Although you likely already knew that Callaway was the number one driver in golf for 2023, you may not have realized they achieved that same ranking in fairway woods with their Paradym lineup as well. As such, the task to keep pushing the envelope can be a daunting one because there is a fine line of firepower and playability that has to be walked.
Last time around, it was done via the integration of Forged Carbon, but this time things are being kicked up a notch not only in terms of those materials, but also the entire concept of what a face design in a fairway can be.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Fairways
If you have read our release on the Ai Smoke drivers from Callaway, then you’ll not be surprised when we tell you that the fairway woods are also not simply a sequel. Just because they carry the Paradym name on them doesn’t mean there aren’t some significant changes, in fact, Ai Smart Face might be the most significant change we have seen from Callaway in their AI era.
One thing you absolutely have to admire about the companies who are creating the best fairway woods out there is that they all treat them as their own thing. Gone and dead are the days of just trying to take what you put into the driver designs and put it into fairways. A good example of that is when Callaway took their newly created AI “Swing Code” which utilizes “Real Player Swing Dynamics” of 250,000+ recorded swings from fitting centers and studios to create 80,000 lines of custom code and applied it to their fairway designs.
That code is the key to the creation of Callaway’s new “Ai Smart Face” which uses radically outside the box topographic designs created for each model uniquely using the real swing and path tendencies of actual golfers as opposed to a perfect path robot. What they saw immediately was that although the specific traits like speed, path, and face angle were as expected for each model, the strike locations for golfers in fairway woods were drastically different than with driver.
Overall, strikes were much lower on the face according to the data, which makes sense as most amateurs tend to get steep with fairway woods. This combined with the various swing traits are what lead to the implementation of four different fairway heads (MAX, MAX D, MAX FAST, and Triple Diamond) for the Ai Smoke release, each with an Ai Smart Face to optimize the clubhead for the needs of that golfer type.
However, there are still other design changes worth noting. Namely, the implementation of Forged Carbon in the Paradym fairways was a huge catalyst to their success in what it allowed for discretionary weight shifting in the design. One thing that Callaway knew could take things even further was if they could do away with the two support structures on the sole of the fairway between the Forged Carbon. They turned to their dedicated “Composite Engineering Team” and found a solution with a Forged Carbon application and chassis that no longer needs those beams for support.
That change freed up 24 grams of weight, of which 12g was moved back to increase launch and the other 12g shifted to the Tungsten Speed Cartridge which was the unsung hero of the Paradym release. That added weight forward has made for higher launch with less spin, according to Callaway. Everything adds up to the belief that the Paradym Ai Smoke fairways are still incredibly long, but are now also more accurate downrange than ever.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke MAX Fairways
The flagship design which the biggest number of golfers should end up in, the MAX is the do it all offering in the lineup. It is aimed at the golfer with mid-speed with a moderately down, but not crazy, angle of attack combined with slightly out-to-in swing path. The Ai Smart Face is tuned also for a somewhat consistent strike pattern that ranges from the low heel to high on the toe.
Callaway is making the MAX model available in 3, 3HL, 5, 7, 9, 11, and also Heavenwood options.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke MAX D
Those looking for a true draw designed fairway should look this way as the MAX D checks that box. The swing code implementation here is the golfer who has a strike pattern all the way from heel to toe with most occurring low on the face. Typically, the slower speed player has a definite out-to-in swing path and battles a hard downward attack angle and open face at impact.
The MAX D will be offered in 3, 3HL, 5, and 7 wood models.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke MAX FAST Fairway
As with the drivers, it is nice to see Callaway essentially bring what has been the STAR release that occurs later in the year out at the same time as the main lineup. That is precisely the target of the MAX FAST which aims at golfers who fight the same strike tendencies as the MAX D but need more speed than natural draw bias.
The MAX FAST will come in 3, 5, 7, and 9 wood options.
Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond Fairway
Don’t worry, Callaway isn’t about to have a fairway release without the Triple Diamond. Geared at the player who finds the center of their fairway woods most of the time at higher swing speeds and a neutral path, this remains the “workable” and “players” fairway of the bunch. It is important to note, that because of the smaller shape and deeper face, the sole of the Triple Diamond is not Forged Composite like the others, but instead steel. It does still utilize the Triaxial Carbon crown, however.
The Triple Diamond will be offered in 3, 5, and 7 wood models.
