kbs tour 90 graphite

TGI Tour Graphite Iron

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TAPER TIP TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

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KBS Tour 90 Shaft Review

Kbs tour 90 shaft.

The KBS Tour 90 shaft is the lightest steel shaft in the KBS lineup and designed to give players more spin, a higher trajectory, and greater swing speeds.  Though still a firm shaft design, the Tour 90 has softer tip and higher center of gravity to help players get the ball in air with more distance.  Players with lower swing speeds and smoother tempos looking for more distance are a good fit for this iron shaft.  If that’s you, read on.

How Does it Feel?

Let’s not beat around the bush here – the KBS Tour 90 shaft feels extremely light for a steel shaft.  This is, of course, by design to fit a certain type of player or swing.  In fact, the Tour 90 is actually 20% lighter than a standard steel shaft .  While the Tour 90 has a “firm shaft design,” the lighter weight and “2-Flex system” make the shaft feel a little more flexible than normal.  The shaft is very smooth in its kick, but anything other than a smooth tempo’d swing will be a struggle.  Feedback and response is good in your hands, but again, you need a smooth tempo in your swing.  I found anything the least bit aggressive felt sloppy and out of control.  Smooth and easy is the ticket here.

I want to point out that “smooth and easy” doesn’t mean you need to be slow.  You can have plenty of swing speed with the Tour 90 as long as you have the right tempo.  If you don’t fit that profile, this shaft could feel a bit noodley to you.  Keep that in mind!

On-Course Performance

Ultimately, the KBS Tour 90 and Tour 105 performed very similarly for me.  My spin was virtually identical with an average differential of only two rpms between the two shafts.  On average, however, I launched the Tour 90 about a degree higher.  Where I saw the biggest difference with the Tour 90 shaft compared to the rest of the KBS family was in the short irons.  I launched my pitching wedge and 9 iron notably higher and with more spin than any other shaft in the KBS lineup.

Final Thoughts – KBS Tour 90 Shaft

In my opinion, the KBS Tour 90 is best suited for players with lower swing speeds and smooth pure tempos .  If that’s you, you’re absolutely perfect for this shaft.  Let’s be honest, these other 120-gram stiff steel shafts can be really difficult for a lot of players to snap into the air with good carry that ends with that high apex followed by a soft fall to the ground.  Instead you see a more looping shot that creates more of a parabola and less of a triangle through the air barely getting above a low tree line. (#geometry)

If you’re looking for some help getting the ball in the air with good carry, and want to stay in a steel shaft, the KBS Tour 90 is definitely worth a swing.  Seniors, I’m looking at you – albeit not exclusively.

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40 Comments

Hi Bill, how would you compare this to say the XP95 R300 and Nippon Modus 105 R? I had the Mizuno swing analyser suggest these 3 for me – avg 7i swing speed is about 73mph when swinging smoothly

I honestly couldn’t tell you. I don’t have any real extensive experience with the other two shafts.

I am a beginner golfer and struggling using this kbs tour 90 Shaft. Any word of advice?

In what way are you struggling?

I got fit into Tour 90’ Stiff last summer despite having decent swing speed. I hit my 7 iron 165 yards, but with a smooth tempo and not aggressive transition. Mid to early release. I was skeptical since many describe these as shafts for slower swing speeds and seniors. Definitely higher ball flight, but not losing distance compared to the DG S300’s I played previously. Is this in line with your impressions Of how these might fit a player with more swing speed?

You have to remember that it’s not an exact science. There’s the “snowflake” element in that everyone has their own unique swing and will respond to different equipment differently. That’s why you really have to take any description from a product page or review at sort of a surface level. For instance, there are many low spin/launch shafts that I hit high and spin the living daylights out of while someone else might hit low knuckle balls. Know what I mean?

The reality is, it’s dialing in the combination of your speed, tempo/transition style, and natural shot to figure it out.

I think my question to you is that you’re looking back at something you were fit for a year ago. Have you been playing this shaft? If so, how has been for you? If you haven’t been, you got fit a year ago, it might be worth seeing if that’s still the right fit for you.

Ha, I guess its just my ego looking for some validation. I have been playing these shafts over the past year, and now that I have settled in and learned to stay smooth, I have been hitting my irons so much better. My ball flight is surprisingly higher, but I’m hitting my irons just as far, if not further than the old shafts. To your point, everyone is unique in their swing, and it’s not always about how fast you swing it, but how you swing it fast. The proof is in the pudding, so I should probably not second guess it so much. I should be happy to hit Ladies flex if it meant better golf shots!

It sounds like you’ve been playing them pretty well for a year. I don’t think you need any validation unless you’re looking to improve something. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll take the clicks on the posts all day! But don’t go back second guessing a good shaft for you unless you’re actively looking to improve, fix, or change something.

I have the kbs tour 90 r regular shaft on my mizuno hot metal 919 irons ..I feel like every club is going too high and losing distance ..my p 9 8 seems to all be going same distance about 100-125 which is short for me and 5 6 7 distances are all inconsistent ..could this be result of too light or shaft not stiff enough ???

Could really be a wide range of things. It sounds to me like it’s too light for however you swing the club. Were you professionally fit for this setup?

Also might be worth verifying your lofts and lies.

Would these be a good fit for me. Im looking at the mizuno 921 irons. My swing speed is only 80/90mph and just started playing & im off 24. If could help be great. Can get a set from my pro shop but they have kbs tour.

Hard to say without seeing how you actually hit the ball with it. In theory, they should be easier to launch higher with a smooth and easy swing.

I wouldn’t consider your handicap as a determining factor here, fyi. Handicaps can be based off of many elements within your game let alone how an iron shaft is affecting your ball flight.

Hopefully that helps.

Could you tcompare with Project x flijghted 5.5 and KBS 90 S?

I haven’t hit the flighted PX in so long in general, and never in a regular flex. I couldn’t even begin to make that comparison for you.

This is a really good review and fits what my club fitting found. A question, do you think the shafts should go through the SST Pure Process? Is this really worth the extra $30 per club?

That’s sort of a tough one that I can see from every direction. I personally think PUREing a shaft is a great option if this set is a long-term investment. If you’re going to play these clubs for up to 10 years, may as well go all out and do it right. If you’re a regular switcher, that’s a lot of money.

Modern shafts are arguably better constructed and the seams on the shaft aren’t as impacting. Different people have different opinions here, thus my use of “arguably”. At the end of the day, it is a lot of extra money so it sort of comes down to the point above for me.

I will say, I have had some shafts PUREd where I’ve absolutely noticed the difference, and others where I haven’t. I 100% believe in PUREing, but I think experience will vary from player to player and shaft to shaft.

I am reshafting irons for my kid, he is 13 y/o, He´s been using accra 50i for a year and a half but 1 month ago he´s been struggling with the accras. Bought this shafts kbs 90 in stiff flex but I will put them soft stepped, what´s your opinion? swing speed in irons 84 mph average.

Tough to say without any real sense of how he physically responds to them. Yeah, it’s a lightweight shaft, but pretty apples to oranges with the ACCRA he’s currently using. There are a variety of reasons the ACCRA could be causing problems with him. Shaft profile, flex, weight, etc. Sort of have to narrow that down through testing to really advise on next steps. I think I would ask, how do you know a soft stepped stiff is the answer? Why not a regular flex? Or not a “regular stepped” stiff? Regardless, the shift you’re looking to make likely isn’t out of the realm of possibilities, but would need much more data to really have any opinions. It’s basically the concept of getting fit for the gear.

thanks for your comments, Basicallly he grew up almost 8″ the past six months, he is going to be growing up and increasing speed (slowly I know), That´s why I am not buying new irons, just reshafting their callaway apex cf19 that came short in lenght and speed. Sort of anticipating he will need gradually stiff in the short time, the soft stepping will be an approach to stiff without being stiff.

