Tag: reviews

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GOLF Uncategorized

Giga Golf TRX Power Slot Irons – An Ongoing Cobe Life Review

Is there a discernable difference?

Those of you that follow me across my many social media platforms.  You’ll know that I spend a fair amount of time researching any product I’m interested in purchasing.  This year one of the items I was most interested in acquiring was a new set of Irons.  My primary concerns were that they be fit to me.  By fit I mean bent to the correct lie angle, and cut to the correct length. I wanted something that was Game improving, but without the chunky topline. Lastly I didn’t want to have to break the bank to buy them.  I found a number of potential sets, but in the end the TRX Power Slot Irons from Giga Golf were the winners. But were they the right choice?

Why did they win?

What really made the difference was their custom design process.  I had been casually fit before at a Golf Town.  I hadn’t gone through their entire fitting process but a representative made suggestions based on my swing, and face contact.  Unless you live in Florida, Giga Golf is strictly a custom online order manufacturer.  Not being able to try the Irons before you purchase them is usually a non starter for me.  Giga Golf understands this and offers a 30 day test period.  That still wasn’t what swayed me.  What their custom design process allows you to do is not only have them bent to the correct lie angle, and cut to length.  You can also select which shaft, and grip combination you prefer.  The only thing that potentially increases the price is the shaft and grip selection.  They don’t charge you anything extra for the lie angle adjustment, and shaft length.  Every other set I had researched would have required an additional cost to get them fit.  The Giga Golf Irons were an absolute steal when you realize that they were anywhere from 40% to 60% cheaper than the OEM companies Irons.

Is quality determined by price?

The greatest fear when buying something that’s cheap is that it’s just that, CHEAP!  I received my set of Irons in the middle of Canadian winter.  So it wasn’t like I was going to get out on a course with them any time soon.  Instead I took them to the simulator for initial testing.  What I learned the first few times out to the simulator is this.  I’m 5’10” 200lbs athletic build so it didn’t require a lot of adjustment to fit the Irons to me.  They are half an inch shorter, and one degree more upright than my original off the rack set.  My swing didn’t feel all that different, but the strain on my body was significantly reduced.  I didn’t suddenly stripe every shot like some people hope will happen when you get fit.  My face contact was significantly improved though.  Was I pleased with my purchase at that time.  I definitely was!  After hitting 100 balls my shoulders weren’t sore.  I didn’t hit so many shots out of the heel.  My confidence with my Irons was greatly improved.  But would I feel the same way once the snow melted, and I finally got to play them out on a course?

Finally got to play a Round of Golf

The weather finally held for a few days, and on April 23, 2018 I finally got to play with my new Irons on a course.  I was pumped!  For those of you that live in warmer climates.  You have no idea what kind of personal torture Canadian winter can be to a dedicated Golfer. So you understand I’m going to preface this story with the knowledge that I didn’t play particularly well that day.  To say that I played like shit, wouldn’t be fair to shit.  For the first time out in a Season though it’s nothing new.  I go through it every year.  My Tee shots were so bad, that by the ninth hole I started to experiment with not using a Tee.  I’m sure some of you have been there.  Usually my second shot gets me out of trouble.  Not that day.  That whole Round of Golf would have been forgettable if it wasn’t for my approach shots from 150 yards and in.  In other words, my Giga Golf TRX Power Slot Irons made what was becoming a terrible day, at least bearable.  Two best clubs in the bag that day were my 6 Iron, and 9 Iron.  I did chunk a 6 Iron really bad once.  You know when you chunk it so bad that you feel the reverberation all the way down to your toes?  Well it didn’t actually hurt too bad.  I went with the True Temper Featherlight steel shafts, and that chunk shot could have been an advertisement for the quality.  It had snowed the week before so I was expecting a mushy course.  Full marks to Hidden Lake Golf In Burlington Ontario for having the course well ready for play.  There was some snow left in a few spots but it wasn’t a factor.  Still every club got dirty, and the TRX Power Slot Irons were as easy to clean as any of the rest.  I was playing Srixon Q-star balls that day and judging by the Pitch marks, and scuff marks.  The Giga Golf Irons were generating a lot of spin.  I had seen some good spin numbers in the simulator.  Until you experience the real on course results you never know.  I wasn’t disappointed at all.  Unlike the Super Game Improvement Irons I had before, I could really attack flag positions.   Hopefully my next time out I’ll be on my game, and take full advantage of the stopping power.

Durability concerns

The only negative thing i have to report is that after about 6 times in the Simulator, 1 trip out to the Range, and 1 Round of Golf.  The shiny toe on the face of my Pitching Wedge has a noticeable scuff mark.  Now for some people that’s an insignificant thing.  Irons get scuffed up.  It’s just a matter of time.  Still this was quick.  At this point I can’t tell if it’s the result of the steel Giga Golf uses, or if it was just a bad Range ball that caused it.  As the Season continues I’ll have more information for you.  I’ve read a number of reviews about the black steel Giga Golf Irons that raised concerns about the finish.  Maybe that’s all it is.  A thin finish will scuff quickly.  As long as the performance isn’t affected it won’t bother me.

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GAMING Uncategorized

End the isolation with A Way Out – The Gamer in me GL-27

The return of Couch Co-op

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I remember a time when the most popular video games were all shared screen, or split screen.  Whether competitive or co-operative they all shared one thing in common.  They were enjoyed as a group.  Everyone found a spot on the couch, or floor and prepared themselves for hours of video game domination.  I’ll never forget the ridiculous four port splitters required to play four player dungeon crawlers.  There were wires absolutely everywhere.  The graphics weren’t great, and the more players that played increased the likelihood of frame rate issues.  Games would freeze, or totally crash two hours in when the game consoles got too hot.  To prevent it from happening I purchased one of those external fans that clipped to the back of the game system.  Even with all those issues we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.  What made it special was the shared experience.

