Shafts Help identifying softer flexing low torque driver shafts

[Noodler]

Coming back to golf after hip surgery.  Driver swing speed down to 90-95mph.  Convinced myself that I need to drop back to regular flex shafts, but the first one I tried had way too much torque (5.7).  I've been trying to identify shaft replacement options that are softer flexing, but still retain a lower torque (<3.5 or so).  I need to keep it in the 50g or 60g weight classes.

 

After 4 rounds of erratic driver results it finally dawned on me that it might be related to the weak torque on this new shaft so I swapped it out for one of my softer flexing stiff shafts with a lower torque and I stopped losing the ball in a "strong fade" well off target.  I'm just not getting much out of a stiffer flexing shaft with my lower swing speed, so I'd like to experiment with something softer, but that still has good torsional rigidity.

[Ger21]

Try a Pro Launch Blue 45 in A or R flex.

 

[ucmike11]

Tensei 1k Pro White if you prefer the softer handle with stiff tip profile, or the Diamana GT if you like the mid bend profile feel

[ScooterMcTavish]

I'm only a 90-95 MPH swing speed, and have better results with a stiff.  Also interesting to see that if I chose a shaft like the Kai'li Blue, I could be fit to an R or an S.  I bought an Aerojet with an R flex, and no control over the shot.

 

Seems I prefer a driver shaft with a soft butt and a stiff tip so I can feel some load to it as part of my swing sequence.  Picked up an old Titleist 915 D2 as I wanted to try the GD BB6 in it, and have been super happy with the results.  Have been averaging 10-15 yards more per drive with this older combo. 

[Noodler]

8 minutes ago, ScooterMcTavish said:

I'm only a 90-95 MPH swing speed, and have better results with a stiff.  Also interesting to see that if I chose a shaft like the Kai'li Blue, I could be fit to an R or an S.  I bought an Aerojet with an R flex, and no control over the shot.

 

Seems I prefer a driver shaft with a soft butt and a stiff tip so I can feel some load to it as part of my swing sequence.  Picked up an old Titleist 915 D2 as I wanted to try the GD BB6 in it, and have been super happy with the results.  Have been averaging 10-15 yards more per drive with this older combo. 

 

We sound like we're similar in our preferences.  I also prefer a softer butt and stiffer tip.  I have a Motore X F3-S in my previous gamer and it worked well (>75% FIR), but I never felt like I got much kick out of it (even before the hip surgery).  Right now I stuck an old Kuro Kage XM60-S in an Epic MAX LS head and it definitely straightened things out, but once again, just not feeling like I am able to load it (and it's one of my softer "stiff" shafts).

 

I am a bit of a fanboy for the MCA and Fujikura shafts.  I may have to save my pennies for a TENSEI 1K or a real Velocore model.

[ScooterMcTavish]

5 minutes ago, Noodler said:

Right now I stuck an old Kuro Kage XM60-S in an Epic MAX LS head and it definitely straightened things out, but once again, just not feeling like I am able to load it (and it's one of my softer "stiff" shafts).

 

I am a bit of a fanboy for the MCA and Fujikura shafts.  I may have to save my pennies for a TENSEI 1K or a real Velocore model.

 

I'd still like to try the Tensei White, but I have tried both the Blue and Black and did not like either.  The Blue was very similar to the Kai'li Blue, in that the even flex profile through the shaft just didn't give me the "kick" I was looking for.

 

I did have a Stealth+ for a certain amount of time, but could also not get along with the Kuro Kage Silver it came with.  Similar to the Tensei/Kai'li, the even flex profile just didn't seem to suit my swing.

 

Not sure how many are still around, but I think my GD BB6 shaft is going to be a long-term keeper.  Will likely get a newer Titleist head to put it in, but I absolutely love the feel of how it loads.  Maybe you can find an older Cally driver that has one, and could pick it up for a low-cost experiment.  My 915D2 with the shaft cost $130CAD - a genuine steal, even though the head is less than pristine.

 

2nd Swing often has some good deals on shafts and/or beat up drivers.  If you're in Canada/US, GlobalGolf also does as well.

[Noodler]

55 minutes ago, Ger21 said:

Try a Pro Launch Blue 45 in A or R flex.

 

 

I just remembered that I have some of these old Grafalloy ProLaunch Blue shafts.  They're in some old Mizuno heads (MP-001 vintage).  I cannot tell what flex they are.  If it's only marked on the butt I would have to pull the grips to see what I have.

Edited September 18, 2024 by Noodler
typo

[Noodler]

6 minutes ago, ScooterMcTavish said:

 

I'd still like to try the Tensei White, but I have tried both the Blue and Black and did not like either.  The Blue was very similar to the Kai'li Blue, in that the even flex profile through the shaft just didn't give me the "kick" I was looking for.

 

I did have a Stealth+ for a certain amount of time, but could also not get along with the Kuro Kage Silver it came with.  Similar to the Tensei/Kai'li, the even flex profile just didn't seem to suit my swing.

