kbs tour v vs tour

Which KBS iron shaft is best for you?

Published: 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.

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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.

RELATED: Which Lamkin grip best suits your game?

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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KBS Tour V Shaft Review and Comparison to KBS Tour

Overall, our testers rated the Tour V 4.4 out of 5 based on the following:

Appearance:  Typical KBS silver finish same as their Tour shaft.

Flexes Available:    R, S and X in taper tip only, 3-9 iron (use 9 iron shaft for wedges).  From a design perspective, the thing we like is that the flexes will be consistent versus the Tour version, which does not always happen when you go to a lighter version of the same shaft.  So, if you are playing an S in the Tour, you will get very close to the same CPM in the Tour V.  Same with the R and X.

MSRP:  $75.00 USD

Availability:   KBS, qualified fitters, and select retail golf stores.

Weight Consistency:   4.8 out of 5.0

Butt Stiffness (CPM):  Consistent increase in CPM from R through X.   R will play lower end of R, S will play low-mid S, and X will play mid-X.  Consistency is 4.7 out of 5.

Tip Stiffness:   Medium

Mid Stiffness:  Medium

Balance Point:  Will yield an average swing weight.

Torque:   Good transition of higher torque in R flex to lowest torque in X flex.  Low torque rating overall.

SQI (Shaft Quality Index):  91.1 out of 100  ( Average).  The S and X flexes are the highest quality.  The test samples we received were not as consistent in the R flex.

Trajectory:  Launch angle is mid.  Tested against the Tour, the Tour V was .5 to 2.0 degrees higher launch.

Spin:  Mid spin.  The spin rate was 600 – 800 rpm lower with the Tour V than the Tour, or roughly 11% lower.

Feel:  Solid feel for all testers.  Felt smoother than the Tour for all testers.

General:   This will be a good addition to the KBS line.  Some stronger players overpower the KBS 90 but like the feel of a lighter weight shaft so the Tour V should fit that bill perfectly.

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KBS Tour V Shaft Review – Specs, Flex, Weight

If you were a fan of the KBS Tour shafts but found them to be a bit too heavy or too stout for your swing then the KBS Tour V shaft should definitely be on your radar.

The KBS Tour V was specifically designed to perform as close as the KBS Tour shafts as possible while at the same time being lighter.

The KBS Tour V promises tight shot dispersion through muted spin and of course, the classic feel and performance of the original KBS Tour shafts. So does it deliver? Find out in the following review!

KBS Tour V Shaft Overview

The aesthetics of the KBS Tour V shaft is very on-brand for the company.

You get the almost obligatory polished chrome finish with the red band in the middle containing all the lettering. And like most KBS shafts, the KBS Tour V is a stepped steel shaft. So the looks aren’t anything special; but they will certainly appeal to you if you prefer the look of a traditional iron shaft.

Overall the feel of the KBS Tour V is more muted than the KBS Tour. There isn’t as much response in it. That doesn’t mean it feels stout. In fact, the KBS Tour V shaft feels much more manageable than the KBS Tour. But there is certainly a lack of feedback in it. The kick point is very hard to suss out unless you take a powerful swing. Then, you can feel it just under the grip.

Still, the transition is very smooth. You can barely feel the shaft release; but you know it’s happening because you get really good ball and club head speed with this shaft. Of course, a lot of the enhanced club head/ball speed will depend on how you swing your irons. For our testing group though, the numbers told the story. Almost all of us were seeing increases over our typical ball/club head speed numbers. The proof is in the pudding as they say.

In the end, we would say that the KBS Tour V favors a more aggressive tempo but it still plays nice with a more deliberate tempo as well. In both cases, you are likely to achieve a nice arcing draw and increased carry and rollout.

Why is the KBS Tour V So Popular?

The KBS Tour V owes a lot of its popularity to the original KBS Tour shaft and the KBS C-Taper shafts.

These are actually more popular than the KBS Tour V; but their success has prompted a lot of people to take a look at the lighter KBS Tour V.

How Does the KBS Tour V Perform?

After our test session, we concluded that the most beneficial thing about the KBS Tour V is distance.

