Sim 2.0 3HL or M2 with a premium shaft... what do you think?

SeaIsland · January 21, 2021

I've been thinking about replacing my TM M5 3 wood and going for an older HL version. Candidly, I wouldn't even consider TM if Ping offered a 425 (sans turbulators) in a 16.5, and yes, I realize that I can dial back a new Ping 18 5w and get to 16.5 (with a more open face!). But is that the answer? How about an M2 3HL with a great premium/right shaft for less than 200 bucks? The debate around a 3HL in a 3wood shaft (vs. 5 wood) is well understood and makes sense for my game. It's not that I can't hit a 14-15 degree, but the 16.5 will be pulled more frequently with little difference in overall distance (even more playable). I've seen plenty of older version TM 3HL heads on EBay, what do you think?

getitdaily · January 21, 2021

Well, the biggest thing, to me, is knowing what you need. The M series will launch a tad lower..maybe a degree or so. The M series may be a touch smaller too.

Valtiel · January 21, 2021

The G425 MAX 5-wood is 17.5 degrees with +/- 1.5* of adjustability so that would seem like the way to go if you're set on PING.

Otherwise, there are several variables to consider there with the TM options. M2 3HL are obviously only adjustable via bending, and that is still risky and will only take you so far, so you're more married to whatever the head specs are, which you'll be hard pressed to actually have unless you find a brand new tour issue model, or one where someone retained the specs. So if you're sensitive to lie/face angle then that would be a big consideration.

SeaIsland · January 21, 2021

Thanks for the insight. You're right, the tolerances back then are all over the map (still are). I just don't want to screw around with adjustments (a matter of trust). If I buy a Ping and adjust by 1.5 degrees, is that for real?

Valtiel · January 21, 2021

1 minute ago, SeaIsland said:

Thanks for the insight. You're right, the tolerances back then are all over the map (still are). I just don't want to screw around with adjustments (a matter of trust). If I buy a Ping and adjust by 1.5 degrees, is that for real?

If by "for real" you mean "does it actually change the loft" then yes of course! It will open the face which when squared (as it should be at impact) will present the lower loft. If you prefer a more open face angle, like the smaller 5 wood head, and are a PING guy then that seems like a no brainer to me. 👍