The Project X HZRDUS Black Handcrafted is the best shaft for driving iron due to its exceptional stability, low spin, and optimized launch characteristics. Its handcrafted construction ensures premium quality. However, its limited availability makes it hard to find, which might justify considering other worthy choices.
Picking the best shaft for a driving iron is no easy task, especially when you’re the type of golfer with a streamlined preference. I’ve used a KBS Tour V shaft (that I hate) for my 18* driving iron. I’ve considered replacing it with a shaft that will help maximize distance and accuracy.
I eventually settled for the Project X HZRDUS Black Handcrafted because of its stiff tip section, which has, so far, promoted a powerful launch with reduced dispersion for every swing. It’s been bliss.
Now, if you’re looking for the best shaft for your driving iron, I wouldn’t be quick to recommend the Project X HZRDUS Black Handcrafted for you, too, because every golfer’s preferences differ. However I have made a list and reviewed six of the best options on the market, mainly based on flex and material options, shaft weight, torque, and kick point.
If you’re in a hurry, here’s a rundown of the 6 shafts for driving iron I’ll review in this article:
| Product | Price | Unique Benefit | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project X HZRDUS Black Handcrafted | $69.99 | Stability, low spin, precision | Lowest Price |
| True Temper Dynamic Gold AMT | $199.95 | Varying weights, optimized launch | Lowest Price |
| KBS C-Taper | $47 | Constant taper, controlled flight | Lowest Price |
| Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro White | $317 | Stable, mid-high launch | Lowest Price |
| Fujikura Pro 2.0 | $250 | Balanced distance and control | Lowest Price |
| Aldila Rogue Black 95 | $262 | Lightweight, low torque accuracy | Lowest Price |
1. Project X HZRDUS Black Handcrafted (Best Overall)
1. Project X HZRDUS Black Handcrafted
$69
- The Project X HZRDUS Black Handcrafted Shaft is renowned for its stability and low spin characteristics, making it ideal for long and penetrating shots.
- The handcrafted nature piqued my interest in this option, which ensures precision and consistency throughout the shaft. I like that it features a stiff tip section that promotes a powerful launch with reduced dispersion.
- If you’re seeking maximum control and distance, this is your best bet because it has high-quality construction and premium materials that make it worth considering.
What I like about this shaft
- The HZRDUS Black Handcrafted provides exceptional stability, low spin, and a penetrating ball flight.
- It offers precise craftsmanship, ensuring consistency in performance.
- The stiff tip section promotes a powerful launch with reduced dispersion.
What I don’t like about this shaft
- There’s not much to say here, but the shaft may feel too stiff for players with slower swing speeds.
- Also, it might require some time to adjust due to its unique characteristics.
2. True Temper Dynamic Gold AMT (Best for Varying Weights, Optimized Launch)
True Temper Dynamic Gold AMT
$199.95
- The True Temper Dynamic Gold AMT (Ascending Mass Technology) shaft has a primary purpose for golfers: to provide a smooth weight transition throughout the set.
- Its lighter long iron shafts help increase clubhead speed, while the heavier short iron shafts offer better control and accuracy. You’ll also like the AMT, which naturally promotes a more consistent trajectory and an improved feel.
What I like about this shaft
- The AMT’s ascending mass design enhances control, accuracy, and distance.
- It offers a smooth transition in weight throughout the set, optimizing performance for each club.
- The shaft is widely glorified for providing a consistent trajectory.
What I don’t like about this shaft
- If you prefer a consistent weight profile throughout their set, this option may not be worthwhile because it doesn’t meet expectations.
3. KBS C-Taper (Best Budget)
KBS C-Taper (Best Budget)
$47
- The KBS C-Taper shaft needs no introduction. It’s widely known for its exceptional stability and control. The lower trajectory and reduced spin attracted me to the KBS C-Taper shaft. It is a red flag if you seek piercing ball flight.
- The shaft’s advanced design minimizes vibrations, enhancing feedback and feel—a quality every driving iron holder should prioritize when choosing a shaft.
What I like about this shaft
- The C-Taper provides exceptional stability, control, and a low trajectory.
- Reduced spin and a piercing ball flight.
- The shaft’s design minimizes vibrations.
What I don’t like about this shaft
- The lower trajectory may not suit players seeking a higher ball flight.
- It may feel too stiff if you have slower swing speeds.
4. Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro (best for mid-high launch)
4. Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro (best for mid-high launch)
$317
- The Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro White shaft combines a solid yet smooth profile with low torque for enhanced stability and control, making it perfect for your utility iron.
- It incorporates carbon fiber and resin, producing a lightweight yet durable shaft. The carbon fiber material allows for precise weight distribution and flex control, providing consistency and stability during the swing.
- There are only a few options in the market today that indeed do it, such as the Tensei CK
- This shaft is the one-stop option for mid-launch trajectory and reduced spin. It comes to balancing distance and accuracy.
What I like about this shaft
- The hard reality is that Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro White doesn’t outperform many shafts out there. But when stability and control are mentioned, they come to the center stage.
What I don’t like about this shaft
- After testing this shaft out, it was hard for me to place a finger on a defect. Many people argue that the price is not worth it. But this isn’t wrong if you’re more concerned about results than cost.
5. Fujikura Pro 2.0 (Best for Balanced Distance and Control)
5. Fujikura Pro 2.0 (Best for Balanced Distance and Control)
$250
- The advanced multi-directional material layup in the Fujikura Pro 2.0 guarantees stability, feel, and control.
- Measuring 46 inches in length, the Pro 2.0 shaft allows for an extended lever arm, generating extra power and clubhead speed during the downswing. Its low torque rating of 2.9 degrees minimizes twisting, promoting accuracy and consistency in ball flight.
- The Pro 2.0 shaft features a high-modulus carbon fiber material that ensures exceptional strength, stability, and energy transfer during the swing. This contributes to increased clubhead speed and greater distance off the tee.
- This shaft for driving irons will give you a mid-launch and mid-spin profile, making it appealing to a wide range of golfers. In other words, this is your best bet if you seek versatility.
What I like about this shaft
- The Pro 2.0 shaft incorporates a proprietary technology called “Phantium Finish,” which reduces drag and enhances aerodynamics, resulting in improved swing efficiency and faster clubhead speed.
- The Pro 2.0 shaft’s low torque rating of 2.9 degrees minimizes twisting during the swing, promoting accuracy and consistency in ball flight. This feature is particularly beneficial for driving iron shots that require precision and control.
What I don’t like about this shaft
- It could impact swing control and feel for players accustomed to shorter shafts.
- You may need to explore alternative shaft options for a more flexible or customized flex profile.
6. Aldila Rogue Black 95 (best for accuracy)
6. Aldila Rogue Black 95 (best for accuracy)
$262
- With a weight of 95 grams, it provides the perfect balance between stability and control, allowing you to generate optimal power and accuracy off the tee.
- The Aldila Rogue Black 95 is a lightweight shaft designed for increased swing speed without sacrificing control.
- It features a stiff tip section and a firm midsection, offering stability and a consistent release. The Rogue Black 95’s low spin characteristics and mid-high launch make it a versatile option for players seeking distance and accuracy.
- The shaft’s unique design incorporates advanced geometric patterns that optimize energy flow and reduce unwanted vibrations, resulting in a smoother feel and enhanced feedback.
What I like about this shaft
- Its mid-launch profile and stiff tip section help generate a penetrating ball flight, maximizing carry and roll for longer drives.
- With its weight of 95 grams and low torque rating, the Rogue Black 95 offers exceptional stability and control.
What I don’t like about this shaft
- If you rely on a softer shaft for increased launch or enhanced shot-shaping capabilities, you may find the Rogue Black 95 too rigid for your preferences and swing style.
- Customization options, such as different flexes or weight variations, are limited compared to other shaft models.
How I Picked the Best Shaft for Driving Iron: A Buying Guide
The key characteristics of a golf shaft that can affect driving iron performance are flex, weight, torque, and kick point. When picking the next shaft for your driving iron, you must focus on these areas.
Flex Options
Flex options for driving iron shafts typically include extra stiff (X), stiff (S), regular (R), and sometimes senior (A) or ladies’ (L) flex.
The flex refers to the amount of bend in the shaft during the swing. A stiffer flex (e.g., X or S) requires more force to bend and is suitable for players with higher swing speeds, providing more control and a lower ball flight.
A regular flex (R) balances control and distance and is suitable for players with moderate swing speeds. Senior (A) or ladies’ (L) flex is more flexible, assisting slower swing speeds with a higher launch and more distance.
