gocchin

Hi henry same as before, length 0.25" either way with standard being 38.00" and lie and loft 2* changes.

A little late as I took more time than usual playing both the old and new side by side for the last month. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/vg3slide.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/vg3slide.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21339" title="vg3slide" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/vg3slide.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="248" /></a> The original Titliest VG3 Forged iron which was announced and released in 2010 was one consistently one of the best selling irons in Japan during every month of its shelf life. So when Titleist announced the new VG3 Forged iron for 2012, it has some pretty big shoes to fill and we all wondered what changes we would see. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110156.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110156.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21342" title="P8110156" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110156.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="407" /></a> Like the original model, the Japanese Market only new VG3 Forged irons are aimed at the average golfer and improving mid capper. The strong lofts (24* 5 iron) matched with low CG in the form of tungsten weights in the sole create a higher launch and more MOI. The VG3 features variable placement for the tungsten weights on the sole depending on the iron just like on the driver. The different weight placement varies the launch between different irons depending on that iron. This concept is the same as the original model. I have been lucky enough to have both irons on hand for the last month to do a side by side comparison. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110146.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110146.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21345" title="P8110146" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110146.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="408" /></a> Size wise, there is not much separating both generations of VG3 irons, they share a similar shape and size, what appears to be the same amount of offset and top line thickness. What is noticeably different right away is the design aesthetics and finish of both irons. The new model is cleaner looking and gone is the dark black cavity in favor of a brushed steel look with grey accents. Another change is the finish of the new VG3 iron which is now a very nice pearl like satin whereas the previous model was mirror chrome on the sole and back cavity. The New VG3 utilizes a slightly different variable weighting system, with tungsten weights on the long and mid irons placed further back towards the cavity to increase MOI and launch. As you can see in the image I took above of the 7 irons, the new model has two weights pushed towards the heel and toe and further back vs the single weight in the 1st gen (only the 4 and 5 irons in the first gen had heel toe weighting). <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P81101521.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P81101521.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21346" title="P8110152" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P81101521.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="347" /></a> The New VG3 also features weighting in the neck of the iron and this combined with the weights in the sole increase the irons ability to square up to the ball and create higher ball speeds equaling more distance. You can see the weight in the face on shot above. Shape wise both irons are very similar with a reasonably straight top line and taller toe. Again you see that milky white pearl satin like finish on the new model on the left. While the original VG3 is mirror chrome on the sole and back cavity its face is satin but just a standard brushed satin finish. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110161.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110161.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21347" title="P8110161" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110161.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="440" /></a> At address, you see how both irons are pretty much the same when it comes to offset, top line and even heel to toe length/face area. The more prominent contrast of the face and scorelines in the new model on the left seem to help frame the ball better. So with these design changes as well as visual changes, the most important thing is how does the new VG3 Forged feel and perform? The original model was specially designed for the Japanese market and the average golfer and mid capper in mind looking for ease of use and forgiveness. It however turned out to be very popular among players of all levels, as it was good enough for the demanding lower handicapper who wanted some forgivness as well as easy enough to play for the improving higher handicapper. This is one of the reasons why it sold so well. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110147.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110147.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21350" title="P8110147" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P8110147.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="432" /></a> I am happy to say that the new VG3 iron falls in the same mould and takes it a step further with its design changes. The premium Endo forged iron feels great at impact, just as good if not better than the previous model. Its undercut which is deeper and larger than the original does not impact the irons good feel in any negative way but does help increase forgiveness and coupled with the new weighting, really helps launch the ball. With the CG positioned lower thanks to all these changes, the sweet spot is easier to strike consistently and its simply bigger than the previous model. With its strong lofts, distance is superb and as good as most distance oriented irons out there but with better feel and in a smaller package. The VG3 is not a compact cavity back nor is it a big in anyway. While some found it small but with a thicker top line, I think Titleist struck the right balance in size and shape that equal balanced performance and feel. It does everything well while looking good and feeling good and has to be one of the most well rounded irons out there today. Its balanced performance is one of the reasons why demand for the irons is again very high and those who pre ordered are very lucky to have a set as its currently a several week wait for a set and a month at least for custom orders. The VG3 is also seeing play on the Japanese tour for both senior mens Japan Tour and ladies on the JLPGA which are both very reflective of the mainstream market and what works for the largest average golfer audience. I still have a set of the origjnal VG3 Forged which is actually my second set. After I let the first set go I regretted it and got another set which I custom shafted with Roddio Pentacross I:6 shafts. However after trying the new VG3 Forged I have to admit I've place my order for the new model as they simply taken the VG3 to new level of performance (plus they look better in my opinion). You can find the new VG3 Forged here in the<a href="http://www.tourspecgolf.com/product_info.php?products_id=3920"><strong> Pro shop</strong></a> and a discussion thread on the new VG3 here in the forum! Let us know what you think!

