kbs tour c taper

$ 49.95

LOW LAUNCH. LOW SPIN. SIGNATURE FEEL.

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TAPER TIP TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Parallel tip technical specifications.

Shaft & Grip Reviews

Kbs c-taper shaft review.

Review: First let me say a couple things..first it took me a bit longer to get a Fair bit of play on FIRM ground…as its been far to soggy in the PNW lately…but I traveled over to the eastern part of the state where the ground is firm to duplicate more realistic playing conditions than the mush around Portland/Seattle!

Click here to read the discussion in the forums

Let me preface what I have been playing prior to the C-TAPERS, I play to single digit handicap, iron play for the most part has been one of the stronger parts of my game. When playing well I like to take a small divot…I have been playing PX 6.5’s for a while now and PX 6.0 prior to that for the past several years…with a couple runs of DG x100’s just to keep things interesting. I have also spent a great deal of time and money trying pretty much every brand and style of iron shafts that come around…but alway have come back to my steady eddies PX’s due to the reduced spin, flight and consistence distances. In fact my good buddies Swanry30, desallie and I did a Trackman shoot out between PX and DG recently and pretty much confirmed what I had seen in the real world for quite some time…DG just spin too much for me and where the PX don’t and hence I’m about 1 club longer with them (individual results will vary) but those are mine.

Second, the C-TAPERS are like No other shaft I’ve ever tested…and in all honesty it took me a while to get accustomed to the differences-in fact the first 5-6 times I initially hit the c-tapers I was quite perplexed as to what I was experiencing due the sound and feel even thou the results were always there and I wasn’t confidant in what I was going to write about and tell of my experience until first I got out of the SOGGY pit of the NW and hit some firm ground.

I don’t have any Trackman numbers yet (hopefully soon) so most of what I’m relating is by good ole ballflight and distance.. I hit my Satin PX 6.5 side by side the C-Tapers as the comparison.

Feel: The C-Tapers are very quiet in the feel department…meaning they are soo smooth that I really wasn’t sure I was loading the shaft this was quite a contast to the PX which has quite a ‘pop’ to them and the DG’s which you really feel the action of the shaft all the way thru the shaft. While the C-tapers are, what I would call as ‘Refined’ as it gets…the load seems to be transfers through out the shaft almost without notice…which initially I found this alarming but soon understood what was happening as the results were there.

Sound: Again I’ll use the word ‘Quiet’, as in contrast to my PX the sound of impact is very muted, soft, yet firm but certainly many decibels lower. Again I found this puzzling combine with the feel- once I became accustomed to it very pleasing. Ballflight: This is where rubber meets the road, I would agree with KBS statement about 5% lower than the competition. I found specifically the mid and long irons (6i-3i) to flight lower than the PX’s. And the short irons a bit closer to the PX flight.

Workability: The C-Tapers are definitely more workable(or rather feel more) than PX, but DG still is the king on the feel dept. when it comes to working the ball but not necessary the results. I found the actual workable part of the C-tapers could come close to hanging with DG’s even thou they didn’t necessary feel like they were..make sense? But I would say they are a great bridge between PX and DG in this category. I had a shot on a par 4(hit my 3w off the tee left on a dogleg right into the trees)…was sitting about 165yards out uphill to the green surrounded by Pine trees…but had a small window to needle thru 3 trees in front of me but had to keep the shot low …So I have to hit a low hook just to get to the fairway(which was all I was trying to do)..So I set with a 5i and the shot came out perfect and actually went about 2 ft past the green…(for those of you keeping score).I missed the putt for par!

Distance: The I would also say KBS statement is likely true again with the 5% gain in distance, this was more evident in the mid and long irons to me..I will also throw this into the distance segment…I choose the S+ set of C-tapers, imo they feel very close to flex of my PX 6.5’s Satins, however I think the X flex’s would be a better comparison in straight terms of the px.6.5 for distance, as the added spin which allows the the shafts to Be Workable also spins just a bit more and coupled with a 1/2 flex under what I should be playing makes them play just a tad shorter than what I have be accustomed to…I look forward to picking up a set of X flex’s in the very near future as KBS C-tapers have all the things I have been looking for in irons shafts.

Final thoughts: I really believe KBS has a winner with the C-Tapers, this is by far the best KBS shaft I have tried- they look awesome, the abilities to feel and work the ball is great, the ball flight is consistent and distance is good but I have since determined that the S+ are slightly too soft for my iron game, but loo forward to giving them a go again when I get the correct flex. And after all of that I really think KBS has great product here, perhaps even the best of them all-

——————————- More Information-

Inspired from tour player feedback, the KBS C-TAPER shaft is specially designed to produce a lower flight and spin rate while delivering the signature benefits of a piercing trajectory and smooth feel. By stiffening the shaft profile in the lower taper rate and early tip section, the C-TAPER is engineered to maximize shot performance for players that currently have too high a trajectory.

Incorporating signature AST technology, the C-TAPER shaft produces a smooth feel through contact while maximizing energy transfer for distance gains and better control of the ball.

