Golf Stuff:

 

Current Configuration:

# Club Loft Length Shaft Avg Dist (yards) Brand Purpose Club Rank ACC Situation
1 D1 9.5 Deg 46.25" G-X 250-300+ TaylorMade Burner '09 Distance Tee Shot 2 Tee:#1,#2,#5,#7,#9,#11,#12,#14,#15,#16,#17,#18
2 3W 15 Deg 43" G-S 200-250+ TaylorMade Burner HL Distance Ground Shot 4 Tee:#4,#8
3 7W 21 Deg 42" G-R 190-210 TaylorMade Burner HL High Long Approach 5 #2,#8,#15
4 5I 25 Deg 38.5" G-R 170-190 TaylorMade Burner Plus Approach 13 Tee:#13
5 6I 28 Deg 38" G-R 160-180 TaylorMade Burner Plus Approach 12 #18
6 7I 32 Deg 37.5" G-R 150-170 TaylorMade Burner Plus Approach 11 Tee:#3,#6,#10
7 8I 36 Deg 37" G-R 140-160 TaylorMade Burner Plus Approach 10 #1,#9
8 9I 40 Deg 36.5" G-R 120-140 TaylorMade Burner Plus Approach 9 #4,#14
9 PW 45 Deg 36.25" G-R 100-120 TaylorMade Burner Plus Approach 8 #5,#12
10 GW 50 Deg 35.5" S-S 0-100 Titleist Vokey SM All-Purpose 7 #11,#16
11 SW 54 Deg 35.25" S-S 0-75 Titleist Vokey SM All-Purpose 3 Everywhere
12 LW 60 Deg 35" S-S 0-50 Titleist Vokey SM Short Game 6 Sand, Flop
13 P 2.5 Deg 33" S-S n/a TaylorMade RM Spider Putting 1 Putting
14 6I-LH 28 Deg 38" G-S 0-150 TaylorMade Burner Plus Left-Handed Shots 14 Left-Handed Shots

 

Brand # Clubs
TaylorMade 11 clubs
Titleist 3 clubs

 

Current Equipment:

 

    TaylorMade XD Golf Balls

Review @ http://www.taylormadegolf.eu/balls/taylormade-xd.html:
  • LDP Technology - Taylormade's new blend of dimple sizes, edges and depths together promote more lift on off-centre hits.
  • Expanded Sweetspot - LDP forgives off-centre hits by delivering added lift to keep the ball airborne; effectively expanding the sweetspot.
  • Improved Distance - Balls With LDP boast improved distance on the most common driver off-centre hits compared to balls without LDP

 

    Pinnacle Gold FX Long Custom Logo Golf Balls from GolfBalls.com (low spin golf ball)

Review @ GolfBalls.com:
I have experimented with golf balls through the years (Titleist Pro V1, Nike One Platinum, Callaway Tour i, etc.), and I have found the Pinnacle Gold FX Long to be the best for my game. In terms of distance, I have yet to find a longer ball. In terms of feel and control, the ball feels great when you hit it (solid feel, not hollow or clanky). If you really like to shape your shot, spin the ball back off the green on your approach, or hop-n-stop on your chipping, this isn't the ball for you. However, if you can play a running chip shot, don't mind the ball jumping 5-10 feet in front of your ball mark, and don't need a massive hook/slice, I highly recommend this ball. Specifically, since the only reason I try other balls from time to time is because of the short game, even though the Callaway Tour i is fun because you can swing harder on your chips and really check the ball, for me this ball comes out more consistently, especially out of the rough compared to the high-dollar balls, and funny enough, you can tell a difference putting these balls compared to the Tour i (much less power required putting the FX Long, which you would think would be a problem on fast greens, but once you get used to them, I hole more putts with these, since you don't have to swing as hard and can focus more on the line/stroke). Finally, in terms of golfballs.com, I love the logo on these balls (vivid color, very noticeable, lasts long enough for me -- use a new golf ball every round), and the customer service is second to none. My only recommendation is to avoid hitting the logo directly as much as possible (controllable on tee shots and on the putting green), because the logo will wear off and your club faces will have some colored marks on them. I am re-ordering more of these golf balls today, and because of how important I believe these golf balls are to my golf game, and how much I believe they could benefit other golfers looking for maximum distance allowed by the USGA and solid control off of all clubs, especially the putter, I am writing this review. Here's hoping Pinnacle doesn't discontinue these golf balls anytime soon, and if they do, they better replace them with something better, which is hard to imagine.

