STREET PRICE: $300
LOFTS: 8.5, 9.5, 10.5, 11.5.
KEY TECHNOLOGY: The flat-crown and wide-body shape extend the rear perimeter. The large size helps improve clubhead stability from crown to sole and heel to toe. The heel weighting places the CG closer to the shaft but maintains a deep position.
PANELIST COMMENTS: “Consistent feel and trajectory. . . . These square looks are starting to feel powerful.”
JUDGES’ VERDICT: A thoughtful method for improving MOI without forgetting the importance of the CG location.
HOT: A 45¾-inch shaft could increase ball speed.
NOT: No real commitment to fitting, which means the long shaft might be a problem for some.
Disc shape different without being unsettling.

adamsgolf.com

Adams Redline RPM
Score: 90.3. Specs: 460cc; neutral and draw versions; lofts: 8, 9, 10, 11, 13. Street price: $300, adamsgolf.com.
• What the company says: Its cast head marries an X-shape internal-face design (to control face flex) with a crown that’s one part thin beta titanium (near the front of the crown) and one part lightweight carbon composite (in the back). Result: a weight savings of 20 grams.
• What our panelists say: “The shape might be a little distracting for a better player, but it really goes when you hit it.”
• What THE JUDGES say: “A cool, high-tech approach to the composite-titanium driver concept. It has a friendly face, and if you struggle with the 46-inch shaft, you can always cut it shorter.”

A breakdown of the market
TaylorMade is the king of the driver game in many eyes

Here are two pictures of what’s played on tour and what golfers prefer. The first illustrates PGA Tour use during the latter part of 2004. The second assesses consumer preference. Both are based on research of industry sources.