Yes, we were increasing our ball and club head speed with this shaft and yes, that meant better carry. But there are a couple of other dynamics at play here. First of all, the KBS Tour V absolutely delivers on its promise of low spin. Sidespin is muted marvelously so that you get tighter dispersion and good rollout distance.

Secondly, the KBS Tour V is advertised as a mid launching shaft but we saw mostly high-arcing shots in our test session. The higher launch gave most of our testers better overall carry. So when you combine higher launch, muted sidespin and good rollout, you end up with an iron shaft that plays pretty long.

Of course, there is always the concern that low spin will produce too much rollout and that was certainly on our mind during testing. And in fact, some of us did roll off the green and into the weeds. But if you want to limit the amount of irons you need to get greenside, the KBS Tour V is at least worth a look.

KBS Tour V Shaft Specs

What flexes are available what swing speeds do they suit.

Regular flex is available for players in the 80-85 MPH swing speed category.

Stiff is a good choice for 86-90 MPH swingers and extra stiff would suit players in the 91-105 MPH range.

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

The 100g version is good for players in the 80-90 MPH range.

The 110g version may suit 91-95 MPH swingers and the 120g version would be good for players in the 96-105 swing speed spectrum.

Why is it So Good?

The KBS Tour V is a good shaft because it allows players with less aggressive tempos to get the distance help they need on the fairway.

KBS Tour V First Impressions

Our first impression was that the KBS Tour V looked like any other KBS shaft.

But when we swung it, we could feel that it actually had less feedback.

Key Features & Performance

The KBS Tour V features large outer diameters and a stiff tip in order to reduce side spin and enhance stability on full swings.

KBS Tour V Irons Review

Like almost all KBS shafts, the KBS Tour V are very stable and accurate – even on your full swings with the long irons. Dispersion is tight as promised and distance is outstanding.

KBS Tour V Wedges Review

The KBS Tour V wasn’t as great in our wedges. The lack of spin made it hard to stay on fast, elevated greens.

KBS Tour V Pros & Cons

• Very accurate
• Good for moderate and fast tempos
• Feels stable on full swings
• Great distance
• Classic KBS looks
• Limited feedback

Overall Score: 95/100

Check out more reviews here:.

Who Should Buy it?

Muted spin? Check! Tight dispersion? Check! Classic KBS feel? Not so much.

The lack of clear feedback was our biggest gripe about this shaft. Some players may also have issues with excessive rollout. Nevertheless, the KBS Tour V is a great distance iron shaft and it is as accurate as promised.

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KBS Tour-V Iron Shaft Review

Kbs tour-v iron shaft.

KBS shafts are long known for their exceptional feel and quality performance, but like most shaft companies, the world of modern club fitting and technology has caused them to offer a wider range of options to fit different swing types.  With the original KBS Tour iron shaft as their starting point, KBS set out to make a lighter-weight shaft with less spin and a firm feel .  The end result is the KBS Tour-V iron shaft.

How Does it Feel?

If you expect the KBS Tour-V to feel much like the classic KBS Tour shaft, you should reset your expectations.  To firm up the tip section for lower spin, KBS made the “outer diameter” of the shaft bigger which gives a more firm feel.  KBS also raised the center of gravity to a higher position to raise the Tour-V’s balance point.  The end result is a firm, crisp shaft with that signature KBS smoothness and response you know from the standard Tour.  I will warn you though.  If you don’t have the swing for the Tour-V, the shaft may feel too firm and you may struggle to make a good contact.  If you’re a good match, the Tour-V is super crisp and easy to control.

On-Course Performance

Like I mentioned before, the KBS Tour-V is designed to be a lightweight, firm feeling, low spin shaft.  Typically that’s a formula for lower launch as well.  On the KBS shaft chart (you can find that here ), the Tour-V is listed just shy of mid launch and super low spin.  This is perfect proof of why fitting is so important.  After reviewing my data, I definitely experienced mid-launch results.  Where my experience was different was that I didn’t really hit super low-spin shots.  Yes, I did have some notably lower spinning shots, but my swing didn’t necessarily translate into lower spin.  That said, it was easy to tell that the right swing would very likely have the lower spin they’re looking for.  (My numbers were more in the mid-spin range.)