Flex affects your swing speed, as a stiffer flex can reduce the club head speed, while a more flexible shaft may increase it. Timing may be impacted, so you must match your swing tempo with the shaft’s flex profile.
Shaft Weight
When considering shaft weight for a driving iron, there are a few factors to consider to make an informed decision. The importance of the shaft can have a significant impact on your swing dynamics and overall performance.
Firstly, lighter shafts offer increased swing speed, allowing you to generate more clubhead speed and achieve greater distance. However, they may also reduce control and stability, particularly if you have a faster tempo or a more aggressive swing. On the other hand, heavier shafts provide more stability and control, making them suitable for players with a smoother tempo or those seeking more accuracy and consistency.
Also, consider your physical characteristics and strengths. A lighter shaft is better for you if you have a slower swing speed or struggle with generating power. Conversely, if you have a faster swing speed or possess greater strength, a slightly heavier shaft can help you maintain control and maximize your power potential.
Torque and Kick Point
Torque refers to the shaft’s resistance to twisting during the swing, with lower torque providing more stability and accuracy. A higher kick point means the shaft flexes higher towards the grip, promoting a more downward ball trajectory.
Consider your swing speed, tempo, and desired ball flight to make the best decision. Higher swing speeds generally benefit from lower torque and a mid-to-high kick point for more control. Slower swing speeds may benefit from higher torque and a lower kick point to maximize launch and distance.
Material Options
Consider steel shafts when considering material options for a driving iron shaft. They offer stability, control, and a consistent feel. So, steel shafts are best if you seek accuracy and control. Graphite shafts, on the other hand, provide enhanced distance, a lighter weight, and improved vibration dampening, offering increased swing speed and forgiveness.
Professional Fitting and Testing
Professional fitting and testing become the most integral part of evaluating your decision on the best shaft for a driving iron.
A reputable club fitter analyzes your swing dynamics, launch conditions, and clubhead data to provide tailored recommendations. You can consult local golf professionals or visit manufacturer websites for certified fitting centers to find reputable fitters.
For conducting shaft tests, utilize resources like launch monitor-equipped fitting studios or demo days organized by manufacturers or golf retailers.
The bottom line
Selecting the right shaft for your driving iron can significantly impact your game. After considering factors such as flex, weight, and material, the Project X HZRDUS and Tensei CK Pro White seem to be the leading options that have the potential to maximize distance, accuracy, and overall performance off the tee.
But remember, every golfer is unique; my honest recommendation may or may not apply to your swing style and goals.
But I hope this guide has provided valuable insights and helped you understand the essential aspects to consider when choosing a shaft for your driving iron.
I’d love to hear from you! Have you found the perfect shaft for your driving iron? Do you have any additional tips or recommendations? Please drop your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below.
FAQs
How do I find the best shaft for my irons?
To find the best shaft for your irons, determine your swing speed and tempo first, then understand your ball flight and shot shape tendencies. You may need to consult a professional club fitter or golf instructor to test different shaft options (flex, weight, and material) to find the right fit.
What shaft type do pros use?
Many pros often use graphite shafts for their irons due to their lighter weight and ability to provide enhanced distance and control. Steel shafts are still common among professionals since they offer a solid feel and control.
What is a driver’s iron?
“Driving irons” or “utility irons” are golf clubs that offer a blend of distance and control. These clubs typically have a lower loft and a larger head size than traditional irons, resembling a hybrid or a small-headed fairway wood.
What is the difference between 60 and 70 golf shafts?
The difference between a 60 and 70 golf shaft lies in their flex ratings. A 60-degree shaft has a regular flex, providing a balance of control and distance for moderate swing speeds. A 70-degree shaft has a stiff flex, offering less flex and more stability for faster swing speeds, enhancing accuracy and control.
How do I know what length of driver shaft I need?
First, consider your height and arm length to determine the correct size for your driver shaft. If you’re taller, you’ll benefit from longer shafts. If you’re shorter, you may find shorter shafts more suitable. Also, your swing speed and accuracy can influence your choice. So it’s better to consult a professional club fitter who will analyze your swing characteristics and provide recommendations.
How do I choose a driving iron shaft?
Consider your swing speed, ball flight preferences, and shot dispersion when choosing a driving iron shaft. Alternatively, seek professional advice. Faster swing speeds require stiffer flex, while lighter shafts promote a higher ball flight.
