kbs tour

KBS Tour Shaft Review

Kbs tour shaft.

The shaft that started it all – the KBS Tour shaft.  Kim Braly’s signature shaft, the KBS Tour, is designed for players that want to be able to play a wide range of shots with more of a mid trajectory.  What most players seem to love the most though is the smooth feel and shot feedback.

How Does it Feel?

I would put the KBS Tour as the most “neutral” feeling shaft of the KBS lineup.  The Tour does in fact feel incredibly smooth and easy on the hands. I would almost argue that the Tour is even forgiving on your hands on a mishit.  Whereas a typical steel shaft may sting a bit, the Tour seems to absorb the blow more.  Don’t get me wrong, if you hit your MP-18 MB wrong, you’re still going to pay for it in the hands.  It just won’t sting as bad as normal…so I’ve found.  I even commented to our own Jon, “this shaft makes an MB feel much less harsh.”  Jon concurred and promptly tried to steal my clubs.

There is a definite energy transfer at impact, but it has a much more gradual feel as opposed to a precise kickpoint.  I will say that you can tell it’s happening in the middle of the shaft, but it doesn’t feel like a precise snap.  The feeling is much more of a smooth release.   This may sound crazy, but think of it almost like a smooth toss of a baseball that firmly, but not too hard, hits your dad right in the glove while you’re having a catch in the back yard.  That, to me, is the feel of the KBS Tour’s release.

On-Course Performance

My experience with the KBS Tour shaft is a true testament to “every swing is a snowflake.”  The Tour is supposed to be a mid-launch shaft with medium spin.  Admittedly, I’m not a high-spin iron player as is, but I hit the Tour just about the same average as my lowest spinning shaft of the KBS lineup.  My averages for launch were the lowest of the KBS group to date as well.  That said, I think there’s a decent reason for this.  When reviewing my data, it was apparent that there is a lot of versatility in the KBS Tour .  I was able to easily adjust trajectory while adding or taking spin off of shots.  Being able to easily hit such a variety of shots is a big win for this shaft.

I’ve hit multiple clubs with the Tour in them over the years, albeit never my own set, and the natural shot shape is always the same.  A neutral swing always results in a smooth draw for me.   Let me tell you, my natural shot is not an easy draw.  This draw from the KBS Tour is automatic and seemingly built into the shaft for me.  It’s been consistent enough for me over the years that, along with my testing, it’s hard for me to ignore.  Will this be the case for everyone?  Can’t say, but there’s something there that has my attention and I don’t hate that shot shape.  Just tying ribbons over here (that’s a shot tracer on TV reference)…

Final Thoughts

My opinion is that the KBS Tour is a solid all-around iron shaft.  I think other shafts in the KBS lineup have a little more of a “wow factor” to them, but the Tour is solid for a wide range of players that want a premium shaft with versatility.  A smooth profile and easy shotmaking should make the KBS Tour appealing to golfers of all skill levels.  Including the best in the world .

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Hi Bill. I am a young 38 with a lot of golf life left in him. I took the pandemic as an opportunity to know and own my swing. Despite my gains in accuracy and a new found draw and occasionally hook, I am looking for my next iron shaft. I have been told my swing is a bit aggressive, and my irons have always gone high – no problem getting the ball in the air. Would you say the Tour is a good shaft for a golfer with this description? I was also considering the new KBS Tour Lites. Did you see much difference between the Tour and the Tour lite in the numbers. Thanks!

Tour Lite will likely go even higher. If you have an aggressive swing, the Tour might be a bit soft and high too. I would think you need to go with something more stout/firm. Maybe Tour V?

Would you recommend this golf shaft to someone that isn’t a beginner at golf but doesn’t get out as much to play? I have steel shafts now and I want something lighter but not as light as a graphite shaft. Thanks!

Yeah, I wouldn’t say it’s a measure of “skill set” but more how your swing will interact with the equipment.

Hey Bill – I’m a 34 y/o single-digit handicapper that’s always been a strong, aggressive ball striker. I recently made the switch from an old set of Titleist ZM forged musclebacks (classic Dynamic Gold stiff 120g shafts) to T100s with Project X 6.5 shafts. I know this is contrary to almost everyone, but I absolutely hate my T100s (and I’m a Titleist lover). I rarely find the sweet spot; have lost 10-ish yards per club; and chunk more shots than ever. I do hit them very straight though, but my shots are low and short. I’m going to switch back to a muscleback iron set, because I just love them! I’ve actually been recommended the direct-to-consumer Takomo 301 MBs by several people, which you might have heard of. I’m wondering if you have any suggestions on a KBS shaft. I’m thinking about going with either the KBS Tour or C Taper in stiff 120g. Maybe the move from the Dynamic Gold stiff 120g to Project X 6.5 125g could have made that much of a difference in my distance, trajectory, etc? From what I’ve seen, the lofts are very similar. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

Don’t know anything about those irons, sorry. But I can tell you that the KBS Tour has pretty much nothing in common with the other three shaft options you listed. The C-Taper is a stout low launch/spin option and the PX is closer to that. The dynamic gold is somewhere in between those two and the KBS Tour. I think you need to do some testing/fitting to really get the answer you’re looking for in your game. With the game it sounds like you’re talking about, anything else would just be a blind guess with a hole and a prayer.