Another characteristic KBS touts for the Tour-V is “tight shot dispersion.”  Tight dispersion is a perfect description of the Tour-V.   In fact, I would say the tight dispersion of the Tour-V is the most impressive performance trait.  The KBS Tour-V is very easy to control and set on your target.   Again, if you have the swing for it, the Tour-V is going to be a great pin seeker.

Final Thoughts – KBS Tour V Shafts

Powerful players that need a firm shaft in their irons will benefit from the KBS Tour-V shaft.  While the Tour-V is not as firm or stout as the C-Taper , similar players will fit into the profile.  The biggest difference between the two is that the Tour-V will launch a little higher than the C-Taper.  If you’re the kind of iron player that can load a shaft and likes to “shoot darts,” then I would definitely put the Tour-V on your radar.

Related Posts:

I’m a 69 year old male I have been playing since I was 10. Iam looking at a new set of irons old set is 20 years old I have dynamic gold s300 in my clubs now would the kbs tour v90 shafts r flex be to light of a shaft. I’m looking for something I can play for awhile. I use to hit my 7iron 150 yards now maybe closer to 135 yds. Should I try the kbs tour v90 shafts or go with something a little heavier

Lighter shafts will in theory make it easier to launch the ball and just swing the club. It is not uncommon for a “seasoned veteran” players to switch to lighter shafts in later years.

Tour V is pretty stout, even at its lighter weight.

Aside from the notes I mentioned here, it really comes down to what feels good in your hands, how you physically swing the new club, and what the results are. Only you will be able to answer that.

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Project X vs. KBS Tour V: Low- vs. High Launch Ironshafts

When fitting very good players, it is often only a matter of small details. With these players, it is often already clear in which direction the club head, shaft weight, shaft length and swing weight should go. Here it is often not sensible to dare larger experiments. Most of the time, it's just a matter of finding a combination of club head and shaft to develop a good swing feel, to hit the balls consistently and without major deviations and to optimise the trajectory.

What definitely makes sense here is to test shafts with very different profiles. In the following case, we did just that and looked at two shafts that are very similar in terms of flex and weight, but differ greatly in the bending profile.

One is the Project X 6.0 and the other is the KBS Tour V. The Project X has been known for years as a shaft that allows a very penetrating and controlled ball flight. It is especially suitable for professionals who have no problems generating spin and sufficiently "compressing" the ball. This means that such a player prefers a low ball flight with less spin that he can control better.

The bending profile of the Project X is explained quite quickly: The middle part of the shaft is relatively soft, while the tip is very stiff. This profile is very similar to the Nippon Modus or the very successful Fujikura Ventus shafts.

The exact opposite is the KBS Tour V. This one has a relatively stiff mid section and is very soft in the tip. Such a shaft profile is not found too often. The Tour V therefore embodies the counterpart to the Project X very well and is therefore ideal for a comparison.

Our player swings a 6 iron at around 89-91mph and what you can see straight away is that he was able to accelerate the Tour V a little easier. The club head speed is slightly higher. This is not exactly surprising. Even though the overall stiffness of the shaft is the same, the soft tip is noticeable here, which makes for a slightly better acceleration at impact. On the other hand, the strike pattern with the KBS Tour V was slightly worse with 1.30 vs. 1.32 efficiency.

The actual difference is noticeable in the dynamic loft, because here the two shafts are 2° apart. That is quite a lot in this range. The result of this 2° more dynamic loft with the KBS Tour V is 150rpm more spin and 1.3° higher launch. The peak height is also significantly higher. The Project X, however, achieves practically the same length with a flatter trajectory and slightly less spin despite lower club head speed.

You could say that the result is very similar, but that is not the point of this test. This test mainly shows how different a ball flight can look just based on the shaft profile. After all, we are dealing with the same degree of stiffness and shaft weight. Only the shaft can influence the ball flight and optimise it accordingly.