 

    TaylorMade 2009 Burner Driver with Arrow2 Lite 44 gram Grip WinnLite Soft 6LS-BL 25 gram Grip

        9.5 degrees, X-Stiff RE*AX Superfast 49 Mid Tip 46.25" Shaft

Loft Length Size Lie FA Swingweight Torque Tip Butt Shaft Weight Grip Grip Weight
9.5º 46.25" 460cc 60º 1º Closed D4 4.4º 0.350" 0.620" 49 grams WinnLite Soft 6LS-BL 25 grams

 

    TaylorMade 2009 Burner High Launch 3 Wood with WinnLite Soft 6LS-BL 25 gram Grip & 7 Wood with Arrow2 Lite 44 gram Grip

        15 degrees, Stiff RE*AX Superfast 49 Mid Tip 43" Shaft

        21 degrees, Regular RE*AX Superfast 49 Mid Tip 42" Shaft

Loft Length Size Lie Swingweight Torque Tip Butt Shaft Weight Grip Grip Weight
15º 43" 190cc 59º D5 4.6º 0.350" 0.620" 49 grams WinnLite Soft 6LS-BL 25 grams
21º 42" 161cc 60º D5 4.6º 0.350" 0.620" 49 grams Arrow2 Lite 44 grams

 

    TaylorMade 2009 Burner Plus Right-Handed Irons

        RE*AX Superfast 60 Regular Graphite Shafts

    TaylorMade 2009 Burner Plus Left-Handed 6-Iron

        RE*AX Superfast 60 Stiff Graphite Shaft

Iron Loft Lie Length Offset Swingweight Shaft Torque Tip Butt Shaft Weight
5 25 Deg 62 Deg 38.5" 5.7 D2.5 3.0 Deg .370" .600" 60 grams
6 28 Deg 62.5 Deg 38" 5.3 D2.5 3.0 Deg .370" .600" 60 grams
7 32 Deg 63 Deg 37.5" 4.9 D2.5 3.0 Deg .370" .600" 60 grams
8 36 Deg 63.5 Deg 37" 4.5 D2.5 3.0 Deg .370" .600" 60 grams
9 40 Deg 64 Deg 36.5" 4.1 D2.5 3.0 Deg .370" .600" 60 grams
PW 45 Deg 64.5 Deg 36.25" 3.7 D3.5 3.0 Deg .370" .600" 60 grams
6LH 28 Deg 62.5 Deg 38" 5.3 D2.5 3.0 Deg .370" .600" 60 grams

 

    Titleist 2009 Vokey Spin Milled Gap Wedge (50 degree, 54 degree, 60 degree)

        True Temper Dynamic Gold 5200 Wedge Shaft

        50 degree: Tour Chrome; 54 degree: Black Nickel; 60 degree: Oil Can

Wedge Loft Lie Length Bounce Swingweight Finish
GW 50 Deg 64 Deg 35.5" 8 Deg D-4 Tour Chrome
SW 54 Deg 64 Deg 35.25" 8 Deg D-5 Black Nickel
LW 60 Deg 64 Deg 35" 4 Deg D-5 Oil Can

 

    TaylorMade Rossa Monza Spider RH 33" Putter

        Standard 33" Putter Shaft w/ Rossa Monza Spider Winn Medalist Putter Grip

  • Steel Wire-Frame - Positions more weight on the perimeter - Boosts MOI for consistent distance on off-center hits
  • Light and Strong Aluminum Core - Lower density material allows for mass re-distribution
  • MWT with Two Movable Weights - Permits the user to change the head weight - Customizable feel
  • AGSI + Titallium Face Insert - Promotes forward-spin for smoother roll off the putterface - Increased directional and distance control
  • Reverse-Trapezoidal Shape - Provides forgiveness for straighter putts on miss-hits
  • Anti-skid Groove System Insert Technology - 14 polymer-filled grooves reduce backspin (skid) off the putter face and promote forward spin earlier in the shot

Loft Lie Weight Length MWT MWT Backup MWT Backup
2.5º 70º 339 g 33" 2 x 16 g (371 g) 2 x 10 g (359 g) 2 x 4 g (347 g)

 

 

Tennis Stuff:

 

