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Characterizing the High End Mid-Level Balls


trapsmv15

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Wanted to start a list in ranking the more expensive, low cap, mid-level balls out there that I have tried, and for everyone to feel free to add your opinions. Hopefully as I demonstrate what I mean, everyone will contribute with the slight variations of balls they have played!

 

I'm a medium-low launch medium spin player who hits penetrating shots in the Hal Sutton swing style (not claiming to be that good!), so I use tip-flexible shafts and forgiving irons to launch the ball slightly higher without ballooning. I previously used the e6 and loved it, but the lack of spin, especially around the greens, has me searching elsewhere.

 

Callaway Hex Chrome - Low launch with medium spin; the GD spin rates were right for this one off the driver as it's the longest of the three I played . But around the greens, this thing won't spin to save its own life compared to either of the other two balls. Hop, hop, roll instead of stop; I was very disappointed in that and would rather stay with the e6 compared to the Chrome, especially since the Chrome to me has a very firm feel, almost as harsh as the 20XI or Pro V1X.

 

Bridgestone B330-RXS - Medium-high launch with medium-high spin that is right up there in length with the Chrome. A nice Goldilocks balance of softness in its feel - not too hard, not too soft - and enough grab around the greens, especially on low spinners, to be satisfied.

 

Srixon Z-Star SL - High launch with medium-high spin; the shortest of the three but not so bad. The SL seems to float a bit, but not as much as something like a Wilson Fifty, and has a very soft feel - pleasant but almost too soft. Around the greens, the floating shows the worst, as I couldn't flight low check shots down like I wanted to; the added height gets it to stop quickly but it's a feel that needs to be practiced with to master.

 

The Bridgestone B330-RXS definitely surprised me in its length/spin characteristics, as you sacrifice the least distance to get extra spin. YMMV, but I'm going to start looking for cheap 5A/4A RXS deals on the 'other' site.

Driver: Honma TW747 10.5*

Fairways: Honma TW747 15* / 18*
Hybrids: Honma TW747 22* / 25*
Irons: Honma TW-X 6-11

Wedges: Honma TW-W4 54* / 58*
Putter: TaylorMade TP Collection Juno (33”)

Ball: Callaway Chrome Soft (2020)

 

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When the Hex Chrome first came out I thought their spin action on the green was pretty good. I made it my regular ball. Now I agree they seem to lack bite. Still good control in the wind.

Callaway Rogue 10.5°
Ping G410 2, 3 Hybrid
Ping G410 3, 4 Crossover 
Ping G410 5-UW
Vokey spin milled 54/14
SC Studio Select Newport 2

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Swingspeed <95, high ball flight........

Usually play Pro V1x logo overruns, Practice, or 4 for 3 dozen deals.

Played the Chrome most of the winter and have never thought it felt firm. Certainly less firm than ProV1x. Agree that chipping/half wedge spin is lacking.
Tried the Chrome+ this week and loved it. However it feels a touch firmer than the Chrome but has adequate greenside spin.

When I tried the RXs a few years ago I was not impressed. But from what I read the new version deserves a look. But I can't see it being my ball at current prices.

E5--flights too high for my game.

May not be in the category, but I tried the Wilson FG TourX and the Srixon XV and both seem too firm/clicky for me.

Haven't messed with the surlyns (NXT, E6)

Driver--Ping i20, 3 wood--Ping G25
Hybrids--G25
Irons--Taylormade Burner Graphite Shafts
Wedges--Taylormade Burner 2.0 Steel
Putter--Original Odyssey #5 WhiteHot
Ball--Original Chrome Soft

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