Developed by Hazelight, and produced by Electronic Arts – A Way Out is banking on the appeal of those classic Co-operative games.  They believe that the shared experience is what makes a game special.  Even if it has a few flaws.

Buy 1 get 1 free

Something that’s totally unique about how A Way Out is being sold.  A Way Out cannot be played solo.  It requires a second player.  Now you might have assumed that it was a crafty sales trick to get somebody who purchases the game to talk their friends into buying it as well.  Well that’s not the case.  When you purchase a copy it includes a fully playable download that you can give to your gaming partner.  It allows them to play the game as the other character online with you.  Of course you can always play couch co-op split screen.  I haven’t played the entire game, but ivI’ heard that it takes roughly 8 hours to complete.  So playing online might be the best way for many to complete the game easily.  Providing the additional download wasn’t necessary.  Electronic Arts could have just forced everyone to buy a copy.  I see this as a very smart marketing move though.  As a video game enthusiast and blogger I keep up on what’s new.  When I mentioned the upcoming release of A Way Out to some of my friends.  Not all of them were aware of it.  Those that were aware, were split between those that were buying it, and those that weren’t.  By providing the free playable download, Electronic Arts will effectively double the number of Players.  If the game is even moderately successful.  The next co-operative game they release will have a larger audience.  They have turned their customers into salespeople.  And who’s more passionate about the games they create than the people that play them?

Attractive Pricing

As a Canadian I’m getting accustomed to paying upwards of $80 for a single video game.  Feels like highway robbery to me.  I’m sure many of you feel the same way.  It takes a lot of hype, great reviews, and an interesting type of game to encourage me to buy it on Day one.  Well at only $40 for A Way Out the choice to purchase it was far easier.  Especially when it includes a partner copy.  Even if it ends up being a bit of a flop.  It becomes a little easier to stomach when it’s only half the price of most new releases.  Lets be honest, there haven’t been many marquee releases yet this year.  While you are waiting for something like the sequel to your favourite franchise to come out.  Why not give A Way Out a try.  It isn’t an exceptionally long game, and one of your friends will owe you one to boot.

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GAMING Uncategorized

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – The Gamer in me GL-26

Act fast 

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This is the final day for PS Plus members to download Deus Ex: Mankind Divided.  Every month that passes with uninspiring releases has me looking to see what’s available for free through my PS Plus membership.  For February of 2018 the marquee title for download was Deus Ex: Mankind Divided.  If you are like me, and very selective about the games you purchase.  Then there’s a very good chance that you took a pass on Deus Ex: Mankind Divided when it first released in 2016.  Unless of course you were a dedicated fan of the Deus Ex franchise.  I played the original Deus Ex on PC many many years ago, and loved it.  Unfortunately the first Deus Ex release on Consoles flopped.  Poor reviews due to frame rate issues, confusing controls, and average graphic capabilities had me decide against giving it a try.  A few follow up releases came out over the years, and by the time Mankind Divided dropped in 2016 the reviews were glowing.  Everyone seemed impressed by Deus Ex: Mankind Divided.  Still I wasn’t invested in the franchise, and there were titles releasing around the same time that really had my interest.

Time to take a second look

Thanks to my PS Plus membership I’ve finally taken the opportunity to give Deus Ex: Mankind Divided a chance.  I’m so happy i did.  Keep in mind that I have played only about three hours of Deus Ex: Mankind Divided.  In those three hours I’ve realized that for a story driven game designed to lead you from mission to mission.  Deus Ex: Mankind Divided doesn’t feel linear at all.  The freedom you are given to decide how you intend to reach each objective.  The number of side missions that aren’t just mild distractions, and can actually effect your chances of success in story missions.  How each cybernetic upgrade can lead to an increase in what’s possible with the surrounding environment.  You can’t help but feel like you are always in total control of your fate.  Something that’s sorely lacking in most mission based “open world” games.

Prague never looked so cool

The version of Prague that’s been successfully created by Square Enix can best be described as a Cyberpunk Gothic supercity.  It looks fantastic on a big screen TV.  It would be a great injustice to play Deus Ex: Mankind Divided on a small monitor.  Special attention has obviously been placed on surround sound quality as well.  I felt truly immersed in everything happening around me because of the attention to detail.  Although it could become a little overwhelming to the more obsessively compulsive gamers.  The Prague that Square Enix has created has an endless number of places that can be explored.  Every sewer grate that can be lifted. Every window that can be unlocked.  Every pole or drainage pipe that can be climbed.  Moving from street, to balconies, to rooftops where additional areas can be found to explore.  If you are the type of Gamer that needs to find absolutely everything?  Well it’s going to be a long tedious process.  Play Resident Evil if that’s your thing.  A game that actually rewards you for doing it all.  Deus Ex: Mankind Divided doesn’t care what you do, or how you do it.  All of those aforementioned options are there to provide you with choices for how you would like to accomplish a particular objective.  See them as such, and you will enjoy the game that much more.

Quiet Chaos

One of the primary reasons that I am enjoying Deus Ex: Mankind Divided so much is of course the gameplay.  I’ve never been the type of Gamer that enjoys high intensity shooters.  Running from cover to cover while strafing, and performing super jumps is definitely not my thing.  Tom Clancy’s The Division with small unit coordinated attacks? YES. Halo in jumpsuits in close quarters maps? NO.  Deus Ex: Mankind Divided where stealth and misdirection are as important as the occasional gunfight?  HELL YEAH!  Now I’m not saying that you can’t succeed by shooting first, and asking questions later.  You can do that, if that’s your thing, and that’s the beauty of it.  Deus Ex: Mankind Divided allows you to play the game however you like to play it.  I wish more games were designed the same way.