Current Configuration:
Venom            The Green Goblin The Holy Ghost
Super Midplus 105 Specs
Head Size: 105 sq. in. / 677 sq. cm.
Length: 27 inches / 69 cm
Strung Weight: 11.8oz / 335g
Balance: 7pts Head Light
Swingweight: 321
Stiffness: 56
Beam Width: 20-25mm
Composition: Graphite / Fiberglass / Piezotec Fibres
Power Level: Low
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: Gamma Hi-Tech
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
Mains skip: 7T,9T,8H, One Piece, No shared holes
String Tension: 50-70 pounds
Grip Size: 3/8
Oversize Specs
Head Size: 107 sq. in. / 690 sq. cm.
Length: 27.5 inches / 70 cm
Strung Weight: 11.9oz / 337g
Balance: 11pts Head Light
Swingweight: 328
Stiffness: 63
Beam Width: 20 mm Straight Beam
Composition: Graphite / Titanium / Tungsten / Carbon
Power Level: Low
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: Dura Tac
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
Mains skip: 8T,7H,9H, One Piece, No shared holes
String Tension: 57-67 pounds
Grip Size: 1/4
Oversize Specs
Head Size: 115 sq. in. / 742 sq. cm.
Length: 28 inches / 71 cm
Strung Weight: 9.1oz / 258g
Balance: 10 pts Head Heavy
Swingweight: 331
Stiffness: 71
Beam Width: Dual Taper Beam 30 mm
Composition: 30% nCoded Hyper Carbon / 70% nCoded High Modulus Graphite
Power Level: High
Swing Speed: Slow-Moderate
Grip Type: Micro-Dry Comfort
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
Mains skip: 7T,9T,7H,9H, One Piece, No shared holes
String Tension: 55-65 pounds
The Killer Bee The Orange Crush The Becker    
Midplus Specs
Head Size: 100 sq. in. / 645 sq. cm.
Length: 27 inches / 69 cm
Strung Weight: 11.3oz / 320g
Balance: 5pts Head Light
Swingweight: 324
Stiffness: 67
Beam Width: 23-26 mm
Composition: High Modulus Graphite
Power Level: Low-Medium
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: Syntec Grip
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
Mains skip: 8T,8H, Two Piece, No shared holes
String Tension: 55-65 pounds
Super OS Specs
Head Size: 120 sq. in. / 774 sq. cm.
Length: 27.75 inches / 70 cm
Strung Weight: 9.4oz / 266g
Balance: 3 pts Head Heavy
Swingweight: 317
Stiffness: 69
Beam Width: 29 mm
Composition: Graphite
Power Level: High
Swing Speed: Slow-Moderate
Grip Type: Sensor Handle
String Pattern: 14 Mains / 20 Crosses
Mains skip: 7T,7H, One Piece, No shared holes
String Tension: 46-60 pounds
Midplus Specs
Head Size: 98 sq. in. / 632 sq. cm.
Length: 27 inches / 69 cm
Strung Weight: 12.6oz / 357g
Balance: 4pts Head Light
Swingweight: 377
Stiffness: 58
Beam Width: 20 mm Straight Beam
Composition: High Modulus Graphite w/ DNX Tech
Power Level: Low
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: Custom
String Pattern: 18 Mains / 20 Crosses
Mains skip: 8T,10T,8H,10H,Two Piece,No shared holes
String Tension: 50-60 pounds

 

Current Equipment:

    The Becker:  Boris Becker 11 Special Edition 98

        Tecnifibre Black Code 18 (1.18mm) String at 55 lbs.

 

Midplus Specs
Head Size: 98 sq. in. / 632 sq. cm.
Length: 27 inches / 69 cm
Strung Weight: 12.6oz / 357g
Balance: 4pts Head Light
Swingweight: 377
Stiffness: 58
Beam Width: 20 mm Straight Beam
Composition: High Modulus Graphite w/ DNX Tech
Power Level: Low
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: Custom
String Pattern: 18 Mains / 20 Crosses
Mains skip: 8T,10T,8H,10H,Two Piece,No shared holes
String Tension: 50-60 pounds
Grip Size: 1/4

This special limited edition version of the Becker 11 is hand tuned to the exact specifications of Boris Becker. Each racquet features the same weight and balance specifications requested by Becker right down to the exact gram and millimeter. The German development department at Boris Becker Tennis has fine-tuned, adjusts and calibrates each and every racquet by hand in their tuning center in Straubing, Germany. The Becker 11 SE swings with considerable heft. However, those with the strength and technique to handle this racquet will be rewarded with superb control and comfort. Plough through from this stick is truly exceptional. Our TW playtesters found excellent access to depth and pace once getting this stick in motion. Shots come off the racquet heavier and with considerably more court penetration thanks to the weight and balance tuning. At net the Becker 11 SE easily overpower even the hardest hit passing attempts. Stability is outstanding with excellent control and very easy access to depth. On serve the weight of this racquet crushes the ball providing excellent pace, depth and plenty of added hop on kick serves. A great collectible racquet and a very solid hitting stick for the 5.0+ level player.

All Becker 11 Special Editions have been tuned by hand in the laboratories in Straubing, Germany to an absolute precision. This gives each customer and player the opportunity to experience a true Becker racquet. This special treatment and method of tuning is usually reserved for racquets used by the top tournament professionals.
 
DNX is a new unique material structure featuring high-strength micro tube construction that is 25 times stronger than regular carbon fibers. DNX is an entirely new material class whose properties represent the fourth dimension of carbon. DNX has strength characteristics that have never been reached before, a true break-through in material development, now exclusively available in the new DNX Racquet Series by Volkl Tennis.

 

    Venom:  Fischer M Speed Pro Number One Super Midplus 105

        Tecnifibre Black Code 18 (1.18mm) String at 60 lbs.

 

Super Midplus 105 Specs
Head Size: 105 sq. in. / 677 sq. cm.
Length: 27 inches / 69 cm
Strung Weight: 11.8oz / 335g
Balance: 7pts Head Light
Swingweight: 321
Stiffness: 56
Beam Width: 20-25mm
Composition: Graphite / Fiberglass / Piezotec Fibres
Power Level: Low
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: Gamma Hi-Tech
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
Mains skip: 7T,9T,8H, One Piece, No shared holes
String Tension: 50-70 pounds
Grip Size: 3/8

"Super" Midplus
With its almost oversize proportions, this one will appeal to oversize player's racquet fans as well as those looking for a forgiving and slightly more powerful player's racquet. We found excellent access to spin from this racquet. This one offers plenty of flex and comfort off the ground. There's ample feel and control for touch and placement shots. The spin friendly nature makes this racquet a joy when hitting off-pace angles and slice drop shots. At net there's enough pop to put volleys away, but the overall emphasis is on control and feel. When serving, the impressive response of the 105 sq. in. continues with some solid pace, excellent spin and a healthy sweetspot just a swing away. Definitely worth a test drive if you're seeking a forgiving player's racquet. Best suited to 4.0+ level players.