The Details
While all initial eyes will be on the new drivers to see if they can deliver on surpassing what was the most successful release of 2023, they will soon fall to these Paradym Ai Smoke fairways in a very similar fashion. There is a lot to live up to, but if the Ai Smart Face implementation delivers, then Callaway might not just maintain their #1 played tally but extend it.
Standard shaft options will consist of the Mitsubishi Eldio and Tensei Silver for the MAX FAST drivers as well as the Mitsubishi Tensei AV Series Blue, Project X Cypher 2.0, and Project X Denali Black for the rest of the clubheads. The entire lineup will be available for pre-sale on 1/14/24 with product hitting retail on 1/26/24 and will be priced at $349.99.
[QUOTE=”BigMac, post: 12256524, member: 3386″]
They’re both such solid clubs, I doubt you’ll have any regrets. To me, the 3HL combines the best traits of a 3W and 5W into one club.
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I’ve struggled with a 3W previously. I’m confident that the 3HL will be different.
[QUOTE=”Bernoulli, post: 12256556, member: 42734″]
I’ve struggled with a 3W previously. I’m confident that the 3HL will be different.
[/QUOTE]
I was the same (it was so bad that I quit even carrying a 3W), and it has definitely been different for me.
Had a really good range session with the TD 3w today. Was finally seeing proper distance out of it compared to previous 3w (shaft issue probably but this thing is easy ball speed wrapped in carbon), and can tell it feels more workable than a more shallow face. Has me pondering a 5w simply because of how amazing the club feels when it’s on.
Hoping to find time to get to a course soon, but starting a new job tomorrow might push that back to May.
[QUOTE=”Bernoulli, post: 12256409, member: 42734″]
Looking forward to adding my feedback about the Max D 3HL. This offseason is almost over. I don’t think I have ever had this much anticipation over putting new clubs (the Smoke Max D driver and fairways) into play. I’m hoping I get the same results that you and [USER=44109]@brians[/USER] have seen so far.
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I have no doubt. It’s hard to put into words but as [USER=3386]@BigMac[/USER] said The 3HL is almost like combining the 3 and 5W. The distance of the 3 with the launch of a 5.
Like you I can’t wait to get out there on the real grass more. This Friday tee time is all booked!
[QUOTE=”brians, post: 12258118, member: 44109″]
I have no doubt. It’s hard to put into words but as [USER=3386]@BigMac[/USER] said The 3HL is almost like combining the 3 and 5W. The distance of the 3 with the launch of a 5.
Like you I can’t wait to get out there on the real grass more. This Friday tee time is all booked.
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Don’t know when I’m going to be able to get out. We have some rain forecasted for later in the week.
[QUOTE=”Bernoulli, post: 12258133, member: 42734″]
Don’t know when I’m going to be able to get out. We have some rain forecasted for later in the week.
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Yeah. Us too. I’m so done with it.
The playing in the rain thread has been inspiring me though.
The added bonus is the course I’m playing, front 9 stays remarkably dry. So there’s hope..
[QUOTE=”Hokie2018, post: 12258026, member: 78737″]
Had a really good range session with the TD 3w today. Was finally seeing proper distance out of it compared to previous 3w (shaft issue probably but this thing is easy ball speed wrapped in carbon), and can tell it feels more workable than a more shallow face. Has me pondering a 5w simply because of how amazing the club feels when it’s on.
Hoping to find time to get to a course soon, but starting a new job tomorrow might push that back to May.
[/QUOTE]
I feel the same about mine. Couldn’t be happier about the distance and dispersion I’m now getting out of mine. I’m pondering the TD 7W at 20*
[QUOTE=”mikefrench, post: 12266293, member: 77714″]
I feel the same about mine. Couldn’t be happier about the distance and dispersion I’m now getting out of mine. I’m pondering the TD 7W at 20*
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The profile on these are just perfect! The 7W is a great ponder…
[QUOTE=”jefe35, post: 12256236, member: 73409″]
then suggested the IA Smoke 3D 7 wood as an alternative. I hit the 2 hybrids about the same as my current hybrid, and didn’t really want to even try a 7 wood (kind of an ego thing). I broke down and hit one…then another…and about 15 more. Almost all of them were really good. So I broke down and ordered the 7 wood as well.