Do yourself a favour and take the opportunity to download this game.  Trust me you won’t be disappointed!

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Giga Golf TRX Irons testing – A Beginner’s Opinion

A full month and counting

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I’ve  had the Giga Golf TRX Power Slot Irons with a standard length True Temper Feather Flight Firm shaft for just over a month now.  As a resident of Toronto Ontario Canada, weather has prevented me from hitting them outdoors so all of my testing has been in simulators thus far.  Although this is still a limited sample size in a very controlled environment.  I’ve been able to make a few interesting conclusions.

Distance

I have tested many Super Game Improvement, and Game Improvement Irons over the last few years.  This has provided me with a very good understanding of how far i can effectively hit a 7 Iron.  Worst case scenario is around 138 yards, and my personal best average is 151 yards.  The Giga Golf TRX Irons preformed admirably.  My average distance with the TRX 7 Iron is 145 yards.  Only 6 yards less than my personal best which was achieved with the Srixon Z355 7 Iron.  It’s important to note that the Srixon 355 Irons set averaged out to $125/Iron, and the Giga Golf TRX Irons were only $50/Iron.  Both Irons are 37 inches long, but the TRX 7 Iron has a one degree stronger loft at 30 degrees.  Although peak heights during testing were the same.  6 yards might seem like a lot to some people, but provided your gapping is good the shorter total distance has very little affect on your game.  Overall my distance with the Giga Golf TRX Irons is better than the majority of clubs I’ve tested.

Dispersion

In the grand scheme of things, dispersion is far more significant to me when evaluating Irons.  My set includes 6 Iron down which for me act as my scoring clubs.  I’m not the longest hitter so I leave myself a lot of 6 or 7 Iron approach shots into Greens.  The tighter my shot dispersion is, the closer i am to the Pin on average.  The Giga Golf TRX Irons have really shined in this area.  My previous set of Irons were Super Game Improvement Irons from Adams.  Although they were very easy to hit.  Controlling the shot dispersion with those Irons wasn’t easy.  With the Adams Idea Tech V4 7 Iron I had about an 18 yard dispersion.  With the Giga Golf TRX 7 Iron I have an average total dispersion of only 9 yards.  Reducing my average total dispersion by 50% can be the difference between a Green in Regulation, or landing in a Greenside bunker.  To be honest I haven’t kept detailed records of the shot dispersions of all of the 7 Irons I’ve tested.  I can tell you that the Giga Golf TRX 7 Iron shot dispersion is 3 yards better than what I achieved with the Srixon Z355 7 Iron though.  Whether it’s as a result of the increased distance with the Srixon 7 Iron, or better face impact with the Giga Golf TRX 7 Iron I can’t be sure.  For the time being I’m more than impressed with the Giga Golf TRX 7 Iron performance.

Forgiveness

As i mentioned earlier my previous set of Irons were the Adams Idea Tech V4 Super Game Improvement Irons.  As such they were incredibly forgiving.  Shots made from all over the club face travelled relatively far. My average total distance with the Adams Idea Tech V4 7 Iron was 140 yards.  Impacts out of the toe were only about 4 yards shorter.  Impacts out of the heel were only a touch worse averaging 6 yards shorter.

The Giga Golf TRX 7 Iron isn’t as forgiving.  Shots out of the toe and heel are around 10 yards shorter.  Practically a full club shorter for most golfers.  Again this might sound terrible considering how many companies tout increased forgiveness as a feature.  What you need to understand is that with increased forgiveness comes a decrease in feel.  For the first time I’m able to notice when I’ve made poor contact.  This has led to me developing a more consistent strike as a result.  Although my suspicions haven’t been totally confirmed.  I’m beginning to believe that Super Game Improvement Irons help you score better but don’t actually improve your game. Whereas Game Improvement Irons do exactly what their designation suggests.  They actually do help to improve your game.  I wouldn’t be surprised if after a full season playing with the Giga Golf TRX Irons that my center face strike consistency is significantly better.

Spin

Generally speaking Super Game Improvement Irons and Game Improvement Irons don’t spin at a high rate.  Most manufacturers intentionally reduce the Spin in order to increase total distance.  The only Game Improvement Irons I’ve tested that have affectively kept a high spin rate while offering increased distance are the Wilson C200s.

I was expecting the Giga Golf TRX 7 Iron to have a low spin rate due to it’s relatively strong loft of 30 degrees.  If you have read my previous post on selecting the right Game Improvement Irons you’ll know that anything over 4500 rpm is considered high for me.  I averaged 5200 rpm with the Giga Golf TRX 7 Iron. That’s an impressive result for me.  My only explanation for the high spin results is the combination of lie, offset, and swing weight.  I have a shallow swing path naturally but the TRX Power Slot Irons have a slightly more upright lie angle which has steepened my angle of attack to the ball.  The increased Spin has limited the amount of roll out which is why my total distance is reduced.  I’m sure it contributes to the smaller dispersion as well.

So far so good

It’s far too early to report on product durability so I’ll leave that for another time.  Turf interaction will have to wait for warmer weather so that will come later as well.  For what it’s worth though, if you play a lot of golf in a Simulator I would have a difficult time suggesting anything other than the Giga Golf TRX Power Slot Irons for the money.  They perform as well as anything I’ve tested for a fraction of the price.

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GOLF

Ongoing Review Format – Beginner’s Guide to Golf

Beginner’s Guide to Golf

Ongoing Review Format : learn what products will actually do for your game.

Something my Subscribers can look forward to in 2018 is ongoing reviews of featured products. Instead of spending a few hours in a Simulator or at the Range testing a new product. I will select a few key products that I believe can potentially benefit a High handicapper or total Beginner and conduct an ongoing review all year. I will have a weekly update Post here on my Blog, and a weekly Video with all or some of the featured products on my YouTube Channel Cobe Life.


