What are your thoughts on "Last years models"?

[elivate]

I am seriously considering a new driver, my Adams Redline is ok, but I never had it fit for me and I am just not loving it...

I am looking at the Cleveland HiBore, last years model is only $199 vs $369 for the new XL... Is there really that much difference in these clubs? I really want to find something that I like and will have for a number of years and I don't want to make the decision just on the cost, but that is a lot of money...

I can also get the Callaway X460 for $238, hundreds less than the new Callaway drivers... Again, would there really be that much difference? Especially if I get the club fitted...

Thanks!

[wtd]

My understanding is that there is a fairly significant difference between the HiBore and the HiBore XL. That being said, TaylorMade's R7 from last year is still extremely popular, as are the Callaway X460 (I know several people with this club, and they all love it). People on this board generally rave about the Callaway FT-3 as well.

I'm one of those clowns who always wants to have the latest and greatest, but with most manufacturers having reached the point where their drivers are (to quote TaylorMade) evolutionary as opposed to revolutionary, in most cases you're not going to be getting a whole lot more for a whole lot more money.

[$2 Nassau]

I love the "last year's model" type of products. Personally, I'm not someone who has to have the latest equipment as soon as it hits the shelf. I'd rather the product be around for a year or so, gives me a chance to assess the criticism (positive and negative). And of course, the prices are always much more reasonable.

My father-in-law and his buddies run out and buy drivers as soon as they hit the shelf, spend up to $500 at times, use them for a few months and then decide that they need a new one after they have one bad day driving the ball. Boggles my mind.

[BaronV]

If you're interested in the HIBore XL you can actually get it for around $200-210 on eBay (recent prices I've checked it sold for) while the old HiBore version bought at a store still goes for around $140-150, so spend an extra $50 and get this better version.

[elivate]

  BaronV said:

If you're interested in the HIBore XL you can actually get it for around $200-210 on eBay (recent prices I've checked it sold for) while the old HiBore version bought at a store still goes for around $140-150, so spend an extra $50 and get this better version.

Thanks, but I really want to get properly fitted for the driver. I bought my Adams Redline "off the shelf" and I don't think it is suited to me all that well...

I do not mind spending some extra money for a club that has been fitted... I just don't want to have to spend an extra $200 or more if it is not really necessary, that is why I was looking for opinions on the older models... I need a new bag so the extra cash will go towards that...

[WhiteSoxFan]

Do you have a Golfsmith near you? They have the HiBore on sale right now (through May) for $169. With their promotion, they have $20 off coupons on thier scratch tickets. The register dude should be willing to give you one if you don't score one yourself. You can get the club fitted there.

[elivate]

  WhiteSoxFan said:

Do you have a Golfsmith near you? They have the HiBore on sale right now (through May) for $169. With their promotion, they have $20 off coupons on thier scratch tickets. The register dude should be willing to give you one if you don't score one yourself. You can get the club fitted there.

Nope, my only choice (that is close) is a store called Golf Central. They have the HiBore for $199 fitting included... Thanks for the info though!

[docmao]

I bought a R5 TP this week. Last year, this puppy was going for $600. I got it gently used on eBay for $100, and I am just giddy over it.

FYI, I did buy a HiBore last year, before the XL came out and hit it well for about 3 weeks, then grew to hate it. It consistently balooned on me. I traded it in for a different shaft with a higher kick point to no avail.

my $.02

[MGP]

Getting properly fit is always a good idea. Demoing clubs too.

There's nothing wrong with "last year's model" of clubs either, especially if you find one you hit well. You also get a nice price break for still very close to cutting edge technology.

Look at what's in my bag -- I hit a TM R580XD driver. It's several model years old but it's still one of the most solid drivers out there. You can pick them up for cheap and quite a few of the golf stores still have stock on them. Cheap enough that I even have two of them (9.5° and 10.5°). I hit the 10.5° most of the time but will play the 9.5° when it's windy as I launch it somewhat lower.

I like the club, swing it well and most importantly hit it fairly long and straight. I really wouldn't care if it was 10 model years old.