kbs tour flt review

KBS Tour FLT Shafts Review

As one of the major players in the steel iron shaft category, KBS has continued to really evolve and expand their offerings in recent years to offer something for everyone. This year we are seeing them finally make the foray into a different shaft design with the KBS Tour FLT which they believe will fit the needs of a significantly large segment of golfers.

THP was able to spend time with the new Tour FLT shafts in three different flexes (S, S+, X) for this review in order to more thoroughly see their traits in a real-world setting.

KBS on their new Tour FLT Shafts:

Advanced shaft technology is a result of countless progressions in development and its applications. KBS Golf Shafts is committed to these practices and testing, while utilizing feedback from Master Club Fitters and conducting extensive rounds of testing with Players of all skill levels. KBS is proud to introduce the newest member of the KBS Golf Shaft Family; the KBS TOUR FLT. The KBS TOUR FLT is a Tour influenced shaft to fit the broadest range of players, from the Amateur Golfer, to a Tour Professional. 

Offering a lower ball flight for the 8 Iron and down clubs, and a higher ball flight for the 6 Iron and up, it accomplishes this while being longer and providing more spin, with the consistency and efficiency of more control. KBS TOUR FLT will also features the standard to which KBS is known, providing maximum energy transfer to ensure a smooth, stronger feel through impact and are proven to produce a more piercing trajectory, tighter dispersion and increased ball control. Ranging from amateur players to professional players, everyone that is ready to “Fly” the ball better, KBS welcomes you to the future with KBS TOUR FLT – The Evolution of Performance. Specifications

What does FLT Mean?

What exactly is a FLT shaft? The fact is, most golfers tend to struggle with elevating their longer irons to the point that they may not be feasible choices to hit into, and hold, greens. Additionally, those same golfers often tend to hit their scoring irons bordering on too high which can at times lead to diminishing returns. As we well know both of those things are swing related and there are a plethora of swing traits which can lead to such issues. With that said though, something can definitely still be done through shaft design, and that is what the FLT setup aims to do. Simply put, higher in the long irons (6i and up) and lower/flatter in the scoring irons (8i and down).

Performance Breakdown

Right out of the gates, the decision to create the FLT shaft design based around the KBS Tour profile proved performance wise to be a very smart decision. First off, KBS is the company that showed the shaft industry that feel can-be/is a very real thing in steel shafts just as it is with graphite, and the KBS feel is completely present with these shafts. Through the swing there is a very familiar feeling for those who have spent some time with the original KBS Tour’s.  In terms of stability there was no accentuated kick in the long irons which one might expect when you hear “higher launching” and at the same time the “lower” (flatter) flying short irons also do not give any feeling of over-rigidity. Although they perform different than the standard Tour shafts, people should not be concerned about the feel being different.

When it comes to speaking on distance and spin that is clearly a tough topic with iron shafts (and shafts of any type) because it is extremely subjective to not only the users swing but also the head in which the shaft has been installed. For this review the KBS Tour FLT shafts were installed in what definitely qualify as “lower spinning” heads and the performance matched up right in line with what the company claims. Compared to non FLT options in the same heads the flight was increased in the longer irons in both launch and peak height which resulted in added distance for this reviewer but also the added ability to hold greens, and in the shorter irons the flight was much flatter and more easily manipulated. As a player who tends to need what FLT designs offer, it was really nice to see it all come to fruition, particularly in a shaft of this weight class.

Parting Thoughts

In all, these are something that KBS needed to really help round out their offerings, although upon their initial announcement one couldn’t help but wonder where they fit in the lineup. The truth of it all is that with a more mid spin profile and variable launch design, they literally fit right in the middle and could definitely be a very viable performer for a massive segment of golfers.

The shafts will be available through a variety of KBS dealers with a price of $31.95 per shaft. For more information on the KBS Tour FLT and all of the company’s other offering, be sure to check out their website at www.KBSshafts.com .

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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.

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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 FLT shafts. - Any Feedback?

By twgolf78 January 22, 2018 in WRX Club Techs

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I hit a set of 790s with the FLT shafts and thought they were great. I liked the feel and the fitter thought I could use a bit more spin and launch with these lower spin heads and strong lofts.

I didn't get to get flight outside but the numbers were good. Anyone playing these shafts??? Any feedback?

How would they compare to S300 or modus 130?

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Mar 14 2018

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I hit them Saturday with FLT.

I found them super smooth and felt good.

2024 Bag TBD

How long have these been out? I have a set of 2012 Amp Forged irons with KBS Tour FLT shafts the came stock. Are these the same or has KBS released a new iron.

• 1 month later...

anyone else?

Played them all last year in P770's, I thought it was a great performing shaft.

I have them in all my irons and I'm considering putting them in my wedges. They are very consistent shafts that perform exactly the way KBS describes them. Higher flight in the long irons with flatter trajectory in the short irons. I have them in the P770s 5-GW and a P770 4 iron and they perform brilliantly in all of them.

Titleist TSR2 8.25* w/Mitsubishi Diamana GT 60S Titleist TSR2 15* w/VA Composites Nemesys 75S Taylormade Stealth 2 Hybrid 19* w/VA Composites Nemesys 90S Callaway Rogue ST Pro 4-PW w/Project X LZ 6.5 Titleist SM9 Wedges 50*, 54*, 58* w/Project X LZ 6.0 Edel EAS 2.0 Putter Vice Pro

I have them and really like them. The only issue was my 4 iron...it might go too high. But overall they're great. Very smooth. Makes the long irons easy to hit. Shorter irons have a really good flight.

Is the idea of the KBS flighted not that they all fly the same height?

They're basically designed so that the long irons fly higher than the normal KBS shafts.

Ah so they are just like PX flighted then, guy in my golf shop told me they were designed to hit all your shots at the same height he must have got his wires crossed.

venturagolfer87

I have the 120S in a set of P790s that I have a couple rounds in. Coming from PX LZ 5.5 and before that, KBS Tour standard 120s. These feel as smooth as the LZs, but it definitely feels like it takes less effort get a nice trajectory on these. Also going back to a 120g shaft and heavier heads has really helped my tempo with the "long-mid" irons. My set is 5-PW

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• 5 months later...

super smooth shafts when i tried them. Would love to have them in a set of irons

• 4 months later...

Picked up a P790 4 iron recently that had a KBS Tour FLT shaft in it. Wasn't expecting much because I didn't like the KBS tour that much when I tried it. However these seem to have correctly my big gripe with the Tours. These are balanced way more traditionally - whereas tours have a really high balance point. The long irons have a more familiar bend profile too. There's more softness in the upper part of the shaft, I find Tours to be stiff in the upper half giving them a very soft tipped feel. These will be much more familiar to guys used a higher bend point like you see in X100 or Modus 120, which is what I'm gaming now.

I could totally game the long iron shafts in KBS FLT - I'd have to try the short irons though before I got into a whole set.