Don’t get me wrong, I can fully understand a growing boy will need to make some gear changes. For sure. I’m just saying, I think there are a lot of variables to consider if you don’t want to just take a shot in the dark. He may just literally get along with the shaft because it just isn’t a match for how it feels in his hands, know what I mean?

I know what you mean, that´s why I thanked your comment. We are going with that shaft and in certain point it is a shot in the dark or definitively it is, but we are in Mexico, traveling to USA is almost impossible due to pandemia and it is the real and one solution that I have in this moment. Sincerely I really appreciate your opinion.

Certainly understandable.

Out of curiosity, what is the fitting industry like in Mexico? Would be interested to know!

really bad and expensive. Most fitters work like staff pros, mainly taylormade, the others work without trackman and there are some of them working professional but in these pandemia conditions orders of new clubs are taking 8 weeks or more. We have some tournaments ahead and have no time to wait that amount of time.

Very interesting. So referring back to your previous comment, in non-COVID times, do you guys usually travel to the US for this kind of stuff?

yes we do very often, in fact last time we fitted at club champions and irons were assembled in LA

Crazy! Thanks for the insight, I love learning about how this game operates outside of the US! Thanks for stopping by and the comments!

thanks Bill for your comments and your expertise about shafts, made me hesitate haha

what´s your opinion between the kbs tour 90 and the kbs tour flt series 110 gr?

Hmmm. I’m not particularly sure. Been awhile since I’ve hit either and couldn’t really fairly compare them now.

For me, 20 grams is a fairly significant weight difference. Nevermind anything else with the shaft design.

Hi, I was fitted a year ago with Mizuno JPX 919 forged irons and the KBS tour 90 regular shafts. WOW, what a difference, even from other KBX shafts. Bottom line is I 100% agree with you that a professional fitting is the ONLY way to go. As soon as the lockdown is over in my part of Canada, I am going to get fitted for driver thru rescue. Thanks so much for the excellent reviews!

I tried these today on a Forged Tec 7iron. I like a lighter shaft and have 100-110 swing speed. Carry was on average 165-170 and it landed soft with minimal roll and sometimes backspin. Had 4.5k-5k spin and was just really liking the feel.

Judging by the description though, I feel like I should be looking at something else?

Would you have any pointers to something else I should try or I should just gun for it?

I mean, if everything you’re experiencing with it says “good to go”, who cares what it says on a piece of paper about what’s supposed to happen? Everyone has a unique swing and response to equipment. What you just experienced is the exact reason why it’s important to test/fit and not just buy based on what a description says.

I have been playing the KBS Tour 90 Stiff (102g) in 2016 Titleist AP1, for five years.

The positives: These shafts feel absolutely wonderful to me. I have an average swing speed and a moderate to smooth tempo, as described in the review. I’m 55 years old, average build, and I hit a well struck 7i about 155-160 yards. They feel really smooth to me, and easy to swing (as opposed to TT DG’s and PX’s, which I hit straight as an arrow, but have to work my butt off with to make good, consistent contact). I have tried them in multiple other iron heads (Mizuno JPX Forged and HMP, Callaway Apex, Taylormade P790), and I hit all of those irons basically the same with that shaft. They don’t all “feel” the same because the heads are different, but I get similar ball flight with all of them with this shaft. It’s obvious, this shaft fits me.

The negatives: There are times on the range (but rarely on the golf course), when I feel like the short irons are ballooning a little. They still travel appropriate distances, but they go very high. This is especially problematic when I play or practice in the wind. Mostly, the PW and 9i. I can bring rain with my PW on some days. But, I think that may be my swing, since some days I hit my blade Cleveland gap wedge a mile in the air on the range, as well. I am in the market for new irons this spring, and I have a Club Champion fitting in April. I plan to start with the Tour 90 in the new irons, and then try the lightest flex Tour 105 (I think it’s about 110g) to see if I can bring that short iron ball flight down a little without killing my middle and long iron flight, which is quite good now.

What is the weight for KBS 90 Regular shaft and Siff shaft ?

Take a look on KBS’s site. They should have those specs. If not, they will be able to provide them if you reach out to them.

Have a 16 son who can hit it 240-250 (good drive) so I would say above average swing speed but not crazy. He has a very old “set” of DCIs…thinking about Takomo which use these shafts.

Generally speaking, these KBS in a stiff probably would be a reasonable fit?

Hard to say based on just the information you provided, but in theory, he should have the swing speed to get a KBS 90 through. Stiff flex could give room for growth, but also possible he will also get bigger and stronger in the next few seasons and need a heavier shaft. Also possible he won’t. If you can do any testing/fitting, you absolutely should for his benefit.

Hi Bill I bought a set of Honma’s TW737P irons, they have the extra stiff Vizard shaft which is way to stiff for me, I was told the KBS tour 90 shaft would be a good fit, I’m 62 still in good shape, swing speed. 95 to 100, I hit the ball high already should I look at a heavier shaft in the KBS tour shaft line up or just try the KBS Tour 90, I would greatly appreciate your input.

Tough to say with just that information, but I would guess if you’re swinging driver around 95-100, already hit the ball high, KBS 90 might not be ideal. That’s based off of limited information and a blind guess, but it’s going to be a higher-flight shaft on paper. The ultimate best thing to do is to get fit and see how your particular swing responds to specific equipment combinations. That interaction is generally unpredictable and why testing/fitting is so important.

Great review. I had A flex graphite shafts with my old set. I hit the ball much more consistent with the KBS 90 steel shafts. Great for my slow swing speed. Smooth tempo does help alot, Sometimes I tend to rush. Thanks

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KBS Tour 90 Review – Setting A New Standard In Steel Shafts

The story of KBS Tour shafts is the joining of two paths into a committed partnership aiming to establish a new vision of golf shaft performance and design.

FEMCO Steel Technology (FST), the golf branch of the Far East Machinery Co. Ltd, aims to provide high-quality and cost-effective steel products including golf shafts through constant innovation and technological advancements. FST continues to provide high-quality shafts at affordable prices.

Kim Braly designed innovative golf shafts throughout his career. He has validated his designs with golfers playing on the various professional golf tours. Furthermore, Kim used feedback from these golfers in the development of new products.

In 2008 FST America Corporation decided to partner with the most sought-after golf shaft designers to incorporate pioneering designs with its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. This led to the partnership between FST and Kim Braly.

Since its launch, KBS has set a new standard in steel shafts with its unparalleled growth and acclaim.

KBS shafts have grown a significant share of the market and are now used in the irons of most major golfing brands as standard or for custom fitment. It is swiftly turning into the fastest growing steel shaft brand in the industry.

Adopted by over 150 professionals, the KBS Tour shafts have recorded multiple wins including several majors.

KBS Tour 90 Review

1. project x lz, 2. n.s. modus 3 shaft, final thoughts, related articles.

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• Stable tip section
• Higher CG location
• Firm shaft design
• Light-weight construction
• Good trajectory
• 2-flex system
• Not suitable for fast tempo golf swings

Design and Technology

As the lightest shaft in the KBS Tour range, the KBS Tour 90 shaft is designed to offer golfers with a slow tempo more spin, a higher trajectory, and distance.  It is 20% lighter than a standard steel shaft thus aiding increasing swing, ball speeds, and distance.

The firm shaft design on the Tour 90 offers a softer tip with a higher center of gravity to create a higher ball trajectory.

Combined with the 2-Flex system on the KBS Tour 90 offer a more flexible than the normal shaft.

Specifications

Tapered tip technical specifications.

Regular shaft flex:

• Tip diameter .355 inches
• Butt diameter .600 inches
• Length 36.5 inches to 40.5inches
• Available for 2-iron through 9-iron, and PW

Stiff shaft flex:

• Weight 102g
• Available for 2-iron through 9-iron

Parallel tip technical specifications

• Weight 101g
• Tip diameter .370 inches
• Length 41.25 inches

.370 Parallel shaft is a single length shaft that will be tip and butt trimmed to your required length which can change how the shaft will play.