This Ongoing Review format will allow me to provide you with my first impressions, product performance, learning curve, real world usefulness, durability issues, and final recommendations. I will keep detailed on course statistics that are generated during actual Rounds of Golf. Unlike most reviews that might specifically drop balls at specific distances on a course to evaluate swings with a specific club. The Ongoing Review format will allow me the freedom to assess a club’s effectiveness in the actual moment it’s required with real consequences on the line. What good is a high spinning Wedge if you find it difficult to hit squarely out of a tight lie? Situations like that are impossible to replicate in a Simulator, or even at a practice facility. What I’m hoping to be able to actually provide you with is the knowledge of what products you should feel confident with. When you need to make that one shot. How will the products that I’ve selected benefit you in that moment? Will it take a few trips to the Range or Practice area to get comfortable, or can almost anyone of any skill level feel confident after an hour of practice? That’s something I would have liked to have known before buying my first 3 Wood. As much as I always suggest that you test swing any clubs that you are considering purchasing. What a Simulator may show you after a few swings isn’t necessarily a fair representation of what you are actually capable of. If you had a few days to get familiar with the weight and balance of a new Driver for instance. It may surprise you how much better you can hit it. Quite often Beginner’s buy what is most similar to what they already have. Although this generally reduces the learning curve. It can also prevent them from progressing. My Ongoing Review format will hopefully demonstrate that some products if given the right amount of practice to master their uses can have an even greater affect on your Golf game.

Products I will be conducting Ongoing Reviews of include:
GPS Rangefinder
Driver
3 Wood
Hybrid
Irons
Wedges
Two types of Balls (Distance and Spin)

If there is a particular product that you are interested in seeing me provide an Ongoing Review for please let me know in the comments. Keep in mind that the products I eventually choose will be geared towards Beginners. I’m not going to be selecting Player’s Blades, or Pro V1 Balls.

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Potential Sponsors

I would like to encourage interested equipment manufacturers that would like to see some of their products featured in the Cobe Life Ongoing Reviews to contact me through my Contact Us page.  As much as I would enjoy testing any of your new equipment releases.  The Ongoing Reviews are strictly for products in the Game Improvement category.

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GOLF Uncategorized

Golf misconceptions – Beginner’s guide to Golf

Even the truth can be misleading

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After three Canadian Seasons of playing golf, I’ve learned a few things.  Not everything the major manufacturers say necessarily applies to the Beginner Golfer.  The looks, and feel of Golf clubs are given far too much credit when rated by trusted reviewers online.  These things have factored in to some of the poor equipment choices Beginners can make.  In this article I’m going to explain how to better understand as a Beginner what information actually applies to you.

Looks, feel, and demand

I watched a Video on YouTube recently where the reviewer was testing five different Irons from five manufacturers. He based his final score for each club on a number of factors including shot consistency, distance, appearance, and cost.  The club that actually performed the best overall finished second because the reviewer didn’t like the looks of the Iron.  He suggested that we should actually purchase the inferior product because it looks better in the bag.  He’s not alone in his thinking.  I’ve seen, and read many reviews of excellent products that get dismissed because they don’t have a classic look.  Golf Digest routinely gives out it’s Gold star ratings for a number of Golf products from balls to Drivers.  Be careful how much credit you give their ratings though.  They make a point of factoring in Product demand when considering their final rankings.  That’s right it’s also a popularity contest.  Two clubs could perform equally as well, but if one is from a major manufacturer with a team of tour Pros, and marketing.  Well that’s the club that’s going to get the Gold star because lots of people like it.  Beginners shouldn’t concern themselves with customer demand, or how pretty a club looks in the bag.  All they should be concerned about is how a new piece of equipment will improve their game.  I understand the motivation that a lot of these online reviewers have.  Make the Big Golf Manufacturers happy, and there could be some free swag, or marketing dollars coming your way.  Qualitative categories like looks, or feel, and skewed categories like demand allow reviewers to consistently keep whichever Big brand product they like near, or at the top of their rankings. Nobody can argue about Feel, because what feels right to each person is unique.  In some cases Feel is more about the Shaft of a club. If you are getting professionally fit.  What a reviewer says about Feel isn’t valid at all.  Looks are really about what makes you confident, and comfortable over the ball.  Read any of the reviews you can find online about my Adams Yes Milly Putter.  All of them will make a point of telling you how ugly it is.  I can admit that the Black and Yellow colour scheme is a bit garish.  It makes lining up the ball an absolute breeze through.

I don’t mind the look.

The majority of reviewers will highlight all the technology that went into the Putter.  The C-Groove milled face, true alignment sole, heel and toe tungsten weighting, and high contrast alignment were all considered top of the line tech.  Unfortunately for Adams though the Looks category kept the overall ratings down.  I easily tested 20 different Putters before selecting the Yes Milly.  I only based my final selection on two factors, price and performance.  Price always plays a role, but not as much when it comes to Putters.  I know that I’ll keep the right Putter for years.  I might go through three sets of Irons before I change my Putter.  For that reason I’m willing to spend more.  Fortunately for me, all of the technology crammed into the Yes Milly Putter came relatively cheap.  Adams was bought by Taylormade, and the Yes Putter division was dropped reducing Demand.  The many reviews proclaiming how ugly it was didn’t help it’s market value so it went on clearance relatively quickly.  In the end I had narrowed it down to the Odyssey White Hot 2.0 vs the Yes Milly.  The Milly won because I was able to consistently lag long Putts closer to the hole.  Like I said, Performance always wins.