Magnetic Speed technology features equally polarized magnets at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions designed to return the racquet to its original position faster than conventional racquets. Fischer claims the result is greater power and ball speed off the stringbed.

 

    The Green Goblin:  Prince Tour NXG Graphite Oversize

        Luxilon Big Banger ALU Power Rough 16L String at 61 lbs. (mains) with Babolat VS Team 17 at 63 lbs. (crosses)

Oversize Specs
Head Size: 107 sq. in. / 690 sq. cm.
Length: 27.5 inches / 70 cm
Strung Weight: 11.9oz / 337g
Balance: 11pts Head Light
Swingweight: 328
Stiffness: 63
Beam Width: 20 mm Straight Beam
Composition: Graphite / Titanium / Tungsten / Carbon
Power Level: Low
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: Dura Tac
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
Mains skip: 8T,7H,9H, One Piece, No shared holes
String Tension: 57-67 pounds
Grip Size: 1/4

The most powerful and comfortable of the three NXGs, however, still very much a control oriented racquet. We found the Oversize stringbed lent itself to easy spin development on both groundstrokes and serves. Maneuverable and solid at net, the Oversize makes a great doubles racquet for the advanced player seeking just a little more pop than offered by the Mid and Midplus version of this racquet.
Initially launched by Prince as part of the Experimental racquet project – seen on the ATP and WTA Tours painted in all black - the much anticipated NXG Graphite series of racquets features Prince Triple Threat, Air Handle and More racquet technologies. Winner of the TENNIS Magazine Editor's Choice Award.

 

    The Holy Ghost:  Wilson nCode n1

        Babolat VS Team 17 string strung at 55 lbs. tension

Oversize Specs
Head Size: 115 sq. in. / 742 sq. cm.
Length: 28 inches / 71 cm
Strung Weight: 9.1oz / 258g
Balance: 10 pts Head Heavy
Swingweight: 331
Stiffness: 71
Beam Width: Dual Taper Beam 30 mm
Composition: 30% nCoded Hyper Carbon / 70% nCoded High Modulus Graphite
Power Level: High
Swing Speed: Slow-Moderate
Grip Type: Micro-Dry Comfort
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
Mains skip: 7T,9T,7H,9H, One Piece, No shared holes
String Tension: 55-65 pounds

Power 87 - The n1 has to be the most powerful game improvement racquets currently on the market. Not only is it powerful, but the delivery of power is smooth. There are no hot spots or sudden drops in power when making contact in different areas of the stringbed. With the n1 we found instant zip on our serves, volleys and groundstrokes, all of which had more depth and came off the court with good pace. The extended length provides additional leverage on serves, overheads and groundstrokes. If you are looking to add power to your game, this is the racquet for you.

Control 76 - With good access to spin and consistent power delivery, we found plenty of control with the n1. Despite the racquet's 28 inch length, we felt in control of the tip of the racquet, making it easy to guide the ball to an intended target. Also adding to the control of the n1 is the good stability offered at contact.

Maneuverability 78 - For a racquet that is 28 inches long the n1 is very maneuverable. While players used to standard length racquets will find the extra length noticeable, we found this an easy racquet to get around, and the length matched up nicely with the 115 square inch headsize. From the baseline, the n1 felt like it had just enough weight in the head for stability without feeling heavy or sluggish.

Stability 78 - It's not easy to produce a racquet that is both stable and maneuverable, but Wilson has nailed the formula with the n1. We found the n1 to be solid from all areas of the court. Serves hit slightly off-center still found their mark and there was no sudden drop-off in pace. Likewise, the feel at net was solid and stable with little effort required to place the ball deep.

Comfort 75 - The n1 offers a crisper feel compared to the n3. With no Triad style dampening system, we had more feel off the strings and felt in tune with our strokes. The sub 10 ounce strung weight of the n1 makes it a comfortable racquet for smaller players to wield, and we never experienced any arm fatigue during long hitting sessions. The large sweetspot and comfortable stringbed (we used Wilson NXT 17 gauge string at mid tension) made the n1 feel softer than its 71 RDC stiffness rating.

An ultra stiff game improvement racquet designed to offer the kind of power slow swinging beginners need. The n1 features Wilson's nCode Technology. nCode takes the construction of racquets to the molecular level and nCode racquets are said by Wilson to be twice as strong, twice as stable and up to 22% more powerful than ordinary racquets. The n1 definitely delivers a lot of power and the 115 sq. inch, Oversize head features a large sweetspot. The open (16/19) string pattern makes spin easy to generate on faster swings and offers a lively feel. Even though the n1 is light and maneuverable, its head heavy balance provides good stability on both groundstrokes and volleys. With plenty of pop at net, this is a great choice for both singles and doubles players who like to finish the point with a winning volley. Best suited to 2.5-4.0 NTRP level players.