Thank you so much, sir! I’ve set up a fitting with a Golf Digest top 100 fitter next Saturday. I’ve always been cheap on golf (other than my CC membership) and have never had a lesson. That, coupled with me being left-handed, has always prevented me from seeking a professional club fitting. But, I’m going to finally treat myself a do so! God bless!!!

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INTRODUCING THE NEW KBS TOUR PRO +

November 5, 2023

The KBS Golf Experience R&D and Build Teams have created KBS TOUR PRO + as an exclusive product for the golf club fitting community.

The KBS TOUR PRO + is weight sorted to the same standards as shafts used on professional tours worldwide, and features a NEW KBS PRO + shaft band label along with exclusive KBS PRO + silk screen located at the tip section.

THE KBS TOUR PRO +

The KBS TOUR is Kim Braly’s signature shaft and is ideal for players desiring shot versatility and mid-trajectory.

Incorporating unique KBS technology, the KBS TOUR maximizes energy transfer for increased shot control. The KBS TOUR offers a smooth, responsive feel and is the preferred model by several of the WORLD’S best golfers.

KBS Tour The Kim Braly signature shaft is ideal for players desiring shot versatility and mid trajectory. Incorporating unique KBS technology, the KBS TOUR maximizes energy transfer for increased shot control and offers a smooth, responsive feel and is the preferred model by several of the best golfers in the world.

KBS TOUR-V The KBS TOUR-V is a lightweight product that features larger outer diameters, resulting in a stable tip section and tight shot dispersion. Perfect for players that prefer a lighter weight shaft and less ball spin.

KBS Tour-V WEDGE The KBS TOUR-V WEDGE shaft is designed exclusively for wedges to produce shots with a lower-mid trajectory and mid ball spin. Tested and proven on Tour, the KBS TOUR-V WEDGE shaft creates a piercing ball flight with incredibly tight shot dispersion.

KBS Tour Graphite Hybrid Prototype Inspired and designed from the iconic KBS Tour shaft, the most popular steel shaft in the KBS Golf Shaft line, the KBS Tour Graphite Hybrid Prototype offers KBS signature feel, but in a Graphite shaft model. Offering performance and stability throughout the entire make of the shaft which lets the player hit more aggressive, longer and consistent shots for hybrid clubs. KBS was the first shaft brand to create seamless performance transition from Graphite Hybrid shafts, through to irons and wedges.

KBS PGI Designed by Director of R & D and master shaft maker Kim Braly and is built for ANYONE to be fit into a steel like performance graphite shaft that will provide the same optimal tight tolerances, dispersion and control as the KBS Tour Steel Shaft, just at a lighter weight and easier to swing shaft. The maximum playability for all golfers from beginners and mid handicappers to tour professionals culminates in a shaft that will provide unmatched shot making and control for the first time in a graphite iron product.

PLAYER DRIVEN. TOUR PROVEN.

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KBS Tour 90 Review – Setting A New Standard In Steel Shafts

The story of KBS Tour shafts is the joining of two paths into a committed partnership aiming to establish a new vision of golf shaft performance and design.

FEMCO Steel Technology (FST), the golf branch of the Far East Machinery Co. Ltd, aims to provide high-quality and cost-effective steel products including golf shafts through constant innovation and technological advancements. FST continues to provide high-quality shafts at affordable prices.

Kim Braly designed innovative golf shafts throughout his career. He has validated his designs with golfers playing on the various professional golf tours. Furthermore, Kim used feedback from these golfers in the development of new products.

In 2008 FST America Corporation decided to partner with the most sought-after golf shaft designers to incorporate pioneering designs with its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. This led to the partnership between FST and Kim Braly.

Since its launch, KBS has set a new standard in steel shafts with its unparalleled growth and acclaim.

KBS shafts have grown a significant share of the market and are now used in the irons of most major golfing brands as standard or for custom fitment. It is swiftly turning into the fastest growing steel shaft brand in the industry.

