Golfing News & Blog Articles

Callaway X Prototype Combo Iron – Japan Forged + MILLED

The X Prototype Combo Iron is an upgraded version of the already popular X FORGED irons that dropped earlier this year. Those irons were a hit, and now Callaway Japan has taken it a step further with this limited-edition set launching in August.  At the time of writing this blog post we only have a few sets left.

The key thing to note is that these are Made in Japan using the gigantic enomoto press,  then the raw forged single pressed head is CNC milled for it’s base shape and aesthetics. Then the rough milling marks are polished away to to complete the club.  Japan Forged & CNC Milled in Tochigi Japan by Sasaki Co.

This set is a combo of 7 irons (I#4-9, PW), just like the X FORGED, with a 33-degree loft on the I#7. But what sets the X Prototype apart is the mix of head shapes. The I#4-7 are cavity back, giving you that extra forgiveness on longer shots, while the I#8, 9, and PW shift to a muscle-back design for more control when you need it.

Thanks to a unique forged + milled construction, you get an incredibly soft feel at impact. Unlike traditional methods that can harden the material, these clubs are forged with just one strike, then precision-milled to perfection. The result? A pure, soft feeling.

The leading and trailing edges are chamfered, and the sole width has been fine-tuned for better performance. Plus, the loft markings are smaller, giving it a sleek, refined look. Now, here’s the real kicker—every single part of these irons is made in Japan. From the forging of the head by Sasaki Corporation in Tochigi Prefecture to the assembly of the shaft and grip, it’s all done right here. That’s what makes the X Prototype truly special.

Introducing the New YURURI KM-2501, the highly anticipated and updated model of the KM-0312. �¥ Now, I must warn you: This iron has been intentionally designed with a unique round toe, a shorter hosel, and extra offset. It is tailored specifically for the player who desires a soft-feeling, single-piece forged iron crafted for maximum forgiveness.

Expertly made in Japan from premium S25C steel in the renowned region of Himeji, the KM-2501 also boasts a new and innovative chrome finish that aims to reduce glare. This feature is a welcome addition, enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of this meticulously designed iron.

The combination of advanced Japanese CNC milling technology and the traditional methods of Himeji golf club forging creates not only a stunning addition to any golfer’s bag but also an incredibly easy-to-hit iron that feels sublime at impact. So, who is this iron designed for? It is perfect for the player who expects something truly special in terms of both looks and feel. It caters to those who prefer semi-traditional lofts and don’t mind looking down at offset, understanding that offset is often an ally, assisting in squaring the club face at impact.

Mr. Keita Miyoshi, the owner, designer, and master of YURURI Golf, has been a prominent figure in the Japan Golf Industry for over three decades. He has crafted some of the best-selling wedges here at TourSpecGolf and holds the title for having the Yururi Raw Gekku as the #1 most produced wedge in the history of the KYOEI Golf Factory. All of Mr. Miyoshi’s clubs share his distinctive sense of design, making his products stand out in the market.

I have known Mr. Miyoshi for nearly two decades, during which we have shared countless dinners together. He knows me, my wife, and even my children. We have visited each other’s homes, and I consider him a close personal friend, feeling truly honored to know him. The value he has brought to the entire Japan golf industry is immeasurable.

BACK IN STOCK!

Originally, this KK wedge was supposed to be a temporary release to fill in between two new models under development. However, after the first run was put into the hands of the players, it became obvious that this wedge needed to become a permanent part of the KYOEI Golf lineup. The brand did not have the supply to meet the demand. It’s not as simple as just ordering more; the production schedule often gets in the way, so it needed to be fit in somewhere.

The main reason is that average golfers lauded its forgiveness and feel. While on paper it was not supposed to be the brand’s easiest-to-hit wedge, it just happened to work out that way. Utilizing the latest CNC sharp grooves and tight face milling technology, this wedge is designed to provide spin and control on the course.

When it comes to perfecting your golf game, every detail matters—especially your grip. NO1 Grips have long been a favorite among golfers for their superior performance, innovative designs, and exceptional feel. In this post, we delve into the various models within the NO1 Grip series, highlighting their unique features and benefits to help you choose the perfect grip for your game.