 

    The Killer Bee:  Babolat AeroPro Drive Cortex with

        Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour 16 string strung at 60 lbs. tension (the Rafael "Rafa" Nadal racquet)

Midplus Specs
Head Size: 100 sq. in. / 645 sq. cm.
Length: 27 inches / 69 cm
Strung Weight: 11.3oz / 320g
Balance: 5pts Head Light
Swingweight: 324
Stiffness: 67
Beam Width: 23-26 mm
Composition: High Modulus Graphite
Power Level: Low-Medium
Swing Speed: Fast
Grip Type: Syntec Grip
String Pattern: 16 Mains / 19 Crosses
Mains skip: 8T,8H, Two Piece, No shared holes
String Tension: 55-65 pounds

Rafael Nadal, arguably the most exciting player on the pro tour, uses the AeroPro Drive with Cortex. This updated version of the AeroPro Drive is built to the exact same specifications as the original, but features Babolat's Cortex System for improved feel and comfort. We found the same pop and spin friendly nature from this version, but with a more solid feel at contact. Our TW playtesters enjoyed the improved feel from all areas of the court. The AeroPro Drive Cortex combines the benefits of an Aero designed shaft and the Pure Drive head, the result is some serious pop and spin potential in a maneuverable package. Power baseline players will love the spin, pace and accuracy they'll find hitting with this one. At net the racquet offers good maneuverability, yet remains stable. There's plenty of power to punch volleys deep and some improved feel for touch play. The power and spin potential of this racquet makes for fun serving - where spin and pace can be found in equally pleasing quantities. The healthy sweetspot and power of the AeroPro Drive Cortex makes it a solid choice for a variety of player levels. A must demo for players seeking to boost an already aggressive game with some added spin and power.

Racquet of choice for 2007 French Open Champion, Rafael Nadal.

 

    The Orange Crush:  Volkl Catapult 1 Generation II F.I.R.E. with

        TNT2 Fusion Plus 19 string strung at 53 lbs. tension

Composition/Construction:  Titanium/Lite Carbon/HM Graphite/Pure Fiber Technology

Grommet Technology:  Big Grommet Technology

Frame Technology:  Catapult

Handle Technology:  Sensor Handle System with Pallet

Grip Type:  Cush Tac

Super OS Specs
Head Size: 120 sq. in. / 774 sq. cm.
Length: 27.75 inches / 70 cm
Strung Weight: 9.4oz / 266g
Balance: 3 pts Head Heavy
Swingweight: 317
Stiffness: 69
Beam Width: 29 mm
Composition: Graphite
Power Level: High
Swing Speed: Slow-Moderate
Grip Type: Sensor Handle
String Pattern: 14 Mains / 20 Crosses
Mains skip: 7T,7H, One Piece, No shared holes
String Tension: 46-60 pounds

Power 84 - No pun intended, but the Catapult 1 F.I.R.E. will add plenty of firepower to your game. Groundstrokes can be sent deep into the court with good pace from only a moderate swing. The Catapult and Power Big Grommet systems offer a very unique feel. It is almost as if the ball stays on the strings a tad longer before launching off towards its intended target. Add these grommet systems to a racquet with a generous 120 sq. inch headsize and 27.75 inch frame length, and you've got one powerful combination. This racquet is probably the pick of the bunch for finishing off overhead smashes.

Control 73 - The different feel of the Catapult grommet system, compared to regular grommet systems, takes a few minutes of adjustment. Once adjusted, though, players will find good control and direction of shot with this racquet. The spin friendly string pattern helps find those tricky angles and makes landing deep slices a snap. At net the Catapult 1 F.I.R.E. offers plenty of feel for angled shots and controllable power for deep, punch volleys.

Maneuverability 78 - At 9.4 ounces and with a close to even balance (3 points head heavy) the Catapult 1 F.I.R.E. feels light and manageable. Ideal for fast volleying at the net and easy to swing on groundstrokes, the Catapult 1 F.I.R.E. is a nice racquet to learn with. The ease of swinging this racquet also helps with faster swing speeds on serves, helping to add more pace and spin.

Stability 77 - The oversize head of the Catapult 1 F.I.R.E. is shaped long and slender - less round compared to many other offerings. The slim head shape seems well suited to offering stability at contact and is further enhanced by the racquet's box beam design and thick beam width. The Catapult 1 F.I.R.E. feels stable from all areas of the court, making it a trustworthy tool for making those tough returns and volleys.

Comfort 84 - With Catapult grommets and Volkl's popular Sensor Handle System, the Catapult 1 F.I.R.E. excels in the comfort category. The racquet offers a very pleasant buttery feel at contact. No matter if at net or the baseline, the Catapult 1 F.I.R.E. is very comfortable and dampened in play, and is an ideal choice for those looking for a powerful racquet that's strong on comfort, too.