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Evnroll ER2v Long Plumbers Neck

The 2016 GolfWorks catalog lists the Tour FLT as New for 2016 in its FLT shaft specs table.

The 2016 Amp iron FLT shaft might have been a proprietary version designed just for Cobra.

In general, flighted shafts...

• softstep the long irons to help with launch;
• keep medium irons on flex; and
• hardstep short irons to prevent ballooning.

What's In The Bag (As of April 2023, post-MAX change + new putter)

Driver:   Tour Edge EXS 10.5 ° (base loft) ; weights neutral   ||    FWs:    Calla Rogue 4W + 7W

Hybrid:   Calla Big Bertha OS 4H at 22 °   ||    Irons:    Calla Mavrik MAX 5i-PW

Wedges*:   Calla MD3: 48 ° ... MD4: 54 ° , 58 °   ||    Putter Ψ :  SeeMore FGP + SuperStroke 1.0PT, 33" shaft

Ball:  1. Srixon Q-Star Tour / 2. Calla SuperHot (Orange preferred)  ||    Bag: Sun Mountain Three 5 stand bag

    * MD4 54°/10 S-Grind replaced MD3 54 ° /12 W-Grind .

      Ψ    Backups:

• Ping Sigma G Tyne (face-balanced) + Evnroll Gravity Grip |
• Slotline Inertial SL-583F w/ SuperStroke 2.MidSlim (50 gr. weight removed) |

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KBS creates a tour shaft for all golfers

KBS shaft wizard Kim Braly talks Tour FLT, working with Phil & designing the 'engine'

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KBS Tour FLT Iron Shafts Review

Kbs tour flt iron shafts, by russ ryden, fit2score, a dallas fort worth club fitter & club maker the golf center at the highlands, carrollton texas.

The KBS Tour was the first shaft produced by Femco steel as the KBS brand. We have seen a lot of designs since its introduction, most of which are reviewed here. This year, KBS is introducing its first flighted design. My experience with ‘flighted’ shafts goes back to the Project X Flighted designs. That design was promoted as having the propensity to create the same ball flight height throughout the set. The short irons height apex being lower and the long iron height apex being higher than the conventional set of Project X shafts.

The technical discussion, measurements and testing results are available only to registered readers

In this video Kim and I discuss set stiffness gradients. After a discussion of the KBS Tour 560 and 580 shafts we talk about the FLT design. He tells us this shaft is already getting tour play. When you push the flight apex of those longer irons out, not only is there likely to be some distance gain, but the ball will have a steeper angle of descent. What I refer to as drop and stop trajectory.

To continue reading this section of the review, you must be registered at a higher level membership. Russ

Kbs Tour Shaft Review

$ 41.99

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The KBS Tour Iron Shafts – Stiff Flex – .355 Taper Tip (4I – S – 120g) by Tour Shop Fresno are an excellent choice for golfers in search of reliable and compatible iron shafts. These shafts have been designed with careful consideration of technical details and customer feedback, resulting in a product that delivers exceptional performance. With precision engineering and high-quality materials, the script of these shafts ensures a responsive and accurate feel, making every swing a masterpiece. You demand the best from your equipment, and the KBS Tour Iron Shafts deliver just that.

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Kbs tour shaft detailed review, design and technology, where can i find the best deals or discounts on kbs tour iron shafts, can i install kbs tour iron shafts on my own, or do i need to take them to a professional for installation, are there any specific club heads that the kbs tour iron shafts are not compatible with, can i customize the kbs tour iron shafts with different grips or colors, do kbs tour iron shafts come with a warranty or guarantee, how does the tour shaft compare, project x lz, kbs c-taper, n.s. pro modus 3.

Updated February 2024 to update current pricing information.

KBS is named after its owner and founder Kim Braly. KBS has worked closely with PGA professionals to build golf shafts that offer versatility and a controlled ball flight. The KBS Tour shaft was designed for players of all abilities. The KBS Tour steel shaft is a mid-trajectory iron and wedge shaft that gives the player a signature smooth feel. The KBS Tour maximizes energy transfer to give players more lift and easier launch with their irons and wedges. Amateur players will love the responsive feel of the KBS Tour and the control of this top-of-the-line golf shaft is trusted by some of the world’s best players.

• 5% lower trajectory, less spin , and more distance gives players an easy-to-hit iron shaft that matches their swings.  
• The KBS signature feel is smooth and responsive and gives players more options even at lower swing speeds .  
• The range of weight and flex options make the KBS Tour available to golfers of almost any fee preference.

The KBS Tour golf shaft is designed with every golfer in mind. With 6 flex and weight ranges, the KBS Tour shaft can be built to any playing preference and ball flight. Used by some of the world’s best golfers, KBS shafts are known for their impressive responses and smooth feel. Players looking to get their irons fit for more distance and accuracy need to be testing the KBS Tour shaft. The first thing that stood out to me during my testing of the KBS Tour shaft was the signature feel that Mr. Braly promises. The KBS Tour shaft is one of the easiest shafts to hit and didn’t require my best swing to get a controlled and accurate ball flight. Playing my iron shafts at 125-grams, I tested the Stiff+ model of the KBS Tour shafts. I thought for the majority of golfers, the KBS Tour iron shaft is a fantastic option and would not hesitate to put it into the hands of players with a variety of swing speeds. KBS delivers a golf shaft that is easy to launch and a pleasure to swing. The KBS Tour is one of the best shafts for players that swing below tour-level swing speeds but desire the ultimate control with their irons and wedges. The KBS Tour shafts are truly versatile and great for players with smooth tempos, especially with high and mid-handicaps .

The KBS Tour Iron Shafts - Stiff Flex - .355 Taper Tip (4I - S - 120g) by Tour Shop Fresno are an excellent choice for golfers in search of reliable and compatible iron shafts. These shafts have been designed with careful consideration of technical details and customer feedback, resulting in a product that delivers exceptional performance. With precision engineering and high-quality materials, the script of these shafts ensures a responsive and accurate feel, making every swing a masterpiece. You demand the best from your equipment, and the KBS Tour Iron Shafts deliver just that.

• Smooth feel and mid-launch attributes help the KBS Tour appeal to a variety of skill levels and swing speeds.
• KBS technology delivers maximum energy transfer for more distance, less spin, and more control.
• Aggressive players looking for a more penetrating ball flight may be better suited to a higher kick-point option.
• The responsive feel may seem too active for players that prefer more rigid iron and wedge shafts.
• Many sets will not come standard with KBS Tour shafts and may require an additional charge to purchase.

The KBS Tour steel shaft comes in six unique models. Increasing in weight and flex, the KBS Tour is available in 110-gram regular, 115-gram regular+, 120-gram stiff, 125-gram stiff+, and 130-gram x-stiff. Each shaft is available in lengths cut to 1 iron through sand and lob wedge lengths and can be custom fit for golfers of any height.