NO1 Grip 35 Series

NO1 Grip 35 Series Hard

Introducing the lightest grip in the NO1 lineup, the NO1 Grip 35 Series Hard. Designed for those who prefer a minimal weight without compromising on grip performance and feel.

Key Features:

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Today, we have something truly special for you: a very limited set of KYOEI wedges produced in a completely unique way. These wedges were made with a focus on quality and precision.

KYOEI Golf aimed to create a wedge that spared no expense, making them as special as possible. They sought out S15C, the softest forged carbon used for golf clubs in Japan, and selected the grinder by name. They then requested CNC milling for the face, grooves, and all logos. CNC milling is very expensive in Japan, especially for small production runs like these KYOEI Limited Wedges. The extra millwork, compared to stamped grooves, enhances spin and provides a flatter face for improved consistency in your short game.

These wedges were produced in a special factory in Japan called ST, which handles pro grinding for both large and small brands based on tour player requests. Only 30 sets of 50/54/58 degree lofts were produced, resulting in fewer than 100 pieces in existence. These wedges will not be made again. They were quite expensive and took about 7-8 months to receive after ordering them from the factory. However, the end result is stunning: you get an extremely buttery feel with loads of spin and an unmatched aesthetic.

eBishop Driver

The Jigen eBishop Driver: A Revolutionary Golf Club for Enhanced Ball Speed and Performance

The Jigen eBishop Driver is a testament to Jigen Golf’s commitment to superior design and performance. Featuring a unique “Deflection Back” structure, this innovative golf club offers increased ball speed and optimal control for golfers.

Key Features:

Introducing the Japan Only Titleist Vokey Forged Wedge 2023

At the pinnacle of modern classics, Master Craftsman Bob Vokey has poured his years of experience into the creation of a premium forged model exclusively for Japan. This model features a traditional face profile with beautiful curves, a fusion of Titleist’s unique CO-FORGING process, and multi-material construction that satisfies the discerning senses of players who demand the very best.

To forge ahead in the world of wedge design, anyone can create a wedge, but it takes a Master Craftsman to produce a forged wedge that appeals to the discerning Japanese market.

The confidence-inspiring profile of this wedge features a traditional and sharp head profile with beautiful curves. For loft angles between 46° and 52°, the leading edge is designed to be straight to make it easy to address the ball squarely. For loft angles between 54° and 60°, a rounded leading edge is used to make it easier to address the ball even when the face is open for an approach shot, giving players confidence.

The unique CO-FORGING process of Titleist optimizes the center of gravity balance. The innovative multi-material structure and CO-FORGING process of Titleist allow for the precise center of gravity design.

Introducing the Geotech Quelot Black Driver. This driver is one of the newer offerings from Geotech Golf, which is a subsidiary of DYNAMIC, one of the biggest driver factories in the world. DYNAMIC is responsible for manufacturing metal woods for many of the top OEMs, which have won countless victories including major victories.

The Quelot Black Driver is a prime example of the expertise that comes with being part of the DYNAMIC family. It is designed with the input of the factory’s lead engineers, which means that it is packed with all of the latest technology and design innovations.

One of the most exciting things about the Quelot Black Driver is its SP700 face which is widely known to be the best and most desirable face material in the industry.  The reason why you do not hear about it is that SP700 is no longer produced. SP700 was a golf-specific titanium made by the Japanese company JFE.  Once the material was discontinued DYNAMIC purchased all they could which translates to about 5-10 years worth.  SP700 is an expensive material with very high ball speeds and an amazing feel at impact. face vs face material has some of the highest and fastest rebound attributes.

Another thing worth noting is that it is available in either conforming or non-conforming. This means that you can choose the one that best fits how you play.  If you are playing in USGA-sanctioned events you will want to stay away from the thinner and hotter non-conforming version.

The Quelot black is available in three different loft options: 9.5, 10.5, and 11.5 degrees. So, no matter what your swing speed or preferred trajectory, there is a Quelot Black Driver that likely fits the bill.

I’m a huge fan of AXIS golf! The product’s quality, feel, shape and options sit well above most.  Seriously the options are better than Mizuno’s old Yoro-craft and can toe up with Miura’s MCW,  This is complete custom GRIND work done by a true master, not those instant masters you see on Instagram. The only limitation really is the mold itself.