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So what were you seeing that convinced you? Strictly distance? Sounds like it’s flying high so is that all carry for you? What are you looking for it do for ya? I want one lol
[QUOTE=”Hokie2018, post: 12258026, member: 78737″]
Had a really good range session with the TD 3w today. Was finally seeing proper distance out of it compared to previous 3w (shaft issue probably but this thing is easy ball speed wrapped in carbon), and can tell it feels more workable than a more shallow face. Has me pondering a 5w simply because of how amazing the club feels when it’s on.
[/QUOTE]
How is this club compare feel wise to the old gamer?
Have you played a 5w before? it is something I always ponder but typically don’t hit woods well.
[QUOTE=”Muchmore, post: 12267581, member: 56094″]
So what were you seeing that convinced you? Strictly distance? Sounds like it’s flying high so is that all carry for you? What are you looking for it do for ya? I want one lol
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What sold me was the consistency – they all went fairly straight and similar distances. Actual distance I think will be similar to my 3 hybrid – more carry but no roll. Not sure if I’ll end up liking the extra height or not – I don’t play in really strong winds very often but enough 15-20 mph that I’m concerned on the into the wind shots that it may only go as far as my 4 iron. A little bit of an impulse buy which I don’t normally do but I’m looking forward to the experiment.
[QUOTE=”jefe35, post: 12267644, member: 73409″]
What sold me was the consistency – they all went fairly straight and similar distances. Actual distance I think will be similar to my 3 hybrid – more carry but no roll. Not sure if I’ll end up liking the extra height or not – I don’t play in really strong winds very often but enough 15-20 mph that I’m concerned on the into the wind shots that it may only go as far as my 4 iron. A little bit of an impulse buy which I don’t normally do but I’m looking forward to the experiment.
[/QUOTE]
That sounds like a club that I’ve been looking for. Something to get me a consistent distance that’s easy to get up in the air. I’ve seen a lot of 7w love in this thread. It’s been an intriguing thought for awhile!
[QUOTE=”Muchmore, post: 12267687, member: 56094″]
That sounds like a club that I’ve been looking for. Something to get me a consistent distance that’s easy to get up in the air. I’ve seen a lot of 7w love in this thread. It’s been an intriguing thought for awhile!
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The 7W is almost [I]effortless[/I] to get in the air. Such an easy playing club.
[QUOTE=”jefe35, post: 12267644, member: 73409″]
What sold me was the consistency – they all went fairly straight and similar distances. Actual distance I think will be similar to my 3 hybrid – more carry but no roll. Not sure if I’ll end up liking the extra height or not – I don’t play in really strong winds very often but enough 15-20 mph that I’m concerned on the into the wind shots that it may only go as far as my 4 iron. A little bit of an impulse buy which I don’t normally do but I’m looking forward to the experiment.
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I think you’re pretty on the mark about distance, my 7W fills the gap above my 5 hybrid and below my 3HL fairway wood (which is essentially a 4 wood). In my fitting, the 7W and 4 hybrid were pretty close in distance.
Are you finding that the 7W balloons on you, or is it just a higher launch than you’re used to with the 3 hybrid?
[QUOTE=”jefe35, post: 12267644, member: 73409″]
What sold me was the consistency – they all went fairly straight and similar distances. Actual distance I think will be similar to my 3 hybrid – more carry but no roll. Not sure if I’ll end up liking the extra height or not – I don’t play in really strong winds very often but enough 15-20 mph that I’m concerned on the into the wind shots that it may only go as far as my 4 iron. A little bit of an impulse buy which I don’t normally do but I’m looking forward to the experiment.
[/QUOTE]
That’s exactly what I’m pondering. I’d be looking for this to go about the same distance, if not a slightly shorter on full distance (not carry) than my 3H. I’m looking for that higher flight and stopping power on the green – and it might be a choice on the day which one goes in the bag depending on wind and how firm/dry the course and greens are.
[QUOTE=”mikefrench, post: 12267862, member: 77714″]
That’s exactly what I’m pondering. I’d be looking for this to go about the same distance, if not a slightly shorter on full distance (not carry) than my 3H. I’m looking for that higher flight and stopping power on the green – and it might be a choice on the day which one goes in the bag depending on wind and how firm/dry the course and greens are.