Beginner’s guide to Golf

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GAMING

Top 8 Gifts for Gamers 2017 – The Gamer in me GL-16

Christmas is just around the corner

Before it’s too late, and you find yourself fighting your way through other desperate shoppers one week before Christmas.  Never mind the hour it took you to find a parking spot at your local shopping center.  Do yourself a favour, and get your holiday shopping over and done with now.  Here’s a few great ideas for the hardcore Gamer on your Christmas list.

1 – Playstation VR bundle

The next evolution in gaming is Virtual Reality.  PS4 leads the way with their Playstation VR system.  Provided you already own a PS4.  This is still the most affordable way to get into true Virtual Reality gaming.  If you haven’t tried it, I suggest you do.  It will blow your mind.

2 – Imperial Assault Heart of the Empire

Any of you that read my The Gamer in me posts are well aware of how impressed I am with Star Wars Imperial Assault.  The new full Campaign expansion takes your heroes to Coruscant to battle with classic characters like Emperor Palpatine and Darth Maul.  How can you resist that!

3 – Miniatures Storage Box

This is something that every tabletop miniatures Gamer can fully appreciate.  Sure we love to display all of our fully painted miniatures.  You know what we love more though?  Actually taking them over to our friend’s place, or local Game store and playing with them.  A handy carrying case makes transporting your favourite figs so much easier.

4 – Wireless Gaming Headset

This falls into the gift for both of you category.  How many times have you had to ask your kids, or significant other to lower the volume on the TV?  A high quality Gaming Headset allows you to get some much needed peace and quiet, while the Gamer in your house can play until the coffee runs out.  You are welcome for the idea.

5 – 4K UHD high speed Game Screen

Depending on where the TV ends up.  This can qualify as a gift for both of you as well.  Who doesn’t want a brand new Ultra High Definition TV?  I’m considering buying another one for the bathroom so you know I’d welcome one for Christmas.  Movies look great on a high end TV, but videogames can look phenomenal.  Just go buy one for yourself, and tell your significant other that it’s for them.  You can thank me later.

6 – Card Game collector Albums

For years I played many of the most popular Collectible Card Games.  I honestly couldn’t have enough Collectors binders.  This is one of the gifts that you can spend a lot, or a little on.  Trust me the Collectible Card Gamer on your Christmas list will be happy with a custom collector’s binder, or a generic card binder.

7 – Simulator Gaming chair

This is quite simply the ultimate gift for the Gamer that you know that loves racing games.  Get them a copy of Gran Turismo, a high quality gaming wheel, and this chair.  Just be prepared to not see them until Spring, maybe.  As much as I would love to have one of these.  I don’t think my marriage would survive it.  Although it would probably be fine if I got two! Hmmm?

8 – Couch Slipcover

After picturing yourself setting lap records on Laguna Seca in your brand new Gaming chair.  The last item on my list is a Slipcover?  You are going to have to trust me on this one.  The living room couch takes a ridiculous amount of abuse when there are Gamers in the house.  It’s the only piece of furniture in my living room that is beat up.  A simple Slipcover adds some much needed comfort, protection, and washable solution when the stains inevitably happen.  This is really a gift for everyone, but give it to the Gamer.  They will most definitely understand your reasoning.

Have a truly happy Christmas

I hope this helps you narrow down your Christmas list.  Here’s to hoping that you get exactly what you were hoping for as well.

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GOLF Uncategorized

The right Game Improvement Iron – Beginner’s guide to Golf

Statistical Surprise

When I started looking for my first set of Irons I placed additional importance on three specific categories.  I had been practicing my swing at the Range with a friend’s old 5 Iron, and 7 Iron.  I was hitting the 5 Iron only about 130 yards, and the 7 Iron about 100 yards on a good day.  My miss was usually a slice, or catching it thin.  When I didn’t get centre face contact the ball practically flew half the distance.  So when I decided to buy my first set, Distance, Forgiveness, and Price were the big three for me.  After going to my local Golf store at least a dozen times to test clubs in the simulator I narrowed down my choices to three models.  In the end I went with a previous generation of the Adams Blue, and purchased the Adams Idea tech V4.  It was a demo set so the price was right.  It’s also a Hybrid/Iron set so it’s very forgiving.  During testing it also appeared to be quite long.  It wasn’t until much later that I realized it didn’t actually add any significant distance.  It only seemed that way because of how forgiving it was.  My swing was so bad during testing that I rarely caught a ball well enough for the distance characteristics to be accurate.  If you are in the market for your first set of clubs then I would like to make a suggestion.  The three factors I listed should be of importance to you.  When testing clubs bring along a friend that’s a significantly better Golfer than you.  When you find a few models that feel right, and are forgiving.  Have your friend test those same models for distance.  They can tell you if they are longer than what they are used to, average, or shorter.  As your swing develops the distance characteristics of that club will begin to take affect.  There is one more characteristic you should be aware of when selecting your clubs though, and that’s…

Spin

I’ve already begun researching what my next set of Irons will be.  This time I will focus on all four characteristics, Price, Distance, Forgiveness, and Spin.  The motivation for this article happened when I did a Google search for High Spin Game Improvement Irons, and basically got nothing useful.  You would think that with all the Golf equipment reviewers out there, I’d find something?  The reality of it is they still focus on the typical three characteristics.  Spin is basically overlooked, even though they have the Spin numbers readily available.  So how important is Spin?  Well it’s important enough that Ball manufacturers consider it one of the top two reasons to select their ball.  So much emphasis is placed on a ball’s Spin characteristics that most Golfers look at that first when selecting a ball.  Well what good is having a High Spin ball if your Irons don’t impart much Spin on the ball to begin with?  What if you are after more Distance, and select a low Spin ball, but your Irons are designed to increase the amount of Spin?  These combinations really don’t make sense do they?  While the Forgiveness, and Distance determine how well you can hit a ball.  The Spin has a far greater affect on how successfully you play the game.  As your swing improves, your ability to hold Greens, run through Fairways, or shape your shot is all determined by the Spin.  Too often Beginners believe that a ball change will make a significant difference.  In some cases it can, but only if their equipment, and swing allows it.  By the end of my second Season I had come to realize that Spin is more important to me than Distance.  I have around a 140 yard carry with my 7 Iron.  That’s really enough for me.  I’ve tried clubs that provide me with a carry of 150 yards, but sacrifice Forgiveness and Spin to do so. Thanks but no thanks.  I’ll take control over distance any day.