 

Not sure how many are still around, but I think my GD BB6 shaft is going to be a long-term keeper.  Will likely get a newer Titleist head to put it in, but I absolutely love the feel of how it loads.  Maybe you can find an older Cally driver that has one, and could pick it up for a low-cost experiment.  My 915D2 with the shaft cost $130CAD - a genuine steal, even though the head is less than pristine.

 

2nd Swing often has some good deals on shafts and/or beat up drivers.  If you're in Canada/US, GlobalGolf also does as well.

 

I have a Kuro Kage Silver Dual Core TiNi TX that I do not get along with.  Way too much shaft for me.  Might have liked it better in a softer flex, but I had hopes and dreams back then I could make it work.

[Jeff58]

You may notice that you appear to be starting down the “$50 Autoflex” rabbit hole. Don’t go there.

 

When you put a CF structure into flexion, it tends to loose structural integrity. It’s behaving more like a fabric, since that’s what it is. To combat this, manufacturers have turned to high modulus material, like what Fuji’s Velocore. Some models and manufacturers have alternative solutions, like wire mesh or alternative materials, such as Boron.

 

In the end though, these approaches don’t address the underlying issue. To maximize control and feedback with a lighter shaft, something like a Ventus Red may be in your future.

[rx1232]

you could try a proxima shaft https://www.proximashaft.com/

 

i have a 5x. its been nice though i just replaced it with a TPT shaft.

[Noodler]

25 minutes ago, Jeff58 said:

You may notice that you appear to be starting down the “$50 Autoflex” rabbit hole. Don’t go there.

 

When you put a CF structure into flexion, it tends to loose structural integrity. It’s behaving more like a fabric, since that’s what it is. To combat this, manufacturers have turned to high modulus material, like what Fuji’s Velocore. Some models and manufacturers have alternative solutions, like wire mesh or alternative materials, such as Boron.

 

In the end though, these approaches don’t address the underlying issue. To maximize control and feedback with a lighter shaft, something like a Ventus Red may be in your future.

 

I was wondering about the Autoflex.  Of course there are no real published specs (cause it's "KHT"), but isn't the suspicion that the Autoflex is a longitudinally soft flex with stiffer torsional rigidity?  So it's a whippy shaft that doesn't twist easily?

[Noodler]

20 minutes ago, rx1232 said:

you could try a proxima shaft https://www.proximashaft.com/

 

i have a 5x. its been nice though i just replaced it with a TPT shaft.

 

Interesting...  More "Korea Hidden Tech"?  🤣

 

I think there's also a "Freeflex" shaft out there now.

[Rbsiedsc]

You may also want to try out Newton Motion shafts. The price is going up soon so might want to get on it. They have a money back guarantee and great customer service.

 

https://newtongolfco.com/?utm_campaign=Search-Brand&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=686559199162&utm_term=newton golf shafts&adgroupid=160289828071&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9Km3BhDjARIsAGUb4nxCcAnjW3MG8gEZJdb1swlf_JzeTm3MvNXK03XzBIH09lj6YiUjzkgaAjw4EALw_wcB

[rx1232]

41 minutes ago, Noodler said:

 

Interesting...  More "Korea Hidden Tech"?  🤣

 

I think there's also a "Freeflex" shaft out there now.

yup i hear proxima actually got started from some autoflex employees that left. 

[tatertot]

1 hour ago, Jeff58 said:

You may notice that you appear to be starting down the “$50 Autoflex” rabbit hole. Don’t go there.

 

When you put a CF structure into flexion, it tends to loose structural integrity. It’s behaving more like a fabric, since that’s what it is. To combat this, manufacturers have turned to high modulus material, like what Fuji’s Velocore. Some models and manufacturers have alternative solutions, like wire mesh or alternative materials, such as Boron.

 

In the end though, these approaches don’t address the underlying issue. To maximize control and feedback with a lighter shaft, something like a Ventus Red may be in your future.

I love the $50 autoflex rabbit hole!

[Noodler]

1 hour ago, tatertot said:

I love the $50 autoflex rabbit hole!

 

The Autoflex had just hit the market and was building its reputation right about when I could no longer play.  In the 2+ years since I had to put down the clubs, it's interesting to see how folks have attempted to find lower cost options that approximate the results that the Autoflex can achieve.  I assume that since it is a "rabbit hole" that there really isn't any viable lower cost options that are producing similar results?

[tatertot]

1 minute ago, Noodler said:

 

The Autoflex had just hit the market and was building its reputation right about when I could no longer play.  In the 2+ years since I had to put down the clubs, it's interesting to see how folks have attempted to find lower cost options that approximate the results that the Autoflex can achieve.  I assume that since it is a "rabbit hole" that there really isn't any viable lower cost options that are producing similar results?

I'm getting unbelievable results out of the ProLaunch Blue 45A ... but it could just be me.

