+TourSpecGolfer Posted September 16, 2010 Report Share Posted September 16, 2010 I have been talking to member daamartin for a week now and wanted to bring the members into the mix to support him on his decision. Dr. D is in the market for a nice heavy driver that emphasizes on feel and feedback most importantly and also a mid launch trajectory. He has a target shaft weight of 75-80 grams and currently plays the Aldila NV Proto 84g X in a Titleist 909D2 9.5 and although he hit's many fairways he is uninspired by the distance. Here's what daamartin says: I swing driver about 112-115 Mph with a lot of lag, slight draw generally, but fairly neutral, mid ball flight (used to be very high, but better mechanics now)After a bit of experimenting, I know that heavy shafts suit me better (would not consider going any less than 75g in a driver now) Neutral face angle to 0.5deg open should be OK, 9.5 or 10deg loft in a mid-low spin head generally good results (Titty D2 9.5 suits my eye and plays OK) Bad shot is the one that starts out str8 down fairway and drifts left into the cabbage or trees (hence heavier low torque shafts seem to work better!) Looking for driver-shaft combo with amazing tight dispersion AND feeeeeeeel. Very good distance will be enough for me - I want smash factor, fairways and feel!! Higher, low spin ball flight OK too. Current setup - Titty 9.5 deg 909-D2, 45 inches with Aldila By You Proto 84g x-stiff (solid, but nothing amazing....ball flight a touch on the low side) Both he and I know what I suggest and in a couple of days I will tell you what that is, What we want to know is what you suggest... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
vertigo88 Posted September 16, 2010 Report Share Posted September 16, 2010 Oban devotion 75g 5 flex Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Goodsie Posted September 16, 2010 Report Share Posted September 16, 2010 Epon AF102 8.5* with Graphite Design Tour AD P9003x...Bazooka!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stalemate Posted September 16, 2010 Report Share Posted September 16, 2010 Epon af102 9.5 with Quaddra 75. Amazing combo! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
daamartin Posted September 16, 2010 Report Share Posted September 16, 2010 Epon af102 9.5 with Quaddra 75. Amazing combo! Thanks Chris and fellas for helping me out. I'm getting excited! I turn 40 in October and am getting pretty (very) serious about my golf again (fitness, lessons, practice etc). Playing to a 7.2 index now, but would like to think I can get back down to 3 or 4 over the next 6 months. I know that a good fairway-finding driver that I fall in love with will be essential in this quest!! I'll post more abbout my set makeup (with photos) another time soon. AF102 9.5 seems to be the right head. Could anyone comment on the balance points of the shafts mentioned? Don't wish to add more head wt unnecessarily, but like good head-heavy feel in all my clubs. Many thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
supo Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 (edited) Thanks Chris and fellas for helping me out. I'm getting excited! I turn 40 in October and am getting pretty (very) serious about my golf again (fitness, lessons, practice etc). Playing to a 7.2 index now, but would like to think I can get back down to 3 or 4 over the next 6 months. I know that a good fairway-finding driver that I fall in love with will be essential in this quest!! I'll post more abbout my set makeup (with photos) another time soon. AF102 9.5 seems to be the right head. Could anyone comment on the balance points of the shafts mentioned? Don't wish to add more head wt unnecessarily, but like good head-heavy feel in all my clubs. Many thanks! epon 101- 9.5 * or epon 102 8.5* with a quadra fire express 75x yamaha v 201 9* crazy black 80 xx the crazy take the snap hook outta paly and has the best feel the quadra is just a cannon straight down the middle. we all know about epon heads for feel and the yamaha isnt a lick behind or infront of it. they both go a mile when u connect with em. and the fele second to none., imo Edited September 17, 2010 by supo67 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Spoon Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 another vote for the 102+ oban devotion combo in 85x. if you want a higher ball flight with lower spin go for the kiyoshi 75x. you will hit it miles! i game the 102 10.5 and am really happy with it. wish i had the swing speed though to game the GD p9003! oban devotion 75x mid launch mid low spin oban kiyoshi 75x high launch LOWEST spin. much lower than GD DI Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
skippercarey Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 Epon 101 with the Fire Express 75X! Long and arrow straight Crazy 50 S/X or GD P9003X would be a good choice to Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Spoon Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 a lot of hits on the quadra fire express. my dad has the fire express 55 on his driver and the quadra irons and has absolutely been blown away. and hes tried them all even the multi star honma armraqs but the FX takes the cake! i may bullet soon, close my eyes and treat myself to a FX. maybe for christmas Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
