Suggestions for a replacement driver head

[wmclarenf1]

Hi all,

I'm coming back to golf after a 1.5 year hiatus and been on this site more (a bit too much LOL) recently. I'm reading so much about new drivers which I have no experience with or heard of (and I was a real equipment junkie) and my interest is caught.

I would like to tap the experiences of those that have played the Epon 101 and to see what you would recommend for a driver head change based on the following:

1. Looking for a 9.5* head which is slightly lower launching than the Epon AF-101 9.5*

2. Spins less than the Epon 101 - looking for more roll

3. Shaft will be the GD DI-5 regular flex. I like GD shafts and this seems to work fo rmy game now and to avoid a nightmare, I'd like to hold all other variables the same.

4. Finished length is 44.75 inches

5. Prefered balls are the Pro-V1 and the B330-RX (B330-RX goes further for me but I prefer Pro V1 to and around the greens)

6. Driving distance. Very little roll and sometimes a slight back spin from the pitch mark. AVERAGE 215metres or 240 yards. On pure hits, I have hit distances of 235metres or 260yards. So not a bomber by any means.

7. 7I carry distance (PW is 46*) average of 156 metres or 172 yards.

8. Current driver setup is an Epon AF-101 9.5 with a GD DI-5 Regular flex untipped playing to 44.75 finished length and D0 swing weight.

9. Playing to a 15 handicap now but going down rather fast. At my best I was a weak 7 capper.

10. Prefer a traditional looking head but I play the EGG FW and Hybrid so I'm open :-)

11. Not looking to shape shots, just want a staright shooting lower launching head with more roll.

So with the above, which would you guys recommend:

1. Crazy 460

2. Ryoma (which Ryoma - D-1? D-1 V-Spec? D-1 Premia?)

3. Epon AF-102

4. JBeam (which model)

5. Any others?

Thanks in advance for your indulgence.

Edited November 23, 2011 by wmclarenf1

[gbs]

Hi all,

I'm coming back to golf after a 1.5 year hiatus and been on this site more (a bit too much LOL) recently. I'm reading so much about new drivers which I have no experience with or heard of (and I was a real equipment junkie) and my interest is caught.

I would like to tap the experiences of those that have played the Epon 101 and to see what you would recommend for a driver head change based on the following:

1. Looking for a 9.5* head which is slightly lower launching than the Epon AF-101 9.5*

2. Spins less than the Epon 101 - looking for more roll

3. Shaft will be the GD DI-5 regular flex. I like GD shafts and this seems to work fo rmy game now and to avoid a nightmare, I'd like to hold all other variables the same.

4. Finished length is 44.75 inches

5. Prefered balls are the Pro-V1 and the B330-RX (B330-RX goes further for me but I prefer Pro V1 to and around the greens)

6. Driving distance. Very little roll and sometimes a slight back spin from the pitch mark. AVERAGE 215metres or 240 yards. On pure hits, I have hit distances of 235metres or 260yards. So not a bomber by any means.

7. 7I carry distance (PW is 46*) average of 156 metres or 172 yards.

8. Current driver setup is an Epon AF-101 9.5 with a GD DI-5 Regular flex untipped playing to 44.75 finished length and D0 swing weight.

9. Playing to a 15 handicap now but going down rather fast. At my best I was a weak 7 capper.

10. Prefer a traditional looking head but I play the EGG FW and Hybrid so I'm open :-)

11. Not looking to shape shots, just want a staright shooting lower launching head with more roll.

So with the above, which would you guys recommend:

1. Crazy 460

2. Ryoma (which Ryoma - D-1? D-1 V-Spec? D-1 Premia?)

3. Epon AF-102

4. JBeam (which model)

5. Any others?

Thanks in advance for your indulgence.

I also like the traditional shape. and used to play AF 101 a long time ago. I have gone through both Ryoma V spec and now gaming the CRZ 460. i think both of them should suit you ok. the RYoma on address looks like a traditional shaped driver. i hit the AF 102 i think the others would be more forgiving for me. Hope that helps

[Eca]

I lucked out with 1st JDM head so had no reason to really get anything else but the Ryoma 9.5 v spec, no roll on the face, it looks like 7* less likely to balloon. Also if u like a small looking head then it hides it's real size well. U would have read the rest of the traits of this great

Driver head. There are quite a few hot drivers though so good luck shopping :)

Edited November 23, 2011 by Eca

[gocchin]

Many of the JDM models are real lofts so if you compare them to retail models you are used to seeing from US brands they certainly can look like 7* relatively.

That said if you want a lower launch than the Epon, the CRZ460 is not the right choice unless you go for a low loft ie 9* which they rarely have.

I would think to suggest the CRZ435 instead as it launches low but not as low as the CRZ435II which some people find launches too low.