A powerful game improvement racquet, the Catapult 1 F.I.R.E. (Fully Integrated Racquet Engineering) offers a generous sweetspot from its 120 sq. inch racquet head. As with power, the development of spin takes little provocation from the 14/20 string pattern. With most of the weight in the head and with the inclusion of the Volkl's Catapult Grommet Technology, the Cat 1 F.I.R.E. offers a comfortable and dampened playing experience. Despite its head heavy balance, the racquet remains maneuverable due to its light and manageable weight. Players looking to add some serious power and spin to their games should definitely give this racquet a try. Best suited to short swinging 2.0-3.5 NTRP level players, and a great choice for slice and dice doubles specialists.

 

Equipment reviews and more to come...

 

 

Old Equipment:

 

    Nike Pro Combo OS Irons

        True Temper ProCombo Speed Step Stiff Flex Shafts

Iron Loft Lie Length
3 21 Deg 59 Deg 39"
4 24 Deg 60 Deg 38.5"
5 27 Deg 61 Deg 38"
6 31 Deg 62 Deg 37.5"
7 35 Deg 62.5 Deg 37"
8 39 Deg 63 Deg 36.5"
9 43 Deg 63.5 Deg 36"
PW 47 Deg 64 Deg 35.75"

 

    TaylorMade 2010 R9 6-Iron

        Fujikura Motore 75-S Stiff Graphite Shaft

Iron Loft Lie Length Offset Swingweight Shaft Torque Tip Butt Shaft Weight
6 28 Deg 64.5 Deg 38.5" 4.0 D3.5 3.7 Deg .370" .600" 75 grams

 

    Adams Idea Pro Hybrid (2I)

        16 degree 1I, X-Stiff Aldila Proto 80-X Shaft

Model Loft Length Lie Swing Weight
1 i-Wood 16º 41.25" 58.5º D2

 

    Nike One Tour (high spin golf ball)

Review @ store.Nike.com:
An all-around star performer, the Nike One Tour Golf Ball is a professional grade design with a 4-piece seamless urethane construction for the best in accuracy, distance, control and feel.
 
Optimized compression and cover for increased distance performance with all clubs
Progressive density core for increased velocity
Advanced polymer layer for distance and control
Seamless urethane outer cover with 378 dimple design

 

    TaylorMade Vintage 24K Gold-Plated Model 101

        Standard 34.5" Putter Shaft

Loft Lie Weight Length
71º 300 g 34.5"

 

    Acushnet Bulls Eye Old Standard Pro Feel Hosel Black

        Standard 34" Putter Shaft

Loft Lie Weight Length
71º 300 g 34"

 

    Bobby Jones 56-degree Sand Wedge by Jesse Ortiz and Dave Pelz

        35.25" Femco Steel Shaft w/ Lamkin Crossline Grip

The Bobby Jones Wedge by Jesse Ortiz and Dave Pelz is cast from a soft 302 stainless steel. A pocket and deep set channels are milled to accommodate the club's wear-resistant Carpenter 440XH face material. The channels behind the clubface-insert remove substantial weight from the central section of the body, allowing additional weight to be repositioned to the sole for a low CG (center of gravity).

The aerospace steel alloy Carpenter 440XH face material—a remarkably wear-resistant metal alloy (often used in industrial bearing assemblies and critical valve components)—will maintain both face friction and groove integrity far longer than conventional wedges, thus providing consistently high backspin longevity. With new USGA regulations on the horizon, wedge durability will be more important than ever for maintaining shot trajectory and control. The Carpenter 440XH material is milled to a USGA-conforming texture of 180 micro-inches, creating a face texture and edge-groove radius perfect for consistent shot making.

Many golfers do not realize that backspin longevity is so fleeting that tour professionals replace their wedges often throughout the golf season to keep ball control and shot performance at the highest possible level. These enduring wedges will help golfers hit better scoring game shots, control their wedge distances to tighter tolerances, and consistently shoot lower scores. Using a proprietary design technique, Bobby Jones Pelz Wedges provide the perfect combination of soft-feeling shots and extremely low face wear to produce a superior-performing wedge, season after season. By applying heat and pressure to a special structural bonding membrane, Ortiz facilitates the release of an epoxy resin, which, upon cooling, creates a bond between the club's stainless body and face material that is stronger than welding. Upon curing, the membrane returns to its slightly spongy state, thus creating a soft forged-like feel to each shot.
Loft Bounce Angle Length Lie
56 Deg 14 Deg 35.25" 64 Deg

 

    Rife Two-Bar Hybrid Tour Blade

        Stepless Steel Shaft, Body - Cast 431 stainless steel, Face Insert - 6061 CNC milled anodized aluminum backed with high durometer polymer, Rear Weights - Milled 303 stainless steel

Loft Lie Weight Length Neck Kickback Effective Loft Groove to Land Ratio Weights
70º 345g/360g 34" Plummers Neck .5º (toward right eye) 1.5º 1 to 3 (groove width 45/1000" to land 15/1000") 2@15g, 2@22.5g