Adopted by over 150 professionals, the KBS Tour shafts have recorded multiple wins including several majors.

KBS Tour 90 Review

1. project x lz, 2. n.s. modus 3 shaft, final thoughts, related articles.

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• Stable tip section
• Higher CG location
• Firm shaft design
• Light-weight construction
• Good trajectory
• 2-flex system
• Not suitable for fast tempo golf swings

Design and Technology

As the lightest shaft in the KBS Tour range, the KBS Tour 90 shaft is designed to offer golfers with a slow tempo more spin, a higher trajectory, and distance.  It is 20% lighter than a standard steel shaft thus aiding increasing swing, ball speeds, and distance.

The firm shaft design on the Tour 90 offers a softer tip with a higher center of gravity to create a higher ball trajectory.

Combined with the 2-Flex system on the KBS Tour 90 offer a more flexible than the normal shaft.

Specifications

Tapered tip technical specifications.

Regular shaft flex:

• Tip diameter .355 inches
• Butt diameter .600 inches
• Length 36.5 inches to 40.5inches
• Available for 2-iron through 9-iron, and PW

Stiff shaft flex:

• Weight 102g
• Available for 2-iron through 9-iron

Parallel tip technical specifications

• Weight 101g
• Tip diameter .370 inches
• Length 41.25 inches

.370 Parallel shaft is a single length shaft that will be tip and butt trimmed to your required length which can change how the shaft will play.

For the best feel, you must have a smooth tempo. You can still achieve a high swing speed even if you have a smooth tempo.

With the right tempo, you will receive precise feedback on the impact point of the ball on the clubface. No tingle to your fingers even on the coldest days.

Its kick is remarkably smooth with the right tempo swing but if your tempo is too fast, you are sure to encounter difficulties.

Performance

KBS TOUR 90 is the lightest shaft in the KBS Tour range designed for golfers requiring a higher trajectory, additional spin, and maximum distance.

Performance on the short irons is most noticeable with the wedges and 9-iron generating a high trajectory and more spin. This gives you great green-side control.

Golfers with a moderate-to-slow swing speed and slow tempo will achieve the best performance from the KBS Tour 90.

Independent testing reveals that the KBS Tour 90 to be in the region of 9% longer and generate 5% more spin than its foremost rivals.

Alternatives

Project X shafts are used on all professional tours and a follow up on the Project X Standard version making it accessible to golfers that have swing speed that is lower than that of professional golfers.

Variable wall thickness creates an extra kick at compact for a mid-launch trajectory without sacrificing stability.

Although this is the closest you will come to a universal shaft, it is highly recommended that you conduct proper testing to ensure that the shaft is suited to your swing.

All shafts measure between 36.5 and 40 inches in length, with a tip diameter of 0.355 inches and a butt diameter of 0.600 inches, and produce a mid-flight launch trajectory.

Weight varies between 110g and 125g with 5g intervals.

Flex is available in R, S, and XS.

Nippon’s comprehensive golf shaft use weight and bend to suit every golf swing and tempo offering improved control over trajectory, distance, and direction.

Nippon excels in three key areas

• Desired trajectory
• Accurate distance
• Tight dispersion

The high tip rigidity design steadies the tip through impact thereby reducing unwanted spin, low mid-section rigidity control shaft flex for enhanced control, and the low butt rigidity improve tempo for a smoother feeling on impact.

Shafts are available in 105g, 120g, 125g, and 130g and R, S, X, TX flex options

The shaft lengths vary between 37 and 41 inches, with a tip diameter of 0.355 inches and a butt diameter of 0.600 inches.

Amalgamating the paths of Kim Braly and FST America Corporation In 2008 was a turning point in the golf shaft industry.

The KBS Tour 90 is 20% lighter than comparable steel shafts and ideally suited for golfers with a moderate swing tempo that requires a higher ball trajectory.

Happy golfing with your higher trajectory.

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Nick is the founder of GolfSpan and an avid golfer. He's not quite a pro but has over 15 years of experience playing and coaching golfers worldwide. His mission is to bring the golfing community a better experience when it comes to choosing the right golf gear and finding the right setup for your game.

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Tour 90 steel shaft.

• ACTIVE TIP SECTION
• ADVANCED STEP PATTERN
• LIGHTWEIGHT SHAFT CONSTRUCTION
• FIRM SHAFT DESIGN
• INTEGRATED WEIGHT AND FLEX
• 2-FLEX SYSTEM

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KBS Tour 80 Shaft Review – Specs, Flex, Weight

When shopping for new iron shafts, it’s better to shop with your head and not your heart.

Even if you’ve seen some of your favorite golfers game a certain shaft, it doesn’t mean that it will be right for you.