See all the video reviews of all the KBS offerings here

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Apr 12, 2018 at 7:23 am

I used DG S300’s for over 25 years now, the stiff C-Taper was indeed slightly lower and slightly longer than the S300’s. Same club head (Bridgestone J40 CB). They just feel a bit stronger yet are smooth at the same time. I’m very skeptical about shaft technology but the C-Tapers are definitely the real deal.

Jan 13, 2018 at 12:14 am

Did a 12 year old write this?

Paul Middlebrook

Aug 18, 2014 at 2:10 pm

I play the C-Taper 130X. The shafts have taken me about 1 month of pounding balls to get that close DNA connection between the swing and club. I do not kill or crush the ball but felt the 130X was perfect for feel and flight. I played the DG 300-100 and many other shafts and felt they did the job but never delivered what is so vital to the overall path of a golf ball. A shaft is like a scope to a rifle. You want to hit your target. The fit, form, and function of the C-Taper is solid and the PGA pro’s validate its exceptional return on a great swing. I have pounded thousands of balls at the range and feel take a little time to get used to. The sound sometimes does not validate the perfect contact and that is something they could enhance on. You can hit a shot and it is so quiet and the ball pierces straight to the target. I have had other watchers says wow that was a great shot but it did not sound like that swoosh off the club head. The ball flight is subjective and I ended up adjusting all my clubs to get that low piercing flight pattern. Example: Play Titleist 710 MB and standard 9 Iron is 47 degree’s. I changed it to 43 degree’s and that made all the difference. I think if you love the game and tinker with equipment without fear you will enhance to another paradigm level. Adjusting the loft and lie and going to the 130X helped me go to mid single digit.

Mar 21, 2014 at 5:00 pm

I now play the c taper S+ soft stepped. Went from dgX100 soft stepped. C taper has better feel and a ball flight that seems to plow through the wind. I don’t need my irons to be super long. As long as they fill the distance gaps. And the c tapers do that in spades, very consistent as well. Trajectory is nice. I would say its the same trajectory as the X100’s. With the c tapers the wind doesn’t affect the flight as much though. Very impressed with these shafts. They are not meant for everyone. But if they are for you, their is nothing better. Swallow your pride if your getting fit for these. You will probably play a flex lower than what you play now. I’d rather shoot par with clubs that fit me, than shooting a 85 and saying I use clubs that the pro’s use.

Feb 27, 2013 at 3:17 pm

Just got a set of AMP forged with X C-Tapers….WOW!!! Couldn’t be more excited to go out and play/pracitce!

Oct 27, 2012 at 11:40 am

I have the c taper on a set of golfsmith irons. Previously I had been playing the DG SL which performed for me but the KBS are my favorites now. They allow me to work the ball right or left and I can keep the ball down now a little easier. I have more distance but the best thing for me is they have the smoothest feel of any shaft I have tried. I also like the brushed metal look of the shaft. FYI I had to experiment with the tipping until I got the feel I was looking for.

Jun 29, 2012 at 12:18 am

I hit the c taper shaft in a taylormade mc fitting iron today. It was definitely one of the best feeling shafts I have found. For someone like me 100 mph club speed with mid/long irons, this shaft held up extremely well and brought my spin rate and launch angle down. It was also easy to work. Definitely going to be my next iron shaft

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Here’s why Jordan Spieth switched into a new Fujikura Ventus TR Blue shaft at Pebble Beach

When Fujikura’s new Ventus TR Blue shaft launched in January 2022, we learned all about the updated construction and potential performance benefits compared to the original Ventus Blue. It was unclear at the time, however, exactly who would make the switch into the new TR design on the PGA Tour.

Well, we’re starting to get some answers.

Jordan Spieth , who’s been relatively slow to change into new products throughout his career, is among a handful of names making the change. Spieth conducted recent testing with a Ventus Blue TR 7 X shaft in his Titleist TS2 15-degree fairway wood, and he put it in play this week at the 2022 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Titleist Tour representative J.J. Van Wezenbeeck, who works closely with Spieth on his equipment, said that Spieth came to the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) on Friday before the 2022 Pebble Beach Pro-Am for a check-up on his equipment. Since Spieth was previously playing Ventus Blue shafts in his Titleist metalwoods, he was intrigued by the new TR version.

As it turned out, Spieth found the new shaft to help with his transition and directional control.

“Coming from Ventus Blue, anytime they update a shaft you’re just intrigued on that, and he liked how [the Ventus TR Blue] loaded compared to the original Ventus Blue for him,” Van Wezenbeeck told GolfWRX on Tuesday. “He felt like when he mishit it, there was a little more control. So that was a good option for him…we did a little bit of internal work on the head to make sure there’s enough spin, because want to make sure his 3 wood doesn’t have too low of spin. He liked how the TR reacted on mishits where the spin didn’t drop, and it had more consistent spin from swing to swing.”