 

    TaylorMade r7 Steel Fairway Wood (TS 3-wood) - set for draw

        13 degrees, X-Stiff Grafalloy Blue 48" USGA / 50" LDA LD Shaft

Taylor Made r7 FAIRWAY STEEL Fairway Wood CloseOut Golf Club

Loft Length Size Lie FA
13º 48" 154cc 58.5º square

 

    Krank El Diablo 6 Degree Long Driver

        6 degrees, LD3 (XX-Stiff) UST Proforce V2 48" USGA / 50" LDA LD Shaft

Loft Length F/A Lie Tip Vol
48" 1º Closed 56º .335 460cc
Description:
Making a driver that could beat the performance of the Red Hot Chili Pepper Driver was a very difficult task.  But we can say unequivocally, we have done it.  This new Driver is everything we had hoped it would be.  From performance to the incredible look, the El Diablo Driver has everything you would ever want in a Driver.  This is a ground up custom Krank Golf design.  We chose to go with the new 1023 Hyper Ti Beta face, 6-4-AL Titanium body and the new Low Light Black Carbon 'low spin' finish.  This combination of materials and design provides the most incredible feel, sound and performance required to stake claim as the hottest driver made for Golf or Long Drive.  Get ready for the Ultimate Driving Experience.

 

    Titleist Scotty Cameron Studio Style Newport 2 35" Putter (P)

The entire Studio Style line of putters is the optimal blend of high-performance and classic design. The Newport Studio Style model is no exception. The Studio Style series, new for 2005, incorporates a German Stainless steel (GSS) inlay, adhered with screws and a hi-tech polymer, seen on the Tour proven Red X line, with precision milled 303 stainless steel. The milled GSS inlay and Studio Stainless give the Studio Style Newport perfect feedback; a combination of superior sound and feel.
 
The Newport 2 Studio Style was literally born on Tour and the design has been used by some of the best players in the world. The success and winning reputation of the Newport 2 design is undeniable and this success is carried over into the Studio Style series. Scotty is constantly refining and the Newport 2 Studio Style gets even better in 2005 with a German Stainless Steel (GSS) insert originally made for the PGA Tour winning Red X. In 2005 Scotty incorporates a distinctive GSS inlay, surrounded and cushioned by a hi-tech polymer, into Studio Stainless, giving the Studio Style Newport 2 optimal putter to player feedback. The Studio Style Newport 2 has a flat front neck that is in line with the topline and a wider body from front to back from previous years. The 1/4 toe hang gives the putter ideal balance and optimal toe flow. There is a single sightline for alignment and the soft beaded mist finish on the topline and flange eliminates glare while the insert is milled for a striking contrast. The new look of the Studio Style putter line promotes confidence with feel and performance that is distinctly Scotty Cameron.
Key Technology:  Don't be fooled by the classic look. The milled stainless-steel body features an insert with a German stainless-steel top inlay that is backed by an elastomer insert and a pad designed to absorb vibration.
Panelist Comments:  "The gold standard. . . . Insert doesn't have that doinky feel. It's soft without feeling like it's bouncing back. Good control."
Judge's Verdict:  People who try to sell $300 putters are either crazy or Scotty Cameron. If they're Scotty, they're more than justified.
Hot:  The way Cameron designs the sole to keep it sitting square.
Not:  Grip is not for those with man hands.
Misc:  German stainless steel is used in surgical tools.
Loft Lie Weight Length Offset Neck Grip
71º 330g 35" Full Shaft Straight Step Red SD

 

    TaylorMade r7 Draw HT Driver

        13.5 degrees, TaylorMade Reax 55 M-Flex Graphite Shaft

Loft Length Size Lie FA Weight
13.5º 45" 460cc 59º 312g

 

    TaylorMade r7 TP Irons

        True Temper Dynamic Gold (1.8 Torque, 130g Weight) S-300 Stiff

Iron Loft Lie Length Swing Weight
6 31 Deg 61 Deg 37.25" D-2

 

    Pursuit c510 Forged Cavity

        UST HDX 80 Graphite Stiff (4.2 Torque, 74g Weight, Mid-flex), +1" long, +2 degrees upright

Iron Loft Lie Length Swing Weight
3 21 Deg 61 Deg 40.25" D-1
7 36 Deg 64 Deg 38.25" D-1
PW 48 Deg 67 Deg 36.75" D-1

 

    Callaway X-Tour Irons (3I-PW)

        White Dot (2 degrees upright)

        True Temper - Dynamic Gold Steel S300 Stiff Flex Shafts

Iron Loft Lie Length Swing Weight
3 21 Deg 62 Deg 39" D-2
4 24 Deg 62.5 Deg 38.5" D-2
5 27 Deg 63 Deg 38" D-2
6 31 Deg 63.5 Deg 37.5" D-2
7 35 Deg 64 Deg 37" D-2
8 39 Deg 64.5 Deg 36.5" D-2
9 43 Deg 65 Deg 36" D-2
PW 47 Deg 65.5 Deg 35.5" D-2