The KBS Tour shaft is one of the best golf shafts for players that do not swing the golf club with an aggressive style or at tour-level speeds. Low, mid, and high handicap players that want more response and a smoother feel in their irons or wedges will love the KBS Tour shafts. By giving players more energy transfer in the shaft design, KBS has created a versatile, easy-to-hit golf shaft that can help a wide range of golfer’s games.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve found the best prices for KBS Tour iron shafts at online retailers. They often offer discount options and a wider selection compared to local stores. I recommend checking out multiple online retailers for the best deals.

I can definitely do a DIY installation of KBS Tour Iron Shafts. It’s relatively straightforward with the right tools and instructions. However, if you’re uncertain, a professional installation could ensure optimal performance. When comparing costs, check online retailers for the best deals.

I can install KBS Tour Iron Shafts on my own, but I need to ensure compatibility with specific club heads. It’s essential to check compatibility and consider professional installation for optimal performance. The shaft customization process should also consider warranty implications.

Yes, you can customize the KBS Tour iron shafts with different grips and colors to fit your preferences. However, it’s essential to consider how these changes may impact the shaft performance.

Yes, KBS Tour Iron Shafts come with a warranty. The warranty coverage ensures product guarantees. You can be confident in the durability and quality of these shafts, knowing that they are backed by a warranty.

The Project X LZ packages Project X performance and control into a smoother, easy to manage golf shaft. The Project X LZ is designed with Loading Zone Technology to give players better energy transfer and more distance. A thinner middle section allows golfers to launch the Project X LZ higher without losing control of their golf ball. Golfers of all abilities and swing speeds looking for a mid-launch iron or wedge shaft with improved feel and control should be testing the newest steel offering from Project X in the LZ model.

Project X LZ Shaft Review

The C-Taper is a perfect complement to the KBS Tour golf shaft. The C-Taper was designed from Tour player feedback to give players a more penetrating trajectory and greater shot control. Players looking to bring their ball flights down into more controlled windows can look to the C-Taper shaft to give them better distance and accuracy in a crisp feel. Aggressive players with a quick swing tempo can get better results with the C-Taper from KBS.

Kbs C Taper Shaft Review

The Modus 3 is a complete golf shaft offering from Nippon Golf. The Modus 3 line of shafts uses a tier system to give golfers more options in their custom fit. Matching a swing weight and flex profile to golfer swing styles, release patterns, and club head speeds give Nippon an unmatched array of custom fitting options. No matter what your feel, ball flight, and weight preferences are, Nippon has created a Modus 3 shaft designed to help you play better golf. The widest range of weight-to-flex ratios help make the Modus 3 a club fitter and serious golfer’s dream.

Nippon Pro Modus 3 Shaft Review

Videos: Kbs Tour Shaft Review

As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX. After graduating with honors from Purdue University, he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube, he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry. 

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TAPER TIP TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Parallel tip technical specifications.

Shaft & Grip Reviews

Review: basileus fiamma shaft.

Cons:  Due to the precise design utilizing high quality materials, the shafts come with a hefty price tag of $473, which is more than most drivers and outside of many consumer’s budget.

Bottom Line:  Basileus has produced an extremely smooth, exotic-looking shaft that will improve the driving games of golfers who can afford to game them.

The process of producing a Basileus shaft started out with the vision of creating shafts that the company could proudly deliver to its customers that were customized for each individual. To achieve this, Basileus created a matrix they call an A-B Map that was derived from the analysis of data from thousands of shafts using its proprietary EI Curve distribution method of shaft analysis. Each shaft Basileus makes fits in the matrix, which makes finding a profile easier to find for the player.

Basilius shafts are made from the high modulus carbon materials from Japan, designed in-house in and manufactured in Japan. All visual aesthetics are also decided in Japan and painting is performed in Japan using special technologies and quality controls.

In short, Basileus has seen an increasing trend by shaft manufacturers towards cost cutting and they feel that fewer of its competitors shafts truly meet the objectives, wants and needs of the player. Even the common message communicating the products sales pitch of “Hit the ball farther” without actually providing any real solution to the users needs had to be addressed.

Through design, calculations and countless trial and error, Basileus feels they have perfected its shafts and identified the crucial bits of data that can help users understand the objective characteristics of its shafts and choose the ideal shaft for their style of play.

According to the website, the Fiamma shaft, which is said to have a calculated flex in the tip-end that helps to provide extra distance, also includes “a relatively more pliant tip allows for better ball engagement. A rigid mid-section gives the Fiamma a solid feel. Best suited for quicker swing tempos and compact backswings.”

Here were the club specifications for my review

Basileus Fiamma 60X Flex/Gram: Extra Stiff /67.5 grams Torque: 3.5 Length: 45.5 inches CPM: 265 Swingweight: D3 Installed in a Miura SIT 460 Driver (9 degrees) at Aloha Golf Center, Basileus specialist in the State of Hawaii.

Performance

The Basileus Fiamma, according to its A-B shaft matrix, falls in the “A” quadrant. It has a softer tip and is stiffer towards the middle and butt section. It’s designed for those with a smoother tempo and compact swing. The Fiamma shaft was also designed for a quick launch, a tight dispersion with a slight draw bias.

My initial testing thoughts were that the Fiamma felt so much softer than what I expected from the numerical CPM. Due to the initial feel, at first I thought I’d easily overpower the shaft once I began increase my swing speed. I quickly noticed during the range session that although the shaft felt soft, it kept up with my swing, even when I tried to max out my speed to test its performance.

It wasn’t too soft, but rather extremely smooth. The softer tip section appeared to collect perfectly at impact no matter the strength of swing I put on the ball. The head squared up nicely with limited torque. The shaft had a different, elevated feel compared to other popular shafts that I’ve played in the past.

The trajectory of the Fiamma was a quick launch and penetrating flight. It reminded me much of the Graphite Design DI shaft in trajectory, but had a surprisingly smoother feel. Considering I’ve always appreciated Graphite Design shafts for years, finding something that felt smoother was astounding. Compared to the DI that I had been recently gaming, I saw a 100-to-200 rpm average spin reduction, a 1-to-2 degree higher launch and about 8-to-12 yards of total distance distance after switching shafts.

The Fiamma shaft provided mental confidence as well. My dispersion was extremely tight and accurate and I noticed I gained notable yards off the tee on the course that I play weekly.

I always hesitate to mention anything about yardage gains in shaft reviews because I feel when I personally read those statements that I’m reading a biased commercial rather than an honest review. In this instance, however, the Fiamma has amazed me quite often on the same course I’ve played regularly each Saturday for the past seven years. It’s helped take me to spots down the fairway that I’ve rarely hit from before, due mostly to the consistent performance of the shaft giving me confidence to go after the ball.

The shaft has not failed to keep up with an increased swing speed, with no delay in the transition. It kicks properly where I need it and matches well with my swing characteristics and tempo. Of course, this could be said of any custom fitted shaft, but the feel of this shaft reigns superior to others that I’ve been fitted into.