For the best feel, you must have a smooth tempo. You can still achieve a high swing speed even if you have a smooth tempo.

With the right tempo, you will receive precise feedback on the impact point of the ball on the clubface. No tingle to your fingers even on the coldest days.

Its kick is remarkably smooth with the right tempo swing but if your tempo is too fast, you are sure to encounter difficulties.

Performance

KBS TOUR 90 is the lightest shaft in the KBS Tour range designed for golfers requiring a higher trajectory, additional spin, and maximum distance.

Performance on the short irons is most noticeable with the wedges and 9-iron generating a high trajectory and more spin. This gives you great green-side control.

Golfers with a moderate-to-slow swing speed and slow tempo will achieve the best performance from the KBS Tour 90.

Independent testing reveals that the KBS Tour 90 to be in the region of 9% longer and generate 5% more spin than its foremost rivals.

Alternatives

Project X shafts are used on all professional tours and a follow up on the Project X Standard version making it accessible to golfers that have swing speed that is lower than that of professional golfers.

Variable wall thickness creates an extra kick at compact for a mid-launch trajectory without sacrificing stability.

Although this is the closest you will come to a universal shaft, it is highly recommended that you conduct proper testing to ensure that the shaft is suited to your swing.

All shafts measure between 36.5 and 40 inches in length, with a tip diameter of 0.355 inches and a butt diameter of 0.600 inches, and produce a mid-flight launch trajectory.

Weight varies between 110g and 125g with 5g intervals.

Flex is available in R, S, and XS.

Nippon’s comprehensive golf shaft use weight and bend to suit every golf swing and tempo offering improved control over trajectory, distance, and direction.

Nippon excels in three key areas

• Desired trajectory
• Accurate distance
• Tight dispersion

The high tip rigidity design steadies the tip through impact thereby reducing unwanted spin, low mid-section rigidity control shaft flex for enhanced control, and the low butt rigidity improve tempo for a smoother feeling on impact.

Shafts are available in 105g, 120g, 125g, and 130g and R, S, X, TX flex options

The shaft lengths vary between 37 and 41 inches, with a tip diameter of 0.355 inches and a butt diameter of 0.600 inches.

Amalgamating the paths of Kim Braly and FST America Corporation In 2008 was a turning point in the golf shaft industry.

The KBS Tour 90 is 20% lighter than comparable steel shafts and ideally suited for golfers with a moderate swing tempo that requires a higher ball trajectory.

Happy golfing with your higher trajectory.

• Graphite vs Steel Shafts; Which Is Better & Why?
• Golf Shafts: The Ultimate Guide
• Stiff vs Regular Flex: Which Golf Shaft Should You Choose?

Nick is the founder of GolfSpan and an avid golfer. He's not quite a pro but has over 15 years of experience playing and coaching golfers worldwide. His mission is to bring the golfing community a better experience when it comes to choosing the right golf gear and finding the right setup for your game.

• Nick Lomas https://www.golfspan.com/author/nicklomas Callaway Supersoft Golf Balls Review: Pros, Cons, & Costs
• Nick Lomas https://www.golfspan.com/author/nicklomas 14 Golf Exercises For Seniors To Make You More Mobile
• Nick Lomas https://www.golfspan.com/author/nicklomas What Is A Good Golf Handicap: Data Reveals Where You Stand
• Nick Lomas https://www.golfspan.com/author/nicklomas 7 Best Low Compression Golf Balls: Pros & Cons of Using Them

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KBS TGI Tour 90 Graphite Iron Golf Shaft .355 Taper (Choose Length)

About this item.

• KBS TGI Graphite Iron Shaft
• Weight designates flex: 90 Gram Flex
• Tip Size: .355 Taper
• Raw Length: 39.0" - 36.0"
• Swing Speed: 80mph - 85mph w/ 6-iron

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Product Description

Your graphite now plays like steel. The KBS TGI – Tour Graphite Iron is designed for players looking for maximum steel like play-ability, shot control and performance in a graphite shaft, developed from optimized weight and stiffness. 10 Years ago, KBS Golf Shafts changed the way your Irons played and performed, now we are doing it AGAIN, with Graphite. Introducing the KBS TGI Tour Graphite Iron. The KBS Tour Graphite Iron is the first Graphite Shaft to play like KBS Steel with optimized weight and stiffness per player to gain maximum play-ability & performance. It is designed with the same E.I. curve as our KBS Tour Steel and is in every weight class to fit every player from Juniors to Women, to Tour Professionals.

Product information

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KBS Tour 90 .370" Iron Shafts

Shaft services optional, description.

• Lightweight version of the popular KBS Tour
• Delivers optimum stability resulting in efficient energy transfer from the players hands to the clubhead.
• Perfect for club builders and players who want to customize the shaft‚Äôs effect on ball spin and ball flight.

Trimming Instructions

Related Products

KBS $-Taper Lite Chrome .370" Iron Shafts

KBS $-Taper Lite PVD .370" Iron Shafts

KBS C-Taper Lite .370" Iron Shafts

KBS $-Taper Lite Chrome .355" Iron Shafts

This product can expose you to chemicals including black (airborne, unbound particles of respirable size), which is know to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov .

Shaft Services

Important Note: Please provide Current contact information. Customer service may require further information before proceeding with your order.

PUREing - $25.00

SST PURE identifies asymmetries that exist in every golf shaft and locates each shaft's most stable orientation. This results in more consistent performance and uniform feel from club to club.

Tip Prepping - $2.95

Shafts are tip trimmed (if required) to manufacturer’s recommendations. For steel shafts, we abrade the tips. For graphite shafts, we remove the polyurethane coating. When you receive your shaft, all you need to do is mix epoxy, install and align. After the epoxy is cured, cut to your final playing length from the butt end and install the grip.

Tip & Butt Trimming - $4.95

Shafts are tip trimmed (if required) to manufacturer’s recommendations. For steel shafts, we abrade the tips. For graphite shafts, we remove the polyurethane coating. After tip trimming and prepping, the shafts are butt trimmed to the desired final playing length*.

Club Playing Length

Our playing length chart is available here .

* The exact model, club head number, and desired final playing length is required for butt trimming to be possible.

* The club number and or loft is require for tip prepping on most parallel (.335" and .370") golf shafts.

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KBS Tour TGI Tour Graphite Iron Shaft - 0.355" Tip

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• Optimized weight and stiffness per player
• Available in multiple weight classes to fit wide range of players
• Playability and feel of steel shafts
• Weight class (uncut): 60g, 70g, 80g, 90g, 95g, 100g, 110g
• Note: This shaft has no specified flex. Use the swing speed table below to determine the optimal shaft weight.

SPECIFICATIONS

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Which KBS iron shaft is best for you?

Published: 22 September 2022 Last updated: 17 January 2024

KBS iron shafts are for everyone from the world’s best golfers to slow-swinging amateurs, but which of their 14 models best suits you? Let us explain…

Golfers rarely give a second thought to which shafts are in a new set of irons . Yet, KBS believe 14 different models (all of which come in numerous weights and flexes) are needed to cover all types of players.

Technology has taught the brains behind KBS – Kim Braly, if he’s to fit hard-hitting tour pros alongside moderate speed, high handicap amateurs the brand needs a vast array of options. The thinking has led to the creation of 14 different steel and graphite KBS iron models.

EXPLAINED: How we test golf equipment

We don’t want to fit you for your perfect iron shaft. That should only ever be done with the help of a decent club fitter in the real world. But, to highlight how shaft technology helps you hit better iron shots more often we’ve taken a look at the full KBS line-up.

When buying your next set remember KBS shafts can change how a shaft feels, launches and spins, so you have the opportunity to choose your perfect ball flight and set-up. Here’s what you need to know about KBS iron shafts.

Players’ models  

Kbs c-taper iron shaft.