It was also noticeable that the player was always struggling with the change of shaft. He needed a few swings to adjust to the new shaft. This also speaks for the fact that the shaft is very individual and a change in profile can certainly provide a completely different swing feeling.

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KBS Tour-V Wedge Shaft Review

More in shafts:.

50 Words or Less

The KBS Tour-V wedge shaft is a great extension beyond your pitching wedge, but isn’t necessarily a spin maximizer.

Introduction

The wedge portion of the bag tends to be a make or break portion for a lot of golfers from the high-handicap amateur through the scratch player.  The fact of the matter is that understanding your needs and your own game is no easy task.  Some players need a shaft in their wedge to generate as much spin as possible whereas other players are looking for their sand wedge to play as an extension of their iron set.   The KBS Tour-V wedge shaft does the latter and is very strong in doing so.

If you have any familiarity with KBS shafts, the KBS Tour-V wedge shaft will come as no surprise.  The look is a plain chrome shaft with steps and a simple KBS shaft band that’s prevalent enough to let you know what your shaft is, but far from distracting.  Simplicity goes a long way with steel shafts and this fact is not lost on KBS.

Feel is a bit interesting for the KBS Tour-V wedge shaft .  You can definitely feel the ball, but you don’t necessarily have a super dialed in and in-tune feel.  For comparative purposes, most wedge shafts that are designed to have a little extra response in the hands are going to have more feel than the KBS Tour-V wedge shaft.  Generally, the Tour-V wedge shaft excels on full shots like it’s an extension of your iron set and gets a little stout for the touch shots closer to the green.  If you’re looking for a little more life in your wedge shaft, I would strongly recommend going with a different option.  If you’re looking to hit your sand and lob wedges better with full swings, the Tour-V wedge shaft is exactly the feel you’re looking for.

Performance

As you have likely noticed by now, I keep mentioning that the KBS Tour-V wedge shaft is a great extension of your iron set and not so much a pitch and chip high-spin monster.  Installed in my 54º sand wedge, I was hitting the Tour-V wedge shaft 100 to 115 yard shots just as easy as a pitching wedge , but when I had to be cute around the green, I struggled.  To “check my math” I dumped the same club in the hands of a scratch player and club fitter at Club Champion, and he found the same thing.  His feedback was that he could really step on it for fuller shots, but he felt the stout feeling and response around the green made it one-trick pony for him near the green.  There’s nothing wrong with that if it fits your game, but it’s an important factor to keep in mind as you set up your bag and decide what’s important to you in your club rig.

At the time of this review, I’m still in the midst of figuring out what my wedge game looks like at “this stage of my career.”  When I feel good around the greens, I’m terrible using them as full swing clubs.  When I’m good using a sand wedge for that 100 yard shot, it seems I struggle around the green.  What I’ve found with the KBS Tour-V wedge shaft , along with the feedback from some other golfers, is that it’s a great option for full swing shots .  Around the greens, the Tour-V was great for pitches that were kept relatively low and ran out, but not for biting and stopping on a dime.  The Tour-V is a good shaft, you just need to make sure you know how it responds for you.

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Hey Bill- Thanks for all of your great reviews and insight. How would you compare the Tour V Wedge shaft and the 610 Wedge shaft as far as launch and spin. Also, which, in your opinion, is “easier” to work with as far as different trajectory and spin? Thanks for your assistance and input

Bill no longer writes for Plugged In Golf, so he cannot answer this question.