Low Spin Game Improvement Irons

Calloway Big Bertha

– Center of gravity is low and forward.

– has a 360 degree face cup to increase forgiveness.

– falls into the super game improvement category, and is quite chunky to look at.

– one of the three longest Irons tested.

– one of the three least forgiving Irons tested.

Cobra Fly-Z

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– has a speed channel groove for increased forgiveness.

– relatively attractive top line at address

– very easy to get the ball up in the air.

Ping G Max

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– uses COR Eye2 technology for increased distance and forgiveness.

– falls into the super game improvement category, and is quite chunky to look at.

– very dull appearance, but a satisfying sound and feel at impact.

Mid Spin Game Improvement Irons

Mizuno JPX EZ

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– thin sole cavity increases distance and launch.

– gorgeous looking Iron with the top line at address of a larger Players Iron.

– one of the three least forgiving Irons tested.

Taylormade RSi 1

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– uses face slots and a speed pocket to increase distance and forgiveness.

– slightly lower launch than most of the other Irons tested.

– one of the three most forgiving Irons tested.

Nike Vapor Fly

– Center of gravity is center and back.

– hollow body construction to increase forgiveness.

– NexCOR face to increase distance.

– the hollow body construction gives it a mini hybrid appearance.  A unique look that won’t appeal to everyone.

High Spin Game Improvement Irons

Cleveland Launcher HB

– Center of gravity is low and way back.

– hybrid/Iron design for greater launch and improved forgiveness.

– falls into the super game improvement category, and is quite chunky to look at.

– the most forgiving Iron tested.

Wilson D300

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– FLX face technology is used to increase distance.

– power holes around the face increase forgiveness.

– despite a relatively thin top line the urethane filled power holes can look odd to some Players.

– the longest of all the Irons tested.

– one of the three most forgiving Irons tested.

Titleist AP1 716

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– 360 degree cavity increases launch and distance.

– toe and heel weighting increases forgiveness.

– very classic looking Iron with a relatively thin top line.

– one of the three longest Irons tested.

– one of the three least forgiving Irons tested.

My Top 3 and Conclusions

First of all it’s important for you to know that “High Spin” is a relative measure.  Generally speaking Game Improvement Irons aren’t high spinning Irons.  In order to provide the additional forgiveness and Distance, Spin is usually reduced.  For the purposes of this study the Spin groups were: 7 Iron backspin

less than 3500 RPM   = Low Spin

3500 – 4500 RPM       = Mid Spin

more than 4500 RPM = High Spin

You’ll also notice that I include Irons manufactured from 2015 to 2017.  Unlike some of the better known Golf reviewers, I am not sent product from manufacturers to review.  I test whatever peaks my interest at my local Golf store.  Because price is also an important consideration I have a tendency to purchase clearance items.  Every Iron listed in this Review can still be found for purchase.

Now with the four factors carefully taken into consideration my Top 3 Irons for a Beginner that’s serious about improving at Golf are:

3rd Place – Nike Vapor Fly

Although the Nike Vapor Fly wasn’t the longest, or the most forgiving.  It was relatively easy to hit, forgiving enough on miss hits, and because  Nike got out of the equipment market available for a great price.  It still generates enough Spin that Beginners will learn to create enough control over the ball as their swing improves.  The looks won’t bother a newer Golfer that isn’t used to a traditional blade.  For practically half the price of most of the Irons on this list you can’t go wrong.

2nd Place – Taylormade RSi 1

I found the Taylormade RSi 1 to be the easiest Iron to hit.  Maybe it’s a result of the Face slots, and Speed Pocket.  I really don’t know.  One thing is for sure is that the RSi 1 is very forgiving.  Distance is good but not great, and it also generates enough Spin to control the ball as your swing improves.  The looks should appeal to most Golfers. Even the Face slots serve to frame the ball at address.  It’s the oldest model tested, and as such comes in at a very attractive price.

1rst Place – Wilson D300

You read that right, Wilson wins the day.  Shows you why you should take the time to test everything.  I’ll be honest with you, the looks of the D300 kind of bother me.  All those Power Holes make the club look very busy at address.  During testing I was so impressed with the performance that I stopped noticing.  It was easily the longest of the Irons I tested, very forgiving on miss hits anywhere on the face, and one of the highest spinning Irons tested.  The only other Iron that really came close was the Titleist AP1 716 but it fell far short in the Forgiveness category.  Not to mention that the D300 Iron set is currently $200 less than the Titleist.  That being said it still comes in at around twice the price of the Taylormade or Nike.  So depending on your budget it may currently be out of it.

Honorable mention goes to the Titleist AP1 716 Irons.  If you are a slightly better Player that has learned how to shape your shot, but still needs added distance?  Then the AP1 Irons could be for you.

Honorable mention also goes to the Cleveland Launcher HB Irons.  An absolutely great Beginners Iron that provides maximum forgiveness, and a lot of Spin.  Very easy to learn with but be prepared to want to upgrade after only a few seasons.

