We’ve spent a great deal of time in the past few years looking at some of the lesser-known parts of the Nippon Shaft catalog. While the venerable N.S. Pro Modus 3 and N.S Pro GH iron shafts are widely recognized by enthusiasts, Nippon boasts a full line from graphite wood shafts all the way down to steel putter shafts. Yes, you heard that right. Nippon, with their extensive experience in producing high-quality steel, has aftermarket putter shafts. In fact, they’ve had them for quite a long time. Recently, the company re-booted their N.S. Pro putter shaft line, and has incorporated several new features to provide premium aesthetics and performance.
Specs and Features
With a stepless design and sleek new finish, 2023’s N.S Pro putter shafts are an instant hit in the looks department. A new patented plating called “Luxury Silver” reduces glare and feels fantastic in hand. Unlike some stepless, matte iron shafts we’ve used in the past, there isn’t a “sword coming out of the sheath” sound when pulling the N.S. Pro out of the bag. This is likely due to the very smooth nature of the Luxury Silver plating. A small N.S. Pro label is the only thing visible on the shafts, and of course the labels can be oriented downwards, leaving possibly the most “minimalistic” putter shaft we’ve ever seen.
The picture above shows the transition from the butt end that isn’t finished (this part is under the grip) into the Luxury Silver plating. Nippon believes the simple graphics and glare-reducing properties of the finish enhance alignment since there is really nothing to take your attention away from the ball. Nippon also touts Luxury Silver’s environmental friendliness, aligning with ISO 14000 certification, though we really don’t have any specific details on that.
One point Nippon likes to make is that, unlike many of the increasingly popular aftermarket graphite shafts on the market, N.S. Pro putter shafts provide much more tactile feedback, making it easier to discern where you’re making contact on the putter face, even with the softest of inserts.
We mentioned Nippon had a putter shaft line out in the past. In addition to the design changes in 2023, they’ve expanded the number of options to include 120g shafts along with the existing 140g and 160g versions. This wider weight range allows players to choose a preferred feel and accommodates heavier head weights. The logo design has also been revamped for visibility and player convenience, with different logo colors for various weights – 120g has a green logo, 140g is grey, and 160g is black. In all, there are six different models: Three different weights, each with a .355 and .370 tip diameter option.
Performance
Prior to installation, we took a moment to weigh each N.S. Pro model and found all were within 2g of the stated weight. We chose to install the 120g (green) shaft on a 340g head (replacing a steel shaft) and left the logo facing upwards. In addition, we installed the 160g (black) on to a 357g head (replacing a graphite shaft) with adjustable weights and placed the logo downwards. Installation was incredibly simple and all the stated specs from Nippon were dead-on.
Simplistic and minimalistic are certainly great ways to describe how each putter looked with the N.S. Pro installed. Even with an upwards facing logo, it’s a very clean look. However, we want to make sure you don’t confuse “simplistic and minimalistic” with boring. The Luxury Silver finish presents a very luxurious look and feel, and there is no mistaking the fact that you’ve added a premium component to your putter.
It’s probably best to discuss feel in a few separate ways. First, let’s discuss Nippon’s claims of increased tactile responsiveness in comparison to graphite. We were in the fortunate position to test this claim somewhat directly, replacing a graphite aftermarket shaft with the 160g N.S. Pro. To remove audible feedback from the equation, we put on our favorite noise-canceling ear buds and played music during multiple trips to the practice green. We found the N.S. Pro offered a great balance of feedback in the hands and fingers while avoiding any hints of harshness. It was very easy to discern both center and toe-side impacts, even without the instantly recognizable sounds each produces. Was this better or worse than a graphite option? We’re not sure that’s a determination we can make for the diverse group of readers we have. It was pleasingly different, though relatively subtle.
What was quite evident was the lack of rigidity we often see in graphite aftermarket options. Again, keeping in mind the subtle nature of anything related to putter shaft feel, the N.S. Pro seemed a bit more forgiving and softer, especially with longer lag putts. Of course, it’s obvious that even the longest putting strokes are going to impart minimal bend in any shaft, but the less-rigid nature of the N.S. Pro was noticeable and appreciated. It was almost like stepping back in time, if the past also came with a sexy matte finish.
As noted earlier, both the 120g and 160g were tested for this review. Unfortunately, time and material issues made installing the 140g shaft impossible prior to publication. The 120g felt incredibly nimble and balanced with the lighter 340g head, while the additional weight of the 160g option was glaringly obvious from the first putt. The 160g shaft still maintained solid head/butt balance, but just seemed heftier in every way imaginable, as one might expect. Personal weight preference certainly comes into play here, which is the beauty of having three different options available. We’ll just say that you really need to like a heavier feeling putter to enjoy the 160g version to the fullest. If you’re looking to dip your toes in, the 140g option may be a safer bet. The biggest surprise of all was just how much we loved the green 120g shaft. It was just a pleasure to putt with.
Details
- Available now at authorized Nippon fitters
- Including installation – appx $85
- More information at nipponshaft.com