This is the fourth shaft that I’ve tried in my Miura SIT 460 head. Since I’ve been using the same driver head in my testing, that has taken out a variable when comparing shafts. Therefore, I know the performance improvements I have noticed are due to the variable change in shaft.

Looks and Feel 

The Basileus shafts are undeniably eye-catching, flashy shafts. Basileus shafts feature tasteful graphics, dynamic colors and authentic silver plating, which most companies fail to use. The use of silver is probably not very cost effective or practical on a golf shaft, but Basileus believes that its shafts will play well and are works of art in themselves.  Basileus spared no expense in developing and manufacturing its shafts.

The Fiamma shaft starts off purple at the butt, fades to pink in the middle and ends at chrome to the tip. Raised silver plating over the Basileus name, which begins after the tribal-like chrome graphics, emanate from the purple area. The whole package is arresting in its gleam. It’s truly an artful looking shaft and at the same time is a bit sinister in looks. With a $473 price tag, you expect to get more than just a solid shaft and the Fiamma doesn’t disappoint.

Its feel is something difficult to describe because, like a putter, shafts are personal. For me, as I wrote earlier, the Fiamma feels much softer than it actually plays. It’s a lively shaft in that there is no board-like feeling, yet it maintains playability and smoothness despite any swing speed increases. The Fiamma is consistent whether I’m attempting a bunt swing down a narrow fairway or when I’m swinging for the fences on a wide open par-5. It has the feel of a regular-flex shaft but plays like an extra-stiff and manages to keep up with swing speed increases despite its soft feel.

The Takeaway

Now available in America, The Fiamma will gain popularity for the Basileus brand due to its excellent design and performance characteristics. Its feel, high-quality materials and manufacturing process equates to one of the finest quality shafts available on the market.

Although the price is steep for an entry into a lesser known shaft company in America, I recommend Basileus as a strong option for a shaft fitting. Out of four popular shafts I’ve used previously, this is the best-performing and best-feeling shaft that I’ve put into my Miura FIT 460 driver.

Review: Hiskei “Wave” shaft

Review: Garsen Putter Grips

Reid's been an avid golfer for more than 40 years. During that time, he's amassed quite a putter collection and has become one of GolfWRX's leading equipment nuts. Reid tries all the latest equipment in hopes of finding the latest and greatest of them all to add to his bag. He was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii where the courses are green and the golf is great!

Jul 20, 2014 at 4:06 pm

First you say it’s for a quick compact swing, then you say it’s for a smooth compact swing. Which is it? Quick tempo or smooth tempo

Jul 20, 2014 at 2:09 am

I would kill for these spin numbers.

Dec 18, 2014 at 8:21 am

If he spins the ball at 1600 rpm with only a 15 degree launch, that ball will not stay in the air. 99% of people need an AVERAGE spin rate around 2300-2400. So on their low on the face heel shot it will spin up to 2800-2900 and on the high face toe shots, their spin will drop to 1900-2000 rpm.

At a 15 degree launch you need 2000 rpm to maximize ball flight.

Pingback: Review: Basileus Fiamma shaft | Spacetimeandi.com

Jul 19, 2014 at 2:13 pm

After reading this I think I will try a shaft from Arthur engineering instead… Similar results for $80 or less.

Jul 25, 2014 at 2:05 am

Good idea, Paul. Robin Arthur designed the Grafalloy ProLite 35, the original, which was one of the most used shafts on the pro tour for ages. That was way back when the really expensive shafts cost $50. Arthur still sells his shafts via Golfworks.com component supply under the XCALIBER brand name. This Basleus Fiamma shaft might be fantasic, but at $473 only guys like Donald Trump would be purchasing it.

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Here’s why Jordan Spieth switched into a new Fujikura Ventus TR Blue shaft at Pebble Beach

When Fujikura’s new Ventus TR Blue shaft launched in January 2022, we learned all about the updated construction and potential performance benefits compared to the original Ventus Blue. It was unclear at the time, however, exactly who would make the switch into the new TR design on the PGA Tour.

Well, we’re starting to get some answers.

Jordan Spieth , who’s been relatively slow to change into new products throughout his career, is among a handful of names making the change. Spieth conducted recent testing with a Ventus Blue TR 7 X shaft in his Titleist TS2 15-degree fairway wood, and he put it in play this week at the 2022 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Titleist Tour representative J.J. Van Wezenbeeck, who works closely with Spieth on his equipment, said that Spieth came to the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) on Friday before the 2022 Pebble Beach Pro-Am for a check-up on his equipment. Since Spieth was previously playing Ventus Blue shafts in his Titleist metalwoods, he was intrigued by the new TR version.

As it turned out, Spieth found the new shaft to help with his transition and directional control.

“Coming from Ventus Blue, anytime they update a shaft you’re just intrigued on that, and he liked how [the Ventus TR Blue] loaded compared to the original Ventus Blue for him,” Van Wezenbeeck told GolfWRX on Tuesday. “He felt like when he mishit it, there was a little more control. So that was a good option for him…we did a little bit of internal work on the head to make sure there’s enough spin, because want to make sure his 3 wood doesn’t have too low of spin. He liked how the TR reacted on mishits where the spin didn’t drop, and it had more consistent spin from swing to swing.”

Due to a new Spread Tow fabric in the butt-end section, which is essentially a checkerboard pattern of woven material, the torque on the TR version is 10 percent stiffer in the mid-to-grip end of the shaft. As a result, Fujikura says the TR shaft is designed to improve stability and consistency compared to the original Ventus Blue.

Based on Spieth’s results with the TR shaft during testing, it seems Fujikura’s case holds water.

Spieth is using a Ventus Blue TR 7 X version in his fairway wood.

Pat McCoy, Director of Tour Operations at Fujikura, spoke with GolfWRX about the new shaft, and what players are seeing in their testing out on Tour.

“Compared to the original Ventus Blue, the TR has a stiffer mid-section and lower torque,” McCoy said. “Basically what the shaft does is it eliminates some of the dynamic loft. It eliminates some of the rotation. Obviously, the Ventus Blue was a very stable shaft and one of the best launching shafts we’ve ever had. And we just made it better.

“As far as ball speed and launch and spin, I’m not going to say it’s faster, but we have seen players who have achieved faster speeds with it. It provides more consistency and the ability to turn swing speed into ball speed better. And that’s it. It’s a little stiffer than the original Blue, and it’s a little bit weaker than the [Ventus Black]. It’s a ‘tweener. It gives you something in the middle, and depending upon loft and impact location, you get a better fit.”

The fairway wood shaft wasn’t the only potential change that Spieth will make in 2022, though.

In addition to putting the new Titleist Vokey SM9 wedges in the bag, Spieth is also considering adding another option to the top end of his bag.