Beginner’s guide to Golf

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Rangefinders Starting from Scratch SS-11

Nikon Coolshot 20 versus Garmin Approach G10

Laser or GPS Rangefinder?  It’s a question that has been asked by many a Golfer.  I have recently been able to test both.  For Beginners I’d have to say that there is a clear winner.  I was surprised with which technology won.

Budget is always a concern when I’m in the market for new Golf equipment.  I tend to look for whatever gives me the most value for my dollar.  The two contenders were purchased from my local Golf retailer.  I was limited to their selection of Rangefinders.  I chose the Nikon Coolshot 20 to represent Laser Rangefinders, and the Garmin Approach G10 to represent GPS Rangefinders.  The Coolshot 20 was priced at $279.99, and the Approach G10 was priced at $179.99.  Obviously the Garmin Approach G10 wins the price category.  At $100.00 less that’s a fair amount of money left in the bank for additional Golf accessories.  Of course the significantly lower price sacrifices functionality right?

One place it does sacrifice a lot of functionality is at the Driving Range.  The Garmin Approach G10 is basically useless when you are at the Range.  Three particular Ranges I frequent are The Docks, Launch, and Centennial Golf.  All three of these Ranges have target areas.  The distances to each target area is unmarked.  Using the Nikon Coolshot 20 provides you with an accurate distance to any of those targets.  It doesn’t matter which hitting bay you are in, you will have an accurate distance.  In some cases the difference to target can be as much as 12 yards from the center hitting bay to the outermost hitting bay.  Being able to use the Nikon Coolshot 20 at the Range meant having accurate distance calculations everywhere I play.

Whether I was on a course, at the Range, or in a Simulator, I knew my distances.  Of course that means I knew the distances I was hitting with each club as well.  Which brings me to my next comparison.

Measuring the distance of that perfect Tee shot

Ever catch one just perfect off the Tee?  You can’t help but wonder how far it actually went right?  I know I do.  Both the Garmin Approach G10, and the Nikon Coolshot 20 can calculate how far you hit that perfect drive.  How each device does it is dramatically different.  The Nikon requires you to sight in your ball from the Tee, or find your ball and then aim the Nikon back at the Tee box to calculate the Range.  Easy enough right.  Odds are you will have the Nikon Coolshot 20 Rangefinder out when you reach your ball to figure out the distance to your next target.  So just turn around and aim it at the Tee box.  What if you cut the corner of a dogleg, and now your sight line is obstructed?  Sorry about your luck Chuck.  So there will be times that figuring out the distance of that mammoth Tee shot is impossible with the Nikon Coolshot 20.  In order to calculate the distance with the Garmin Approach G10.  The first thing you need to do after hitting that shot is to switch the unit into Measurement mode.  Then you just head over to where your Ball landed.  The Garmin Approach G10 then calculates the distance.  Line of sight isn’t an issue so basically any shot can be measured.  The real issue is with having to switch modes right after making the swing.  There have been many times that my Tee shot ended far further than I had anticipated.  A lucky kick off a hill, or it rolled down a slope I didn’t know about.  By the time I have located the Ball, and realized that I really cranked one.  It’s already too late to measure the distance.  I found that more often than not it was much easier to measure the distance of monster Tee shots with the Nikon Coolshot 20.  You could argue that switching the Garmin Approach G10 into Measurement mode after each Tee shot would be the most reliable method.  That would be true.  For me though I have enough to think about during a Round of Golf. Measuring each Tee shot isn’t high on my list of priorities.  The advantage in shot measurement goes to the Nikon Coolshot 20.

Hazard avoidance

How do each of these devices help you deal with Hazards?  The Nikon Coolshot 20 doesn’t vary much with how it’s utilized.  In this case you just aim it at the Hazard, and calculate the distance.  I can’t stress enough the simplicity of it’s operation.  One click, and you know how far you can hit your next shot without bringing that Hazard into play.  What if you are interested in clearing it though?  This is where the Garmin Approach G10 really shines.  Once the unit has been switched into Hazard mode.  It will provide you with the distance to each Hazard both front and back.  It will also alert you to Hazards that you can’t actually see from your position on the course.  This is a huge advantage over the Nikon Coolshot 20. It doesn’t help to cut the corner on a dog leg.  Just to end up landing in a deep Fairway bunker.  I take a quick look through the Hazards before I Tee off at each Hole.  This allows me to plan out exactly how to navigate the Hole with minimum risk.  The Nikon Coolshot 20 does help you avoid Hazards.  It just doesn’t do it nearly as well as the Garmin Approach G10.  The advantage in Hazard avoidance goes to the Garmin Approach G10.

Approaching the Green

When calculating your approach shot into the Green.  Having a Rangefinder makes it so much easier.  When it comes to attacking the Pin.  You will love having the Nikon Coolshot 20 in your hands.  Knowing the exact distance to the Pin inspires so much confidence.  You will feel like Mickelson with a Wedge in your hand.  I didn’t even imagine trying 30 yard flop shots over bunkers until I knew the correct distances.  My default shot is more of a Bump and Run.  There’s far less room for error when you are basically Chipping the Ball to the edge of the Green, and letting it run out towards the hole.  Especially when you are unsure of the distance.  When you know the exact distance.  Your shot selection practically triples.  The Garmin Approach G10 inspires a lot of confidence on Approach shots as well.  Though not as precise as the Nikon Coolshot 20.  The Garmin Approach G10 provides you with the distance to the front, back, and center of the Green.  It does have the ability to position the flag in a number of preselected locations.  I found this feature to be a bit clunky.  Unless you are able to see the Green, or the course provides a Pin location book.  Figuring out the actual Pin locations can be quite difficult.  For a Beginner though, knowing the distances to the front, and back can be more beneficial than the actual Pin locations.  It doesn’t help me nearly as much to know that the Pin is 164 yards away.  If it happens to be set near the back of the Green, and only has 2 more yards of Green behind it. If the center of the Green is 158 yards away.  The Front is 150 yards away.  The back is 166 yards away.  Then I know that if I hit my Approach shot 160 yards.  I leave myself with 6 yards of available space to roll out before I am off the Green.  In this case, and many others.  Aiming for the front or center of the Green is far safer than taking aim at the Flag for a Beginner.  Touch shots around the Green we’re almost identical with both units.  Approximate distance is more than good enough.  I thought the Nikon Coolshot 20 would be the clear winner in this category.  I was totally wrong.  The additional information the Garmin Approach G10 provides.  The distances to the front, back, center, and shape of the Green proved to be far more valuable than exact distance to the Pin.   The advantage when approaching the Green goes to the Garmin Approach G10.