When it comes to any kind of golf gear, it’s always advisable to practice a little self awareness. You have to know what kind of player you are, be keenly aware of your latest handicap, know what kind of swing you have, and whenever possible, go in for a fitting.

However, if you are in the market for new iron shafts, you wouldn’t be doing yourself a disservice by starting your shopping with KBS. KBS produces some of the most coveted and high-performing iron shafts on the market. Today we will be taking a look at the KBS Tour 80 and helping you decide whether this is a viable option for your game.

KBS Tour 80 Shaft Overview

The KBS Tour 80 is Kim Bral’s signature model and it is certainly a shaft in the “heavy iron” shaft category.

The KBS Tour 80 in particular was designed to give a wide variety of players a smoother feel from a relatively heavy iron shaft. Indeed, when we tested the KBS Tour 80, we were amazed at how smooth it felt for a 100 gram iron shaft.

The KBS Tour 80 is among the smoothest-feeling heavy shafts we have ever tested – and that’s saying something because we have tested and gamed a lot of iron shafts. One thing we really liked about the KBS Tour 80 was that it was versatile. You don’t get an overly stiff profile, it has a smooth feel but it performs like a much stiffer iron. For one thing, this means that many players will feel comfortable with it.

We can imagine a world where mid handicappers transition smoothly from graphite iron shafts to steel with the KBS Tour 80. We can also see how low and mid handicap players will be drawn to the accuracy of the KBS Tour 80. The KBS Tour 80 in particular is a 100 gram steel shaft which sits pretty much in the middle of the KBS Tour shafts in terms of weight.

Why is the KBS Tour 80 So Popular?

Kim Braly was able to seduce a number of Tour Pros away from True Temper and Project X shafts with the KBS Tour series.

So right off the bat, you have probably seen some of your favorite pros with the KBS Tour shafts.

How Does the KBS Tour 80 Perform?

One thing we were really surprised about was the active feel of this 100 gram shaft.

You can clearly feel when the shaft loads and releases, which is kind of uncommon for a shaft of this weight. We know what you might be thinking, ‘an active response must mean erratic ball flight.’

That honestly wasn’t the case in our testing. A lot of the release ends in the shaft’s midsection so your club head isn’t adversely effective. Instead, you’re left with a smooth transition and good energy transfer. So long as you are moderately accurate, the KBS Tour 80 will reward you with straight ball flight and a smooth transition.

Plus, the tip section is still pretty stiff so your iron heads aren’t in any immediate danger from the active response. The KBS Tour 80 also launches pretty high for a shaft in this weight class. It wasn;t so high as to cause most of our testers distance loss; but it is something to consider if you have a naturally high launch.

For most of our testers, the high launch was a welcome sight. It made our long irons more viable for attacking the pin on long par 3’s.

KBS Tour 80 Shaft Specs

What flexes are available what swing speeds do they suit.

The KBS Tour 80 flexes are rather limited; but what would you expect from a shaft in this weight class?

You can choose from regular and stiff flexes. The regular flex will be better for moderate swingers while the stiff flex is better for fast swingers.

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

The KBS Tour 80 specifically is only available as a 100 gram shaft.

Typically, if you swing your 4-iron in the 85-90 MPH range, you should feel pretty comfortable with this weight.

Why is it So Good?

The KBS Tour 80 is really nice because it gives the feel and response of a lighter shaft with the profile and performance of a 100 gram shaft.

It’s accurate, active and launches high.

KBS Tour 80 First Impressions

The first thing that struck us about the KBS Tour 80 was how smooth it felt.

Despite the weight, you aren’t greeted with a harsh transition that rattles your hands. You are able to maintain a comfortable grip throughout your swing.

Key Features & Performance

KBS is pretty tight-lipped when it comes to the technology that goes into their shafts. But we can tell you that the KBS Tour 80 launches mid-high and provides efficient energy transfer.

KBS Tour 80 Irons Review

The KBS Tour 80 is ideal for irons and affords the better player the ability to attack the pin from long approaches.

KBS Tour 80 Wedges Review

Around the pin, you still get good launch and the control you need to keep the ball from sailing over the green.

KBS Tour 80 Pros & Cons

• Stiff tip section
• Active feel
• Mid-high launch
• Mid spin rates

Overall Score: 96/100

Check out more reviews here:.

Who Should Buy it?

The KBS Tour 80 would be a great choice for high handicappers making the switch to steel iron shafts.

It’s also a good choice for mid handicappers looking to attack more long par 3’s with their long irons.

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KBS Tour FLT Iron Shaft Review

More in shafts:.