There are three-pillar players’ shafts within the KBS line-up and each differs by balance point. The Tour is stiffest in the grip section (for good feel) and it gives mid-launch and mid-spin. The C-Taper is stiffest in the tip section (close to the head) to give a stout and strong feel and deliver low launch with low spin. The S-Taper fits neatly between the pair.

C stands for Constant Taper, so the shaft has no steps, which allows the C-Taper to have a strong and stout feel. Typically the model suits stronger golfers, and players can expect a 5% lower ball flight than True Temper’s Dynamic Gold . Major winners Gary Woodland and Justin Rose have played the C-Taper as has Rickie Fowler .

KBS $-Taper iron shaft

All three KBS pillar players’ iron shafts come in the same five weights, so golfers get to choose based on the launch, spin, and ball flight desired for their own game.

Half flexes (R+ and S+) are brilliant for golfers that sit on the fence between two flexes. They alleviate decisions around whether to go regular flex for more distance or stiff for increased accuracy. The S-Taper (Subtle Taper) is midway between the C-Taper (lowest spin and launch) and Tour shaft (mid-spin and launch).

KBS Tour iron shaft

The Tour is Kim Braly’s signature shaft, it was the first KBS model and it’s the mothership of KBS. Thanks to not being overly strong the Tour can suit a wide audience of golfers. Its consistent step pattern is a good fit for smoother, less aggressive transition players.

Thanks to being a high balance point model (so weight is positioned closer to the grip), golfers get a slightly softer feel and good feedback at the top of the swing. A further Tour FLT (Flighted) shaft model launches long irons higher and short irons lower for a more optimised set.

RELATED: Which Taylo rMade iron suits me ?

How KBS players’ steel shafts differ in launch and spin

KBS Tour V iron shaft

KBS see the Tour V as an outlier shaft because the model is 10g lighter than the C-Taper, $-Taper, and Tour.

KBS Tour Rep Paul Steels says “the Tour V shaft is often a good fit for players who like the shot shape and flight of the C-Taper but want extra feel, as the C-Taper is just so boardy”.

KBS C-Taper Lite, $-Taper Lite, and Tour Lite iron shafts

There’s lots of misunderstanding around lighter iron shafts. But KBS say golfers should see their Lite models (which are 15g lighter than the standard models) as giving a little more launch and being easier to get airborne (than the 3 pillar models).

For players who don’t go at iron shots full tilt Lite models can be a really good option as club speeds increase and shots launch higher. Lite models and aging typically go hand-in-hand. If you happen to overload the shaft you’ll know because shots will start turning over left of the target (for a right-handed golfer).

Also, think about launch windows. A strong but very low launch player could see benefits by going Lite but in a strong flex to up launch and ball flight.  

RELATED: Should you play the KBS TD driver shaft?

KBS iron shaft swing speed recommendations

Average speed KBS iron shaft models

Kbs max and max ct80 iron shafts.

To ensure KBS have shafts to suit every golfer’s speed they produce ultralight Max and Max CT80 shafts as well. Both Max shafts are high-launch, high-spin models which help optimise ball flight for maximum carry distance at moderate speeds.

Remember it’s possible to be a fast but inconsistent high handicapper (in which case you’d be better suited to one of the KBS players’ shaft models), so think about shafts suiting speeds rather than ability. Thanks to their low kick point and high launch properties the Max shafts regularly make an appearance in stronger lofted irons (think TaylorMade Stealth and Callaway Big Bertha B21 ).

Typically high-speed players, irrespective of ability will not touch this product.

RELATED: Which Lamkin grip best suits your game?

There are junior options too   

To ensure golfers can go through their whole golfing career with a familiar KBS feel, the brand also produce two junior steel shafts (the 560 and 580). Both are designed to suit the speed of 8 – 11-year-old players.

Both shafts are lightened steel, so the weights are similar to lightweight graphite iron ranges. But, crucially golfers don’t get a heavy head feel which can cause issues when switching from graphite to steel once a child is a stronger teenager.   

When should you go graphite?

Graphite irons shafts are massively misunderstood in the modern game. Many people think they’re for older golfers and slower speed players, which just isn’t the case. Graphite irons shafts are easier on the body. They remove vibration, and can suit everyone from tour players to very moderate speed club golfers.

In typical KBS fashion, the brand make three graphite models (all are available in numerous weights and flexes), here’s what you need to know about them.

How KBS graphite iron shafts differ in launch and spin

KBS TGI – Tour Graphite Iron shaft

KBS specifically target a steel-like feel from their graphite shafts. They’ve done such a good job fulfilling their brief several tour players swear it’s not actually graphite. Thinking instead it’s a steel shaft painted black.

The TGI can be matched to golfers’ speeds (there are eight weights, so the model can suit from 57mph to 100mph speed players) in exactly the same way as the brand’s steel shafts. The TGI is the company’s lowest launching and spinning graphite iron shaft, it’s pretty strong and stout, so decent players often like it.

KBS PGI – Players Graphite Iron shaft

In developing their shafts KBS have undertaken masses of research, and they say when the flex isn’t disclosed golfers often prefer the feel of graphite over steel. Their advice is to play the flex you need. Don’t be tempted to go stiffer than necessary. And if you swing a 6-iron at 70mph play a shaft that performs at that speed.

The PGI was developed to bring a steel-like feel to graphite and it’s a step up from the lower launching and spinning TGI. The PGI is widely played on the LPGA Tour, it’s the brand’s mid-launch/mid-spin graphite iron shaft. Six weights mean the model can suit from 57mph to 94mph players.

KBS Max graphite iron shaft   

The Max graphite is the highest launching and spinning graphite iron shaft in the KBS line-up. It’s a model for golfers who really need help launching shots high into the air to maximise carry distance. Five weights mean the model can suit swing speeds from 51 to 82mph.

KBS graphite iron shaft swing speed recommendations

Get it right the first time

KBS reckon so long as golfers get fitted correctly the first time they can progress through KBS models throughout their playing career. It means, if like Gary Woodland you’re a C-Taper player or Cameron Smith a Tour shaft player you stay within that family but progress to lighter models as you age.

And to demonstrate how important finding the right family is KBS say to look at Adam Scott and Gary Woodland . Scott has been a Tour shaft player for years (think of his smooth, under-control swing) whereas Woodland is a big strong hitter of the ball, so he’s a C-Taper guy all day long. But, switch their clubs over and both would struggle to play, as they wouldn’t get the ball flight or shot window they’d be expecting.    

Don’t forget your wedges

Today KBS are a through-the-bag shaft company. They make shafts for drivers, fairways, hybrids, irons, wedges, and putters, so if you’re taking the time to get fitted don’t neglect how the company produce five different wedges shafts too.

KBS say the Hi-Rev wedge shaft has been designed from the Tour shaft profile. There’s a lengthened tip section to give a softer feel and generate extra spin. If you play the Tour shaft you’ll likely enjoy this wedge model too. The brand’s 610 wedge shaft was designed to complement the Tour V shaft.

Where C-Taper and S-Taper fans often run shafts from their irons through into the wedges, albeit at a slightly lighter weight as wedge shots are rarely hit full out.

Want more information about KBS iron shafts? Visit their website here   

How do KBS iron shafts compare in data?

Verdict: KBS iron shafts

Lots of people will look at our test pro’s data and think the shafts are performing very much alike. But the data says nothing about how different the shafts felt.

Comparing the C-Taper and S-Taper the data shows the pair as being pretty evenly matched but the difference in feel was phenomenal. So different in fact our test pro felt he just wouldn’t be able to use the C-Taper effectively on the golf course (as it’s so strong). Where the $-Taper felt brilliant and could well be his perfect match within the KBS family.

The Lite shafts produced a faster ball speed, just as KBS promised and the C-Taper Lite in particular launched and flighted shots higher with a steeper descent angle, so there’s a huge amount of tuning in ball flight and feel available from shafts.