Due to a new Spread Tow fabric in the butt-end section, which is essentially a checkerboard pattern of woven material, the torque on the TR version is 10 percent stiffer in the mid-to-grip end of the shaft. As a result, Fujikura says the TR shaft is designed to improve stability and consistency compared to the original Ventus Blue.

Based on Spieth’s results with the TR shaft during testing, it seems Fujikura’s case holds water.

Spieth is using a Ventus Blue TR 7 X version in his fairway wood.

Pat McCoy, Director of Tour Operations at Fujikura, spoke with GolfWRX about the new shaft, and what players are seeing in their testing out on Tour.

“Compared to the original Ventus Blue, the TR has a stiffer mid-section and lower torque,” McCoy said. “Basically what the shaft does is it eliminates some of the dynamic loft. It eliminates some of the rotation. Obviously, the Ventus Blue was a very stable shaft and one of the best launching shafts we’ve ever had. And we just made it better.

“As far as ball speed and launch and spin, I’m not going to say it’s faster, but we have seen players who have achieved faster speeds with it. It provides more consistency and the ability to turn swing speed into ball speed better. And that’s it. It’s a little stiffer than the original Blue, and it’s a little bit weaker than the [Ventus Black]. It’s a ‘tweener. It gives you something in the middle, and depending upon loft and impact location, you get a better fit.”

The fairway wood shaft wasn’t the only potential change that Spieth will make in 2022, though.

In addition to putting the new Titleist Vokey SM9 wedges in the bag, Spieth is also considering adding another option to the top end of his bag.

Typically, Spieth changes between a hybrid and long irons, depending on course conditions. During the recent session at TPI, though, Spieth took a liking to Titleist’s U-505 wide-bodied driving iron. Ahead of the 2022 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Spieth took a U-505 2-iron (Graphite Design AD-DI 105X shaft) out onto the course for testing.

“He’s experimenting with a U-505 this week (ahead of the event at Pebble Beach),” Van Wezenbeeck told GolfWRX. “He’s always gone between a hybrid and either a 2 iron, or a hybrid and 3 iron, and we brought out a 505 as kind of a third option on a week where he isn’t sure whether he should play an iron or a hybrid. The 505 being a wide body iron is kind of a blend between the two. And he was really intrigued with how high it launched on a standard shot, and he could flight it more off the tee, where as with a hybrid he can’t do.

“So on weeks he feels like there’s a lot of irons off the tee, he likes to play the iron. On weeks where there are a lot of shots into par 5s, he likes the hybrid. On weeks where there’s a little of both…he felt the 505 might be an option, so he was taking it on the golf course [on Tuesday] to see how it would react.”

While it’s unclear exactly when Spieth will break out the new U-505, it seems like it’ll certainly be in the rotation going forward. The Ventus TR Blue shaft, on the other hand, has already earned a starting spot in the bag this week.

These changes may seem minor to some, but it shows Spieth’s willingness to find small equipment tweaks to improve his game. For amateur golfers, use this as a lesson when gearing up for the new season. Go through your bag, test some of the new shaft and head options, and see where you can make improvements. Now is the perfect time to take inventory and get prepared.

MRC Shaft Shootout: Tensei CK Pro White, Kuro Kage XT and Diamana BF-Series

The Tensei CK Pro White is the latest release from Mitsubishi Rayon Composites (MRC), a low-launch, low-spin shaft with a multi-material design that the company says improves the performance and feel of the shaft. Whereas most golf shafts use between 3-6 different materials in their construction, the Tensei CK Pro White is made from 11 different materials, giving MRC engineers greater precision in the shaft’s design.

Like MRC’s Tensei CK Pro Blue shafts, which produce a slightly higher-launching, higher-spinning ball flight, the CK Pro White uses MRC’s Carbon Fiber DuPont Kevlar Weave in the handle section of the shaft. The company says it increases the strength and stability of that part of the shaft, leading to better feedback.

On the other end of the shaft, the tip section, MRC uses a boron-reinforced fiber. All low-launch, low-spin shafts have stiff-tip designs, but the addition of boron puts the Tensei CK Pro White in a class of its own when it comes to lowering launch angle and spin rate. The boron fiber also reduces torque, which can offer better energy transfer, more accuracy and better feedback — especially for skilled, high-swing-speed golfers.

Connecting and reinforcing those areas of the shafts is MRC’s low-resin content (LRC) prepreg. Prepreg is carbon fiber that’s been reinforced or “pre-impregnated” with resin, a glue that holds the material together when it’s formed into sheets and rolled into the form of a shaft. MRC says that its LRC has 15 percent more carbon fiber and 13 percent less resin than traditional prepregs, which allows MRC to make the Tensei CK Pro White stronger without adding extra weight to the shaft. MRC also uses high-modulus, 40-ton prepreg in the Tensei CK Pro White’s design, which like LRC is thinner, stronger and lighter than traditional prepregs.

The addition of boron helps MRC make the tip of Tensei CK Pro White shaft stiffer and lower in torque.