@Merlin Both wedge shafts are low spin shafts. The KBS 610 wedge shaft is essentially the ‘big brother’ of the KBS Tour V wedge shaft, and also features a slightly larger butt diameter than the Tour V. The slightly larger butt diameter might feel ok in the hands of some players, but for others it may not. The Tour V wedge shaft is also designed to launch slightly higher than the 610. I have been testing the Tour V 125 S+ in my 50*-degree gap wedge, and have found it becoming more and more comfortable to hit as time goes on, as it is basically like a point-and-shoot sniper rifle, designed to reduce dispersion as much as possible when attacking pins. The step pattern of the Tour V wedge shaft is also quite condensed to allow for thicker shaft walls to reach further down the length of the shaft, as this is what helps it eliminate dispersion, but may also make it feel too “stout” in the hands of some players. The Tour V is quite a stiff feeling shaft I would say, but for players who are physically strong enough to swing it or generally prefer gaming stiffer shafts, it’s a wedge shaft that should work quite well. I would also recommend the Tour V as a good shaft to try for players who have a quicker, more violent swing transition from backswing to fore-swing. However, the Tour V is also available in lighter iron shaft weights (100g/110g/120g), so the 9i-PW shaft from either one of that trio of weights could potentially be used as a lighter, less stiff substitute for the tour spec S+ 125g mentioned above in this article. Most notably, Phil Mickelson uses the KBS Tour V 125g S+ in all of his irons and all of his wedges, as this shaft was originally designed for him by KBS with his input before it was released to the general market.

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KBS Tour V .355 Steel Iron Shafts

Shaft services optional, description.

The KBS TOUR V shaft is a slightly modified version of the the popular KBS Tour shafts. The KBS Tour V shafts are lighter than the original KBS Tour shafts and also feature a larger tube diameter to produce a mid level launch angle with lower spin for a significantly tighter shot dispersion.

trimming instructions

The KBS TOUR-V is a lightweight product that features larger o...

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KBS $-Taper Black PVD .355 Iron Shafts

KBS $-Taper Chrome .355" Iron Shafts

KBS Tour Lite .355 Steel Iron Shafts

KBS Tour Custom Black .355 Steel Iron Shafts

This product can expose you to chemicals including black (airborne, unbound particles of respirable size), which is know to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov .

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SST PURE identifies asymmetries that exist in every golf shaft and locates each shaft's most stable orientation. This results in more consistent performance and uniform feel from club to club.

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Shafts are tip trimmed (if required) to manufacturer’s recommendations. For steel shafts, we abrade the tips. For graphite shafts, we remove the polyurethane coating. When you receive your shaft, all you need to do is mix epoxy, install and align. After the epoxy is cured, cut to your final playing length from the butt end and install the grip.

Tip & Butt Trimming - $4.95

Shafts are tip trimmed (if required) to manufacturer’s recommendations. For steel shafts, we abrade the tips. For graphite shafts, we remove the polyurethane coating. After tip trimming and prepping, the shafts are butt trimmed to the desired final playing length*.

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KBS Tour V vs. Dynamic Gold S300: Which Shaft to Choose?

Both the KBS Tour V and Dynamic Gold S300 are iron shafts. Nine PGA Tour players used KBS V in 2023. But none of the tour players used the Dynamic Gold S300.

The core difference between these two is in weight and swing quality. Talking about weight, the KBS Tour V is lighter than the Dynamic Gold S300. Both are designed to have low spin. But KBS’s golf shaft is better than the other one in this part.

Now, we know the main differences between these two. However, it is essential to know everything thoroughly before buying or trying anything. So, let’s find out the other distinguished differences between these two golf shafts. 

Overview of KBS Tour V Shaft

The KBS Tour V shaft was developed primarily for golf competitions. Low spin is its main area of expertise. Because of this, it is quite enticing to both professional and tournament players.

Several of the users said this shaft gives a feeling of consistency. That is because it is made following VWT (Variable Wall Thickness) technology. So, the players can perform better.

Another notable characteristic of this shaft is its weight. It is very lightweight. You can find three different weights in this design.

The lightest one is 110 grams, while the heaviest one is 130 grams. And the other one is 120 grams.

Players of all swing speeds can choose the weight that is most comfortable for them thanks to the design’s three distinct weights.

Overview of Dynamic Gold S300 Shaft

Among iron shafts, the Dynamic Gold S300 is a highly well-liked golf shaft. True Temper is the manufacturer company of this top-notch golf shaft.

You may already be aware as a golfer or golf aficionado that True Temper is one of the top manufacturers of golf shafts.

Users favor this shaft mainly because it has a low projectile and low spin compared to other shafts. It assists players in hitting the ball straight but far away. There are two distinct weights offered for this shaft by the manufacturer.