Miuraism are the hand picked and made specifically for the player model clubs, The models are older but get special attention and special fit. So they are definitely more babied and get more attention from Miura when being produced than more mainstream MG models.

Well said and I agree with many points (though graphics is a personal thing and they do care about peforrmance and improvements which is why there is a huge emphasis on design or technology). Miura still uses old fashioned designs and for some people, this is a good thing. Keep it simple and pure. But besides very hard core enthusiasts and traditionalists here in Japan they don't have a big following which maybe is too bad. And whether its power slots as you put it or other metals mixed in, there is nothing wrong with improving designs and technologies both while maintaining feel and performance. The truth is many of us need help and can't always make the perfect shot and technology and advancements in design do help. That said, Miura recently has made some nice new designs which have caught my eye as being a change from the usual line of clubs they produce like the CB1007 and the WMF06 wedge. Very nice clubs which I have had the pleasure of seeing and trying first hand.

Its amazing how many golfers choose Miura considering they are not even close to a top brand here in Japan. They have done quite a marketing job overseas and outside of Japan. I am sure they make great irons and wedges but in my opinion design wise and technology wise they don't match up to many of the brands today. And that is just my opinion as Miura does not have the same mystique here in Japan as they do outside of it. If brands: Yamaha Epon Mizuno Yururi Tourstage If actual manufacturers Endo Endo Mizuno Kyoei Endo Not ranked but if you consider other FORGED irons: Callaway = Endo Titleist = Endo RC = Endo ONOFF = Endo Srixon = Srixon Romaro = Kyoei Kyoei Zestaim = Kyoei PRGR = Endo Fourteen Athlete Models = Endo Honma = Endo Crazy = Kyoei

I am in the same boat, I did not like the feel of older Odysseys as they were too soft and I did not get enough feedback, the new iX insert has very good feel and is firm enough for good feedback but soft enough for that satisfactory feel.

And Jeff here we are at Crazy Factory too!

Yes Kyoei forged and the hirgana on your irons say YU RU RI. (^_^)

What exactly is wrong with it? If it was bought in Japan I highly doubt its a fake,

Yes open model head grinded by Kenmotsu... I saw them months ago, even snapped pics but as an open model head made the decision not to carry them in the shop and only have them by special request. Each set is hand grinded by Kenmotsu using the base generic head. Here's one of the pics I snapped for those who don't know this head shape.

Sure just let me know your itinerary a couple of weeks in advance so I can coordinate.

4 fittings in the next few weeks! Jimmieboi, if you fly into Haneda, going to Tokyo is no problem. Yokohama is way the other side of Tokyo opposite from me. It would take me 3 hours just to drive there.

Thats a great price Mark!

The official release is October 8th.

Well R whenever you are ready lets go!