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My fitter at the Grandaddy gave me both the 7W and 4H for that exact reason – he said they were very close in gapping and I could swap them out depending on needs/course conditions. The 4H is adjustable and the 7W isn’t, so it gives me a little flexibility with the 4H to make it work optimally.
[QUOTE=”BigMac, post: 12267718, member: 3386″]
I think you’re pretty on the mark about distance, my 7W fills the gap above my 5 hybrid and below my 3HL fairway wood (which is essentially a 4 wood). In my fitting, the 7W and 4 hybrid were pretty close in distance.
Are you finding that the 7W balloons on you, or is it just a higher launch than you’re used to with the 3 hybrid?
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I haven’t received it yet so I’m not sure how it’ll be in the real world. I think in normal conditions it’ll be great but could balloon a little into the wind which worries me. I’m also hoping for distance similar to my 3 hybrid to make sure my gapping is good. Very much looking forward to it but it could be the first time I’ve bought a club with a lot of uncertainty. I wasn’t even thinking about a 7 wood and normally I do a ton of research before buying something new so we’ll see…
[QUOTE=”jefe35, post: 12267874, member: 73409″]
I haven’t received it yet so I’m not sure how it’ll be in the real world. I think in normal conditions it’ll be great but could balloon a little into the wind which worries me. I’m also hoping for distance similar to my 3 hybrid to make sure my gapping is good. Very much looking forward to it but it could be the first time I’ve bought a club with a lot of uncertainty. I wasn’t even thinking about a 7 wood and normally I do a ton of research before buying something new so we’ll see…
[/QUOTE]
I’ll be interested to hear how you get along with it. It’s a stupidly fun club to hit!
[QUOTE=”mikefrench, post: 12267862, member: 77714″]
That’s exactly what I’m pondering. I’d be looking for this to go about the same distance, if not a slightly shorter on full distance (not carry) than my 3H. I’m looking for that higher flight and stopping power on the green – and it might be a choice on the day which one goes in the bag depending on wind and how firm/dry the course and greens are.
[/QUOTE]
TD could be a very good choice for you then, perhaps. Did you get it outside for hitting when pondering? Curious what you thought about the shape and size of it as well compared to the 3H
[QUOTE=”Briton G, post: 12267597, member: 63796″]
How is this club compare feel wise to the old gamer?
Have you played a 5w before? it is something I always ponder but typically don’t hit woods well.
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I like a good 5w but was trying out a utility iron as a more budget option to fill top of bag, but now I’m realizing that I’m hitting my 3w more consistently and getting the desired effect/flighting out of TD so… utility iron is just harder to hit for me for whatever reason. My angle of attack with irons isn’t steep enough so usually I’m having trouble hitting irons fat if trying to get a negative angle of attack or just hitting too far up and losing distance.
“Old” gamer is not actually old, but not the right fit after playing with it for a while. As I mentioned, shaft was one component, but the deeper face gives me more confidence that I can hit it pretty solid. I don’t need the wider face forgiveness that standard Paradym was offering and ended up that my 3w and 5w gapping never felt quite right, plus ease of use was not there. Would say that my 5w was the easier of the two to hit as well.
With TD, better feeling shaft, and just getting more comfort with my swing, I’m getting distance close to or exceeding my driver carry when I really strike it well. It feels like a mini driver almost with how far it can go. 5w would be more for distance gapping, as I am realizing that 280 shot is borderline for my 3w now if it rolls out enough.
I would just say that right now, my comfort is with my Driver and 3w and I feel like capitalizing that comfort would be better long term. Utility iron feels like a struggle more often than not, even though I had immediate success with it in a fitting.
[QUOTE=”mikefrench, post: 12266293, member: 77714″]
I feel the same about mine. Couldn’t be happier about the distance and dispersion I’m now getting out of mine. I’m pondering the TD 7W at 20*
[/QUOTE]
See I thought about that too, but I wonder if I wouldn’t be better off trying to gap in a 5w and not sacrifice distance for off the tee or long approaches. If I can finally get my iron game where it can be, I almost wonder if 7w would be too close to 4i distance. I also wonder if the 7w flight would balloon for me or if it’s low relative to other 7w.