daamartin Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 I have been talking to member daamartin for a week now and wanted to bring the members into the mix to support him on his decision. Dr. D is in the market for a nice heavy driver that emphasizes on feel and feedback most importantly and also a mid launch trajectory. He has a target shaft weight of 75-80 grams and currently plays the Aldila NV Proto 84g X in a Titleist 909D2 9.5 and although he hit's many fairways he is uninspired by the distance. Here's what daamartin says: Both he and I know what I suggest and in a couple of days I will tell you what that is, What we want to know is what you suggest... Have updated my signature equipment specs so people can see what I'm currently playing (sometimes this helps I know). OK, so with the head it's going to either be Epon or Yamaha. Both not so well known here in Australia, but I think that's what is cool about it!! Most seem to think Epon is the pick of the bunch? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
supo Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 Have updated my signature equipment specs so people can see what I'm currently playing (sometimes this helps I know). OK, so with the head it's going to either be Epon or Yamaha. Both not so well known here in Australia, but I think that's what is cool about it!! Most seem to think Epon is the pick of the bunch? you wont go wrong with either of them with yr swing speed. i know bec i have several of both in varying lofts , and models , i am liking the shape of the epon so much right now. ive played both together recently on super difficult courses . super difficult! and i found i differed to the epon nearly every time i absolutley had to hit a fairway (never did tho! ). its 460 but doenst look like it at all. such a beautiful design. its probably slighty harder to middle than the yamaha consistantly , but when u get it , you get that "X " factor that most drivers dont have , length wise. can split em nothing discernable ,PROB the yamaha consistantly, bec i got a ton of roll with the lower launching quadra on hard pan . but it doesnt matter the feel of both will bring that smile to ur face every shot. ahhhh heres the thing ......., a big thing my misss hits.. the epon is better , my miss hits anrt as bad with the epon , thast why i differd to it i just remebed mid sentence. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Spoon Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 there is an epon retailer in australia. its clubmaxx if i am not mistaken. check epongolf.co.jp and check their list of distributors Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+TourSpecGolfer Posted September 17, 2010 Author Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 Pretty wild that almost everyone suggested the Epon AF102 for Dr. D's scenario. What I suggested before starting this topic with him was AF-102 w/ Quadra Fire Express or Crazy of some sort. I like the idea of Epon because the head weight can be custom ordered a bit heavier, the face angle open, and the Quadra or Crazy shaft with any tip prep he requires. pure flexibility direct from the factory! With other brands it goes from Factory, to Assembly, to OEM, then to retail store or dealer and finally into the customers hands. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
daamartin Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 Pretty wild that almost everyone suggested the Epon AF102 for Dr. D's scenario. What I suggested before starting this topic with him was AF-102 w/ Quadra Fire Express or Crazy of some sort. I like the idea of Epon because the head weight can be custom ordered a bit heavier, the face angle open, and the Quadra or Crazy shaft with any tip prep he requires. pure flexibility direct from the factory! With other brands it goes from Factory, to Assembly, to OEM, then to retail store or dealer and finally into the customers hands. I can't get over the rapid fire feedback on this forum. Nothing else quite like it and the folks here really know their stuff! Leaning towards Epon AF102 9.5, slightly heavier head (~D3 SWt), slightly open, Quadra 75x (if the x is not too stout?), Red Iomic cord grip (1 paper), 44&3/4 inches long.....something like that anyways... Over to you Chris! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
corky3 Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 I can't get over the rapid fire feedback on this forum. Nothing else quite like it and the folks here really know their stuff! Leaning towards Epon AF102 9.5, slightly heavier head (~D3 SWt), slightly open, Quadra 75x (if the x is not too stout?), Red Iomic cord grip (1 paper), 44&3/4 inches long.....something like that anyways... Over to you Chris! I currently play the AF102 with a Crazy Longest Yard, it plays like nothing else....... The Shaft takes the left out and you can hit it hard, you never lose the feeling of where the clubhead is and the feel (T described it as the nearest to Persimmon you can get with TI.... or something) anyways....... the best feeling drver going. Prepare yourself for some great fun if you do go down this road. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blader-X Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 I would agree with the AF102. T & C just hooked me up with one recently. I went 8.5° with 10 grams of weight added to the head. 1° open and a degree or two flat. The best thing about the Epon is being able to custom order the face and lie angles. And now, its even better being able to add the extra head weight. I had been using the AF101 the past couple years and really loved it. Along with the P9003x it was my favorite club. From the brief time I've hit it, the 102 has more feel than the 101 (didn't think that would be possible) and the added weight adds to package. The 102 was ordered with a DI7 and while that is a very good shaft, it just couldn't compare to my P9003. Which; is why both clubs are with Goodsie getting swapped out. When I get them back the AF102 will be paired with my all time favorite shaft the GD P9003x. After some time with it, I'll be sure to post the full review. Which shaft should you get is a tough decision and everyone here has made very fine recommendations. My vote is for the P9003 series. I just think that shaft is so well balanced and produces such a pure ball flight. In my view, the DI series just couldn't measure up even though that is a very fine shaft. As for the added head weight, the 10 grams is very noticeable. In a very long range session with both drivers, I found myself liking the the feel of the AF102 much better due to the added weight. If you should feel that 10 grams is too much, dial it back to 5 and I think that would still give you that extra load you might be looking for. Before making the switch, the AF102 with the DI7 shaft was a D4 SW, although it felt to me, a little more than that. With the P9003x I'll find out soon enough. Good luck on your decision and keep us informed on how it goes. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
daamartin Posted September 17, 2010 Report Share Posted September 17, 2010 I would agree with the AF102. T & C just hooked me up with one recently. I went 8.5° with 10 grams of weight added to the head. 1° open and a degree or two flat. The best thing about the Epon is being able to custom order the face and lie angles. And now, its even better being able to add the extra head weight. I had been using the AF101 the past couple years and really loved it. Along with the P9003x it was my favorite club. From the brief time I've hit it, the 102 has more feel than the 101 (didn't think that would be possible) and the added weight adds to package. The 102 was ordered with a DI7 and while that is a very good shaft, it just couldn't compare to my P9003. Which; is why both clubs are with Goodsie getting swapped out. When I get them back the AF102 will be paired with my all time favorite shaft the GD P9003x. After some time with it, I'll be sure to post the full review. Which shaft should you get is a tough decision and everyone here has made very fine recommendations. My vote is for the P9003 series. I just think that shaft is so well balanced and produces such a pure ball flight. In my view, the DI series just couldn't measure up even though that is a very fine shaft. As for the added head weight, the 10 grams is very noticeable. In a very long range session with both drivers, I found myself liking the the feel of the AF102 much better due to the added weight. If you should feel that 10 grams is too much, dial it back to 5 and I think that would still give you that extra load you might be looking for. Before making the switch, the AF102 with the DI7 shaft was a D4 SW, although it felt to me, a little more than that. With the P9003x I'll find out soon enough. Good luck on your decision and keep us informed on how it goes. Oh dear.......decisions, decisions. Sounds like you are a higher ball hitter than me, but load it about the same looking at your set make up. Always liked the sound of that shaft too! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Vineman23 Posted September 19, 2010 Report Share Posted September 19, 2010 there is an epon retailer in australia. its clubmaxx if i am not mistaken. check epongolf.co.jp and check their list of distributors TSG member EPONfreak is also the WA dist/retailer of Epon and between him and clubmaxx there could even be a demo available. Pricing is the same the world over I believe. Vineman Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Vineman23 Posted September 19, 2010 Report Share Posted September 19, 2010 I would agree with the AF102. T & C just hooked me up with one recently. I went 8.5° with 10 grams of weight added to the head. 1° open and a degree or two flat. The best thing about the Epon is being able to custom order the face and lie angles. And now, its even better being able to add the extra head weight. I had been using the AF101 the past couple years and really loved it. Along with the P9003x it was my favorite club. From the brief time I've hit it, the 102 has more feel than the 101 (didn't think that would be possible) and the added weight adds to package. The 102 was ordered with a DI7 and while that is a very good shaft, it just couldn't compare to my P9003. Which; is why both clubs are with Goodsie getting swapped out. When I get them back the AF102 will be paired with my all time favorite shaft the GD P9003x. After some time with it, I'll be sure to post the full