Just as KBS promised the TGI graphite shaft produced some very good optimal numbers too, they’d be a very sensible choice for golfers looking to avoid the shock and vibration of using steel shafts. Equally the Max graphite climbed to its peak height very early in its flight, which at lower speeds will be a real benefit in maximising carry distance.   

At the end of the day, KBS are all about the consumer. You get what you want, whether that be higher or lower launching, more or less spin, or a different feel, everything is on offer within the KBS iron family. Our test pro liked the $-Taper for his own game as it didn’t feel too strong, yet it felt stable and produced a good feel through the hands, and he had control over his ball flight.

KBS Founder Kim Braly on a life spend designing golf shafts

Many golfers won’t know the name Kim Braly, but the guy is a shaft legend. He has dedicated his life to creating the highest performance shafts you can buy, and we sat down with him. 

How have shafts evolved over the last 150 years?

A hundred of those years were dominated by hickory shafts. Steel shafts didn’t come about until the 1930s. My father patented “Frequency Matching” (in the 1980s) which has been the biggest breakthrough during my lifetime. Until then there were no standards; the method gave a baseline to compare and match shafts. Everything I’ve achieved since is down to the Frequency Matching method he invented.

How did the Frequency Matching idea come about?

We made titanium irons with tungsten weights and wanted to see how different set-ups affected performance. We organised a golf robot, and tried two identical set ups, yet the results were entirely different. We started questioning if shafts might not be matched. My dad developed Frequency Matching as a way to compare and match (for flex, weight, profile through CPM, cycles per minute) shafts to one another. The process hasn’t changed for 30 years.

You developed the Rifle and Project X shafts which are still popular; what was different about them?

No set of shafts had been designed individually for each club until then. They were a breakthrough. We’d follow the PGA Tour (at a time when there were no tour vans) and explain to players about matching their irons. We could match a whole set to the club they felt most comfortable and confident with. We were custom fitting without really knowing it.

I’m also proud of what we’ve achieved at KBS over the last 10-12 years. If we aren’t the leaders in shaft technology I really don’t know who is.

What was the players’ reaction?

They were super interested. We had lines of people wanting to understand how shafts affected performance. We learned all sorts. In relation to frequency the lightest shaft in the bag (the driver) will be the stiffest. The weakest shaft should be in the lob wedge, as there’s lots of shots hit less than full out, and a fraction weaker shaft allows you to know where the head is.

Today, the correct fit for players is often a flex and a half stiffer than we recommended 15 years ago. At the start we were a couple of guys just trying to understand. It wasn’t about marketing; we had our mathematical theory and we wanted to understand if it worked in practice.

How have launch monitors affected modern shaft fittings?

They’re one of the best things to have happened to golf. Launch monitors have helped people understand ball flight, spin, height and launch. Every shaft I’ve ever designed has been designed with a type of player in mind.

Each KBS shaft fits into a matrix, we’ve worked on them one at a time, and the line-up is nearly 100% complete.

Where do you start designing new shafts? Is it an idea from you, or a request from a player?

We have ideas, but they have to work in practice. In golf “feel” is a huge thing. If the feel is wrong products go nowhere. I’ve enjoyed dialling in the KBS Tour Lite (steel) and KBS PGI (Players’ Graphite Iron shaft) to be “everyman” golf shafts over the last two years.

They work at specific swing speed ranges, and thanks to our options we can optimise launch and spin for golfers swinging 6-iron in the region of 80mph.

You’ve worked on a bunch of top performing shafts, but which are you most proud of?

The Precision Rifle put me on the map, set up my career and I learned loads from it. The first KBS Tour shaft was a really big deal, too. It’s the foundation stone of every other KBS shaft, where all our other current shafts start. I’m awfully proud of it. 

Have you hit hickory shafts? How different are they to today’s models?

The last two tournaments I’ve played have been hickory challenges. Hickory weighs a ton (they’re 180g in a 6-iron), they’re really stiff but the torque is unreal. You can literally twist the head in your hand. Wood is strong in one direction – the one it’s grown in – which is up and down the shaft.

Will graphite shafts ever be the norm through the bag?

I’ve heard so many times how graphite represents the future. In terms of iron shafts steel is still a great material. The reason graphite became popular is its strength to weight ratio. It’s possible to make a 45in driver shaft at a “normal” swingweight.

You just can’t do that with steel, but you don’t need that as much in irons. Steel isn’t going away.    

KBS make 16 different iron shafts; why so many?   

Each of our profiles do different things. You may have the tendency to hit the ball low, so we have shafts designed to spin more and have a higher trajectory, and vice-versa.

For every 2.5mph of club speed change golfers need a different shaft flex, and that’s why we make half flexes. There’s also feel to consider. In our KBS Tour franchise we go from 130g to 90g in 5g increments (nine different weights), so golfers get what they need.

Whereas in a traditional three flex line-up (R, S, X) golfers get pushed into the best option available. KBS have a reputation for making good feeling shafts because golfers get shafts with the correct load at impact, which naturally feels good. Everything really does come back to fitting.

READ NEXT: Best 2022 Iron Test

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• WRX Club Techs

KBS Tour 90 *review*

By lvmike July 10, 2012 in WRX Club Techs

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First, many thanks go out to GolfWRX for cultivating relationships with business partners like KBS. These relationships are pure win/win for us, the golfing community. We glean information first hand and in depth, and we have the opportunity to partake in contests such as the one I was fortunate enough to be one of the lucky few.

Let me note that Conrad and KBS are a class act. Instead of the standard fare email, Conrad contacted me via phone to not just find out my specs, but talk to me about my game, what irons I played, and what I was looking for in regard to performance. This was followed by an email confirming our discussion and the shafts arrived at my door only days later. We’ve emailed back and forth as he’s confirmed receipt of the shafts and how the evaluation is going. Just really neat to have that kind of interaction.

After negotiating with my local guy who’s been reshafting/bending my clubs for years and getting them back in my hands by the next morning, I felt like I had an equally customized set with new KBS Tour 90s in my hands (big props to Ping on the initial order that spec’d out perfectly in regard to swingweight, L/L/L based on my nFlight fitting). My local guy made sure my i20s matched specs and sent me on my way.

My previous setup:

Ping i20 4-GW, -.50” length, black dot, std loft, CFS regular shaft, Ping ID8 aqua grip, SW C-9.

My new setup:

Ping i20 4-GW, -.50” length, black dot, std loft, KBS Tour 90 stiff shaft, Ping ID8 aqua grip, SW D-2.

11 hcp (index is floating between a 10.2 and 11.4) – lowest round ever:73...so I’ve seen better days

short and old (yes, it’s relative)

97mph driver avg ss

84mph iron avg ss

Review process: I played golf. Okay, seriously, I’ve been playing a little more often recently so I think that the numbers I provide are pretty telling. I thought it would be best to review on a few different aspects (feel, distance, trajectory) as well as compare greens in reg (accuracy).

This area was a little tough to compare since my CFS shafts are regular and the KBS Tour 90 (KBS) are stiff. The KBS have a distinctly different feel but I think that’s much more the shaft and not the flex difference. I’ve played KBS Tours (non 90s) for years prior to my i20s and I’d say the Tour 90s are much closer in feel to those than any other of the lighter weight steel shafts I’ve tried in the past(NS Pro 950, 1050, DG SL, and even including the CFS). They have a solid feeling load that seems to come from a higher point in the shaft contributing to a much more confident sense that they’ll go along the intended line. They don’t have that lower kickpoint feel, which tends to spray the ball for me.

Since I knew I was going to write a review, I went to a driving range and watched carry and was a little more conscious of iron distances in my rounds prior to switching shafts. Most notably, I kept track of my gap wedge, 7 iron and 5 iron distances.

Across the board, I’m about 5 yards longer. Nothing significant, but I have noted where I’ve been 100, 150 and 180 out, that I would come up a little short with my i20s with the CFS. I’m there or just past now consistently in the 4 rounds I’ve had my KBS.