Okay since people did not seem to notice my posts or blog. I will stress again that TSG welcomes all its customers if they happen to be in Japan to come for a fitting at the Crazy factory here in Tokyo. Depending on where you are I will meet up with you take you to the factory either by car or train and personally work with Crazy pros to analyze your swing and fit you. Just be sure to give me a bit of heads up so I can plan out your visit. Here is my blog post from Clive's experience: <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/CRAZY-SLIDE.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/CRAZY-SLIDE.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20816" title="CRAZY-SLIDE" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/CRAZY-SLIDE.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="248" /></a> <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2610.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2610.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20824" title="DSC_2610" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2610.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="429" /></a> <h1><strong>PERSONAL FITTINGS AT CRAZY FACTORY</strong></h1> While I was at the Factory for taking pictures of new products from Crazy, my main reason was in fact to custom fit one of our customers who was in Japan on holidays. I had the pleasure of meeting our very good customer Clive Mayhew from Australia who met me at the Crazy Factory in Adachi on Saturday morning for a fitting. Since Clive was in Japan playing golf, he was able to bring along his current Ryoma V-Spec driver and Mizuno MP-59 6 iron for the fitting. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2608.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2608.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20825" title="DSC_2608" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2608.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="429" /></a> The Crazy factory is a nice and comfortable place for fittings and their full workshop as well as several pros are on hand as well for instant spec checks and launch monitor analysis. The staff are always very friendly and on Saturday I worked along with Crazy pro Muramatsu Taka to fit Clive for a driver shaft, fairway woods, iron and wedge shafts. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2689.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2689.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20827" title="DSC_2689" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2689.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="429" /></a> We were looking for a driver shaft to put in his new Ryoma Special Tuning driver so we put Clive up on the monitor first with his Ryoma V-Spec 10.5* with stock Stiff Flex shaft. Before taking his first swing, I asked Clive some questions about his swing and what his typical distances were. He told us he hit is driver around 250y on average however even with the 10.5* he was not getting a lot of launch. His first swing on the monitor provided us with exactly what he described: Total distance: 250y Head Speed: 102mph Launch Angle 9.2* Back Spin: 3250 Side Spin: 255 left Clive hit a few more with his stock V-Spec all with similar results, around 250y, launch under 10* and back spin always over 3000rpm. I right away turned to Crazy pro Taka and said "Longest Yard 01 Hot Black". So we pulled out a CRZ435 10* head matched with the high launching Hot Black in 7.4 or stiff flex. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2681.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2681.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20830" title="DSC_2681" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2681.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="429" /></a> On Clive's first strike with this combo the numbers improved SIGNIFICANTLY as shown below: Total distance: 271y Head Speed: 102mph Launch Angle 16.0* Back Spin: 2750 Side Spin: 54 left Clive consistently hit the Hot Black between 265 and 275y with his best drive being a soft little fade to 278y!: Total distance: 278y Head Speed: 107mph Launch Angle 13.7* Back Spin: 2500 Side Spin: 263 right You can see as Clive got more comfortable with the Crazy combo his head speed actually increased and some of the speed and distance up can also be attributed to the Crazy combo actually being about 10g lighter and 0.75" longer than his Ryoma setup. But most the gain comes from a much healthier launch and less spin giving much better carry plus run out equaling a whopping 15-20y on average gain. Clive has very good form and looks great at the top. He has a bit of a hip swaying movement but is quite strong through the impact zone. With his Ryoma, the softer stock shaft caused some inconsistencies and created more spin. This coupled with Clive's tendency to hit down a bit brought the spin up. His angle of attack and the flex of the shaft actually delofted the club at impact hence the low launch angle. The higher grade carbon of the Crazy shaft equals less bowing of the shaft and very consistent timing on release. Clive noticed this and noted he could feel the shaft work itself and he could just swing away. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2612.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2612.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20835" title="DSC_2612" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2612.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="429" /></a> We did of course try other shafts including the Crazy Black 50 which launched too low, the Royal Decoration which was too light overall causing Clive to go left. The CB46 and TJ46 which both did not give as much distance as the Hot Black and also the 80t Black TJ80 which caused very strong fades as its a tough shaft to turn over on. In the end none matched Hot Black which is designed to be the high launching shaft for strong players and as part of the black line keeps the left out - Clive was mostly straight or with a soft fade but had the best overall numbers and consistency with the Hot Black and that's what counts. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2692.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2692.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20836" title="DSC_2692" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2692.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="429" /></a> We also fit Clive for a 3 wood and 5 wood and he ended up getting a JBeam FX HG 15* with Longest Yard FW Evolution in 7.4 flex and a JBeam FX HG 18* with Black FW80 in 7.4 Flex. Clive was cranking out the JBeam 3 wood tester over 240y and nearly equaling his stock Ryoma Driver (that pretty much decided it for him). Clive also tested on the monitor with his MP-59 6 iron which was shafted with a DG S300 shaft. Most of his shots were soft to strong draws and I ended up picking out the Crazy Target Tour 120's in the tinted dark chrome and stiff flex which not only made his shots very very straight but he actually gained nearly a club's distance over the S300! With the Crazy workshop right there, we had Clive's irons reshafted with the Target Tour 120's and all 3 of his Vokey Forged wedges remade with Target Tour 120 Wedge shafts. At the end of the day it was not only a pleasure fitting Clive and seeing him happy with his choices but to be able to meet one of our customers face to face is always a highlight for me. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2605.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2605.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20838" title="DSC_2605" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC_2605.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="429" /></a> As many of you know I fit hundreds of TSG customers over the course of the year. It is not an easy task with much of it, actually most of it being done over the internet. With a lack of data it can be quite a challenge. I do have customers who send me launch monitor data and even videos of their swing but in the end nothing beats fitting a customer in person. What I've learned from fitting Clive at the Crazy Factory is<a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/contact"><strong> we'd like to invite any customers who are interested in Crazy products and happen to be vacationing or visiting Tokyo to contact us for a possible fitting session at Crazy</strong></a> with myself and a Crazy Pro. We all know, JDM clubs and shafts are not cheap, being fit and getting the right ones make them worth substantially more to each individual's score and enjoyment of the game of golf. We look forward to hearing from you and meeting you if you do end up coming by!

