40-gram shafts are lighter golf driver shafts that give high trajectories. This is perfect if you have a slower release action or don’t hit high-drive shots with much power. I strongly recommend the KBS TD 40-gram shaft for this category. It has higher torque stiffness and is ideal for slow-swing speed golfers. However, there are other worthy alternatives.
As you play golf more, you’ll realize that the weight of the shaft plays a role in how easily your club swings through the ball, how far it goes, and how accurately it hits the ball.
Last week, a customer at the fitting shop where I work was willing to pull the trigger on one of the PXG 0211 drivers, and I recommended a senior shaft with a 40g to give some extra club head speed while swinging slowly. But he expressed worry that it could feel too light.
I threw this scenario up on my social media page and realized many people are also worried about using a 40-gram shaft. In this article, I have ranked and reviewed five of the best 40-gram driver shafts on the market, their pros and cons, and factors to help you determine which is best for your game.
Comparing the Best 40-Grad Driver Shafts
A recent study by My Golf Spy, one of the industry’s trusted voices of independent reviews, revealed that heavier shafts are best for faster swingers. In comparison, lighter beams are perfect for slower swingers.
So, if you’re a slower swinger, a 40-gram shaft would likely fit you best. Here are the ideal 40-gram driver shaft options on the market that I’ve ranked and tested so far:
| 40-gram driver shaft | Remarks | Price |
| KBS TD Driver/Wood Shaft | The best overall 40-gram driver shaft for more consistent dispersion | $334 |
| Project X: Cypher Wood 5.0 | Best in lightweight and stability | $40 (Used) |
| Mitsubishi C6 Red Graphite Wood Golf Shaft | The best 40-gram driver shaft for senior players | $127 |
| Fujikura Speeder 40-gram regular shaft | The best value for money | $99 |
| HZDRUS SMOKE Driver Shaft | $159 (Used) |
These products are readily available, as listed on eBay. While some are brand new, others are used but in perfect condition. You can also purchase them in-store as long as you know the name of the shaft and its specs.
Let’s look at these shafts and see how they compare.
1. KBS TD Driver/Wood Shaft
The KBS TD Driver/Wood Shaft by Kim Braly has the usual KBS feel but with a lighter and stiffer profile tailored for drivers and woods.
Its mid-launch and low-spin characteristics make it an ideal choice if you want a tighter ball flight and enhanced consistency in dispersion.
In my opinion, what sets the KBS TD apart is its optimized spin rate and launch because, during testing, this gave more distance and a level of performance that stands out in the crowded market.
The shaft’s design features the KBS Butt to Tip Energy Transfer Performance, and it has a higher torque stiffness for that ideal blend of stability and responsiveness.
What I like about this shaft
- Results in a more predictable ball flight, tighter dispersion, and enhanced distance
- Butt-to-Tip Energy Transfer Performance for Better Power Transfer
- Reputable name
- It is ideal for players who want a lighter feel in their driver and wood clubs.
What I don’t like about this shaft
- Higher price point
- Those seeking a shaft for irons and wedges from the same line may need to explore alternative options.
2. Project X Cypher Wood 5.0
The Project X Cypher Wood 5.0 is another excellent 40-gram driver shaft worth considering.
Its ultralight, low-resin design promotes a higher launch and maximizes distance.
I particularly love this shaft’s OXS (Optimized Exterior Stability) technology, visible through a strategically placed graphite weave. This sets the cipher apart.
It’s a thinner, lighter, and more efficient weave that enhances mid-section stability, ensuring a lightweight yet sturdy design.
The bend profile matching creates a seamless transition between woods and irons, guaranteeing unmatched consistency throughout your bag.
For those decoding distances, Cypher 5.0 is an absolute must-have.
What I like about this shaft
- Ultralight construction
- OXS technology for impressive mid-section stability.
- The bend profile matching in the Cypher family ensures a seamless transition between woods and irons.
What I don’t like about this shaft
- Golfers who prefer a more comprehensive range of weight options may find the choices in the Cypher family somewhat restricted.
3. Mitsubishi C6 Red Graphite Wood Golf Shaft
The Mitsubishi C6 Red Graphite Wood Golf Shaft has an active profile and arrives custom-assembled and ready for immediate installation into your driver’s head.
With options to choose your flex and driver adapter, this shaft provides a personalized touch.
Including the Tour Velvet 360 grip undoubtedly gives that ease of adjustment. And I like how that doesn’t compromise the logo’s position.
Mitsubishi Chemical’s C6 Series prioritizes not just flex but also optimizes key factors like shaft frequency, weight, torque, and profile.
Although the shaft is ready for immediate use, the wrench is not included in the package.