My gap wedge was consistently 95 yards +/- 3 yds (ball, wind, swing considerations), 7 iron averaged 148, and 5 iron was a little more sporadic but averaged right around 175. My new distances are a comfortable(not overswinging or trying to squeeze extra) 100 yds with gap, 153 +/-, and easy 180 with a noted shot of 185+ on a long par 4 in 105*(remember, I live in Vegas).

These are no DGs. These are no KBS Tours either. Not when it comes to trajectory. I’m sure these wouldn’t fit those guys that love their X100s or S400s because of the low to mid trajectory. These definitely throw the ball in the air, but more like a calculated mortar not like a water balloon waiting to fall from the sky.

This category is for the statisticians. I regularly play with a guy who is a numbers guy through and through. In fact, he’s got a doctorate in it and it’s his career. That said, I know that if he reads this, he’ll quickly dismiss all of this and say, ‘prove it’. The only way I could think is to show you through greens hit in regulation (GIR). This kind of covers all we discussed above...you have to factor distance expectations, consider trajectory based on weather conditions, and the feel has to be to your liking and consistent to put up decent numbers.

I compared my last 8 rounds below. They have scores and my GIR. The most recent 4 rounds are with the KBS.

Score GIR(%)

I averaged 44.45% GIR with the KBS to 31.92% with the CFS. Also, I tracked all of my rounds with the CFS (16 rounds total) and have a ‘lifetime’ 31.24% GIR with the CFS shafts.

While I realize that there are statistical rules and I should throw out the highest and lowest, I think there’s enough there to give everyone an idea of how things went.

First, I want to say that Ping does have it right as well as all the other manufacturers who profess that the true test to fitting is on course. I don’t think they got anything wrong with my nFlight fitting. I’m an 11 hcp and realize that my swing is going to be different every day, and more than likely, every swing. The CFS probably were the spot on shaft for that day I got fit.

However, I’ve found what I’ve been looking for in the KBS Tour 90 shafts, a great combination of distance, feel and accuracy..and all with the Ping i20 heads that I love. And the numbers say so too. :golfer:

9* TM M5 w/GD AD BB-6 15* TM M6 w/Atmos 19* TM SIM Max w/Ventus Blue Callaway Apex '19 w/KBS Tour Callaway MD5 54* Callaway PM Grind '19 58* Odyssey StrokeLab Ten S (Tour only NO sightline) 33"

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July 10, 2012

First, many thanks go out to GolfWRX for cultivating relationships with business partners like KBS. These relationships are pure win/win for us, the golfing community. We glean information first han

Mike ,,thank you for a GREAT review. Not only did you take the time and effort to accurately doc the numbers, you went above and beyond in the format of your presentation. I have been considering an iron change in a new[2nd] set of Diablo forged and was leaning toward a re-shaft with regular Rifle 5.5, softstepped once. I had tried the KBS Tour stiff[ not 90s] in another set of irons but just couldn't get the performance I wanted,,higher flight, and a little more distance,,but after your review I feel trying the KBS 90s stiff will be my best shot. Thanks again for your un-solicited help.

Thanks Lionstar! I figured it's the least I can do to give back. It sounds like your swing is pretty similar and I've had similar results. The KBS Tours were great for me on days when I was 'on'. Granted, I never tried them in R or R+, but it doesn't matter to me now. The 90s are definitely what I was looking for. I used to be a big Rifle fan and found myself thinking PX 5.5 when I got fitted for the i20s. I can tell you through a 'blind' test (fitter just handed me irons and told me not to look at shafts-he told me later that he handed them to me in a variety of orders so I would focus on what felt the best) at the nFlight Ping fitting, that I didn't care for them. Really surprised me. He narrowed it down to CFS and KBS Tour. It would've been interesting to know if we could've had the 90s in the mix. Unfortunately, I don't even know if he had them. Good luck. I think you'll be pleased. Plus the Diablo forged is a solid iron. I think they should've stuck with that instead of going back to cast with the Razr Tour line.

[quote name='Lionstar' timestamp='1341964118' post='5252380'] Mike ,,thank you for a GREAT review. Not only did you take the time and effort to accurately doc the numbers, you went above and beyond in the format of your presentation. I have been considering an iron change in a new[2nd] set of Diablo forged and was leaning toward a re-shaft with regular Rifle 5.5, softstepped once. I had tried the KBS Tour stiff[ not 90s] in another set of irons but just couldn't get the performance I wanted,,higher flight, and a little more distance,,but after your review I feel trying the KBS 90s stiff will be my best shot. Thanks again for your un-solicited help. [/quote] I have KBS Tour Stiff in Diablo Forged, actually 2 complete sets, I had made +1", which added the swingweight I was seeking. Best combo I've played in a long time. Good luck with them, they're just awesome irons. I tried, and gave to my son, DGSL, and learned I just like heavier shafts, suits my tempo better. I played DG S300 for years, tried PX (too boardy, nothing magical) and glad found the KBS.

2015 GBB 10.5 - MRC B Series 60S 44.75" RFX 3 & 5 Woods MRC BB 73 RFX 7 Wood Matrix Black Tie 7M3 XHot Pro Hybrid 23 Accra Shaft Apex Pro 5-W KBS Tour V or Recoil 110 S-flex (Recoil for Winter Season) Odyssey WhiteHot Pro #7 Flatso Ultra grip X Forged C Grind 52* PM Grind 58* KBS 610 Wedge Chrome Soft 2016 Yellow Hdcp - between 3 to 5 over the year

Congratulations on a great review. From my own experience and testing I think the KBS tour 90 suits a specific golf swing best, namely a smooth tempo, a transition which is not overly aggressive and early to mid release. Do you think this is a fair description of your swing? Do you have any direct experience with the Nippon NS pro 950 and True Temper GS95 the direct competition to the KBS tour 90?

KBS Golf Shafts

Mike, Great review! Thank you again for taking the time to post this and for such in-depth testing. -CM

I'm thinking of putting some tour 90s in my A4s. I have a tendency to hit the ball low because I get ahead of the ball and steep, while I'm trying to fix that via lessons, it sounds like the tour 90s may give me a higher ball flight. I know the general recommendation would be to get fitted but I'm likely going to buy some pulls off ebay, and try to do my first DIY reshaft. I like to tinker. That being said, I would hit 8 iron on a 155 yard shot. I was thinking I needed a stiff but reading the distances above, do I need an S+? also, what is the result of having a shaft that is too weak? finally, im not familiar with the term soft-stepping. is it something I can/should consider doing on my own. thanks in advance. really enjoy reading these boards.

• 1 year later...

Golf Monkey

Interesting comments. I know this thread is from last year but I hope some of you still check it out. I have KBS Tour 90's in MP52's. In my early 50's, I have a 4.1 handicap (UK Congu), I hit 7 iron 160. I went to The KBS to get a higher flight. The problem is that my macho side keeps saying I should have a heavier more manly shaft! Stupid, yes, but that is how I feel. Please give me your thoughts.

[quote name='Golf Monkey' timestamp='1381321024' post='7974761'] Interesting comments. I know this thread is from last year but I hope some of you still check it out. I have KBS Tour 90's in MP52's. In my early 50's, I have a 4.1 handicap (UK Congu), I hit 7 iron 160. I went to The KBS to get a higher flight. The problem is that my macho side keeps saying I should have a heavier more manly shaft! Stupid, yes, but that is how I feel. Please give me your thoughts. [/quote] It is impossible to say based simply on the distance you hit the ball (and implied swing speed). You are likely to benefit from a heavier shaft if your tempo is mid or quick (rather than smooth or slow), your transition is aggressive and or your release is very late. If you feel you are controlling your swing to suit the KBS tour 90 then there is the possibility that you need something different (a little heavier and a stronger bend profile). Plenty of fitting carts with a wide range of light, mid-weight and full weight shafts available these days, so very easy to test alternative shafts and scratch that itch you currently have.