The Ryoma will spin lower than the AF-101 and the sweet spot is simply huge. I'm sure you've read all the threads so I really don't need to sing its laurels.

If you play 44.75" the Ryoma and even Jbeams and Crazy's might be a bit light head weight wise.

In the end it may come down to what you like visually and feel as all the drivers have a slightly different feel... so many good drivers out there.

[Vegaman]

7 iron 172 yards and driver 240? You are for sure not getting everything out of your driver then. Ive learned that the Jbeam/Crazy 435II launch really low, like Tario wrote. But if you use an R flex shaft and usually get zero roll, I'd would say go for the lowest launch head like the 435II and get in 9.5, since you have a really soft shaft that will launch the ball almost regardless of which head you put it in.

[swisstrader]

7 iron 172?? I think Tiger hits his 7 iron about 175-180 on average, so you may want to double check that one.

[wmclarenf1]

7 iron 172?? I think Tiger hits his 7 iron about 175-180 on average, so you may want to double check that one.

I average 155 meters so whatever that is in yards... my Pro Is are also stronger lofted with the PW being 46* instead of 48/49*. Perhaps that helps explain. I believe PGA guys can get 170meters out of their 7Is which is about 185-190 yards?

[wmclarenf1]

7 iron 172 yards and driver 240? You are for sure not getting everything out of your driver then. Ive learned that the Jbeam/Crazy 435II launch really low, like Tario wrote. But if you use an R flex shaft and usually get zero roll, I'd would say go for the lowest launch head like the 435II and get in 9.5, since you have a really soft shaft that will launch the ball almost regardless of which head you put it in.

Definitely so. Driver has never been the strength of my game. On pure hits with the EGG (off the tee), I can get close to my average driver distance so I definitely am not optimised for driver.. It's more a swing thing of course admittedly but my AF101 is I think 4 years old? And I thought perhaps there's something there now whic is lower launching and spinning that could give me maybe anoter 10 yards consistently on the average. Getting old so any little helps. I moved my irons to stronger lofted irons and lighted and softer flexes and they have helped with distance. I guess in my younger days, I was guilty as most in that I wanted to play stiffer than I should for ego sake :-) Nowadays, lighter and softer works much better...

Edited November 23, 2011 by wmclarenf1

[wmclarenf1]

Many of the JDM models are real lofts so if you compare them to retail models you are used to seeing from US brands they certainly can look like 7* relatively.

That said if you want a lower launch than the Epon, the CRZ460 is not the right choice unless you go for a low loft ie 9* which they rarely have.

I would think to suggest the CRZ435 instead as it launches low but not as low as the CRZ435II which some people find launches too low.

The Ryoma will spin lower than the AF-101 and the sweet spot is simply huge. I'm sure you've read all the threads so I really don't need to sing its laurels.

If you play 44.75" the Ryoma and even Jbeams and Crazy's might be a bit light head weight wise.

In the end it may come down to what you like visually and feel as all the drivers have a slightly different feel... so many good drivers out there.

Thanks for chiming in Gochini.. which Ryoma model are you refering to please? I would like to stick with 460 as driver is far from my strength.

[wmclarenf1]

Many of the JDM models are real lofts so if you compare them to retail models you are used to seeing from US brands they certainly can look like 7* relatively.

That said if you want a lower launch than the Epon, the CRZ460 is not the right choice unless you go for a low loft ie 9* which they rarely have.

I would think to suggest the CRZ435 instead as it launches low but not as low as the CRZ435II which some people find launches too low.

The Ryoma will spin lower than the AF-101 and the sweet spot is simply huge. I'm sure you've read all the threads so I really don't need to sing its laurels.

If you play 44.75" the Ryoma and even Jbeams and Crazy's might be a bit light head weight wise.

In the end it may come down to what you like visually and feel as all the drivers have a slightly different feel... so many good drivers out there.

Thanks for chiming in Gochini.. which Ryoma model are you refering to please? I would like to stick with 460cc as driver is far from my strength.

[Spoon]

Yeah the jbeam certainly looks the most promising based on your inputs and my own research.

435 in even 10 with a mid launch low spin shaft would be good.

Off topic I hit my 7 iron 302/pw loft 46 at 175 ss around 110 driver

Your 7 iron is long at 172 in relation to your other clubs.

[wmclarenf1]

I also like the traditional shape. and used to play AF 101 a long time ago. I have gone through both Ryoma V spec and now gaming the CRZ 460. i think both of them should suit you ok. the RYoma on address looks like a traditional shaped driver. i hit the AF 102 i think the others would be more forgiving for me. Hope that helps

Thanks for the feedback. Good to know on tghe Ryoma sahpe at address as I donlt think there is a Ryoma dealer on my shores.

[wmclarenf1]

Yeah the jbeam certainly looks the most promising based on your inputs and my own research.

