium and iodine in the steam suggests that the metal casing of some of the fuel rods has melted or broken. Uranium has a very high melting point so it is unlikely to have melted, still less vapourised. Could radioactive materials have escaped by any other means? The authorities have pumped sea water into three reactors. This water will be contaminated by its passage through the reactor, but it is currently unclear whether any of it has been released into the environment. How long will any contamination last? Radioactive iodine decays quite quickly. Most will have disappeared within a month. Radioactive caesium does not last long in the body - most has gone within a year. However, it lingers in the environment and can continue to present a risk. Has there been a meltdown? The term "meltdown" is used in a variety of ways. As noted above, the reported detection of radioactive caesium and iodine may indicate that some of the metal casing enclosing the reactors' uranium fuel has melted (a "fuel-rod meltdown"). However, there is as yet no indication that the uranium fuel itself has melted. Still less is there any indication of a "China Syndrome" where the fuel melts, gathers below the reactor and resumes a chain reaction, that enables it to melt everything in its way, and bore a path deep into the earth. If there were to be a serious meltdown, the Japanese reactor is supposed to be able to handle it, preventing the China Syndrome from taking place. Reports suggest that underneath the reactor, within the outer containment vessel, there is a concrete basin designed to capture and disperse any molten fuel. Could there be a Chernobyl-like disaster? Experts say this is highly unlikely. The chain reaction at all Fukushima reactors has ceased and reactor 1 is reported already to be in a stable condition. The explosions that have occurred have taken place outside the steel and concrete containment vessels enclosing the reactors, which apparently remain solid. At Chernobyl an explosion exposed the core of the reactor to the air, and a fire raged for days sending its contents in a plume up into the atmosphere. At Fukushima the explosions - caused by hydrogen and oxygen vented from the reactor - have damaged only the roof and walls erected around the containment vessels. Could there be a nuclear explosion? No. A nuclear bomb and a nuclear reactor are different things. What caused the hydrogen release from the reactor? At high temperatures, steam can separate into hydrogen and oxygen in the presence of zirconium, the metal used for encasing the reactor fuel. This mixture is highly explosive. How do iodine tablets work? If the body has all the iodine it needs, it will not absorb further iodine from the atmosphere. The tablets fill the body up with non-radioactive iodine, which prevent it absorbing the radioactive iodine. Is any level of exposure to radiation safe? In some parts of the world, natural background radiation is significantly higher than others - for example in Cornwall, in south-west England. And yet people live in Cornwall, and many others gladly visit the area. Similarly, every international air flight exposes passengers to higher than normal levels of radiation - and yet people still fly, and cabin crews spend large amounts of time exposed to this radiation. Patients in hospitals regularly undergo X-rays. Scientists dispute whether any level of exposure to radiation is entirely safe, but exposure to some level of radiation - whether at normal background levels or higher - is a fact of life. We do not yet know how much higher than normal the levels around Fukushima are. How do Fukushima's problems affect the rest of the world? It depends on how much radiation is released. At present, the IAEA says the effects are of a "local" nature.

Although, I have only tried the Titleist AP2, 7 iron at the range, I am gaming the VG3's (with 4 iron) which I managed to purchase from one of the site members. I installed Steel fiber composite shafts and have to say these are one of the sweetest irons I have owned, Great distance (at least one club longer), soft feel and a very clever design where you do not see the back cavity even on the 4 iron at address. They make the AP2's a very poor relation but will cost almost treble the price with a decent shaft. The quality of the club is excellent with all heads matching in weight etc which is obviously down to Endo, which cannot normally be said for Titleist irons. In all, if you can afford them, buy them.

Well, its been almost two weeks now and my old is best part of my brain is in severe conflict with my new is better part of my brain. The Fourteens are keeping their side of the bargain but the new Yamaha's, are in the pro shop for pre-order and are looking very very nice. In order to appease this situation, I have re-gripped the fourteens with new white grips, will this gesture fool the weak half of my brain, I just dont know but I am actiually looking forward to playing with them, which cant be bad. The Fourteen's were Endo forged, pretty sure in Japan, T will be able to give the definitive answer. Any how, they are as soft as butter left out of the fridge overnight.