Typically, Spieth changes between a hybrid and long irons, depending on course conditions. During the recent session at TPI, though, Spieth took a liking to Titleist’s U-505 wide-bodied driving iron. Ahead of the 2022 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Spieth took a U-505 2-iron (Graphite Design AD-DI 105X shaft) out onto the course for testing.

“He’s experimenting with a U-505 this week (ahead of the event at Pebble Beach),” Van Wezenbeeck told GolfWRX. “He’s always gone between a hybrid and either a 2 iron, or a hybrid and 3 iron, and we brought out a 505 as kind of a third option on a week where he isn’t sure whether he should play an iron or a hybrid. The 505 being a wide body iron is kind of a blend between the two. And he was really intrigued with how high it launched on a standard shot, and he could flight it more off the tee, where as with a hybrid he can’t do.

“So on weeks he feels like there’s a lot of irons off the tee, he likes to play the iron. On weeks where there are a lot of shots into par 5s, he likes the hybrid. On weeks where there’s a little of both…he felt the 505 might be an option, so he was taking it on the golf course [on Tuesday] to see how it would react.”

While it’s unclear exactly when Spieth will break out the new U-505, it seems like it’ll certainly be in the rotation going forward. The Ventus TR Blue shaft, on the other hand, has already earned a starting spot in the bag this week.

These changes may seem minor to some, but it shows Spieth’s willingness to find small equipment tweaks to improve his game. For amateur golfers, use this as a lesson when gearing up for the new season. Go through your bag, test some of the new shaft and head options, and see where you can make improvements. Now is the perfect time to take inventory and get prepared.

MRC Shaft Shootout: Tensei CK Pro White, Kuro Kage XT and Diamana BF-Series

The Tensei CK Pro White is the latest release from Mitsubishi Rayon Composites (MRC), a low-launch, low-spin shaft with a multi-material design that the company says improves the performance and feel of the shaft. Whereas most golf shafts use between 3-6 different materials in their construction, the Tensei CK Pro White is made from 11 different materials, giving MRC engineers greater precision in the shaft’s design.

Like MRC’s Tensei CK Pro Blue shafts, which produce a slightly higher-launching, higher-spinning ball flight, the CK Pro White uses MRC’s Carbon Fiber DuPont Kevlar Weave in the handle section of the shaft. The company says it increases the strength and stability of that part of the shaft, leading to better feedback.

On the other end of the shaft, the tip section, MRC uses a boron-reinforced fiber. All low-launch, low-spin shafts have stiff-tip designs, but the addition of boron puts the Tensei CK Pro White in a class of its own when it comes to lowering launch angle and spin rate. The boron fiber also reduces torque, which can offer better energy transfer, more accuracy and better feedback — especially for skilled, high-swing-speed golfers.

Connecting and reinforcing those areas of the shafts is MRC’s low-resin content (LRC) prepreg. Prepreg is carbon fiber that’s been reinforced or “pre-impregnated” with resin, a glue that holds the material together when it’s formed into sheets and rolled into the form of a shaft. MRC says that its LRC has 15 percent more carbon fiber and 13 percent less resin than traditional prepregs, which allows MRC to make the Tensei CK Pro White stronger without adding extra weight to the shaft. MRC also uses high-modulus, 40-ton prepreg in the Tensei CK Pro White’s design, which like LRC is thinner, stronger and lighter than traditional prepregs.

The addition of boron helps MRC make the tip of Tensei CK Pro White shaft stiffer and lower in torque.

In the EI chart below, you can see how the Tensei CK Pro White’s bend profile compares to the CK Pro Blue. The main differences are its slightly stiffer tip and mid sections, as well as its slightly softer butt section. That gives the CK Pro White a higher “kick point” than the CK Pro Blue. Generally, the higher the kick point of a shaft, the lower its launch conditions. That’s why the Tensei CK Pro White is a lower-launching, lower-spinning shaft than the Tensei CK Pro Blue.

The Shootout 

Just how much lower launching and lower spinning is the Tensei CK Pro White than MRC’s latest premium driver shafts? I put it to the test against the company’s Kuro Kage XT and Diamana BF-Series, which like the CK Pro White are PGA Tour-quality shafts that sell for about $400 each. All three shafts tested were built to my spec: 70TX, tipped 1 inch at a finished length of 45.5 inches.

I tested the three shafts on Trackman 4 at the Launch Pad at Carl’s Golfland in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. After warming up, I hit 10 drives with each shaft, and whittled my shots down to the most similar five to help illustrate the differences. Premium balls were used for the test, and results were normalized.

MRC’s Kuro Kage XT uses a stouter iteration of the company’s famed “Blue Board” bend profile, and in that regard it’s quite similar to the Diamana BF-Series. That’s what makes the shafts a little higher launching and higher spinning than the Tensei CK Pro White. The Kuro Kage XT has a much different feel than both, however, due to its use of an elastic wire made of Titanium and Nickel that MRC calls “TiNi” wire.

Related: Learn more about the Kuro Kage XT

In the Kuro Kage XT, the TiNi wire is added to the bottom 13 inches of the shaft, where it adds stability, but it also serves another purpose. Its elasticity allows the bottom end of the shaft to better load and unload during the downswing to help improve energy transfer. That’s what gives the Kuro Kage XT its more active feel, at least compared to the boron-infused tip section of the Tensei CK Pro White, which by design offer no elasticity.

The Diamana BF-Series also uses boron in its tip section, and its combined with a new, aerospace-grade fiber called MR-70 to create what MRC says is a first-of-its-kind hybrid prepreg. MR-70, which is manufactured by parent company Mitsubishi Chemical, is 20 percent stronger and has 10 percent more modulus than similar fibers, MRC says .  The handle section of the BF-Series is reinforced with MRC’s Pitch Fiber, which functions to boost energy transfer like the CK Pro White’s Carbon Fiber DuPont Kevlar Weave.

Related: Learn more about the Diamana BF-Series shafts

In terms of launch conditions, the best fit for me was the Diamana BF-Series. It launched the ball a little higher than the Tensei CK Pro White, and added a little spin to help keep my drives in the air. It was also easier to swing than the Tensei CK Pro White, helping me more easily hit a draw while offering an even smoother feel due to its less rigid tip and mid sections.

To recap, if you need to lower your launch conditions, the Tensei CK Pro White is one of the most intriguing new MRC options to help you do so. Need a higher ball flight? Try the Diamana BF-Series. And if you want a radically different feel, give the Kuro Kage XT a try.

Have a question? Let me know in the comments section below and I’ll do my best to answer as many as I can. 

Weights and Flexes

• Tensei CK Pro White: 60 (R, S, TX), 70 (S, TX), 80 (TX)
• Kuro Kage XT: 50 (R, S, X, TX), 60 (R, S, X, TX), 70 (S, X, TX), 80 (S, X, TX)
• Diamana BF-Series: 50 (R, S, X), 60 (R, S, X, TX), 70 (S, X, TX), 80 (S, X, TX)

Related: GolfWRX Members review the Tensei CK Pro White

Review: KBS Tour FLT Shafts

Pros:  FLT shafts use a flighted design, which helps golfers launch their long irons higher and with more spin. The FLT short-iron shafts provide a more penetrating trajectory for more control.