Golfers with medium to quick swing speeds might benefit more from a 120-gram weighted shaft. For golfers with particularly quick swing speeds, the 130-gm shaft is the most suitable.

KBS Tour V vs Dynamic Gold S300 Golf Shaft: Quick Comparison Table

Now that we have a basic comprehension of these two golf shafts, it will be easier for us to select our preferred one among them.

However, let’s examine them more closely in a side-by-side comparison first, before choosing your favorite shaft.

What Are the Differences Between the KBS Tour V and Dynamic Gold S300 Golf Shafts?

Though in many aspects these two shafts are alike, there are still some contrasts between them that make them distinctive.

So, we are presenting an analogical comparison between the exclusive traits of these two golf shafts.

Weight and Balance

 At approximately 110–130 grams, the KBS Tour V is noted for being incredibly light. Golfers can boost their swing speed and produce extra distance with the aid of this design.

The Dynamic Gold S300, meanwhile, weighs in at a maximum of 130–132 grams. This extra weight can offer a higher level of stability and control, even if it might not be as easy to swing as the KBS Tour V.

Launching Angle and Spin Attributes

One more important distinction is the launching angle of these two shafts. The KBS Tour V’s higher launch angle may be advantageous for golfers who have problems propelling the ball into the air.

Meanwhile, golfers whose swings are more powerful and faster, favor the Dynamic Gold S300 golf shaft for its lower spin trajectory and lower launching type.

Materialistic Composition

A special steel alloy is used to make the KBS Tour V golf shaft, resulting in a smooth and responsive perception.

Conversely, premium and pure steel are used to make the Dynamic Gold S300, which helps it to provide more solidity and steadiness.

Feeling of flexibility and stiffness

Having a very flexible tip section, the KBS Tour V produces moderately high launching and spin.

This flexibility facilitates golfers’ ability to spawn greater clubhead speed, which results in increased range and accuracy.

Meanwhile, the Dynamic Gold S300 features a stiffer tip section that produces a high-launch, low-spin trajectory.

This stiffness imparts greater control and accuracy to golfers with more aggressive swings.

KBS Tour V or Dynamic Gold S300: Which Golf Shaft to Choose?

The KBS Tour V is a shaft that dances with the wind, offering a lightness and speed that can be both exhilarating and dizzying.

Yet, its burstiness can be a challenge as it requires a deft touch and a keen sense of control to harness its full potential.

On the other hand, the Dynamic Gold S300 is a shaft that moves with purpose and precision.

It’s a shaft that offers firmness and stability that can be both reassuring and daunting. Despite its firmness, mastering it still requires a stable touch and a methodical approach.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Hopefully, this talk has assisted you in selecting the golf shaft that will best suit your swing, control quality, and, eventually, help you succeed in your intended competition.

After reading everything, you might already have one excellent choice in mind. We did try to make a few unclear issues clear here, though, for the sake of improved accuracy.

Which shaft is better suited for golfers with a faster swing speed?

Golfers with a faster swing speed may benefit from the Dynamic Gold S300 shaft, as it can better withstand the increased force and deliver the necessary control and accuracy.

What kind of golfer would benefit from the KBS Tour V shaft?

The KBS Tour V may be better suited for golfers who prioritize dynamic burstiness and a lighter feel in their swing. It can also be an effective choice for players seeking greater distance and higher ball flight.

Can the KBS Tour V provide enough control for a more accurate shot?

Yes, with the proper technique and adjustment, the KBS Tour V can offer ample control and precision for a more accurate shot. Nonetheless, you might want additional training and expertise to master this.

Which shaft offers better consistency and stability during the swing?

The Dynamic Gold S300 is generally considered to provide more consistency and stability throughout the swing due to its sturdy construction and emphasis on control.

Which shaft is better for players with a slower swing speed?

Golfers with a slower swing speed may find the KBS Tour V more beneficial, as it can provide greater lift and distance with its dynamic burstiness. However, this ultimately depends on the individual’s preferences and playing style.

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• WRX Club Techs

KBS $-taper VS KBS tour

By spike September 10, 2021 in WRX Club Techs

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Does the $-taper shaft play stiffer to flex in relation the the KBS tour? 