We've talked about it here and there on the forum. I've posted about it on the blog with a few customers... here is Clives: http://www.golftoimp...-crazy-factory/ I just took idrive back in July. Got another later this month and one early October as well as helping a couple of guys get fit while they are at Crazy Factory Fukuoka. I They are not that frequent as its not everyday customers fly into Japan. (^_^) But when they do I try my best to help out including with the trip and golf courses as well.

So true!

I'm telling you guys, the staff at Crazy told me the Hello Kitty is super long and they were being serious cause I also laughed at it. Come on who is manly enough to try one out?

We have our demo this coming week (I hope so according to Epon). I have the spec sheet here. Aimed at the better player and competition oriented player just like the 102. Super precision forged all around. High Intensity Ti. Epon touts it as the best feeling driver they have ever made in their HISTORY. Specially chemically milled variable face for what they call a soft but crispy impact feel. No crazy sounds at impact, they call it "rich and pleasant" which I presume means more soft and muted. It is available with 9.5 and 10.5* real lofts. Lie ranges from 59* to 61*. As always face angle, loft, can be tweaked and headweight available from 195g to a nice and heavy 205g which helps with those shorter builds. Ideally paired with high modulus carbon like Crazy and Quadra to enhance feel and performance.

Yes I also pick up the customers and drive them in my STi (^_^), Plus you get to tour all the private parts of Crazy. You could have bought the shaft right there from the Crazy factory and got our TSG discount. Thats usually the way it works. Clive who I did a fitting with and posted on the blog spent several grand and saved a grand by buying at the Factory with our pricing. As a matter of a fact on the 20th I am taking a customer to the Factory for a tour and fitting and introducing them to some finer dining around the Tokyo Station area.

As spoon said its very much a personal preference. I for one prefer both the 501 and 701. They were superb irons and the new models were not better in any way... in my opinion that is.

<a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSCF3921.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSCF3921.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21309" title="DSCF3921" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSCF3921.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="248" /></a> Master Sasaya over at Gold's Factory sent over one of his new prototypes, a SUS303 model with what he dubs the "Gold's Box" an inner sound slot. A sound slot or as some refer to it, a floating face, is a slit line cut in the flange to sole right behind the face of the putter that alters the sound depending on where the ball strikes the face. Many golfers use the sound slot to "tune" their stroke and impact. Sound for many also translates into feel. A player can get accustomed to a certain sound at impact and replicate that sound each time knowing he or she has struck the sweet spot. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSCF3909.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSCF3909.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21310" title="DSCF3909" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSCF3909.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="432" /></a> Some disadvantages of a sound slot are that they can collect dust and debris and are difficult to clean out - most people probably don't clean or do anything with their slot, I know I don't. So Sasaya-san thought wouldn't it be cool to embed the sound slot internally in the putter with a slit in center of the flange/sole but unseen and unexposed? In the case of the inner sound slot, it is not cut all the way up through the flange and then concealed with a sole plate. However it still allows for pitch changes from different impacts on the face. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Untitled-1.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Untitled-1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21315" title="Untitled-1" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Untitled-1.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="432" /></a> Gold's has incorporate this new technique into one of their current SUS303 heads and added the wonderful next generation Premium Zone milling which as many know increases forward roll, decreases side spin and softens the feel at impact. The face also has a Gold's Factory bulls eye insert in the heel. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Untitled-2.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Untitled-2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21316" title="Untitled-2" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Untitled-2.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="432" /></a> Because a portion of the sole is cut away, Orbit around G tungsten weights are added which increase head weight by about 25g taking the head weight up to 367g. <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSCF3931.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSCF3931.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21317" title="DSCF3931" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSCF3931.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="432" /></a> The back of the putter is left nice and clean with just a sight line and what Gold's calls an arc reactor insert in the cavity. Why did Gold's call it Gold's Box? Sasaya-san said its in reference to Pandora's Box, a secret box not meant to be opened. But in this case of course the sound slot is a good thing and not something evil. (^_^) <a href="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/wlpljln9.jpg"><img'>http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/wlpljln9.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-21319" title="wlpljln9" src="http://www.golftoimpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/wlpljln9.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a> The Gold's Box inner sound slot prototype also has a black version that has been made and both putters are available now (you can add your name to the bumpers if you wish as well). Just contact us if you are interested. In the meantime, what do you think of this idea or a sound slot in general. Comment below!

The thing is TS used to make some of the best quality backs. I had a TS stand bag back from 2006/2007 and it was one of the best bags I have ever owned. I wonder if Phil who I passed it on to in Toronto is still using it. Sadly they changed manufacturers and the quality seems to have dropped. I would suggest Romaro, a very good stand bag that can be carried but still works well on a cart and has some very nice features. Pricey though,

Mark why didn't you contact us before you went? I was there the day before and I usually bring and arrange fittings for all our customers.