Cons: FLT shaft flexes correspond with weight, so golfers may not be able to match their desired shaft weight with their desired flex.

Who They’re For: Golfers who need more spin or more launch from their long irons to optimize their trajectory. Everyone from beginners to PGA Tour players can use the shafts effectively, but they’ll be most popular with golfers with moderate-to-slow swing speeds, or any golfer who generates low-spin launch conditions.

Selecting the proper iron shafts is one of the most important equipment decisions golfers make. It’s an issue of quantity. Most golfers carry about 7-8 irons in their bag, so if they choose the wrong iron shaft, they’ve made the game harder than it needs to be with half or more of their clubs.

The good news is that there’s a wider selection of quality iron shafts than there has ever been, with recent growth in models that are designed to help golfers hit their iron shots higher and farther, while still maintaining PGA Tour-quality consistency and feel.

KBS is one of the leading steel shaft manufacturers, and already offered a wide variety of models prior to its newest shaft launch. Company representatives felt KBS was lacking a product for a particular segment of golfers, however, so it developed its new FLT shafts.

FLT shafts ($31.95 each) have a flighted design, which helps certain golfers optimize the performance of each iron their bag. The long irons shafts have progressively softer tip sections, which helps golfers increase their launch angle and spin rates with those clubs. For the right golfer, the design will help them hit their iron shots farther, and stop shots on the green more quickly. In the short irons, where height and spin are easier for golfers to generate, the FLT shafts are stiffer, which creates the flatter trajectory most golfers prefer with their scoring clubs. The crossover point between the higher-launching long irons and lower-launching short irons is the 7 iron.

Like all KBS shafts, FLT models have a constant weight, which means that long iron shafts and short iron shafts will be roughly the same weight through the set. Shaft weight is dependent on flex, however, as softer-flex models are lighter than stiffer-flex models. So if you’re looking for a really heavy, regular-flex shaft or a really light, extra-stiff-flex shaft, these aren’t for you.

Keep in mind that KBS shafts do not have reinforced tip sections like many other iron shafts, which gives them a slightly higher balance point and can decrease swing weight by 1-2 points. I personally like the feel of KBS shafts and their slightly higher balance point, but some golfers won’t.

For this review, I tested the new FLT shafts head to head against KBS Tour shafts of the same flex and weight (130X) in 4 irons, 6 irons and pitching wedges. Each of the shafts were installed in Callaway’s Apex Pro ’16 irons , and were built to my specifications (standard grips, standard length, 1-degree strong lofts, 1-degree flat lie angles).

I performed my testing at the Launch Pad at Carl’s Golfland in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., where I hit the 4 irons, 6 irons and pitching wedges on Trackman IV with premium golf balls. I hit 3-6 solid shots with each iron, and then removed the outliers from the final data in an attempt to compare only the most similar strikes. Results were normalized.

As you can see from the data, there was a significant difference in the flight of the 4 irons with the two different shafts, but less of a difference with the 6 irons and pitching wedges.

As expected, the FLT shafts caused 4 iron shots to launch higher (0.8 degrees) and with more spin (729 rpm) than the KBS Tour shafts. I’m not a low-spin player, which is one of the target audiences for this shaft, so the added launch and spin of the FLT shafts caused my 4 iron shots to fly shorter. Golfers who launch their irons too low or with too little spin, however, will likely see a distance increase when using the FLT shafts.

As I moved closer to the short end of the set, the two shafts started to perform more similarly. Theoretically, the 6 iron shots with the FLT shafts should have launched slightly higher and spun more than 6 iron shots with the KBS Tour shafts, but I actually saw a slightly lower launch angle (0.5 degrees) with the FLT. The spin was higher, though, by 211 rpm. With the pitching wedges, the results were again quite similar. The FLT launched 0.9 degrees higher, but actually spun 271 rpm less than the KBS Tour shafts.

Stepping back from the numbers, I was impressed with how similar the feel was between the KBS Tour and FLT shafts. Yes, I could feel that the FLT shafts were more active in the tip with the 4 irons, but they felt nearly the same in the 6 irons. By the time I got to the pitching wedges, the two shafts were indistinguishable. The KBS Tour is considered one of the better-feeling iron shafts currently available, so KBS’ ability to replicate that feel in the FLT will be a plus for the majority of interested golfers.

Looking more broadly, trends in shaft design tends to go hand-in-hand with trends in club head design, and the FLT shafts are no exception. Equipment manufacturers continue to strengthen the lofts of their distance irons; they have to in order balance the launch equation, as their faster ball speeds create a higher launch angle and more spin.

While the improvements to iron design have allowed golfers to hit their mid and short irons farther, many golfers continue to struggle to hit their long irons high enough or consistently enough for them to be effective. And based on my testing results, it’s clear that the FLT shafts can make long irons more playable for certain golfers, and maybe even keep long irons in a golfer’s bag that might otherwise be kicked out for higher-flying hybrids or fairway woods.

As always, I recommend that golfers get properly fit for iron shafts, which means visiting a reputable club fitter in your area. So if you’re in the market for new irons or iron shafts, you can get started by going through KBS’ Online Fit System , which upon completion lists KBS-certified dealers in your area.

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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.

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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.

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KBS Tour Lite Shaft Review

Kbs tour lite shaft.

By far, one of the most popular steel iron shafts over the past decade (longer really) is the KBS Tour. Everybody who pays attention to golf gear knows it and has likely given the Tour a good whirl for themselves at some point. However, not all players are a perfect fit for the standard Tour model and need something that’s a little different. For players seeking higher launch, more spin, and greater distance, the KBS Tour Lite may be the answer.

How Does it Feel?

True to its label, the KBS Tour Lite shaft feels exactly as advertised. If you have any experience with the standard Tour model, the Tour Lite feels quite similar. Generally speaking, the feel is smooth with just enough “dampening” reducing harshness on all mishits to feel sweet in your hands. The only downside there is that you might think you hit a shot better than you really did. Overall, I noticed a gradual kickpoint right around the “3/4 mark” with precise response and a pleasantly clean feel. Players that like the standard Tour model, but find it a bit too robust may find the 20% lighter Tour Lite to be exactly the feel they’re looking for.

On-Course Performance

Again, the KBS Tour Lite performs exactly as advertised. The design is to give you precise control and feel in a lightweight package that makes it easier to achieve stronger distances and effortless launch. I found that I was able to gain about a club longer in carry distance compared to the standard KBS Tour option. With that, I also launched the ball a bit higher and spun it a little extra as to typically be expected from a lighter weight golf shaft. This gave me more carry and a steeper angle of descent for better stopping on the greens.