435 in even 10 with a mid launch low spin shaft would be good.

Off topic I hit my 7 iron 302/pw loft 46 at 175 ss around 110 driver

Your 7 iron is long at 172 in relation to your other clubs.

It's the NS PRo shafts and I'm stronger with irons now. Of ocurse the distance tapers as I go to 4 Iron which I get about 180 meters on average. I guess this is normal with longer stronger lofted clubs? I can't hit FW off the deck.. even the egg spoon :-) My 59* wedge goes average 85 meters up to 95 meters and my 52* about 95 to 105 meters and 46 about 110-115 meters. My game whatever is left of it is more about iron and wedge play than longer wood distance plays. Don;t know what my swing speed and ball speed are now.. have given up on launch monitors and static numbers... its what I get out of the clubs on the course on average consistently that counts.

JBeam ... gotta read up on that? Any 460 model and would that work for my requirements? Still looking at the GD DI-5 regular shaft... Thanks.

Edited November 23, 2011 by wmclarenf1

[wmclarenf1]

I like the sound (not tingy) and feel of the AF 101. How does the Ryoma V Spec stack up in these terms please. Thanks.

[Eca]

Not tingy, I describe it as solid and crisp without being too loud.

[wmclarenf1]

Not tingy, I describe it as solid and crisp without being too loud.

Thansk for the feedback.

[Spoon]

It's the NS PRo shafts and I'm stronger with irons now. Of ocurse the distance tapers as I go to 4 Iron which I get about 180 meters on average. I guess this is normal with longer stronger lofted clubs? I can't hit FW off the deck.. even the egg spoon :-) My 59* wedge goes average 85 meters up to 95 meters and my 52* about 95 to 105 meters and 46 about 110-115 meters. My game whatever is left of it is more about iron and wedge play than longer wood distance plays. Don;t know what my swing speed and ball speed are now.. have given up on launch monitors and static numbers... its what I get out of the clubs on the course on average consistently that counts.

JBeam ... gotta read up on that? Any 460 model and would that work for my requirements? Still looking at the GD DI-5 regular shaft... Thanks.

435I jbeam or the crazy 460.

the epon 102 is on the highish launch so id suggest 9.5 with a lower launching shaft.

then again most R flex shafts in the 50grammer range will launch higher than say

their 60 70 gram siblings.

[wmclarenf1]

435I jbeam or the crazy 460.

the epon 102 is on the highish launch so id suggest 9.5 with a lower launching shaft.

then again most R flex shafts in the 50grammer range will launch higher than say

their 60 70 gram siblings.

Hmm.. so you;re still recomding the jbeam or the crazy over the ryoma. You find them longer than the ryoma and if so which model ryoma did you hit?

Also, from what I read, the only difference between the ryoma models is shaft length and head weight with the V Spec being 7 grams heavier than the Premia. Apart from head weight, any difference in design, face height, depth, CG, MOI etc? If I do end up with the Ryoma, I thought the V Spec will be better for me for fitting and SW purposes given I play a light weight shaft with a finished length of 47.75.

Your point taken on most lightweight R flex shafts launching higher but I really don;t think I can load a 60/60+ gram shaft consistently for an entire round any more.

[ant]

Actually old Tiger stats is exactly 172 for 7i :) tho he's been using weaker lofts, dunno if still does. 2OP: get on TrackMan with your Epon and figure out whats going on. From what you said it sounds like you are hitting carry only fly high then plop balls. This could be caused by both high spin and launch angle you are getting, launch monitor will tell you that. You might need a stronger shaft to get a stronger trajectory and not as steep angle of descent and as result more roll that you wanna get. I find it hard to believe that 9.5 true loft Epon head can be the cause for that sort of thing. That might also help with more of them pure hits because if the shaft is too weak for you that clubhead is all over the place thru impact and it would take hell of a timing to score a pure hit more or less consistently which is just folly.

[wmclarenf1]

Actually old Tiger stats is exactly 172 for 7i :) tho he's been using weaker lofts, dunno if still does. 2OP: get on TrackMan with your Epon and figure out whats going on. From what you said it sounds like you are hitting carry only fly high then plop balls. This could be caused by both high spin and launch angle you are getting, launch monitor will tell you that. You might need a stronger shaft to get a stronger trajectory and not as steep angle of descent and as result more roll that you wanna get. I find it hard to believe that 9.5 true loft Epon head can be the cause for that sort of thing. That might also help with more of them pure hits because if the shaft is too weak for you that clubhead is all over the place thru impact and it would take hell of a timing to score a pure hit more or less consistently which is just folly.

Thansk for chiming in. My driving has never been strong and that's due to my swing. I've just learnt to play aroudn my swing flaw and I used to have crazy launch angles and spin and probably still do. So it's not the arrow but the indian in this case. That said, as I only play socially and don;t see a major revamp of my swing, I'm trying to cheat with equipment :-) I'm hoping that a driver with inherent design traits of lower launch and spin than the AF 101 will help some.