I wish I could fit both in my bag at this point haha TD is just awesome this year to me, it’s such a fun club
[QUOTE=”Hokie2018, post: 12268478, member: 78737″]
I like a good 5w but was trying out a utility iron as a more budget option to fill top of bag, but now I’m realizing that I’m hitting my 3w more consistently and getting the desired effect/flighting out of TD so… utility iron is just harder to hit for me for whatever reason. My angle of attack with irons isn’t steep enough so usually I’m having trouble hitting irons fat if trying to get a negative angle of attack or just hitting too far up and losing distance.
“Old” gamer is not actually old, but not the right fit after playing with it for a while. As I mentioned, shaft was one component, but the deeper face gives me more confidence that I can hit it pretty solid. I don’t need the wider face forgiveness that standard Paradym was offering and ended up that my 3w and 5w gapping never felt quite right, plus ease of use was not there. Would say that my 5w was the easier of the two to hit as well.
With TD, better feeling shaft, and just getting more comfort with my swing, I’m getting distance close to or exceeding my driver carry when I really strike it well. It feels like a mini driver almost with how far it can go. 5w would be more for distance gapping, as I am realizing that 280 shot is borderline for my 3w now if it rolls out enough.
I would just say that right now, my comfort is with my Driver and 3w and I feel like capitalizing that comfort would be better long term. Utility iron feels like a struggle more often than not, even though I had immediate success with it in a fitting.
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Love this! I didn’t give the 3/5 wood a shot because my confidence with them is low…..but I like the set up you are working out! Glad you are seeing success with the TD
[QUOTE=”Bryndom, post: 12268398, member: 53516″]
TD could be a very good choice for you then, perhaps. Did you get it outside for hitting when pondering? Curious what you thought about the shape and size of it as well compared to the 3H
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Still pondering in my head – only been a few days. Will give a couple of local pro shops on ranges a call and see what they can provide as a demo over the weekend if all works out.
Picked Up a Smoke max fairway wood. Man am I in love with this club. I can use it as a fairway finder off the tee or hit it on a par 5. this club will be a great asset to my arsenal this summer.
I had Paradym fwast year and problem was it was too shallow for me off the tee and ended putting a sky make on it. Never did that with any other fw I owned.
Are the new models as shallow?
Sent from my SM-S918W using Tapatalk
[QUOTE=”Canabuc, post: 12269385, member: 19464″]
I had Paradym fwast year and problem was it was too shallow for me off the tee and ended putting a sky make on it. Never did that with any other fw I owned.
Are the new models as shallow?
Sent from my SM-S918W using Tapatalk
[/QUOTE]
I have the 3W TD which I understand is a little deeper in the face than the standard model but off the tee I rarely get underneath it, and if I did the plastic bumper on the front of the crown is there. That said I don’t have an issue launching it so I’m tee’ing it down.
It does sound like it is an issue though – reported elsewhere…..
[QUOTE=”Ronnie D, post: 12269370, member: 75887″]
Picked Up a Smoke max fairway wood. Man am I in love with this club. I can use it as a fairway finder off the tee or hit it on a par 5. this club will be a great asset to my arsenal this summer.
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Which one did you grab? What shaft did you go with?
[QUOTE=”Just_Brad, post: 12269415, member: 9473″]
Which one did you grab? What shaft did you go with?
[/QUOTE]
I got the 3 wood with a ventus 7x blue shaft
[QUOTE=”mikefrench, post: 12269413, member: 77714″]I have the 3W TD which I understand is a little deeper in the face than the standard model but off the tee I rarely get underneath it, and if I did the plastic bumper on the front of the crown is there. That said I don’t have an issue launching it so I’m tee’ing it down.
It does sound like it is an issue though – reported elsewhere…..[/QUOTE]Plastic bumper?
Sent from my SM-S918W using Tapatalk
[QUOTE=”Canabuc, post: 12269724, member: 19464″]
Plastic bumper?
Sent from my SM-S918W using Tapatalk
[/QUOTE]
Now I read it back I know that probably isn’t the best description even though in my head I know exactly what I mean. See the photo – it is the plastic at the face end of the crown at the front/top of the club and absolutely gives you a little protection and leeway on high on the face strikes. It won’t help you if you go completely under the ball – but then I’d say that’s a tee height issue.
[ATTACH type=”full”]9256374[/ATTACH]
Had a fitting this morning expecting either a TSR3 or TD. Ended up walking out with the AI Max 3 wood. The Blue shaft was too soft but put the Project X Denali Black 70 in it and it was so stable. Pares go with Ventus Black 60 in my driver.