I always remind people that it’s very important to get properly fit with lighter shafts. While there is opportunity to gain distance through faster swing speeds and higher launch, it’s important to make sure it’s a good equipment combination for your particular swing. Make sure you get fit and properly test if you aren’t sure! Especially if you have a fast swing with an aggressive tempo.

Final Thoughts – KBS Tour Lite Shaft

The KBS Tour is arguably one of the top 3 most popular steel shafts in golf. KBS successfully delivered the same signature Tour feel in a lightweight package via the new Tour Lite. Many players will achieve increased distance from added carry yardage and faster swing speeds. So if you’re the player that loves the KBS Tour feel, but could use a little help increasing launch and getting the club around, check out the Tour Lite.

*I used Sub 70 639 CB/MB combo irons to test these shafts for this review. You can read my review of the 639 CB here and the 639 MB here .

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41 Comments

Do you know what weights are for the different flexes? Was wondering what the X flex weighed in at.

According to KBS’s website, the X-flex weighs in at 105g.

Admittedly not knowing anything about your swing, Bill…Would you consider your swing being ‘aggressive’? If so, were you fearful at all that the light weight of the shaft would be an issue?

I do have a more aggressive swing and it’s often not a great combination for a lighter weight shaft. I was able to adjust my tempo a good bit to be comfortable with this shaft, but I wouldn’t say it’s an ideal component for players with big swings. Put it this way, you aren’t going to see Rory and Phil going down this route and that type of swing isn’t who it’s intended for. But if you have an aggressive tempo with a more moderate swing speed, it may work. Have to test it to really know.

Thank you for the informative reply.

How would you compare to True Temper Elevate 95? Do the KBS has VSS or other shock dampers?

I can’t really compare as I’ve never hit the lighter weight Elevates. KBS does not have a “built-in dampening” system and wouldn’t say it really needs one.

How do they compare to the old KBS Tour 90 ?

I would say this is more of anecdotal reply, but in my hands, the Tour Lite feels like more familiar to the standard Tour, but with the intended benefits of the 90. If that makes any sense.

I was thinking if I’m playing a Project X 6.0 today and wanted a little higher flight and a bit more spin, not knowing my swing speed/style, do you think that using the Tour Lite X might flight and spin the ball somewhere between the KBS Tour Stiff and Tour Lite Stiff?

I’ve thought about this a lot since it came in hoping I could at least provide some guidance, but there really isn’t much I can blindly contribute. The reality is, your hands and swing will be unique and respond to equipment in their own way. The only to determine anywhere near what you’re trying to is testing the equipment. Your criteria is much too subjective to determine on paper.

I’m a senior golfer who is considering buying a set of Takomo 101 irons. Is the KBS Tour Lite shaft a good senior for senior golfer?

While every player will differ, at a high level, yes, it’s in theory a good senior steel option.

I swing a 7-iron at 77 mph. Would the KBS Tour Lite in Stiff flex be okay for me? I wouldn’t describe my tempo as being somewhat aggressive rather than smooth.

In previous message, I meant “I would describe my tempo as being somewhat aggressive rather than smooth”

Tough to say. Swing speed and flex have more to do with releasing the shaft rather than “tempo control”. Don’t get wrong, flex definitely plays a role in that, but the profile of the shaft and the weight is going to influence more.

So I guess the bigger question is, what are you looking for out of the golf shaft? I’m worried you could find a weird balloony, right ball with that combination of profile and flex with that swing speed but an aggressive tempo. That said, testing with your individual swing could always produce its own unique outcome so that will always be the best way forward. You’ll never really know until you actually try out the combination.

Thanks for the great review Bill! I took a stab and ordered a set of Mizuno 923 with these and it has been very positive so far. I wholeheartedly agree with all your statements having played the KBS Tour previously, even if that was some time ago. I most recently had the Modus 105 and never thought I’d steer away, but these have a sweeter overall feel with zero loss of control. I’m loving them.

How would you compare this to the Nippon 950GH and 950GH Neo?

It’s been so long since I’ve hit that Nippon, I wouldn’t even be able to begin comparing the two. Sorry!

Did these replace the Tour 90? And are they even any different than the Tour 90? The description is virtually the same as the Tour 90, but the 90 is no longer advertised on KBS site.

Hmm, good question. I can’t say I know for sure, but I’d say they tackle a lot of the same purpose. That said, and it may just be my subjective placebo experience, but I feel like the Tour Lite had a little more “presence” to it than the 90…but I could just be imagining that. It’s been a long time since I’ve hit either of them.

I currently play the DG Pro in stiff flex. How would you compare the two. I’m looking for a lighter weight shaft. Hoping to pick up some distance and maintain my accuracy.

I actually haven’t ever hit the DG Pro (somehow) so other than how they compare on paper, I can’t really speak to it. As far as picking up distance and accuracy, regardless of what anyone tells you feedback-wise, you’ll only know if you’ll get those gains once you see how your specific swing responds to the component.

I love this shaft.. I used my Gen 3 pxg 7 iron head with kbs lite stiff shaft. Standard length 37 inch I am 6′ 3″. Ok here comes the controversial move.. This set up came in at a swing weight of D3.. My comfort level swing weight D0. My club builder put 12 grams of weight under my oversized winn 2.0 grip. And magic happen.. Old flight with kbs tour 120 stiff low.. carry 140 lots of roll.. New setup 150 carry high flight. No more left pulls or weak flares to the right. My swing profile slow smooth backswing with an aggressive pull down, down swing.

Great review Bill, I just got fitted with the PXG Gen6 and the KBS Tour Lite R shafts. What a combo for me… I had a smash factor of 1.44 with my 7i. Im 5’9, 140lbs- carry my Gen6 7iron 170. Not sure if it’s the club, shalf or both but boy this has taken my game to the next level. I noticed I have complete control of the golf club at EVERY point in my swing. I know exactly where my face is and I no longer get antsy with the transition. I can finally say, I am DONE tinkering and buying new equipment. Callway Rouge Triple Diamond, Ping 430 3 Wood and Hybrid, PXG Gen 6 P Irons, Callway Jaw Wedges, Bettinardi Blade Putter with TP5 Yellow golf ball.

Hi Bill, great review, I am currently playing the Modus 120 stiff, would like something a touch stiffer (90-92mph 7-iron club head speed), but would also like something a bit lighter. I don’t know if you’ve had much experience with the Modus, but wanted to know if you think that the Tour Lite X might be a good fit (a little extra spin and launch would also not hurt), just not sure how the two shafts truly compare. Thanks!

The KBS won’t have any similarities to the Modus 120. Apples to oranges. If you’re only looking for lighter weight (could help with launch a bit) in a similar profile, Nippon makes lighter profiles as well.