50 Words or Less

The KBS Tour FLT iron shaft is a close relative of the KBS Tour steel shaft, but with higher launching long irons and lower launching short irons.

Introduction

KBS has a strong reputation for irons with good feel and control, but almost all of their shaft lines have had very specific performance characteristics.  While it’s very difficult to make equipment that has a widespread appeal and benefit in the golf market, KBS attempted to make an iron shaft that would work for a broad range of golfers ranging from the amateur player to Tour pro.  That shaft is the KBS Tour FLT which is designed to make 6 irons and up higher launching and softer landing while the 8 iron and down will have a lower, more penetrating flight.

Interestingly, the feel of the KBS Tour FLT is very similar to the  KBS Tour shaft .  To be honest, if it wasn’t for the differing performance, I’m not sure I would be able to tell the difference.  I thought the standard Tour shaft was fairly smooth, and you could feel distinct action toward the middle of the shaft throughout the set.  With the FLT I found that it seemed the action (kick point) shifted lower and higher to accommodate the intended performance design of the shaft set.

Performance

To test the KBS Tour FLT shafts, I got on the launch monitor with the Tour FLT, the KBS Tour, and a third set of shafts (my control set in the experiment, my gamers).  Sure enough, I was hitting the Tour FLT long irons with an apex about seven feet higher than the other shafts , and I found the results to be consistent.  As a result of the added height, I got a little more carry and a little more distance.  With the shorter irons, I didn’t have the same gap, but there was a clear difference.

With the Tour FLT, I saw an apex about three feet lower than my other shafts, but that small of a difference doesn’t have me totally sold on whether it was me or the shafts.  That said, the principle of changing flight characteristics throughout the set is definitely there and the Tour FLT shafts performed as advertised for me.

Whether or not the KBS Tour FLT is good for you can only be discovered through work with a qualified fitter.  What I will say is that if you love the feel of the KBS Tour shaft, but you’re looking for a different ball flight, the KBS Tour FLT is definitely worth a try.

KBS-Tour-FLT-1

KBS-Tour-FLT-2

KBS-Tour-FLT-3

KBS-Tour-FLT-4

KBS-Tour-FLT-5

KBS-Tour-FLT-6

KBS-Tour-FLT-7

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The shaft band on my steel shaft irons says KBS Tour FLT but does not say what the weight is or what flex it is.

If you’re asking how to tell what flex or weight the shaft is, there may be something printed on the shaft under the grip. You’d obviously have to remove a grip or two to see that.

Hi ( i am french also i am sorry for my english ^^) i made a fitting for taylormade p770 and the man told me that kbs tour flt 120 will be good for me. But my current shaft is DG S300 (130g) so i would like to know if the flt 120 is not to light for me. I am playing on a golf course where there is always 30knots of wind. I am 4 handicaper. I hope that i have success to be understood. Thank you for your answer.

Your fitter is providing you better in-person information than I can from my seat. If that’s what you were fit for and you were hitting well, it seems reasonable to go with their direction.

I had a set of irons with kbs 90 shafts. They fit me perfectly. What does the 90 stand for. Also I’m considering kbs tour flighted regular. Is this shaft similar to the kbs 90 regular? Help ! Thanks Harry

The 90 refers to the weight. The KBS Tour Flighted will be much heavier.

How does the scale work im.about to buy tour fly x 130 shafts . Are they stiff and made of steel ? How does the scale work ?

What scale are you referring to?

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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.

RELATED: Which Taylo rMade iron suits me ?

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.

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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 Lite .355 Steel Iron Shafts

Shaft services optional, description.

The KBS Tour Lite is designed for players seeking tight dispersion, higher trajectory, additional spin, precision control and maximum distance. Combines unique KBS technology with modern lightweight materials to produce maximum energy transfer while maintaining precise shot control.

Independent testing showed that the KBS Tour Lite Series averaged 9% more distance than its competitors.

The KBS Tour Lite is 20% lighter than the KBS Tour shaft but provides the same great feel and performance as the KBS Tour.

trimming instructions

Related Products

KBS $-Taper Lite Chrome .355" Iron Shafts

KBS C-Taper Lite .355 Steel Iron Shafts

KBS C-Taper Lite .370" Iron Shafts

KBS $-Taper Lite PVD .355" 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 .

Shaft Services

Important Note: Please provide Current contact information. Customer service may require further information before proceeding with your order.

PUREing - $25.00

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.

Tip Prepping - $2.95

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. 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*.

Club Playing Length

Our playing length chart is available here .

* The exact model, club head number, and desired final playing length is required for butt trimming to be possible.

* The club number and or loft is require for tip prepping on most parallel (.335" and .370") golf shafts.