[QUOTE=”odshot68, post: 12271413, member: 9954″]
Had a fitting this morning expecting either a TSR3 or TD. Ended up walking out with the AI Max 3 wood. The Blue shaft was too soft but put the Project X Denali Black 70 in it and it was so stable. Pares go with Ventus Black 60 in my driver.
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What did you see that made the Max the best option?
[QUOTE=”Jeff Spicoli, post: 12271707, member: 10545″]
What did you see that made the Max the best option?
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It gave me a low/mid trajectory with good size sweet spot. It was not draw bias and even though it’s not as deep it worked great off a tee. Was getting perfect spin numbers and never ballooned. The TD was too low launch and spin. I will say the blue shaft it comes with ballooned and spin was too high for me.
[QUOTE=”mikefrench, post: 12268649, member: 77714″]
Still pondering in my head – only been a few days. Will give a couple of local pro shops on ranges a call and see what they can provide as a demo over the weekend if all works out.
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Dropped into a pro shop today after getting 18 holes in on a local par 3 with my son. Got to line up a 7 wood against the 3H – although it was the standard Paradym not the TD. In summary for me a more pleasing profile when you look down on it – deeper, less bulbous, less of a closed face/draw bias. Didn’t look too small compared to the 3W or 5W.
Also got a look at the AI Smoke 7W and 5W and they are stunning.
My challenge is getting a stiff shaft on a 7W in a used model if possible, rather than buying new and getting a custom shaft fitted, but I think I might have a line on one.
[QUOTE=”mikefrench, post: 12270386, member: 77714″]
Now I read it back I know that probably isn’t the best description even though in my head I know exactly what I mean. See the photo – it is the plastic at the face end of the crown at the front/top of the club and absolutely gives you a little protection and leeway on high on the face strikes. It won’t help you if you go completely under the ball – but then I’d say that’s a tee height issue.
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Just a heads up, it isn’t plastic.
It is part of the chassis, that top isn’t tacked on, it is the same material the hosel
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[QUOTE=”mikefrench, post: 12270386, member: 77714″]Now I read it back I know that probably isn’t the best description even though in my head I know exactly what I mean. See the photo – it is the plastic at the face end of the crown at the front/top of the club and absolutely gives you a little protection and leeway on high on the face strikes. It won’t help you if you go completely under the ball – but then I’d say that’s a tee height issue.
[ATTACH type=”full”]9256374[/ATTACH][/QUOTE]Hit it at golf store on simulator and overall liked it. Nice feel with Denali shaft and hit some high launching bombs with it. But it had tendency to go left on me and I think 2600 is a bit low spin for 3 wood.
Tried a few other 3 wood including g430 max and Mizuno STG and it was better than those…
Ironically I ended up buying something not on my radar. The g425 woods went in sale and tried the last in flat position. Penetrating dead straight to baby fade shots.. couldn’t miss left and even the right misses were near centerline.
Launch was 11 with about 3000-3100 spin vs 3D at 13 and 2650.
Distance similar but got there differently.
Ball speed was on average similar 3D had 2 that hit 151 though vs 149 max on the ping.
I opted for straight and lower that is more controllable. Didn’t try the Max head to be honest. Maybe would have been better.
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I put a Graphite Design AD HD in my Triple D 5 wood. It definitely is launching higher than it was with the Denali shaft. I can’t determine yet whether the re-shaft made the club better for me. On TrackMan it did, but it seemed a bit spinny out on the course today. More swings are needed in real playing conditions.
[QUOTE=”mikefrench, post: 12272214, member: 77714″]
…. My challenge is getting a stiff shaft on a 7W in a used model if possible, rather than buying new and getting a custom shaft fitted, but I think I might have a line on one.
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Well the good news is that I have just won myself a tour issue 7W TD with a Hzrdus red stiff shaft on eBay, unused, and it should be with me in the week….
The bad news (not really bad news) is that it is a Paradym rather than an AI Smoke so I’ll need to excuse myself from this discussion and try to find the equivalent Paradym one !!
Great price though, even if you ignore the fact that it is tour issue, and it’ll match in nicely with my Paradym 3W TD.
Lots of rain these last few days. The AI smoke Max D 3W got a workout. Just couldn’t get anything to hit out of the puddles on the fairway (and rough, I’m not THAT consistent)
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Pictured: Fairways a little wet
But at different courses this thing was a game changer this week. I shot a +26 one of the rounds so it shows how badly I needed help.