[quote name='DaveMac' timestamp='1381322093' post='7974815'] [quote name='Golf Monkey' timestamp='1381321024' post='7974761'] Interesting comments. I know this thread is from last year but I hope some of you still check it out. I have KBS Tour 90's in MP52's. In my early 50's, I have a 4.1 handicap (UK Congu), I hit 7 iron 160. I went to The KBS to get a higher flight. The problem is that my macho side keeps saying I should have a heavier more manly shaft! Stupid, yes, but that is how I feel. Please give me your thoughts. [/quote] It is impossible to say based simply on the distance you hit the ball (and implied swing speed). You are likely to benefit from a heavier shaft if your tempo is mid or quick (rather than smooth or slow), your transition is aggressive and or your release is very late. If you feel you are controlling your swing to suit the KBS tour 90 then there is the possibility that you need something different (a little heavier and a stronger bend profile). Plenty of fitting carts with a wide range of light, mid-weight and full weight shafts available these days, so very easy to test alternative shafts and scratch that itch you currently have. [/quote] Thanks for your thoughts. Your last sentence probably sums it up. A bit of itch scratching may help and hopefully stop me spending money needlessly. I don't adjust to the shaft and my swing is smooth. Driver ss 102mph. My only concern is the clubs feel a little light at address. However, driver and fairway shafts seem to be getting lighter even for the pros. So why aren't more golfers using lighter iron shaft?

For what it's worth, my driver ss is the same as yours and I hit my 7 iron 160yds or perhaps a tad longer... and I feel the KBS Tour 90s have transformed my game. I can play within myself and benefit from the associated consistency gains with no loss of distance against my previous S300s. There's simply no need to swing out of my shoes with my irons; whilst pushing my 7 iron to 170yds is possible and might give me a few extra bloke points, if 50% of those shots miss the green those bloke points are fairly worthless. Ignore the weight as I'm sure very few, if any, people know what your shafts weigh and I'm sure even fewer care. On the assumption you're playing the stiff flex version of the tour 90, your playing partners if they manage to see that small 's' on the shaft band won't give it a second thought. And you're maintaining a 4.1 index, so don't mess with what's working. :-)

Ping G430 Max (8*) --- Ventus Blue Ping G430 Max (15*)  --- Hzrdus Red

Ping G430 Hybrid (21*) --- Hzrdus Red PXG 0311 XP Gen4 (6i-G) --- Project X IO PXG 0311 SD2 (50*|54*|60*) --- Project X IO SIK “Sho” C-Series Milled (34”)

• 7 months later...

MAB Your line." I can play within myself and benefit from the associated consistency gains with no loss of distance.. There's simply no need to swing out of my shoes with my irons." Was most helpful in my decision to reshaft my Bridgestone J38 DPC irons. I had X100s, which cut dispersion, but when tired or just not on, the smooth kick is not there. Smoothing it out is much easier with KBS. Thanks.

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TESTED! KBS PGI Shafts Review

Last month KBS added to their shaft lineup with something they called Players Graphite Iron, or PGI for short. The idea behind this is to have the feel, consistency and control of steel, with the benefits of a composite shaft.

Today we are in the THP Tech Studio for another episode of TESTED! Where you see the swings and get a full breakdown of the data on this new set of KBS graphite shafts. The video below starts off with some technology talk, then hops into the hitting bay for some swings. Finally, we will walk you through the information that the Foresight GCQuad presented and give you some final thoughts. 

For the sake of testing, we have paired the KBS PGI shafts with a Tour Edge Exotics C721 iron head and if you missed our full review of that iron set, you can find it here .

This episode is full of information and data. Can the graphite hold up and offer control in the lighter weight? Do they feel stable enough or is there some shutter? We cover all of it in this review of the Players Graphite Iron shafts from KBS.

After watching the THP TV video above, what are your initial thoughts on the PGI shafts?

For more information on this specific shaft or any of the other shafts from the KBS lineup check out their website at  www.kbsgolfshafts.com .

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About the Product

Tour 90 steel shaft.

• ACTIVE TIP SECTION
• ADVANCED STEP PATTERN
• LIGHTWEIGHT SHAFT CONSTRUCTION
• FIRM SHAFT DESIGN
• INTEGRATED WEIGHT AND FLEX
• 2-FLEX SYSTEM

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KBS Tour 90 Regular vs Stiff: Are They Different?

Selecting the appropriate shaft flex for your golf clubs is an essential aspect of optimizing your performance on the course.

The KBS Tour 90 shaft, a popular choice among golfers, is available in both regular and stiff flex options. 

In this comparison, I will be looking at how the KBS Tour 90 Stiff compare with the Regular shafts .

You’ll learn how much difference they have in terms of swing speed, ball flight, and performance so you can make an informed decision.

KBS Tour 90 Regular vs Stiff: How They Compare

Swing speed and shaft flex.

The most critical factor in determining the ideal shaft flex is your swing speed.

The KBS Tour 90 Regular shaft is designed for golfers with moderate swing speeds, typically ranging from 75 to 90 miles per hour (mph) with a driver.

This flex option accommodates players who require additional assistance in generating optimal launch and spin conditions to maximize their distance potential.

Conversely, the KBS Tour 90 Stiff shaft is tailored to golfers with faster swing speeds , typically between 90 and 105 mph with a driver.

This stiffer flex is better suited for players who generate higher clubhead speeds and require a more stable and consistent shaft to maintain control and accuracy.

Ball Flight and Spin

The KBS Tour 90 Regular shaft, with its softer flex, is engineered to produce a higher ball flight with increased spin.

This trajectory is beneficial for golfers with moderate swing speeds who need additional help in achieving optimal carry distances and soft landings on the greens.

The higher spin rates associated with the regular flex can also provide increased control around the greens and during approach shots.

However, the KBS Tour 90 Stiff shaft yields a more penetrating ball flight with reduced spin.

This lower trajectory is advantageous for golfers with faster swing speeds, as it minimizes the impact of wind and other adverse conditions on ball flight.

The reduced spin rates can also result in more roll-out after landing, potentially increasing overall distance.

Feel and Stability

The KBS Tour 90 Regular shaft offers a more flexible and responsive feel, which can be advantageous if you prefer a smoother, effortless swing.

The regular flex also enables you to load the shaft more effectively during the downswing. This will translate to increased energy transfer at impact and maximized distance potential.

On the other hand, the KBS Tour 90 Stiff shaft provides a firmer, more stable feel. The increased stability enables more advanced players to maintain better control of their shots, ensuring accuracy and consistency.

So, if you fancy a more solid, crisp feel at impact, you may find the stiff flex more appealing.

Performance

The performance characteristics of the KBS Tour 90 Regular and Stiff shafts can vary in different playing conditions.

In windy situations, the higher ball flight and increased spin generated by the regular flex may be less advantageous. This is because the ball may be more susceptible to the wind’s influence.

However, in calm conditions or on softer courses, the higher trajectory and spin rates can be beneficial in producing precise approach shots and stopping the ball quickly on the greens.

The KBS Tour 90 Stiff shaft’s lower ball flight and reduced spin can be advantageous in windy or firm conditions.

The penetrating trajectory minimizes the impact of wind and maximizes roll-out on firmer fairways.

Unfortunately, the lower spin rates may make it more challenging to stop the ball quickly on firm greens or during high-pressure approach shots.

Choosing between the KBS Tour 90 Regular and Stiff shafts hinges on factors such as swing speed, playing style, and performance preferences.

The regular flex is better suited for golfers with slower swing speeds who require assistance in generating optimal launch and spin conditions, and who prefer a more flexible, responsive feel.

The higher ball flight and increased spin rates provided by the regular flex can contribute to enhanced control and precision in various playing conditions, particularly on softer courses or during approach shots.

On the other hand, the stiff flex is ideal for golfers with faster swing speeds who demand increased stability and control in their shafts.