Specs below, special edition, Cosworth. Makes my M3 look very tame although the lambo could take it. Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 Manual | Petrol £49,995.00 CLOSE Performance Maximum speed (mph) 155 (electronically limited) 0-62 mph (seconds) 3.7 Net Power/ps @ rpm 400 @ 5750 Torque/Nm @ rpm 515 @ 3950 CLOSE Engine Stroke (mm) 79.0 Drive Permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Bearings Cosworth bearing sets with high strength overlay plate (reduced thickness for better oil control and less friction), hardened steel backing, increased crush and elimination of flash plating (for improved heat transfer), tight consistent wall tolerances Type 4 cylinder Horizontally opposed SUBARU BOXER, 16 valve DOHC, with AVCS, Turbo and Intercooler Rods Forged connecting rods manufactured from high strength 4340 (EN24) steel and machined to precise tolerances. Strong, light weight H-beam design, Heavy duty rod bolt (260,000psi), small end bushed for floating pin Pistons Cosworth high performance, maximum durability forged pistons utilising Cosworth F1 technology: polished tops (limit carbon build up, aid stress relief), anti-scuff skirt coating (minimise friction), ultra-strong pins and patented anti-detonation bands Intercooler Enhanced intercooler ensuring ingested air is of optimal density Turbocharger New turbocharging system unique to Cosworth utilising new compressor design and specific wastegate actuator delivering uprated air intake (boost) pressure. Delivers more power by reducing internal friction and improving air compression Bore (mm) 99.5 Engine Capacity (cc) 2457 Engine upgrade Replacing original STI engine internals using upgraded Cosworth components including: pistons, piston rings, rods, bearings, gaskets and studs. Produces considerably stronger engine with minimal weight increase Exhaust system Bespoke Cosworth exhaust system: open design downpipe with increased diameter and custom tubular manifold for higher volume of exhaust gasses (engine breathes more efficiently maximising potential). Exhaust offers unique tone with limited noise level Compression ratio 8.2:1 Stud Kit Cosworth Ultra High Performance Head Studs manufactured from H11 tool steel with 180,000psi tensile strength complete with high performance nuts and washers Head Gaskets Cosworth High Performance Head Gaskets engineered to seal in power under demanding conditions. Stainless steel construction with folded stopper layer, pre-coated die cut stainless steel for uniform coating distribution and consistent shape Oil Pump Cosworth High Pressure oil pump modified to increase oil pressure ensuring superior lubrication Transmission 6 speed manual transmission with highly durable carbon synchromeshes EXPAND Dimensions Front Overhang mm 960 Payload (kg) 475 Gross Vehicle Weight (kg) 1980 Trailer Weight Unbraked kg 750 Nose Weight kg 75 Track front (mm) 1530 Track rear (mm) 1540 Towing capacity (kg) 1600 Fuel tank capacity (litres) 60 Overall Length (mm) 4415 Width (mm) 1795 Rear Overhang mm 830 Wheelbase (mm) 2625 Approach Angle (degrees) 14 Departure Angle (degrees) 22.8 Ramp Angle (degrees) 15 Kerb Weight (kg) 1505 Trailer Weight Braked (kg) 1200 Gross Train Weight (GTW) kg 3180 Min. Turning Circle (m) diameter 11.0 V14 Boot capacity seats down (litres, VDA method) 1216 V11 Boot capacity seats up (litres, VDA method) 301 Wheels 18" x 8.5" JJ Ground Clearance (mm) 140 Tyres 245/40 R18 CLOSE Mechanical SI DRIVE Yes 6 Speed Manual Transmission Yes Multi-mode Driver's Contol Centre Differential (DCCD) Yes Clutch Upgraded single plate clutch for maximum performance and ease of use with revised pressure plate, bearing and disc Brakes AP Racing 6 pot calliper with bespoke piston sizes in front callipers with larger rotor and brake pads for increased cooling capacity. Stiffer calliper design and stainless steel brake lines reduce fade Suspension Bespoke Bilstein suspension with a 15mm lowered ride height for maximum comfort at low and high speeds

Why, is all down to the human brain and psyche. In golf terminology, why do we want to buy the latest PRGR egg spoon when the previous model was no.1, why do we wait evey year for the new Epon/Yamaha/Tourstage models when our existing clubs are in reality are just as good. The answer is, dont ask me!.