Off the tee as others have raved about, it’s straight as an arrow. Really not much to talk about there. I really thought I’d never replace my Epic 3 wood. Ever. It used to be my “the club you are least likely to replace” thread answer.
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Pictured: off the tee. Holy moly
But the real reason I’m loving this is for the versatility. High on a hill. Under a tree (with plenty of room to swing) a million miles from the hole.
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Not Pictured: the hole far off to the left.
My fairway woods are short by 1/4” and it makes such a nice difference when using them for oddball shots.
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Pictured: the result.
Confidence in these clubs because the entire face is littered with safe spots makes “going for it” so much less risky.
Range on Saturday, for the first outdoor swings of the year.
With everything going on swing/confidence wise, I attempted to go through my bag, and got to the 5W and HW.
5W, swing issues, and poor contact. That might happen when hitting on turf/dirt tighter than a hitting mat.
Heavenwood though? You would have thought there was nothing wrong with me at all. The launch, the straight ball flight, I was just shaking my head. I should just bag 13 Heavenwoods and a Putter. Pretty sure I would be smiles all day long.
[QUOTE=”Just_Brad, post: 12280939, member: 9473″]
Range on Saturday, for the first outdoor swings of the year.
With everything going on swing/confidence wise, I attempted to go through my bag, and got to the 5W and HW.
5W, swing issues, and poor contact. That might happen when hitting on turf/dirt tighter than a hitting mat.
Heavenwood though? You would have thought there was nothing wrong with me at all. The launch, the straight ball flight, I was just shaking my head. I should just bag 13 Heavenwoods and a Putter. Pretty sure I would be smiles all day long.
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So we never got to play together so I only saw your range play. Do you generally play a straight ball with the heavenwood? Its just interesting when I hear someone hitting straight balls at the top of the bag versus a draw/fade.
[QUOTE=”Pharaoh, post: 12281123, member: 60146″]
So we never got to play together so I only saw your range play. Do you generally play a straight ball with the heavenwood? Its just interesting when I hear someone hitting straight balls at the top of the bag versus a draw/fade.
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Normally with the Heavenwood from the fairway it is straight to a slight fade. No worries about a big right or left miss, as it usually stays shockingly straight, and that is with all the stupid swing stuff I have going on right now.
The high flight of my 5W is so awesome. I never imagined I would hit a fairway wood so high off the deck. And it is getting plenty of distance. Very impressed with this Max D setup
I have mentioned it before, but this is why I went D/5W up top instead of D/3W. If I need a safe tee shot under 250, the 5W is just a better play for me. The arccos stats are of my new MaxD 5W versus my Speedzone Big Tour 3W. Included Driver to show that I was really gaining nothing with a 3W except maybe the worst driver shots were worse than my bad 3W shots.
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[QUOTE=”oumagic, post: 12284520, member: 52535″]
I have mentioned it before, but this is why I went D/5W up top instead of D/3W. If I need a safe tee shot under 250, the 5W is just a better play for me. The arccos stats are of my new MaxD 5W versus my Speedzone Big Tour 3W. Included Driver to show that I was really gaining nothing with a 3W except maybe the worst driver shots were worse than my bad 3W shots.
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That difference in accuracy! :love:
Into the wind I’ll take this anytime. Especially with that height. This AI Smoke 3 wood is so much fun to hit.
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[QUOTE=”BigMac, post: 12284794, member: 3386″]
That difference in accuracy! :love:
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It is more accurate that my 4H and I like that a lot. I might need to look at a 7W
[QUOTE=”oumagic, post: 12284953, member: 52535″]
It is more accurate that my 4H and I like that a lot. I might need to look at a 7W
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I have the Max D 7W. I haven’t had it out on the course yet but I hit it so well at a Demo day / fitting. The Callaway rep recommended the 7W over a 4H.
[QUOTE=”Bernoulli, post: 12285002, member: 42734″]
I have the Max D 7W. I haven’t had it out on the course yet but I hit it so well at a Demo day / fitting. The Callaway rep recommended the 7W over a 4H.
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I really like the 4H. That said, I absolutely LOVE the 5W MaxD. Thanks for letting me know; I think I will give the 7W a try sometime soon