 Will the stiff flex frequency stiffer in one or the other? 

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September 14, 2021

I think my "fresh" average swing speed is up there with yours and the 91 comes from the average of the entire fitting session... and I'd hit a few "drill" shots which would have brought the average ri

September 15, 2021

Have played both the Tour 120 and $-Taper 120 almost exclusively the last 5 years.  Have had a similar experience as steventoo. $-Taper spin more, but launch a little lower for me.  I want less spin s

September 17, 2021

Both shafts have identical bend profiles so the areas underneath the curves are the same too. The KBS Tour 120 S - 6 and KBS $-Taper 120 S - 6 both have a value of 19 for overall EI area in the curren

Frequency should be the same.  However, from past testing and having had the KBS Tour in my bag at one point, I can tell you that the $-taper have a stiffer tip, launch lower and spin less than the KBS Tour.  Honestly, unless your ball flight is super low and you need spin, I would stay away from the KBS Tour. 

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Also depends on how long you want to wait for golf shafts. There is a huge problem with KBS $-tapers and getting them in stock.

hambone1124

Yes for sure and especially the black if you want those - i just ordered set from ebay seller for decent price and will reshaft myself.

$-Taper is definitely less spin and lower launch but perfect blend for me over the tours.

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ScottHutch2

On 9/10/2021 at 12:41 PM, phizzy30 said: Frequency should be the same.  However, from past testing and having had the KBS Tour in my bag at one point, I can tell you that the $-taper have a stiffer tip, launch lower and spin less than the KBS Tour.  Honestly, unless your ball flight is super low and you need spin, I would stay away from the KBS Tour. 

Do the tours balloon terribly? I have been in the $taper HTs ($ taper with more traditional balance point) and think my ball flight has been on the lower side. Looking for a steel shaft that will launch/spin a bit more without ballooning. Was thinking tours or DG120

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5 Wood: Ping G430 Max 5W - Tensei Pro Orange 80tx

Irons:  Taylormade P770 4-PW - Modus 130s

Wedges:  Vokey SM8 50.14F Modus 130x, SM9 54.12 - 58.12 - Modus 130x 

Putter:   Ping PLD Anser 

I'm one of the weird golfers who manages to hit both 120G $ Taper and 120G C Taper with more spin than a 120G Tour. And X100's, X7's, Modus 120... up to 1500rpm more with a 2021 T100S 7 iron. Both my fitter and I were kinda puzzled. How the hell do I spin X7's the same as KBS Tours?! And the C Taper more ? It makes no sense to me.

I actually really like the (high) flight window of the Tour for my swing, but it can get a bit too spinny with my 2019 T100's. - but with the 2021 T100S', it was actually pretty good. My 6 iron speed is around 91mph and delivery is pretty neutral - maybe 1 degree down, and my miss is getting stuck on the right side.

Unfortunately, they didn't have any $ Taper HT's to hit.

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Titleist 2021 T200 3 iron | KBS Tour 130X

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Thanks for the insight @steventoo  my swing speed is very close to yours, I’m probably 93-94 on average with a 6 iron, curious if you’ve only tried the 120g or if you have experience with the 125g (s+) at all in the Tours? Most fitters near me don’t carry the 125g so I haven’t been able to test, but assuming the bring the launch and spin down a tad

5 minutes ago, ScottHutch2 said: Thanks for the insight @steventoo  my swing speed is very close to yours, I’m probably 93-94 on average with a 6 iron, curious if you’ve only tried the 120g or if you have experience with the 125g (s+) at all in the Tours? Most fitters near me don’t carry the 125g so I haven’t been able to test, but assuming the bring the launch and spin down a tad

I think my "fresh" average swing speed is up there with yours and the 91 comes from the average of the entire fitting session... and I'd hit a few "drill" shots which would have brought the average right down.

I have only tried the 120g versions - the 125's weren't available, and the 130g range/X/6.5's/etc don't work so well for me, for whatever reason. I lose more distance than the spin reduction helps fix, if that makes sense.