In the EI chart below, you can see how the Tensei CK Pro White’s bend profile compares to the CK Pro Blue. The main differences are its slightly stiffer tip and mid sections, as well as its slightly softer butt section. That gives the CK Pro White a higher “kick point” than the CK Pro Blue. Generally, the higher the kick point of a shaft, the lower its launch conditions. That’s why the Tensei CK Pro White is a lower-launching, lower-spinning shaft than the Tensei CK Pro Blue.

The Shootout

Just how much lower launching and lower spinning is the Tensei CK Pro White than MRC’s latest premium driver shafts? I put it to the test against the company’s Kuro Kage XT and Diamana BF-Series, which like the CK Pro White are PGA Tour-quality shafts that sell for about $400 each. All three shafts tested were built to my spec: 70TX, tipped 1 inch at a finished length of 45.5 inches.

I tested the three shafts on Trackman 4 at the Launch Pad at Carl’s Golfland in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. After warming up, I hit 10 drives with each shaft, and whittled my shots down to the most similar five to help illustrate the differences. Premium balls were used for the test, and results were normalized.

MRC’s Kuro Kage XT uses a stouter iteration of the company’s famed “Blue Board” bend profile, and in that regard it’s quite similar to the Diamana BF-Series. That’s what makes the shafts a little higher launching and higher spinning than the Tensei CK Pro White. The Kuro Kage XT has a much different feel than both, however, due to its use of an elastic wire made of Titanium and Nickel that MRC calls “TiNi” wire.

Related: Learn more about the Kuro Kage XT

In the Kuro Kage XT, the TiNi wire is added to the bottom 13 inches of the shaft, where it adds stability, but it also serves another purpose. Its elasticity allows the bottom end of the shaft to better load and unload during the downswing to help improve energy transfer. That’s what gives the Kuro Kage XT its more active feel, at least compared to the boron-infused tip section of the Tensei CK Pro White, which by design offer no elasticity.

The Diamana BF-Series also uses boron in its tip section, and its combined with a new, aerospace-grade fiber called MR-70 to create what MRC says is a first-of-its-kind hybrid prepreg. MR-70, which is manufactured by parent company Mitsubishi Chemical, is 20 percent stronger and has 10 percent more modulus than similar fibers, MRC says . The handle section of the BF-Series is reinforced with MRC’s Pitch Fiber, which functions to boost energy transfer like the CK Pro White’s Carbon Fiber DuPont Kevlar Weave.

Related: Learn more about the Diamana BF-Series shafts

In terms of launch conditions, the best fit for me was the Diamana BF-Series. It launched the ball a little higher than the Tensei CK Pro White, and added a little spin to help keep my drives in the air. It was also easier to swing than the Tensei CK Pro White, helping me more easily hit a draw while offering an even smoother feel due to its less rigid tip and mid sections.

To recap, if you need to lower your launch conditions, the Tensei CK Pro White is one of the most intriguing new MRC options to help you do so. Need a higher ball flight? Try the Diamana BF-Series. And if you want a radically different feel, give the Kuro Kage XT a try.

Have a question? Let me know in the comments section below and I’ll do my best to answer as many as I can.

Weights and Flexes

Tensei CK Pro White: 60 (R, S, TX), 70 (S, TX), 80 (TX)
Kuro Kage XT: 50 (R, S, X, TX), 60 (R, S, X, TX), 70 (S, X, TX), 80 (S, X, TX)
Diamana BF-Series: 50 (R, S, X), 60 (R, S, X, TX), 70 (S, X, TX), 80 (S, X, TX)

Related: GolfWRX Members review the Tensei CK Pro White

Review: KBS Tour FLT Shafts

Pros: FLT shafts use a flighted design, which helps golfers launch their long irons higher and with more spin. The FLT short-iron shafts provide a more penetrating trajectory for more control.

Cons: FLT shaft flexes correspond with weight, so golfers may not be able to match their desired shaft weight with their desired flex.

Who They’re For: Golfers who need more spin or more launch from their long irons to optimize their trajectory. Everyone from beginners to PGA Tour players can use the shafts effectively, but they’ll be most popular with golfers with moderate-to-slow swing speeds, or any golfer who generates low-spin launch conditions.

Selecting the proper iron shafts is one of the most important equipment decisions golfers make. It’s an issue of quantity. Most golfers carry about 7-8 irons in their bag, so if they choose the wrong iron shaft, they’ve made the game harder than it needs to be with half or more of their clubs.

The good news is that there’s a wider selection of quality iron shafts than there has ever been, with recent growth in models that are designed to help golfers hit their iron shots higher and farther, while still maintaining PGA Tour-quality consistency and feel.

KBS is one of the leading steel shaft manufacturers, and already offered a wide variety of models prior to its newest shaft launch. Company representatives felt KBS was lacking a product for a particular segment of golfers, however, so it developed its new FLT shafts.

