Equipment Bias

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By Mike M

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  1. Mike M

    Mike M
    Marblehead MA

    For as long as I can remember, I've had preconceived notions regarding golf clubs, which has resulted, unfortunately, in not even considering certain club brands/models when it comes to equipment changes.Most of that results in what I'm looking down at. I'm a feel/visual guy.For example,I've had a Scotty Cameron putter, one model or another, in my bag since the mid 90's.My first set of woods were Power-Bilt Citation persimmon with metal shafts from 1973, but aside from those beauties, I've always had Titleist woods in the bag.I always liked the small head shape, starting with the 975D, including what I currently have ,the910D3. The same can be said for hybrids. Currently I've got the 818 H2, which is one of the smallest hybrids out there.I've been a recent convert to Vokey wedges, having had TM wedges for years.I'll never go back, and will always play Vokeys. Irons, however, are another story. For the most part,I've always played png irons, from the EYE2 model in the 90's to the S-55 today. I love my irons, but the more I read and take part in this forum, the more I'm inclined to take a serious look at Titleist irons, so I'm asking for your help.Has anyone in TT nation had the same dilemma,where you'r so brand centric, you don't even consider anything else,and what made you switch from another brand to Titleist?

  2. Dale V

    Dale V
    Surprise AZ

    There was a time when Titleist did not offer much in the way of "game improvement" so if you grew up playing something like the png Eye 2 with significant offset and thick top line, yes, it was hard to transition out. These days almost every major club manufacturer makes the full gamut of irons, from blades to super game improvement. The exterior aesthetics are different but the basic technology is very similar. That makes it much easier to move to a brand that you feel most comfortable playing. If a mixed set makes you feel the most comfortable and gives you the most confidence, so be it. You might have to endure a few jabs from the TT gang at events or posting pictures but it's all in fun. Play what works you you. My thoughts anyway.
  3. Mike M

    Mike M
    Marblehead MA

    Thanks Dale. Interestingly enough the Eye 2 were the "thickest" irons I ever had, but man did they go. The later png blade variations I had (S-59,S-56 and S-55) didn't go as far, but appealed to my eye and also allowed me to work the ball.

    I have to say if I were to change irons, the 2018 AP2 and the T-100s are what appeals to me.
  4. Don O

    Don O
    Madison, WI

    One variable that encourages me to Titleist is the focus on fitting versus off the rack with styles changing as often as clothing outfits. With annual updates, there can't be a great deal of design validation, and how many ideas didn't last into the next release? When starting at 59 and LH to boot, I was consistently pointed to the one set in corner that was the only LH/GI set carried. With no idea what a Premier fitter was, I searched out a fitter that would actually fit more than the lie to me. We tried at least 4 heads - 2 png and 2 Titleist AP's. That personal touch got me into the Titleist world. I had no idea of the reputation of Titleist beyond balls.

    Regardless of brand, you need to have faith in the equipment you carry. I've struggled with hybrids in the 21-19 degree range. Nothing worked better or as good at Titleist. The balz from TM were definitely a different sound and fee. Tried a set of one-length irons. Maybe a good idea if you start with them, but it is still a learned technique. Both did not hang around longer than 1 session.

    The 21 degree equipment solution was a 915 7W, but Titleist dropped the LH option. That pushed me to try other equipment. The SFT fairway line from PNG is a definite game improvement product. If not for the TS-1 and T-400 lines, I might consider looking more at PNG. Since at 70 I'm no longer thinking I will be better next year, these easier to hit products are keeping me in Titleist. If Titleist ever offers a TS-1 fairway without restricting lofts for LH golfers, I'm more than willing to give them a shot. It's just that the loyalty is a 2 way street - it has to meet my needs as well.

    You've invested a lot of faith in the PNG irons over many years. Eventually, your current set may no longer be the best fit. Assuming you use a qualified fitter, add Titleist to the mix and decide which suits you best. At least you know the Titleist equipment this year is not a one year fad gone next year.
  5. Mike M

    Mike M
    Marblehead MA

    Thanks for your input Don. I had an affiliation with a private club for many years, and that no longer is the case. I'm in Massachusetts so a drive down to Manchester lane is an option should I decide to change.
  6. Don O

    Don O
    Madison, WI

    While I eventually joined the private club where I was fit, I was not a member at the time. If the location is publicized in fitting locations on this web site, they will "gladly take your money" for a fitting and sale. Private or not. I've also had good experiences with Titleist Thursdays and the quality of the fittings, in addition to my preferred Premier fitting site. Now, if you do want the white glove experience, then by all means, go to Manchester Lane. No question of quality of service there.
  7. jgun71

    jgun71
    Mattawan, MI

    I was a png eye2 guy myself. Loved those clubs. I have also wielded the Taylor made woods. But somewhere in the 90’s there was a shift. png lost a few key developers and the rules changed relative to grooves (at least that was my recollection) and to me, that product changed. In the same timeframe I caved-in two of the burner bubble drivers. I felt then up until recently that TM was more interested in selling clubs than making good ones. At that point the 975 was all the rage and I felt that the Titleist brand was strong enough that I could trust them with the little spare change I had to work with. So I made the switch first the driver then a shiny new set of DCI’s... or maybe vice versa. I gradually filled in the bag except for the 25 year old Rosie 2 Odessey putter which is the lone remaining soldier from my youth. I do find myself ogling the fancy new Scotties... someday. For now I keep that old putter as a reminder of what I used to be I guess. In the meantime, I have added the bag, towels, hats, umbrellas... if I were to switch ships now it would cost me a fortune. So for now, I am biased. I’m a Titleist guy. And why wouldn’t I want my mage to be associated with this brand. I truly believe png is back, miz seems to make solid clubs, I’ve taken a look at PXG and now I believe that Taylor Made is at least making good clubs. (That said, I still think they are more interested in selling them with complete new lineups every year than they are about quality). But hey, I’m a Titleist guy, and I’ve got the clubs, balls, towels, bag........
  8. Nick.

    Nick.
    PA

    im so Titleist biased, i hate myself sometimes.
  9. Chuck Z

    Chuck Z
    Mt Pleasant, SC

    Military
    I am very proud that I am Titleist biased. Proud that they can fit an old guy like myself that wants to see improvement in his game and enjoy it. Titleist has always stood for excellence in Golf and as a golfer who has played all the major brands, I made my way to the top (in my biased opinion). A goal that I have accomplished in golf. If some call me a Titleist snob, I am fine with that and it will not hurt my feelings one bit. No worries. With respect to all opinions.
  10. David B

    David B
    Marshfield, MA

    I’ve played various other brands throughout my life in my irons and woods but found myself coming back to Titleist. I too love the smaller head shape I have the 915 D4 driver and it’s by far the best driver I’ve ever owned. I have the 816 H1 hybrid and I love the smaller head shape as well, it’s one of my favorite clubs in the bag it’s a pretty consistent 250 yd club off the tee I can place almost anywhere. I’ve tried TM woods before and honestly hated them, I could not for the life of me hit them how I wanted to, they felt clunky and dull. Always been a Vokey and Scotty guy in my putter and wedges. Recently switched from miz MP-62’s to 718 AP2’s and have tightened my shot dispersion ten fold. I don’t really have a problem with my brand bias because it works for my game. Went from around an 8 handicap last year to a 3 this year with the help of practice and new Titleist gear.

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