review. Which shaft should you get is a tough decision and everyone here has made very fine recommendations. My vote is for the P9003 series. I just think that shaft is so well balanced and produces such a pure ball flight. In my view, the DI series just couldn't measure up even though that is a very fine shaft. As for the added head weight, the 10 grams is very noticeable. In a very long range session with both drivers, I found myself liking the the feel of the AF102 much better due to the added weight. If you should feel that 10 grams is too much, dial it back to 5 and I think that would still give you that extra load you might be looking for. Before making the switch, the AF102 with the DI7 shaft was a D4 SW, although it felt to me, a little more than that. With the P9003x I'll find out soon enough. Good luck on your decision and keep us informed on how it goes. I have the Kamui 456 silver and have it 10grams above standard with a GD9003 in s flex awesome combo but with a 45.5" length it tips the scales at E0.5 sw (not happy with the clubmaker I used as he would not shaft at less than 45.5 when I was aiming at 44 - 44.5) so you need to be mindfull of shaft length when trying to get the desired swing weight, just make sure you let Chris know what length you want then epon can work on the sw for you. Another thought is that many people mention the benefits of sending clubs to goodsie to get balanced and aligned and I would suggest this to be a good idea if you are looking to find the middle more often. With all this talk of the epon I might have to look at it! although I battle the ball going right not left. vineman Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
skippercarey Posted September 20, 2010 Report Share Posted September 20, 2010 I can't get over the rapid fire feedback on this forum. Nothing else quite like it and the folks here really know their stuff! Leaning towards Epon AF102 9.5, slightly heavier head (~D3 SWt), slightly open, Quadra 75x (if the x is not too stout?), Red Iomic cord grip (1 paper), 44&3/4 inches long.....something like that anyways... Over to you Chris! Just to give you some feedback i have a Epon 101 9.5 with the Fire Express 75X i ordered the head at 0.5 open and 204g. 115mph swing speed and i hit bullets with this combo, the quadra does launch low so you need to be carefull especialy if your ordering a open face angle as it will decrece the loft and it is a very strong shaft but gives plenty of feel. I have hit a D2 with a DI6X and i fount it to launch a lot higher compared to the 101 Fire Exprs, have also had a 101 with a P9003x same set up it launched a bit higher very good shaft and costs a lot less than the crazy or quadra i should have never sold it. Give Joe from Clubmaxx a call he will be able to set you up as im pretty sure Tourspec cant sell Epon to Australia you have to go through Clubmaxx, i have bought all my Epon gear from joe (i live in Perth) and you can even get SST Pured as well Good Luck Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bunker18 Posted September 20, 2010 Report Share Posted September 20, 2010 I currently play the AF102 with a Crazy Longest Yard, it plays like nothing else....... The Shaft takes the left out and you can hit it hard, you never lose the feeling of where the clubhead is and the feel (T described it as the nearest to Persimmon you can get with TI.... or something) anyways....... the best feeling drver going. Prepare yourself for some great fun if you do go down this road. I'm recommending the same, AF102 with Crazy longest yard. I've tried other shafts, but this one is the ONE. Same reasons as Corky! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
supo Posted October 19, 2010 Report Share Posted October 19, 2010 Oh dear.......decisions, decisions. Sounds like you are a higher ball hitter than me, but load it about the same looking at your set make up. Always liked the sound of that shaft too! have i missed something what did u go for? piccys pls!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
daamartin Posted October 20, 2010 Report Share Posted October 20, 2010 have i missed something what did u go for? piccys pls!!! Unfortunately have had to put this project on hold for a while. Major reason is I'm planning a 4 day golf trip to Tasmania's Barnbougle Dunes with some golfing buddies in Feb which will consume a few bucks. If I can save my pennies up I'll try and take the plunge before then (even if it's just one of these snazzy 80T shafts!). Am also waiting to see what the new Yamaha drivers look like.... Cheers D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
supo Posted October 21, 2010 Report Share Posted October 21, 2010 Unfortunately have had to put this project on hold for a while. Major reason is I'm planning a 4 day golf trip to Tasmania's Barnbougle Dunes with some golfing buddies in Feb which will consume a few bucks. If I can save my pennies up I'll try and take the plunge before then (even if it's just one of these snazzy 80T shafts!). Am also waiting to see what the new Yamaha drivers look like.... Cheers D pls post report abt the dunes im itching to go there, thats my chrissy 3 day hol this yr for certain! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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