FLT shafts ($31.95 each) have a flighted design, which helps certain golfers optimize the performance of each iron their bag. The long irons shafts have progressively softer tip sections, which helps golfers increase their launch angle and spin rates with those clubs. For the right golfer, the design will help them hit their iron shots farther, and stop shots on the green more quickly. In the short irons, where height and spin are easier for golfers to generate, the FLT shafts are stiffer, which creates the flatter trajectory most golfers prefer with their scoring clubs. The crossover point between the higher-launching long irons and lower-launching short irons is the 7 iron.

Like all KBS shafts, FLT models have a constant weight, which means that long iron shafts and short iron shafts will be roughly the same weight through the set. Shaft weight is dependent on flex, however, as softer-flex models are lighter than stiffer-flex models. So if you’re looking for a really heavy, regular-flex shaft or a really light, extra-stiff-flex shaft, these aren’t for you.

Keep in mind that KBS shafts do not have reinforced tip sections like many other iron shafts, which gives them a slightly higher balance point and can decrease swing weight by 1-2 points. I personally like the feel of KBS shafts and their slightly higher balance point, but some golfers won’t.

For this review, I tested the new FLT shafts head to head against KBS Tour shafts of the same flex and weight (130X) in 4 irons, 6 irons and pitching wedges. Each of the shafts were installed in Callaway’s Apex Pro ’16 irons , and were built to my specifications (standard grips, standard length, 1-degree strong lofts, 1-degree flat lie angles).

I performed my testing at the Launch Pad at Carl’s Golfland in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., where I hit the 4 irons, 6 irons and pitching wedges on Trackman IV with premium golf balls. I hit 3-6 solid shots with each iron, and then removed the outliers from the final data in an attempt to compare only the most similar strikes. Results were normalized.

As you can see from the data, there was a significant difference in the flight of the 4 irons with the two different shafts, but less of a difference with the 6 irons and pitching wedges.

As expected, the FLT shafts caused 4 iron shots to launch higher (0.8 degrees) and with more spin (729 rpm) than the KBS Tour shafts. I’m not a low-spin player, which is one of the target audiences for this shaft, so the added launch and spin of the FLT shafts caused my 4 iron shots to fly shorter. Golfers who launch their irons too low or with too little spin, however, will likely see a distance increase when using the FLT shafts.

As I moved closer to the short end of the set, the two shafts started to perform more similarly. Theoretically, the 6 iron shots with the FLT shafts should have launched slightly higher and spun more than 6 iron shots with the KBS Tour shafts, but I actually saw a slightly lower launch angle (0.5 degrees) with the FLT. The spin was higher, though, by 211 rpm. With the pitching wedges, the results were again quite similar. The FLT launched 0.9 degrees higher, but actually spun 271 rpm less than the KBS Tour shafts.

Stepping back from the numbers, I was impressed with how similar the feel was between the KBS Tour and FLT shafts. Yes, I could feel that the FLT shafts were more active in the tip with the 4 irons, but they felt nearly the same in the 6 irons. By the time I got to the pitching wedges, the two shafts were indistinguishable. The KBS Tour is considered one of the better-feeling iron shafts currently available, so KBS’ ability to replicate that feel in the FLT will be a plus for the majority of interested golfers.

Looking more broadly, trends in shaft design tends to go hand-in-hand with trends in club head design, and the FLT shafts are no exception. Equipment manufacturers continue to strengthen the lofts of their distance irons; they have to in order balance the launch equation, as their faster ball speeds create a higher launch angle and more spin.

While the improvements to iron design have allowed golfers to hit their mid and short irons farther, many golfers continue to struggle to hit their long irons high enough or consistently enough for them to be effective. And based on my testing results, it’s clear that the FLT shafts can make long irons more playable for certain golfers, and maybe even keep long irons in a golfer’s bag that might otherwise be kicked out for higher-flying hybrids or fairway woods.

As always, I recommend that golfers get properly fit for iron shafts, which means visiting a reputable club fitter in your area. So if you’re in the market for new irons or iron shafts, you can get started by going through KBS’ Online Fit System , which upon completion lists KBS-certified dealers in your area.

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KBS C-Taper Lite Shaft Review

Kbs c-taper lite shaft.

KBS made some significant waves in the steel shaft market when they first introduced the original C-Taper . The C-Taper was noted for its low spin and trajectory as well as its stout feel. Together, those characteristics made it an unbelievably accurate shaft, but it was a LOT of shaft! Hearing the pleas for similar characteristics in a more user-friendly shaft, KBS introduced the C-Taper Lite. The KBS C-Taper Lite has original C-Taper characteristics but with a softer butt section and a lighter overall weight. This design allowed KBS to make it easier to get the ball in the air while still controlling spin for pinpoint accuracy. Let’s see how well they did…

Like the C-Taper, the KBS C-Taper Lite has the same matte/brushed chrome finish that has more of an industrial vibe. Another small difference is that the shaft label is white and red on the C-Taper Lite as opposed to the black and red of the C-Taper.

How Does it Feel?

A lot of the same feel characteristics from the original C-Taper such as a firm, controlled feel with a stiff tip section are still present in the C-Taper Lite. The biggest difference is you can feel the gradual flex profile and energy transfer at impact a lot more. Through the lighter weight and softer butt section, KBS certainly made the C-Taper Lite much easier on the hands . The shot feedback is just as great in the C-Taper Lite as well.