As my existing irons are on the fragile side, I decided to delve deep into my garage and release my old Fourteen 770 TC forged (JDM) irons. It took about 30 range balls to dial them in and for me to start thinking why oh why did I ever stop using them. Not only are they longer, softer and more forgiving than my Yamaha's which is not easy to say, I compared them to several new models from Mizuno, Callaway and Nike and the Fourteen's performed better by far on each occasion. I beleive the Fourteen's were forged by Endo and can only think that in the one piece forged market although the design of the club changes it does not guarantee an improvement. Unfortunately, I will still buy the next new model available and return the Fourteen's to their exile.

How high was your bag when it fell on it !! I have to admit I treat my crazy with kid gloves and am very consious when picking up my tee not to lean on it.

Great driver, it has it all, length, workability and forgiveness. Match it up to the correct shaft and you will be a very happy man.

PRGR GN 502 440 Tour, 9 degrees loft, 45 inches long, Oban Devotion 6 (S) shaft, Golf Pride tour velvet grip. Head, shaft and grip all in A1 condition apart from the ferrule which is slightly misaligned with the hosel, purely cosmetic and hardly noticeable. This driver hits it very very long with a low ball flight, I would stress low. Played with for a few weeks then demoted to garage. $200.00, plus shipping, located in UK, so the further it goes the higher the shipping costs (please PM for exact costs). For some reason, I can only attach 1 picture, if interested please PM me for more.

I see that Mizuno plan to launch their JPX (Japan) range in Europe, the irons are JPX 800 and JPX 800 pro, does anyone know (stupid question) if these are a duplicate of their current Japanese domestic models or older models given a new lease of life. This could be the start of a very nice trend.

T, what's the name of the theme you are using?

Last Thursday I had two deliveries, one was a PRGR Tour GN502 440, 9 dgrees with an Oban Devotion 6 shaft stiff flex installed, the other was a PRGR 15 degree Egg Spoon PX-03 (see post PRGR where did it go). THe Egg went straight to my club fitter and an Accra Dymatch M5, S3 75, stiff was fitted. Previously both my driver and 3 wood had a Kai'li 70, stiff fitted. Well, all that has been previously said about the Egg is true, it is as Tario, says "automatic". I actually changed the way I played to suit this club. The ball flight is perfect and the distance is as good as it gets. It is as easy to hit off the turf as it is of a tee and the pop sound when hit is almost reassuring. This is definitely a keeper. The PRGR GN502 440, launches the ball like an exocet missile, low and straight. I found this club more forgiving than my existing GN502, which I had a tendency to slice/duck hook on occasions. The length of drive is as long as I have hit. My only problem is it is very low and I am not sure whether the shaft/loft is the culprit. I am not too concerned but hope I do not have to play a course where you drive over trees etc. I am trying out the new Epon, drivers very shortly and it will be interesting to compare. In all a very successful day on the course and my lowest score this year.

Ok, so i took a punt and the head was delivered yesterday (what the heck), On inspecting the head my initial thoughts were this is definately genuine as the craftsmanship was equal to my two PRGR drivers. Then I noticed the red dot was not round and the rear of the clubs paint finish was not gloss, "it is a fake" came into my mind. I then carefully persued the pictures on the forum and found the red dot is not round but flatish on one side and the paint finish is not all gloss, everything is 100% accurate. I can definately say the head is genuine down to its weight and measurements and it is off to my club fitter to be shafted with either the Kai'li or an Accra shaft. I intend to play with it this weekend and will report on my results.

Yes they do, the 5 wood is 18 degrees.

I suppose if I do buy it, every good shot it will be genuine and every bad shot it will be a fake.

Nothing like a good latin phrase.

I bid up $300.00, thought I lost it but received a second chance offer from ebay at the $300.00 figure. Not sure what to do. Good feedback from seller but who nows, any advice.

Good video review. How does this club compare to the Yamaha D Power Spoon, distance forgiveness etc. Has anyone played both clubs.