REVIEWS Onthe W
Range This month Richard Punyer reviews KBS’s 610 wedge shaſt
hen I was asked to try KBS’s new ‘wedge’ spec’ shaſt at the recent PGA Merchandise Show I was intrigued.
Having played for 43 years, like most golfers I have used the same shaſts in my wedges as the rest of the irons set. I was curious if the difference in flight and feel was noticeable.
Here’s what KBS say: “The 610 wedge shaſt
delivers a lower, more penetrating ball flight with controlled spin that enables skilled players to produce eye-catching knock-downs and other workable shots into and around the green. The firm tip section (.355) reduces spin and delivers greater control and the wider butt from which the shaſt derives its name (.610) ensures even more feel as well as shot making.” Ok, so how did it feel? I tried the shaſt in a 56
degree Muira K Grind head which I have to say looked absolutely gorgeous. The immediate feeling on practice swings was of the shaſt being extremely stiff, especially the butt end and mid section. This definitely comes from the extra diameter of the butt section. Even though the shaſt felt so much stiffer than the current incumbents in my three wedges – Nippon NS Pro Modus 3 120’s – I have to say I liked the overall feeling of ‘togetherness’ and of feeling that I was connected to the clubhead - it was a direct reflection of the actions of my hands and arms. Beginning to hit, I started with ‘half’ shots,
halfway back, halfway through. The effect was not instantly noticeable in that shots were not coming off the face much lower in trajectory than my current wedges. As I continued to hit, however, I did begin to notice that it was far easier to keep the shot down for longer – the ball didn’t want to ‘climb’ on me. But the best thing was the complete feeling of being connected to
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the head and it doing exactly what I wanted it to do. As I began to experiment with longer shots – the longest I want to hit a 56 is approximately 110 yards at about 80% of power- any more than that and the accuracy I’m striving for with clubs of this length suffers. The lower flight the shaſt was promoting became evident. I have to also say at this point that the Muira felt gorgeous, an incredibly soſt feel when off the middle and extremely balanced throughout the downswing and strike. Flight was noticeably down, as was the level of spin on landing. There was still check and stop, but without ‘aggressive’ spin that can be so penal. Grouping was impressive when hit to maximum distance with very little dispersion another plus.
Verdict Wedges as we all know are the accuracy
clubs. Anything that can aid in getting closer to the hole, and therefore producing lower scores, is a definite plus. The feel from this shaſt is good, and consistent. The hands feel more ‘as one’ with the clubhead and the head feels as though it will do exactly as the hands want via the shaſt. Easier variation of flight is possible – lower is normal, but high can still be achieved. Spin is obviously still there and has to be controlled – but it’s easier to do so. Overall, this is a good addition to the KBS family of shaſts and one that players wanting more accuracy from their wedge play should look at getting hold of.
If you would like your product innovation reviewed, please contact Alex Fordham at
afordham@datateam.co.uk
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