Part of me is tempted to amend my order to 120g or 125g $ Taper HT's, sight unseen and totally un-fit, but I've played the Tour 120S' for years in a few different irons and I'm really familiar with how they work so I'm comfortable trusting the fit into the T100S rather than the T100 and relying on that to keep spin under control. We'll see how it goes, I guess.

6 hours ago, ScottHutch2 said: Do the tours balloon terribly? I have been in the $taper HTs ($ taper with more traditional balance point) and think my ball flight has been on the lower side. Looking for a steel shaft that will launch/spin a bit more without ballooning. Was thinking tours or DG120

I would classify them as mid-high launch and mid spin.  They are pretty soft/active in the tip section and can balloon on windy days.  My cousin got fitted for the tours but he hits a really low ball and that was the only shaft that gave him enough height unless he went to a lighter graphite option.  I had the x flex for a brief period in my old Scratch AR-1's and after about 3 weeks I had them pulled and sold them. 

Regarding the original question asking about stiffness, the EI profiles of both shafts are nearly identical.

https://www.golfshaftreviews.info/kbs-taper-golf-shaft-review/

Have played both the Tour 120 and $-Taper 120 almost exclusively the last 5 years.  Have had a similar experience as steventoo. $-Taper spin more, but launch a little lower for me.  I want less spin so I'm going back to Tour 120's in the T100s I have on order.

On 9/15/2021 at 1:53 PM, Golf Pig said: Regarding the original question asking about stiffness, the EI profiles of both shafts are nearly identical.   https://www.golfshaftreviews.info/kbs-taper-golf-shaft-review/

Profiles are identical but if you look at his EI Area rating for the $Tapers, which Ryden says ranks how stiff a shaft “feels,” it is 19 for the $Taper 120. It feels a touch stiffer than a Tour 120. I couldn’t find that number for the Tour because it is an older shaft predates Ryden adding that rating, but I bet it is 17-18 as most stiff iron shafts are. (for example, True Temper Elevate Tour is 17). I like them both but I can feel more of a stiffness with the $ Taper. I believe that was the design goal, bring flight and spin down a little. 

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15 hours ago, dmeeksDC said: Profiles are identical but if you look at his EI Area rating for the $Tapers, which Ryden says ranks how stiff a shaft “feels,” it is 19 for the $Taper 120. It feels a touch stiffer than a Tour 120. I couldn’t find that number for the Tour because it is an older shaft predates Ryden adding that rating, but I bet it is 17-18 as most stiff iron shafts are. (for example, True Temper Elevate Tour is 17). I like them both but I can feel more of a stiffness with the $ Taper. I believe that was the design goal, bring flight and spin down a little. 

Both shafts have identical bend profiles so the areas underneath the curves are the same too. The KBS Tour 120 S - 6 and KBS $-Taper 120 S - 6 both have a value of 19 for overall EI area in the current database. I think the idea behind the $Taper was to provide different feel and spin characteristics based on manufacturing processes, but technically speaking the stiffness is the same.

On 9/17/2021 at 11:02 AM, Golf Pig said: Both shafts have identical bend profiles so the areas underneath the curves are the same too. The KBS Tour 120 S - 6 and KBS $-Taper 120 S - 6 both have a value of 19 for overall EI area in the current database. I think the idea behind the $Taper was to provide different feel and spin characteristics based on manufacturing processes, but technically speaking the stiffness is the same.

Does that apply to the $taper HT as well? I know the concept of the HT shaft is to be the same profile with a lower balance point, but it does feel stiffer in my hands than the traditional high balance point $taper. Just curious 

32 minutes ago, ScottHutch2 said: Does that apply to the $taper HT as well? I know the concept of the HT shaft is to be the same profile with a lower balance point, but it does feel stiffer in my hands than the traditional high balance point $taper. Just curious 

They have slightly different bend profiles. For the 120 gram Stiff 6 iron, compared to the $Taper, the HT is softer in the butt and mid, and stiffer in the tip.

More info: https://www.golfshaftreviews.info/kbs-taper-ht-iron-shaft-review/

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