If you were a player where the C-Taper felt like it was a bit too much shaft to tame but it had something going for it, the C-Taper Lite is your answer. If you’re a player that is looking to get into a little firmer shaft without swinging a telephone pole, the C-Taper Lite could be good for you too.

On-Course Performance

So KBS bills the C-Taper Lite shaft as “mid-high launch with controlled spin.” I think this is a fairly open description, but I can clear it up a bit with what I saw in testing. Like its standard counterpart, the C-Taper Lite is more of a lower-spinning shaft. Where I found the C-Taper Lite to differ was that I could easily add or reduce spin depending on the shot I was trying to hit. In the case of the standard C-Taper, I found that more difficult to accomplish. So KBS calling the spin “controlled” is a fair assessment I think. You will be able to manage your spin as necessary.

Calling the C-Taper Lite “mid-high launch” is also a pretty fair assessment. I found a rising (NOT ballooning) mid-trajectory shot to be the standard while elevation adjustments were easy to execute as necessary. In regards to trajectory, the easier launch (relative to the standard C-Taper) was especially noticeable in the longer irons . I was able to hit 4 thru 6 with a nice rising flight and a higher apex for a soft landing into greens.

Final Thoughts

Like the original C-Taper, the KBS C-Taper Lite is great for selecting a shot and attacking your target . KBS gave the C-Taper Lite more player-friendly characteristics that allow for easier launch and more control for players that found the C-Taper to be a bit much to handle. If your swing is a good fit for this shaft, you’ll find the C-Taper Lite to be very versatile and a lot of fun to hit!

21 Comments

Hi Bill, I tried Callaway Apex irons with PXI 6.0 shaft and I liked them very much. The KBS C-Taper Lite is like a project x pxi shaft ? Thank you very much, Michele

I would say the C-Taper Lite is nothing like a PXi. I don’t think there’s anything the Project X family like C-Taper or C-Taper Lite.

I am a 6 hcp on the senior amateur. I do not have spin numbers but the ball flight is very hi, wedge through the 7 iron. Opposite of what I need.. in my opinion. Suggestions?

Just to clarify, you CURRENTLY hit the C-Taper Lite or are considering it?

Bill, Was just fit for the C Taper Lite 105 R. I have good speed (92 mph with 6 Iron) and play to a scratch hc but interestingly got fit for the 105g shaft. This is likely due to me switching from the XP 95. I would love to know your thoughts/concerns on this as I was skeptical at first. Very anxious to try out this setup.

How’d you hit the C-Taper Lite 105?

What would you say the difference is between the PXI 6.0’s and the C Taper Lite Stiff? Most sites have them as very similar. Thank you in advance.

Hmm, I don’t know if I’d say they’re similar, but that might be subjective. I’d say the PXi feels a little more fluid whereas the C-Taper Lite feels a little more firm. I, personally, also found the C-Taper Lite to launch and spin a bit lower than the PXi.

Considering the C-Taper Lite S @ 110g, coming from the KBS Tour R+ hs1x. My 7-iron Swing Speed is 73mph, but have a strong move to the ball, not quick though. I hit the C-Taper Lite S in a Mizuno JPX 921 Forged head. It felt firm, but the launch/height was good, and Dispersion Great. especially compared to the KBS Tour R+ in my gamers, Srixon Z765. Thinking about Soft-Stepping 1x?? Or maybe the TT Elevate Tour R @ 112g straight In. What are Your thoughts ??

Shafts you’re comparing are apples to oranges. But based on your thought process you already shared, the only real answer is to work with a fitter or just try the experiment. Couldn’t tell you what to expect from any combination you listed as your body and swing will respond in a way that’s unique to you. So basically, the only way you’ll really know is by actually hitting them.

Awesome. Thank you Bill. I have an index of 9 and have a driver speed of 102-105. How’s this compare to you? The reason I ask is because I don’t need anymore height on my shots so if you and I are similar I would lean towards the CT lite. Thanks again.

I don’t think comparing our driver speed and index gives you the answer you’re looking for here. (I’m ~115/7.3 right now if you think that’s helpful for you.)

It depends much more on your specific swing and how you swing the club. Or how your body physically responds to the equipment. In theory you could give a low launch player the highest launching shafts and they still might not hit it high.

Hi Bill- I’m curious about how you would compare the C Taper Lites to the KBS Tour Vs in regards to launch/spin. I’m currently playing the Tour Vs and am thinking about switching to the C Taper Lites. I think that I could use a little higher launch, but don’t want to go overboard. Your thoughts and input would be greatly appreciated

The difference between the two is going to vary from player to player, but in theory, I’d imagine the C-Taper Lite to launch higher than the Tour V.

Are you able to share a comparison between Dynamic Gold 105 and the C-Taper Lite? I was fitted for the DG105 (with Srixon ZX5 irons) but now the DG105 are out of stock; fitter suggested C-Taper Lite as a suitable replacement. Looking for additional perspectives.