[Noodler]

7 minutes ago, tatertot said:

I'm getting unbelievable results out of the ProLaunch Blue 45A ... but it could just be me.

 

Unfortunately I have a ProLaunch Blue 65S.  I guess I'll have to start the hunt...

Edited September 18, 2024 by Noodler

[rx1232]

1 hour ago, Noodler said:

 

Unfortunately I have a ProLaunch Blue 65S.  I guess I'll have to start the hunt...

they are on golfworks for $70.  

 

The $50 versions work if your swing works for it (smooth and steady). Autoflex, i hear, was in a rare camp where it worked no matter the swing maybe? 

 

The Accra f3 140 m0 is similar, but more than $100, usually. 

[WristySwing]

8 hours ago, Noodler said:

Coming back to golf after hip surgery.  Driver swing speed down to 90-95mph.  Convinced myself that I need to drop back to regular flex shafts, but the first one I tried had way too much torque (5.7).  I've been trying to identify shaft replacement options that are softer flexing, but still retain a lower torque (<3.5 or so).  I need to keep it in the 50g or 60g weight classes.

 

After 4 rounds of erratic driver results it finally dawned on me that it might be related to the weak torque on this new shaft so I swapped it out for one of my softer flexing stiff shafts with a lower torque and I stopped losing the ball in a "strong fade" well off target.  I'm just not getting much out of a stiffer flexing shaft with my lower swing speed, so I'd like to experiment with something softer, but that still has good torsional rigidity.

 

In threads like this I always post the same thing, and never get tired of it. Aldila NV https://www.aldila.com/products/nv can be had in a 65-R model with ~3.7* of torque and it will almost always <$100 if you pick it up used. Project X shafts (5.5 in your case) also almost universally have a very stiff handle section, tricking one into thinking it is stiffer than it is in reality. You could grab an EvenFlow Riptide, HZRDUS Blue, EvenFlow Blue, or similar for pretty cheap now that should do the trick.

[tatertot]

14 minutes ago, WristySwing said:

 

In threads like this I always post the same thing, and never get tired of it. Aldila NV https://www.aldila.com/products/nv can be had in a 65-R model with ~3.7* of torque and it will almost always <$100 if you pick it up used. Project X shafts (5.5 in your case) also almost universally have a very stiff handle section, tricking one into thinking it is stiffer than it is in reality. You could grab an EvenFlow Riptide, HZRDUS Blue, EvenFlow Blue, or similar for pretty cheap now that should do the trick.

I have the NV 75S in my 3 wood ... really nice little shaft.

[Ger21]

I've been playing a 50g A flex Aldila Rip Phenom all summer. Still a solid shaft. There's still a few new ones left on Ebay for $50.

[Noodler]

3 hours ago, WristySwing said:

 

In threads like this I always post the same thing, and never get tired of it. Aldila NV https://www.aldila.com/products/nv can be had in a 65-R model with ~3.7* of torque and it will almost always <$100 if you pick it up used. Project X shafts (5.5 in your case) also almost universally have a very stiff handle section, tricking one into thinking it is stiffer than it is in reality. You could grab an EvenFlow Riptide, HZRDUS Blue, EvenFlow Blue, or similar for pretty cheap now that should do the trick.

 

I have an OG Aldila NV Green in my stash.  Guess I'll have to go dig it out and see exactly what I have.

[Jeff58]

8 hours ago, Noodler said:

 

I was wondering about the Autoflex.  Of course there are no real published specs (cause it's "KHT"), but isn't the suspicion that the Autoflex is a longitudinally soft flex with stiffer torsional rigidity?  So it's a whippy shaft that doesn't twist easily?

It’s (apparently) an R2/ladies flex shaft with some high modulus content. It may not be full length, as in the Velocore models.

 

The unspoken reality here though, is that high modulus materials are at the greatest advantage where shaft deflection is also at high levels. Pro’s using 80 gram TX versions aren’t the biggest winners here. It’s those who want to use a lighter and more flexible design in an attempt to gain or maintain distance. That sounds a lot like what you’re looking for.

[Cwebb]

3 hours ago, WristySwing said:

 

In threads like this I always post the same thing, and never get tired of it. Aldila NV https://www.aldila.com/products/nv can be had in a 65-R model with ~3.7* of torque and it will almost always <$100 if you pick it up used. Project X shafts (5.5 in your case) also almost universally have a very stiff handle section, tricking one into thinking it is stiffer than it is in reality. You could grab an EvenFlow Riptide, HZRDUS Blue, EvenFlow Blue, or similar for pretty cheap now that should do the trick.

 

60 bucks new...

https://www.golfworks.com/aldila-next-gen-nv-556575-graphite-wood-shafts/p/al0077/

Edited September 19, 2024 by Cwebb

[Urb]

Proforce V2 is pretty low torque but the profile is pretty smooth in my opinion.