The penetrating ball flight and reduced spin rates offered by the stiff flex can be advantageous in any playing condition, while also catering to players who appreciate a firmer, more solid feel at impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What speed should i use stiff vs regular flex.

Choosing between stiff and regular flex for your golf club largely depends on your swing speed. Here are the general guidelines:

• Regular Flex: Typically, if your driver swing speed is between 85 and 95 miles per hour, or if you carry a driver distance of 200 to 240 yards, a regular flex shaft could be suitable. Regular flex can help moderate swing speed players add distance through additional flex in the shaft at impact.
• Stiff Flex: If your driver swing speed is between 95 and 110 miles per hour, or you carry a driver distance of 240 to 275 yards, a stiff flex might be more appropriate. Players with higher swing speeds generally benefit from stiffer shafts to help control accuracy and trajectory.

Remember, these are just general guidelines, and there can be exceptions.

Are stiff shafts better?

The question of whether stiff shafts are “better” largely depends on your swing characteristics and golfing abilities.

Stiff shafts are typically better for golfers with faster swing speeds (generally, those with driver swing speeds above 95 miles per hour).

This is because a faster swing can cause a more flexible shaft to bend excessively, leading to inconsistent shot direction and potentially reducing control over the shot.

However, for players with slower swing speeds, a stiff shaft could lead to lower ball flights and shorter distances, because the shaft doesn’t flex enough to help create optimal launch conditions.

Can beginners use stiff shafts?

While a beginner golfer can use a stiff shaft, it might not be the optimal choice for most.

The flex of a golf club shaft has a significant impact on the control, accuracy, and distance of shots, and it should match the golfer’s swing speed and style.

Typically, beginner golfers have slower swing speeds as they are still developing their golf swing mechanics. In such cases, a regular or even a senior might be more suitable.

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KBS Tour Lite Vs KBS Tour 90 Shaft Comparison Overview

The KBS Tour 90 and Tour 105 shafts have been discontinued and replaced by the KBS Tour Lite shafts.

But one has to wonder how much of the decision to discontinue the KBS Tour 90 shaft was just a marketing ploy.

After all, the KBS Tour Lite is a very similar shaft with similar weight options. Sort of reminded me of when Coke changed to Coke Classic.

So is there any significant difference between the KBS Tour Lite and KBS Tour 90 shafts? Find out in the following comparison.

KBS Tour Lite Shaft Overview

“The KBS Tour Lite shaft is available in regular, stiff and extra stiff flex. There are 95g, 100g and 105g options.”

The KBS Tour Lite shaft has a kick point just under the grip.

And while this is an overall lightweight shaft, the high kick point evened out the launch. I was getting a nice middle launch when I was expecting high launch.

Overall, I think KBS improved control with the advent of the KBS Tour Lite.

Compared to the Tour 90, the Tour Lite shaft feels stabler at impact and produces tighter dispersion.

KBS Tour 90 Shaft Overview

“The KBS Tour 90 is available in regular and stiff flex. There are 95g and 102g weight options.”

The KBS Tour 90 was more what I was expecting from a lightweight steel shaft. It produced slightly steeper launch angles and more spin than the KBS Tour Lite.

It definitely favors a deliberate tempo and doesn’t hold up too well to anything more aggressive.

“I think there is enough of a difference between these shafts to justify the re-brand. The KBS Tour Lite produces tighter dispersion than the KBS Tour 90.

And while neither of these shafts are ideal for fast swingers, the Tour Lite can at least take a slightly heavier load than the Tour 90.”

KBS Tour Lite First Impressions

The first thing we noticed about these shafts was that they were incredibly light for steel shafts.

Key Features & Performance

The weight is the key feature here. It allows for improved club head speed without losing any accuracy.

KBS Tour Lite Wedges Review

We weren’t huge fans of the KBS Tour Lite on wedges because they covered up a lot of our mis-hits.

KBS Tour Lite Irons Review

The KBS Tour Lite is perfect for irons. It will tighten up your shot dispersion and help increase club head speed.

KBS Tour Lite Driver Review

There isn’t enough substance for the KBS Tour Lite shafts to be viable for drivers.

KBS Tour 90 First Impressions

Obviously, the first thing we thought when we swung with  the KBS Tour 90 shaft was that it was ridiculously light for a steel shaft.

  The 2-flex system used for these shafts is the defining feature. This gives them more flex than your average steel shaft while still allowing for a moderately stout feel.

KBS Tour 90 Wedges Review

If you have a smooth tempo, you will love the KBS Tour 90 with your wedges. It launches noticeably higher than many other steel shafts currently on the market. In short, the KBS Tour 90 will likely help increase the accuracy of your chipping.

KBS Tour 90 Irons Review

The same can be said about using the KBS Tour 90 shafts with your irons.

We noticed great apex height and enhanced spin – especially in the short irons. While the KBS Tour 90 shaft isn’t great for long par 5’s if you’re attacking with your long irons, they still afford you the accuracy of steel shafts with better feel and launch.

KBS Tour 90 Driver Review

Chances are that if you’re a smooth tempo swing with a moderate to slow swing speed, you would benefit more from a graphite shaft. The KBS Tour 90 allows faster swing speed players to gain distance from the tee; but you still need a smooth tempo.

KBS Tour Lite Pros & Cons

• Lightweight
• Smooth feel
• Good vibration dampening
• Good for a variety of players
• The smooth feel sometimes covers up his-hits

KBS Tour 90 Pros & Cons

• 2-flex design
• Active tip section
• Soft tip area
• Bad for fast tempos
• Poor long iron control

Who Should Buy it?

The KBS Tour Lite would be a great shaft if you make fairly consistent contact but need a shaft that will add distance to your shots.

Overall Score:  95/100

Check out more reviews here:.

The KBS Tour 90 is an excellent shaft if you have a smooth tempo.

Even if you have a fast swing speed, you can still use this shaft effectively; but the name of the game is a deliberate transition. If you get aggressive, the shaft will feel limp and your shot will be erratic. The KBS Tour 90 is a great shaft for anyone seeking more accuracy from a light shaft.

Overall Score:  94/100

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KBS Tour 90 .355" Steel Iron Shafts

Description.

The KBS Tour 90 Taper Tip steel iron shaft offers tour performance in a lighter golf shaft.

• .355" taper tip diameter
• Designed with Moment of Inertia (MOI) analysis to increase shaft stability from the grip to the club head
• Proportional mass and radius reduction during step progression increases shaft performance
• Available in half inch increments 41.5" - 37.5"

trimming instructions

Related Products

KBS Tour V .355" Steel Iron Shafts

KBS Tour .355" Steel Iron Shafts

KBS Tour Lite .355" Steel Iron Shafts

KBS Tour 90 .370" Steel Iron Shafts

This product can expose you to chemicals including black (airborne, unbound particles of respirable size), which is know to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov .

Shaft Services

Important Note: Please provide Current contact information. Customer service may require further information before proceeding with your order.

PUREing - $25.00

SST PURE identifies asymmetries that exist in every golf shaft and locates each shaft's most stable orientation. This results in more consistent performance and uniform feel from club to club.

Tip Prepping - $2.95

Shafts are tip trimmed (if required) to manufacturer’s recommendations. For steel shafts, we abrade the tips. For graphite shafts, we remove the polyurethane coating. When you receive your shaft, all you need to do is mix epoxy, install and align. After the epoxy is cured, cut to your final playing length from the butt end and install the grip.

Tip & Butt Trimming - $4.95

Shafts are tip trimmed (if required) to manufacturer’s recommendations. For steel shafts, we abrade the tips. For graphite shafts, we remove the polyurethane coating. After tip trimming and prepping, the shafts are butt trimmed to the desired final playing length*.

Club Playing Length

Our playing length chart is available here .

* The exact model, club head number, and desired final playing length is required for butt trimming to be possible.

* The club number and or loft is require for tip prepping on most parallel (.335" and .370") golf shafts.