FT-5 vs. FT-5 Tour?

[tradewind_golfer]

Any comments out there on the differences between the two?

I picked up an FT-5 10* draw with the stiff E-150 shaft and really like it. However, I notice that I'm getting more distance and actually starting to lose balls left. (Going to the standard FT-5 in neutral bias is not an option as the the shop I trade at does not have any used ones--but they do have neutral Tour versions and draw bias Tour versions as well).

I see that the FT-5 tour is .5* open and shaft is a few grams heavier. I know a lot of you guys prefer a square or slightly open face--any feedback on why you like this?

I've goog'd this but can't come up with many head-to-head comparisons of the tour and non-tour version.

Mahalo for any feedback!

[Hustle]

I have heard that the tour version puts less spin on the ball, but are much harder to control the the regular models. But I really do not know much about equipment.

[tradewind_golfer]

I have heard that the tour version puts less spin on the ball, but are much harder to control the the regular models. But I really do not know much about equipment.

Thanks, that's good to know.

[nykfan4life]

The only difference I am aware of is that there is an open face on the tour version, as opposed to the closed one on the regular FT-5

[tradewind_golfer]

The only difference I am aware of is that there is an open face on the tour version, as opposed to the closed one on the regular FT-5

Yes, that's what I'm seeing, and the shaft is a few grams heavier, also swing weight is D3 vs. D2 (not sure I could tell the difference).

I'm just wondering how much that 1.5* difference will make (regular FT-5 is 1* closed). Just wondering if any of you guys tried the FT-5 Tour in the DRAW version. How does that work? .5* open face and draw biased weighting. I'm hoping that it wouldn't be as wicked a "hooker" but haven't really ever tried a "tour" version driver before. Thanks for the input!

[williethekid]

The tour also exists only in half degree versions. When the face is open like that they also might be slightly lower in loft, so have it checked by a club maker or test drive it and hope for the best. The tour authentic FT-5 is coming out soon too with a T designation, and im assuming more shaft options.

[Guest]

I've currently own the 8.5* and have hit the regular 10*, both in neutral bias. The 10 deg definately looks a bit more closed at address and is more of a straight hitter and harder to work.

Other thing i noticed was the ball didnt have as near the rollout with the reg 10*, but i dont know if it was the increased loft, different shaft or what have you.

[Doctorfro]

I just know I'm tired of playing closed-faced clubs. The Tour will be great. I doubt you'll be leaving shots out to the right.

[tradewind_golfer]

Ok, thought I owed you guys an update.

The FT-5 draw was a serious draw machine. This was fine when I was just taking it easy, but once I got warmed up and started just letting it go, I was hitting some mean draws/hooks.

The funny thing was, contact felt terrific, but the ball just took off straight then started turning to the left.

Picked up the FT-5 Tour 10.5* neutral with the stiff E-360(?) shaft. This is definitely a "tweaked" version of the standard model.

Ok, here's what I notice:
1. It's a bit heavier and feels even more "stable" throughout the swing
2. The COG does seem just a touch higher (the 10.5* tour launches a bit lower than the 10*)
3. Misses tend to be spread out more evenly left and right of center (not all left and more left like with the regular FT-5).
4. The .5* open face is hardly noticeable but perhaps subconsciously it looks like you can let it go.

I never understood why guys liked square or slightly open clubs, but now I kind of understand.

Distance is fantastic, impact is great, and I like the sound.

I would say that anyone who fights the ball going left when really cranking one would like the tour version a little better than the regular.

Thanks for everyone's input.

I'm praying to the Volcano Goddess that this driver is THE ONE!!! (pleasepleaseplease!!!)

[follyforhire]

Congratulations, and I'd say good choice. The open face isn't going to cause a shot to go right, and when you groove it, it's going to be great. Good luck.

[tradewind_golfer]

Thanks, folly!

I haven't been this impressed with a driver for at least the past 50 trade-ins !!!

The .5* open face had me a bit concerned, but now I'm seeing there's nothing to fear...big difference--lot's of potential!

[Mathwiz]

I just recently purchased a FT-5 regular draw with the stock fit on 150 shaft. I have found that even after getting warmed up really well, if I swing with a slight inside to out swing, I hit a draw. If I swing straight back and through, I hit it rather straight. Long both ways. I think the path of the club is what determines a draw or straight shot assuming the face is square at impact on both accounts.