As for playing a stronger shaft,as I told spoon, I take the point that it will help but I can;t load that consistently enough. The DI5 I feel at times can be a tad soft but having just recovered from injuries from a bad car accident, I really can't load anythign heavier than 50 plus grams. Maybe I could do with a DI-5 in stiff?

As for the 7I, I know it sounds like BS but last I was on a monitor with my coach about 3 months back, 7I distances would be anything from 150 to 163 meters (approx. 166 to 181 yards). On the course, if the course markers are between 150 and 160 meters, the 7I is the club to suit that and I did check the lofts on my Pro I and they are stock factory lofts. I also play my irons 1/2 shorter than US standard so maybe I am making better contact and also playing a flex and profile more suited to me swing? Like I said,, I know it sounds like BS but that's what the LM and the course markers tell me so if they are off, then I am off.

Edited November 24, 2011 by wmclarenf1

[Spoon]

Hmm.. so you;re still recomding the jbeam or the crazy over the ryoma. You find them longer than the ryoma and if so which model ryoma did you hit?

Also, from what I read, the only difference between the ryoma models is shaft length and head weight with the V Spec being 7 grams heavier than the Premia. Apart from head weight, any difference in design, face height, depth, CG, MOI etc? If I do end up with the Ryoma, I thought the V Spec will be better for me for fitting and SW purposes given I play a light weight shaft with a finished length of 47.75.

Your point taken on most lightweight R flex shafts launching higher but I really don;t think I can load a 60/60+ gram shaft consistently for an entire round any more.

well i have never hit a ryoma , it was on my top list in the recent weeks but having hit the jbeams and currently gaming a 380cc epon and a 405cc yamaha, my preference

for driver heads has become for smaller heads and the 460s are looking very big and unappealing to the eye.

since you are looking for a lower launching driver with more roll then you really cant go wrong with the jbeam 435 or crazy 435 (same) as they are known for being

roll monsters, sometimes too much thats why its important to shaft if with a higher launching lower spin shaft. as others have suggested you can get the lowest launching

head and pairing it with a higher launching shaft. then again they launch low anyways so i would suggest 435 10* with say a crazy LY or Royal deco shaft in your comfortable

50 + weight.

[ant]

There is nothing to load, its not a bow. The effect of shaft kick affecting affecting clubhead speed thus ball speed thus distance is marginal at best and that is if you manage to make it kick right thru impact. You just got used to the feel of swinging a softer shaft and that is all there is to it. Stronger shafts makes you uncomfortable but demo a few and give them a honest try keeping your mind clean from any rationale and that includes what I'm writing, see if it makes a difference, thats all I'm saying. Regarding distances I'm not calling BS on you, dont worry about that, I just thought it was funny match as somebody mentioned Tiger stats. People are always touchy with distances on internet and its always seems to be some sort of d**k measuring contest. If you know your distances right pay no attention as thats simply irrelevant.

[idrive]

. Maybe I could do with a DI-5 in stiff?

SR

[supo]

the closest crazy to the epon 101 if u like that shape is the 450 from george takei.

its head shape is differnt from the jbeam models.

more elongated, the face is more closely realted to the epon if u like that shape.

the jbeams look very rounded square, totally differnt view and mental piccy at address.

the 450 is super low spin low launch, tons and tone of roll as there aint much airrtime,

micheal jordan this thing AINT!

the 450 feels more tingy than the jbeams, ( which u might like, more ) . the jbeams are very very muted.

its a humongous diffference in feel.

all the crazy driver heads are pretty solid thumping things.

u wil get tons of run, little ability to move it laterally , thye are point shoot in my book

[Vegaman]

If you want to stick with the same driver shaft you use now, which is pretty soft and light, then something like the 435II in 9.5 will help you get the ball fligght and spin down, and you will get some roll. The Ryoma is from what I understand a high launch ultra forgiving head, same goes for crazy 460. These 2 heads would seem to less suitable if you want a lower flight? I'd say thet the epon 101 is maybe lower (correct me if I'm wrong) launch and maybe even lower spin than the ryoma or CRZ460, so these 2 heads would seem (to me) to make your problem worse and not better..Unless you find a ryoma or a CRZ460 with something like 7 degrees of loft which you can't get.

According to Stu, probably the most experienced and knowledgeable member here, the crz450 is the lowest of the low spin heads even though, according to him, it's not super forgiving. That head might be bit too much even for somebody like you, so the 435 or 435II seems to be it, in a low loft. The 445HG might also do the trick, it's a bit bigger than the 435 heads, but similar otherwise.

You need a low loft, low spin head. I think so at least, unless you want to start messing with shafts..Which brings in a host of other things to think about.