Sorry, I don’t. My experience with the DG is minimal and the C-Taper Lite only a little more. My swing isn’t a great fit for either so I can really only comment from the review perspective on the C-Taper Lite, but nothing on the DG 105. Good luck!

The difference between the KBS tourV and the KBS C taper light is the tour V will launch a lot lower with less spin and roll out more. The C taper lite is mid to high launch and stops better on the greens for me. I played the tourV for the last 5 yrs and just got fitted for the C taper lite on my new Srixon irons and love them. Both are good shafts but the Srixon fitter liked my flight with the C taper lites as he said I needed more height and the fitting numbers were good.

I am 70 yrs old and took a chance on being able to hit these C taper in regular. I have always hit the ball very high. These shafts brought the flight down just enough but still plenty high. Don’t be afraid of these shafts. They ARE super accurate and no loss in distance. They have really great feel. Six iron is around 170 yds.

The taper shafts are the same in set? Exemple: 4i shaft is same like 9i but only longer butt section? (No tip trim, no diferent weight in raw size, or enything else?)

You don’t need to tip trim, no. With taper tip, each iron tends to have its own specific length that you’ll butt trim to size. You wouldn’t buy seven of the same shaft and just butt trim them to length.

Kbs C Taper Shaft Review

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The Fresno KBS C-Taper Iron Shafts are known for their exceptional stability and control, making them a great choice for golfers looking for precision and consistency in their shots. These shafts provide a smooth feel and improved accuracy, enhancing the overall quality of the golfing experience. While there may be a slight adjustment period due to the distinct feel of the shafts, the performance benefits far outweigh any potential drawbacks. On the flip side, if you prefer a higher launch and a softer feel, the KBS C-Taper has got you covered too. Their lighter weight and more flexible options will give you that extra bit of finesse and playability, allowing you to achieve those high, beautiful shots with ease.

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Key Features

Kbs c-taper shaft detailed review, design and technology, how do the tour shop fresno kbs c-taper iron shafts compare to other premium iron shafts on the market, are there any specific swing characteristics or player profiles that these shafts are best suited for, can these shafts be customized for length and grip size, how do these shafts perform in terms of durability and resistance to wear and tear, are there any specific maintenance or care instructions for these shafts to ensure optimal performance over time, how does the c-taper shaft compare, project x shaft, n.s. pro modus 3.

Updated February 2024 to update current pricing information.

KBS created the C-Taper shaft for the most aggressive and strongest golfers. The C-Taper shaft is packed with all of the technology of the KBS Tour shaft but with added stability and control. The C-Taper is lower launching, lower spinning, and crisper in feel. Perfect for golfers looking to gain accuracy in their irons and wedges . Quick tempo players looking to add more precision to their game can find lower trajectories, less spin, and more distance with the C-Taper shaft.

Tour Shop Fresno KBS C-Taper Iron Shafts - 8 Shaft Set - .355 Tip - 3-PW Choose Flex (S - 120g)

C-Taper gives strong players 5% lower trajectory, 5% less spin, and 5% more distance versus the nearest market leading shaft model.
Optimized taper rates ensure that the C-Taper shaft gives players ultimate energy transfer and more spin control.
Aggressive golfers with quick tempos may find more comfort in this optimized design.

The KBS C-Taper golf shaft is crafted directly with Tour player feedback. Players that need a lower trajectory iron and wedge shaft can get their preferred ball flight by switching into the C-Taper. KBS optimized the taper rates in tip area specifically to give golfers more spin control and accuracy. Independent testing confirmed that C-Taper shafts gave players more distance than a premium market leader. Available in a range of weights and flexes, the C-Taper can be fit for a wide net of swing tempos and release patterns. The KBS C-Taper is one of my favorite iron shafts. The 125-gram stiff+ shaft is spot on with the weight I prefer in my irons. During my testing with this shaft, I was quickly comfortable with how easy it was to flight the ball through any window I saw due to the added stability of the tip section taper. While I love the feel of the KBS Tour line, the C-Taper is my shaft of choice in the KBS steel shaft lineup. KBS gives stronger golfers a new option with the introduction of the C-Taper steel shaft. C-Taper combines a new physical design with the same high-quality material used in every KBS steel shaft offering. The result in an iron and wedge shaft that can withstand any swing speed and gives confidence to aggressive swingers. Players that feel reluctant swinging their current irons due to their discomfort with their shafts need to be trying the C-Taper to see if it can make a difference in their game.

Improved taper rates ensure that players get maximum control and stability even at extreme speeds.
Tour player feedback helps ensure the C-Taper produces lower trajectories, less spin, and more distance.
Slower swing speed players may feel this shaft is too cumbersome to play for long periods of time.
The low trajectory design may take carry distance away from players that do not fit this shaft properly.
The KBS C-Taper shaft is one of the most expensive steel shafts models available.