A couple of weeks ago I visited Ohkoshi-san and Yomoto-san at their factory in Sai Tama Japan, then a week later some Shabu Shabu in Nihonbashi over a dozen beers.

The brand AXIS Golf is really about Ohkoshi-san’s skill and experience.  In short, he worked hard and put in his time on the Japanese professional golf circuit as a crafter.

Ohkoshi-san was born and raised in Noda city in Chiba, Japan. Ohkoshi-san was part of his high school golf team.  Around that time, he started playing with wedge grinding just for fun.

His Aunt worked as a reception clerk at a local driving range.  After school,  he would visit and she would let him hit golf balls starting when he was around 14 years old influenced by his friend who was playing competitive golf at that time.

Introducing the ZINGER by SYNCAGRAPHITE.

Do you know who Syncagraphite is? It’s an actual shaft factory with the most experienced shaft-making staff in the world. I’m talking about 45+ years of experience with Hashimoto-san alone; she is ( 80 years old ) and the same for Takahashi-san. ( 70 years old ) then their other staff is around 25 years and 15 years of hand shaft rolling. It’s impressive and unlike any other shaft company. The largest shaft brands do not have the quality control or hand-rolling skills… not even close. I’ve been to many shaft factories, and by far, Syncagraphite is the most impressive in terms of knowledge and QC. To learn more about the brand, please review our blog posts Introducing the brand in 2016. Click Here & Click Here.

Many have heard of Autoflex, right? Korea Hidden Technology? Basically, it’s a uni-flex shaft in a soft flex made of average prepreg. It was made famous on YouTube by some excellent fitters, yet know very little about shaft manufacturing and design. We sell a lot of these Autoflex shafts; when it comes to client feedback, about 50% do not get along with it well, 30% say its as good as any other shaft on the market yet softer, while only 20% get those considerable distance gains you may hear about. Within the shaft industry, there is no secret. It’s a uni-flex shaft and targets all golfers; it’s soft, maybe too soft. In general, most golfers benefit from playing a softer shaft, and some had solid gains with Autoflex. That’s the Korean secret, Actually, this is the exact reason why so many love Ryoma’s Beyond Power shafts; they are uni-flex and soft with a stiffer tip.

Now let’s talk about the SYNCAGRAPHITE ZINGER! While auto flex caters to everyone, the ZINGER caters to mid to low-handicap players. While the ZINGER is soft when you waggle it, when you swing it, you can feel it stiffen near impact. It really is something different.

The zingers attributes are unlike any other shaft we have tested, It helps everyone, and for a player like me who comes over the top, it aids by delaying casting, which creates a sensation of delay during the swing. It produces load for those who have a limited amount of it. At impact, it does not feel soft at all, and you can feel it tighten.

One of the longest and most forgiving utility woods just got better!  Introducing the Ryoma MAXIMA UT!

I have a lot of experience with Ryoma woods because I have played them frequently over the last decade.  before the release of this new Ryoma UT, I had its predecessor firmly in the bag in 18* and 24*.   The previous generation Ryoma UT was known for its distance, and forgiveness but on the negative side was its size and overly-rounded shape.  The new MAXIMA UT not only fixes that but also has improved performance and feel.   For more photos and more hitting impressions follow the jump…

Before you continue to read you may want to look at the tech post we did (here).  I will also go over some of that in this post as well.

You like?  Introducing the Limited Edition Mizuno Pro 221 Irons BLUE.  It’s the same as the standard Mizuno Pro 221 but with an ION plated finish over the chrome plating.  Ion finishes are not known to be the most durable,  they actually wear around impact zones like the face and sole but not to worry as below the blue ion is Mizuno’s usual and great chrome plated finish.

These are limited and at this moment very hard to get.  In fact, at the time of writing this post, we only have 1 set left.  They are only sold 4-PW with the S200 Tour Issue and blue grips.  Hope you enjoy the pictures,  click read on…

Tags: 221limitedmizuno

The ONOFF AKA Driver – I love this driver.  It’s been working great for me and has some features that I believe many golfers can appreciate.  First, let me give you a quick breakdown of the different series within the ONOFF lineup.   AKA, PLUS, and KURO.   AKA is the most forgiving, AKA  is the new label for the ONOFF Red series.  The key points of the AKA driver are forgiveness,  distance and what ONOFF calls “automatic” this is being able to repeat long straight drives consistently.