What I like about this shaft
- Customization options for Flex and driver adapters.
- Active profile for optimal launch conditions and carry distance.
- Versatile for players of all skill levels.
- A unique blend of graphite and wood materials for balanced performance.
What I don’t like about this shaft
- Custom assembly may require an additional business day for shipment.
- There is limited information on torque and specific launch characteristics.
4. Fujikura Speeder 40 Gram Regular Shaft
The Fujikura Speeder 40 Gram Regular Shaft is another fantastic option if you’re looking for lighter shaft options.
This new, uncut shaft boasts a feather-light 40-gram weight and a 335 tip, making it perfect for drivers and fairway woods.
The Air Speeder technology balances stability and speed, enhancing swing and ball speeds for increased carry distance and longer drives.
Many reviewers first talk about applying straight-layer nanoalloy technology because it improves bending strength by 5%, ensuring durability.
With features like a mid-high launch and various flex options, this shaft caters to golfers with different swing speeds.
The maximum carbon fiber and low resin content contribute to its ultra-lightweight profile.
Apart from that, it has a platinum finish that adds a touch of style.
What I like about this shaft
- It is versatile with a 40-gram weight and is suitable for drivers and fairway woods.
- Air Speeder technology gives smooth rigidity distribution, reducing the burden for low-head speed golfers.
- Offers a range of flex options (R3 to S) to accommodate a variety of swing speeds.
What I don’t like about this shaft
- Specific to a 335 tip, limiting compatibility with certain clubheads.
- The focus on lightweight may not be ideal for players prioritizing a shaft with more counterbalance.
- While the Pentium finish adds style, it might be susceptible to cosmetic wear.
5. HZDRUS SMOKE Driver Shaft
The HZRDUS SMOKE Driver Shaft proves to be a commendable improvement from the HZRDUS Black.
While opinions on the feel may vary, Smoke offers a livelier experience, making the course more user-friendly.
For those who admired the stout feel of the Black but sought a touch more launch and swing action, the HZRDUS SMOKE is the perfect choice.
Particularly suitable for players who found the Black a tad overwhelming, this shaft balances familiarity and enhancement. You can’t go wrong with this if you’re looking for a lighter post.
What I like about this shaft
- Clean look
- Stiff profile
What I don’t like about this shaft
- Muted feel
How Do I Choose Shaft Size?
Selecting the right golf shaft size involves considering your swing speed, tempo, and personal preferences.
Faster swing speeds often benefit from stiffer shafts for control, while slower speeds may require more flex for added distance.
Pro Tip:
- Experimenting with different shaft lengths also influences your swing dynamics; longer shafts may provide extra distance but can be harder to control.
Here’s an example of how I fit a player with the correct shaft size to match his playing style:
| Swing speed | Idea | Shaft recommendation |
| High | Golfers with a fast swing speed may benefit from a heavier and stiffer shaft for better control and accuracy. | 65g X-stiff flex |
| Low | Players with a slower swing speed might opt for a lighter, more flexible shaft to generate more clubhead speed. | 50g regular or senior flex |
| Swing Tempo | Idea | Shaft recommendation |
| Aggressive | Golfers with an aggressive swing tempo may find a stiffer shaft to provide the stability needed to control their powerful swings. | 60g stiff flex |
| Smooth | Those with a smoother tempo prefer a slightly softer shaft for improved feel and timing. | 55g regular flex |
| Shaft length | Idea | Shaft recommendation |
| Longer shaft | Golfers seeking extra distance might experiment with a longer shaft for increased clubhead speed. | 45.5 inches |
| Standard | Players prioritizing control may stick with the standard shaft length for better accuracy. | – |
Overall, I recommend you consult a professional club fitter and try various shaft options on the range.
They will use launch monitor data and your feedback to recommend specific shaft characteristics tailored to your unique swing.
This can further determine the optimal shaft size for your playing style.
What Is the Best Weight for a Driver Shaft?
The best weight for a driver shaft is typically between 55 and 65 grams. But a heavier 70+ gram shaft is ideal if you have fast transitions.
The heavier the shaft, the more likely your golf ball will fly low and with less spin.
Conversely, the ball will fly higher and spin more if the shaft is lighter.
What is the difference between 40G and 50G shafts?
The difference between a 40g and 50g golf driver shaft lies in their respective weights. The numbers refer to the shaft’s grams, indicating its mass.
A 40-gram shaft is lighter than a 50-gram shaft, offering increased clubhead speed and distance.
Lighter shafts may be suitable if you seek more flexibility and a higher launch angle.
On the other hand, a 50-gram shaft provides more stability and control, potentially benefiting those with faster swing speeds.