I’m ordering new irons and I’m torn between the S-Taper Lite and Tour Lite. What are the main differences in ball flight and spin? Do they feel almost the same? I’m almost to the point where I feel like I should flip a coin. Have about 80-85 club head speed with 7 iron, typically carry the ball 170, smooth backswing and fairly aggressive down swing, Max Homa tempo is what I try to go after.

I wouldn’t say that’s enough info for me to go off of to give you any recommendations, but at a real high level, I feel like the $-Taper Lite has a little more stability to it. It’s still soft…but not as soft.

Hi Bill. I’m writing you from Argentina. How would you compare this to the Nippon Modus 105. I am 52 years old, play regular shaft and hit 7 iron 150 yards. Thanks !

Close, but the Nippon probably has a little more rigidity to it.

Currently my swing speed with a 7 iron stealth graphite ventus 6r is 67 mph would a kbs tour lite 90 in a taylormade p770 be suitable for me ?

Unfortunately that’s not nearly enough information to make a suggestion on that setup. Your body and specific swing will have its own response to the equipment. You have to consider misses, dispersion, launch, spin, etc. It’s really tough to make any suggestion as it’s not comparing apples to oranges and a much more complex series of information that just swing speed. Good luck!

KBS TOUR LITE SHAFTS are amazing, tighter dispersion, accuracy distance control. It has made a big difference in my confidence to approach shots, and tee shots on par 3 ‘s . Once you hit them you will feel the difference.

Currently playing the tour v x stiff in Calloway apex pro”s I’m about to order a set of Takomo irons to try just trying to decide if I get them with the tour x stiff or the tour lite x stiff. What would your thoughts be?

The Tour Lite and Tour couldn’t be more different than the Tour V. With that change in spin and trajectory, it would be pretty difficult to provide any blind insight for a suggestion. I don’t know enough about your personal game or shot data to go off of either.

Hello Bill – how would these KBS Tour Lite Regular compare to True Temper AMT Black Regular? Thanks!

Can really only speak to it “on paper”. In theory, the Tour Lite will be higher launch while the AMT Black is mid-high, and relatively similar for spin, but your personal swing will have heavy influence in that.

Thank you Bill!

Thanks Bill – how would KBS Tour Lite Regular compare to True Temper AMT Red Regular (on paper)…between the Red and Black???

Tough to say, but on paper, it’s probably closer to the KBS Tour Lite than the AMT Black is.

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KBS Tour FST Shaft Review – Specs, Flex Weight

Everyone wants to be able to game the same shafts they see the pros use.

That’s why a lot of players tend to gravitate towards KBS shafts. KBS is one of the leading shaft manufacturers in the world because their shafts are tour-proven.

They are known for affording the player maximum control and accuracy.

But let’s face it. Not all of us swing our irons like the pros. You have to really be aware of the type of player you are if you want to lower your score.

To that end, KBS does make shafts for us mortals. Case in point: the KBS Tour FST shaft.

Today we will be taking a look at the KBS Tour FST and letting you know who should be gaming it.

KBS Tour FST Shaft Overview

The whole point of the KBS Tour FST shaft is to help slower swingers transfer maximum energy from their swing to the ball.

The KBS Tour FST shaft comes in both relatively light and heavyweight versions so any kind of player should be able to find the right fit.

We really liked the looks of the KBS Tour FST shaft. It distinguishes itself with a black nickel finish which to us, looks more like gunmetal.

It still bears the classic “KBS” lettering in red and black in a block in the middle of the shaft.

So right away, you can tell that this is a KBS shaft; but you can also tell that there is something different about it.

The KBS Tour FST is also a low torque shaft. Despite weight savings in the steps, the KBS Tour FST resists twisting and warping very well.

So you still get that smooth, stable KBS feel from a more accessible steel iron shaft. When we tested the KBS Tour FST, we noticed very little activity.

However, the reaction that was present revealed itself in the mid/low section of the shaft.

If you are not a fan of whippy shafts and need more stability as you load up on the shaft, the  KBS Tour FST is certainly worth a look.

Why is the KBS Tour FST So Popular?

We can think of a few reasons why this shaft is a hit among amateur players but for us, the KBS Tour FST was a hit because it offers classic KBS feel.

While it can be said that the KBS Tour FST is a stout shaft, it never feels boardy. Even in the stiffest flex, you get a smooth transition that you feel you can work with.

How Does the KBS Tour FST Shaft Perform?

It’s odd, but we would say that the KBS Tour FST shaft feels active without actually being active.

What we mean is that when we tested it, we noticed that it felt light in the hands and while it doesn’t bend much, you feel like all of your swing energy is getting through to the ball.

This shaft just sort of begs to be swung.

The KBS Tour FST naturally produces a mid launch window and it’s very easy to get a beautiful baby draw out of it.

It was producing spin rates just under the 7,000 RPM threshold with our 7-iron so the spin is relatively low.

We’re not going to lie, you still need a moderate swing speed in order to get optimal distance from this shaft. We’re talking at least 85 MPH with your 7-iron.

But if you can manage that, the KBS Tour FST will reward you with improved accuracy, smooth feel and a considerable distance boost.

For instance, our testers were averaging a distance of 156.1 yards (7-iron) after three swings with the KBS Tour FST.

The KBS Tour FST also helped us thread the needle beautifully on narrow fairways and allowed us to work the ball masterfully around the pin.

KBS Tour FST Shaft Specs

What flexes are available what swing speeds do they suit.

For moderate swing speed players (85 – 90 MPH) the regular or stiff flex would likely work well.

For faster swingers (90+ MPH) we would recommend the extra stiff flex.

What Weights Are Available? What Swing Speeds Do They Suit?

If you have a moderate tempo, the 110g version may work.

The 120g and 130g versions should be reserved for fast swingers with aggressive tempos.

Why is it So Good?

The KBS Tour FST is a good shaft because it allows players of varying tempos to really load up without losing any accuracy or stability.

Above all, this is a shaft that will improve your iron precision.

KBS Tour FST First Impressions

We love KBS shafts but a lot of them look so much alike.

What we liked about the KBS Tour FST right away was that it had a different finish from the common polished chrome that adorns most KBS shafts.

Key Features & Performance

Mass and radius have been reduced in each step of this shaft to allow for more efficient transfer of swing energy to the ball.

KBS Tour FST Irons Review

The KBS Tour FST works really well with both GI and blade irons. You get the same, smooth transition and acute workability.

KBS Tour FST Wedges Review

We liked that the spin rates picked up a little bit with our wedges. It compensates a bit for the relatively low launch.

KBS Tour FST Pros & Cons

• It looks great
• Smooth transition
• Very stable
• Increases iron precision
• It’s affordable
• Not great for slow swingers

Overall Score: 96/100

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Who Should Buy it?

  We feel that the KBS Tour FST shaft would be ideal for mid handicappers on the verge of breaking into the single-digit handicap neighborhood.

It will give you better accuracy and workability from your irons and is a good stepping stone towards those heavier, more powerful iron shafts.

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