 

    Nike Sasquatch SuMo Driver 2007 (4950 g cm2) (1W)

        8.5 degrees, Stiff Aldila Proto VS Shaft

Nike SasQuatch Sumo Driver (460cc)

Loft Length Size Lie
8.5º 45" 460cc 60.5º

 

    LH Select 5000 Hybrid (left handed 7I-hybrid)

        True Temper - Lite Steel Standard Stiff Flex Shaft

Club # Loft Lie Wt FA Vol Face Ht
7 34 63 270 0 70cc 37mm

 

    Ping G5i Ug-Le Black Dot (standard) 35" Putter (P)

Key Technology: The K-shape, center-shaft design helps push weight to the corners to improve stability. A urethane insert and carved-out mid-section save weight in the center. A multiple-hardness insert is designed to enhance roll.
Panelist Comments: "There's nothing aesthetically remarkable, but it's a very stable putter. Looking at it, you might think the head will rotate, but it doesn't. . . . It turns you off with the look, but it turns you back on with how it performs."
Judge's Verdict: It gets attention for improving MOI, but don't overlook its alignment element.
Hot: Worked for Karrie Webb's turnaround.
Not: Lie angle is adjustable by only 2 degrees.
Heaviest putter in Ping's G5i series at 365 grams.

 

    Adams Idea Pro Hybrid (2I)

        16 degree 1I, X-Stiff Aldila Proto 80-X Shaft

        18 degree 2I, Stiff Aldila Proto 80-S Shaft

Model Loft Length Lie Swing Weight
1 i-Wood 16º 41.25" 58.5º D2
2 i-Wood 18º 40.5" 59º D2

 

    Bang Storm / BangStorm 100% Beta Titanium Driver 460cc Black/Blue

        9.5 degrees, X-Stiff Grafalloy Blue 48" USGA / 50" LDA LD Shaft

Loft Length Lie F/A F/H F/W Bore B/R I/D O/D Wt Vol
9.5º 48" 58º 63.4mm 101mm 42mm 11.5x11.5in .335 12.5mm 197g 460cc

 

    Feel Golf 73-degree Wedge (FW)

Loft Bounce Angle Length Lie Angle Swing Weight
73 Deg +/- 1 Deg 7 Deg, Progressive 36" 65 Deg D8
Description:
After extensive research on present day lofts, while players love our 64 degree wedge, this 73 is a BIG breakthrough in any golfer's short game arsenal.  Dr. Feel, a master short game teacher and wedge designer working in concert with a well known top PGA short game teacher, and a former teacher of the year, discovered golfers of all abilities, from Tour players to 25 handicappers, have a need for a club that is so versatile that you can hit it 3 feet, or 50 yards using the same swing length.  But most of all, it needs to be very easy to use.  The 73 degree seems like a lot of loft, just as the 60 and 64 degree did when we first introduced years ago, but is very easy to use and in our opinion the 73 is the EASIEST wedge to use of any wedge or loft made today!  The distance is easily controlled, more so than any other loft we've found to date.  We are very excited about this club and how we saw it help 85% of players involved in our testing.  What makes this wedge so easy to use, is the fact you can take your full driver swing on every shot and 'The 73' eliminates the little half swing that cause problems.  No need to play around with opening the face, or lack the confidence for those perfect high flop shots when really short sided.  The 73 glides through the rough just like a big mowing machine and bunker play is made so much easier...it slides through sand like a knife through hot butter.  Just find your personal ball position, which will range from the front foot to the rear foot, for your desired distance, and now just take your "full driver swing."  The 73-degree does the work and eliminates the "in between" club syndrome.  Regardless of distance needed, distance is easily controlled.  This is a huge advantage because it takes away the miss-hit caused when trying to finesse the in between short game approach or in the bunker.  "The 73" when coupled with our "Full Release" performance grip is a great addition to any player's bag.

 

    Cleveland CG-10 One-dot 56 degree sand wedge (SW)

Loft Bounce Bounce Angle Length Lie Angle Swing Weight Description
56 Deg Low 12 Deg 35.25" 64 Deg D6 Standard sand wedge loft with low bounce for ideal performance out of tight lies. Great for players with shallow attack angles through impact.

 

    Burrows Golf M.A.C. TourBounce 52-degree wedge (GW) & 60-degree wedge (LW)

Loft Bounce Angle Length Swing Weight
52 Deg 10 Deg 35.25" D1
60 Deg 8 Deg 35" D1

 

    Simon Golf 2008 Accu-Max M.A.C. All-Hybrid Irons

        Graphite Uni-Flex Regular Shafts

Burrows Golf 2008 SIMAC All-Hybrid Irons, Graphite Accu-Flex UNIFLEX Regular Shafts

Iron Loft Length
3 20 Deg 39"
4 23 Deg 38.5"
5 26 Deg 38"
6 29 Deg 37.5"
7 33 Deg 37"
8 37 Deg 36.5"
9 41 Deg 36"
PW 45 Deg 35.5"

 

 

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