I have about 6 rounds and a few range sessions into this driver,  it is paired with a shaft that I believe to be one of the best in reducing side spin and producing straight penetrating shots,  The Basileus AAA Limited which only 300-500 pieces are made each year. The AAA is made of the very best materials. ultra-high elastic 80t + PAN system ultra-high elasticity 50t + medium wide area ultra-high elastic 70t plain weave cloth, low torque design.  It gets crazier! ADOPTING TORE CO., LTD.,  T1100G, and MX40. The midsection of the shaft features 70t plain weave cloth while the tip section has Amorphous carbon for a smooth feel.  No other shaft on the U.S market is made of materials this high-end.  What do these materials do?  they reduce droop,  reduce shaft deformation during the swing,  they allow for a great feel in a lower torque design.  It plays more penetrating,  and straighter for longer shots.   I’ve been playing AAA shafts for 6-7 years now.   Click to read on…

For such an easy driver to hit long and straight it sure does look good during setup.  The new AKA is adjustable but I found the neutral position to look about 0.5* closed.  Of all the ONOFF drivers in the current line up the AKA has the highest trajectory but when combined with my AAA 60 Stiff I get a mid-high penetrating trajectory.    Below is a graphic that helps explain the 3 keys to distance with any driver.

As the owner of TSG, it would be an understatement to say that I’ve got a lot of golf clubs, not to mention new clubs arriving almost daily. Recently, when the weather is good, I am on the course at least 3-4 days a week not only to play but to try new golf clubs and take photos of them.

These are my thoughts and opinions, and FULL DISCLAIMER: I also own SEVEN golf & KYOEI golf. I am biased but for different reasons than you may think.  I am critical of how clubs are made and marketed.  As someone who has been and continues to visit the biggest, smallest, and best golf factories in the world, I have one of the most fulfilling jobs in the game. Those who know me well understand this madness. Click the Link to Read On…

The Ultimate Head Structure – Like No Other

After spending 8 years developing the previous model, which was evaluated by many golfers as being easy to hit. That Greatly exceeds its performance appeared “the next-generation UT”.

The higher velocity with “Forged titanium cup face” with enhanced deflection area. Get a great low spin with the 60g “Overtake weight” placed just below the hitting point. Deep impact by “Bounce body” that amplifies power by twisting back. And the gentleness of the deep CG of the “power booster” that follows from behind the head.

MAXIMA U has evolved into an impossible UT by the ultimate mechanism with its own “DSI technology”. Everyone who has it can feel the ultimate “flying distance and forgiveness”.

Introducing the new PRGR LS Fairway and Utility Woods!

The key thing to mention right off the start is that these are ideal for players that have a driver swing speed of around 90mph and that is usually someone who hits their 3 wood around 210 yds. PRGR believes this fits a key segment of players and is designed to maximize flight with a high initial velocity, high trajectory, and proper spin for more carry and distance.

In regards to the overall material and construction of the fairway wood head.  They take a milled face made of their own custom 455 maraging steel and laser weld it to the body which is also stainless AM355P.  The crown is CFRP pressed to the body.  They paint over the carbon which I like very much and without knowing the head had a carbon crown it is difficult to notice or hear anything other than the steel at impact.

I have hit all the LS woods for almost 3 rounds now.  The shape and feel are what stood out to me the most,  I really enjoy the lower profile face on the FW and UT which really helps get the ball up. The shape is not oversized and nothing looks elongated as you could expect to see in more forgiving clubs.  The LS series should appeal to the majority of golfers.

I tend to lean to Titanium fairway woods because I have noticed they always provide a little more distance and get up easier but these new LS woods meet the distance and trajectory I would get from my usual Ryoma FW or JBeam G-FW which are both titan made.

Here is the new SEVEN MCB Full Milled Iron!  This is SEVEN Golf’s largest and most forgiving design in their lineup.  For those not aware of the boutique brand in short they produce the world’s only fully CNC milled irons on the retail market today while all their products are 100% sourced materials and manufactured in Japan.