Conclusion

After testing both technologies the clear winner from a Beginners perspective is the Garmin Approach G10 GPS Rangefinder.  At $100 less it is better suited to deal with Hazards, obstructed view shots, and approach shots into the Green.  It’s much smaller than the Nikon Coolshot 20, and easily clips to your Belt or Bag.  As an added bonus it includes score keeping software.  That way you can analyze your Rounds shot by shot.  Something to consider though.  If you spend most of your time at the Range.  Then the Nikon Coolshot 20 is the only choice for you.  It’s definitely a device I would recommend.  At $279.99 it’s much less expensive than the majority of quality laser Rangefinders on the market.  It’s relatively small, acquires targets quite quickly, and extremely easy to use.  Moving forward on my quest to becoming a Scratch Golfer though.  I will be using the Garmin Approach G10.

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Golf Ball selection – Beginner’s guide to Golf

Ball selection for the Beginner

Where should your priorities lie?

Be honest with yourself.  As a Golf Beginner you are going to lose a lot of balls on the course.  So price should definitely be one of the first things you consider when selecting a ball.  Fortunately for you, there are many quality balls on the market that should suit your game without breaking the bank.

As a Beginner you will be prone to making contact all over the face of your clubs.  Maintaining a square face at impact is also incredibly difficult for most Beginners as well.  For these reasons a Low Spin Low Compression ball would benefit most Beginners.  This type of ball will help reduce the severity of slices, and hooks.  The ball won’t completely eliminate a slice, or hook, but possibly lesson it to a manageable point.  I’ve tested both High Spin, and Low Spin balls on simulators.  Having a Low Spin ball saves me about 5 strokes per round.

Another thing to consider when deciding which ball to purchase is in my opinion the deciding factor.  How it feels, and rolls when putting.   Seriously it’s the single most important aspect of what makes a ball right for you.  A ball could give me 10 more yards of distance off the Tee.  It could stop 2 yards quicker on approach shots into the Green.  It could spin like a top off my Wedges.  If it doesn’t feel right, or roll true off my Putter though.  Then it isn’t for me.  As a true Beginner the first swing you should be able to consistently repeat is your Putter stroke.  You are going to hit Drives all over the place, so 10 yards further into the Woods doesn’t help.  You will Duff, or Blade your approach shots, so stopping quicker won’t help.  The difficulty you will have using your first Wedge is massive, so extra spin won’t make any difference.  When you reach the Green though.  If that ball rolls straight, and true.  You will turn brutally frustrating holes, into a thing of beauty.

The last thing to consider when selecting a ball is how it flies off your Driver.  If you have found a few balls that meet the other criteria?  Choosing between them can come down to Driver advantage.  Some balls have dimple patterns that are specifically designed to help get the ball up in the air.  Depending on your natural launch angle, that could be beneficial.  More often than not.  A Hole that starts well, ends well.  Hitting a ball off the Tee that inspires confidence can be all you need to get off to a good start.

Knowing which ball is right for you takes a lot more than just reading reviews.  Buy a few sleeves of balls that appeal to you, and test them in a Simulator.  Then test all of them on a Putting Mat.  Make sure to use your own clubs, and Putter when testing balls.  Once you’ve decided which ball is right for you.  Make sure you buy a bunch of them.  Play those balls exclusively!  Whenever you go to a store to try a new club you are considering purchasing.  Bring along a sleeve of your balls with you.  That way you’ll get a feel for how your ball flys off that club.  You will also be used to the way the characteristics of that ball affect your shot shape.  If you use whatever balls the store has in the simulator.  The performance of the club you are testing will be impossible to accurately compare with your current equipment.

Lets say that you are in the middle of a round of Golf.  While looking for the ball that you just sliced into some fescue.  You come across a great looking money ball.  A Pro V1, or Taylormade TP5 will be so tempting to continue your Round with.  Don’t do it!  These balls aren’t made with the Beginner in mind.  It happened to me before I knew better.  I found a pristine Pro V1X during a Round of Golf where I was scoring quite well.  The next Hole was a long Par 3.  I had played this course many times, and usually hit my ball to the Green.  The angle at which I would reach the Green was so shallow my ball would always roll out the back.  I figured that the extra spin I should get with the Pro V1X would help me hold the Green.  I wiped it totally clean, and Tee’d it up.  I was right.  The Pro V1X didn’t roll out the back of the Green.  In fact I didn’t even reach the Green.  I’m sure I made contact with a very slightly Open face.  Usually with that kind of contact I’d end up back left of the Green.  With the Pro V1X it went way left, and ended up in the Pond on the left of the hole.  It was the first time I had ever hit one into that Pond.  I actually aim quite far right to avoid it because my normal miss is to the left.  I just hadn’t realized how far left the additional spin from the Pro V1X would send it.

So trust me when I say that finding the right ball for you will make a huge difference in your game.  Test as many balls as you can.  When you find one that really feels right.  Stick with it!

Beginner’s guide to Golf