Only 6 sets are made each month (maximum) and a few months a year no sets are produced.  As of now, there is a 6-8+ month waitlist on many of their models,  this is not a covid or supply chain issue but rather the nature of the beast when each iron head takes 14-17 hours to mill.

This is the first iron by SEVEN to move into a second version,  the brand does not have to re-design their irons because they are nearly impossible to improve. To explain that thought, when it comes to single-piece forged head construction, the shape and weight are the most important two factors.  Weight placement is especially vital because it determines where the center of gravity height and depth are located and that has a huge impact on how the iron performs. In this case, almost all the dimensions remain from the original MCB with the addition of a few key adjustments that allow the forgiveness to increase noticeably while the accuracy features a slight improvement,  these two aspects usually do not complement each other but SEVEN has been able to deliver.

DMG Mori Seiki 5-Axis – machines to mill these irons which is one of the finest Japanese milling equipment manufacturers known worldwide to make the best equipment.

NX CAD – The design program is made using Siemens NX CAD software which is the benchmark for compies like Toyota, Mercedes, Porsche, Ford, and even LEGO.

This makes three new releases for KYOEI Golf in as many days!  All new irons from two new cavities to this stunning blade.  Each model is offered in two stunning finishes,  enhanced chrome satin, and black PVD.

KYOEI has developed these irons for more than 2 years,  originally starting off as a limited run of handmade prototypes then through testing with both customers and expert club equipment testers their designs and features evolved into what has just been released.

Let’s start with some of the most notable changes vs the prototypes.  First is the CNC milled grooves and faces which ensure maximum spin and consistent flatness across the face.  KYOEI’s designers have some background in dealing with the USGA & R&A which often scans the faces for groove conformity and during this process can find groove depth inconsistency as well as high or low spots on the face, By using computer-controlled milling this eliminates any of those potential issues.  Ideally, you want a perfectly flat face as well as grooves that are consistently deep, wide, and sharp.

On all three new models, the back face is also milled which benefits both aesthetics and performance.  With the specific center of gravity height/depth locations for each individual number iron, it is important to make sure the weight is placed in the right spot consistently throughout the full production of each model.  This creates consistency in performance and ultimately improves accuracy.

Introducing the all-new 2022 KYOEI KK CB!  This is KYOEI’s new flagship forged cavity back iron.  KYOEI has just announced a new Dual Weight II iron also offered in two finishes and in a couple of days, you are likely to see another new release from the brand.

2 years in the making,  you may have seen its first iteration known as the 2021 Handmade Limited iron which was produced using traditional heavier blank forgings and pressed grooves.  After tens of thousands of balls hit and many tester’s feedback the final retail release as seen here is much improved.

The new KK CB’s intended shape and center of gravity locations have been refined to specific heights and depths in each number club.  Various top-rated forged irons from the other top brands were evaluated to isolate what aspects of the design and performance worked and just as important what attributes did not.

The end result is what KYOEI plans to be in their product line up for more than a few seasons,  Yes folks it’s that good and as someone who has played every KYOEI iron including the Limited handmade’s that these were based on,  I must say the brand has released an outstanding new line across the board.

The new KK CB also features the brand’s newly evolved modern 5 cut sole design.  The sole grind is extremely versatile performing well for both diggers and sweepers. KYOEI has been testing the 5 cut soles for many years and their newest version interacts with the turf and even feels superior to the last version.

New for 2022 The KYOEI Dual Weight II Forged Iron – A Players Distance Iron from Japan.

2 years since the Dual Weight I iron KYOEI is following up with their latest design the Dual Weight II which KYOEI believes shows advancement in capability through super high-quality forgings, CNC milling, and 2 years of product design study since the model’s first iteration.   KYOEI’s original dual weight iron quickly became their best-selling model in 2020,  2 years later it has evolved to a much more refined and well-rounded option building upon what worked so well with its predecessor.

This is KYOEI’s most forgiving Iron with the brand’s thickest top line and widest sole of their new KK22 lineup which TSG will cover extensively the various models over the coming week.  Japan Forged of super soft S20C this single-piece construction iron is designed for excellent accuracy and feel. The PW is based on 44* so it’s strong yet not too jacked by today’s standards you can expect the lofts to give you a few extra yards.