The KBS C-Taper steel shaft is available in five weight and flex categories. Weights range between 110- and 130-grams and increase in flex as they become heavier. Regular, regular+, stiff, stiff+, and extra-stiff options are available each with their own weight matched design. Each weight and flex range is built to produce a penetrating ball flight with less spin and more control.

The KBS C-Taper steel shaft model is one of the most stable and well-built iron and wedge shafts available. Designed from the constant input of golf professionals, C-Taper is a tour-level golf shaft that gives more control to aggressive swingers. Players with quick tempos or that enjoy feeling a more stable golf shaft will love the C-Taper from KBS. I would recommend the C-Taper to any player looking to gain more precision and shot control with their irons and wedges at high club head speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

When comparing the Tour Shop Fresno KBS C-Taper Iron Shafts to other premium options, the performance stands out. The consistent feel, stability, and control make them a top choice. I’d recommend these shafts for serious golfers seeking high-quality performance.

Swing characteristics and player profiles determine a shaft’s suitability. Performance comparison and customization options help identify the best fit. Understanding these factors ensures optimal performance for different swing styles and player preferences.

Yes, these shafts can be customized for length and grip size. The customization options allow for tailoring the clubs to fit my swing, maximizing performance benefits. It’s great to have that flexibility for a more personalized experience.

In terms of durability and wear resistance, these shafts perform exceptionally well. Their robust construction ensures longevity, and they maintain high performance even after extensive use. Additionally, customization options are available for length and grip size.

To ensure optimal performance over time, it’s essential to clean the shafts regularly with a mild soap and water, and store them in a dry place. Customization can enhance performance based on player profiles, while durability requires proper care.

The Project X is a reliable steel shaft option for some of the game’s best players. High swing speed players often prefer the added stability and feel of Project X’s stepless design. A balance of accuracy and distance through stability garners Project X favor among player that prioritize iron and wedge accuracy and control. The Project X standard shaft is a low launch, low spin design that gives good golfer more options for shooting their best scores.

Project X Shaft Review

The KBS Tour is a premium golf shaft fit to the masses. Many golfers can find versatile performance improvements with the signature Tour shaft from KBS. A smooth feel and middle trajectory make the KBS Tour shaft one of the most popular tour-level shafts with amateur golfers. Players of all swing speeds can take advantage of KBS Technology in a golf shaft that does not require tour-level swing speeds to maximize. Players looking to get the most out of their iron games without sacrificing great feel will love the complete package of the KBS Tour.

Kbs Tour Shaft Review

The Modus 3 uses an advanced matrix to give specialized performance to every golfer. No matter what your swing speed, release pattern, or feel preference Nippon has created a Modus 3 for you. Available in weights lower than 105-grams, Modus 3 is an excellent choice for golfers that struggle to find extra swing speed. Tour-caliber materials in sixteen total models make Modus a club fitter and serious golfer’s dream. Players looking for the ultimate blend of customization, feel, and performance should look to Nippon’s Modus 3 for more control over trajectory, distance, and direction.

Nippon Pro Modus 3 Shaft Review

Videos: Kbs C Taper Shaft Review

KBS Tour 120 Iron Shaft v KBS Tour C-Taper 120 Iron Shaft - Is There A Difference?

As the Founder of Golfers Authority Paul Liberatore Esq. has spent the last 7+ years writing about the best golf equipment or instruction from the top golf instructors in the world. He has been a contributing writer for Sports Illustrated Golf and GolfWRX. After graduating with honors from Purdue University, he realized that he had a passion for the golf business and the law. When he's not practicing law, or creating golf content on YouTube, he can be found on his syndicated Behind the Golf Brand podcast talking with the most prolific leaders in the golf industry.

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KBS C-Taper 90 Iron Shaft Review

50 Words or Less

The KBS C-Taper 90 iron shaft is different from the standard C-Taper, but it does have the signature KBS feel.

Introduction

KBS is regarded as one of the premier “feel” steel shaft makers in the business and had blockbuster hits with the KBS Tour and C-Taper shafts. In an effort to diversify the KBS portfolio, they developed the C-Taper 90 shaft which shares some key characteristics of the original C-Taper while offering a much different feel and ball flight that may make it easier to hit for more players. Though the C-Taper 90 is supposed to be comparable to the C-Taper Lite , there’s actually very little published about this shaft at this time, so this review is purely based off of our experience with the shaft and no outside knowledge of the product.

I had actually played KBS C-Tapers in my irons for quite awhile because I loved the feedback the shaft gave me on every shot in addition to its low spin and ball flight. The C-Taper was a great shaft, but frankly, I just don’t think I had the game to match it, and we went our separate ways. When I found we had a set of C-Taper 90’s coming in, I took a look at the specs of the shaft and got really excited about them because they seemed like a better fit based on my previous experience with the original C-Taper.

The original C-Taper shaft felt a little stout for me, but the C-Taper 90 has a little softer feel. It has some similarities to the KBS Tour 90, but with the consistency of the C-Taper. Being a lighter weight shaft, the C-Taper 90 felt easier to swing and like a lot less of a “battle” than the original C-Tapers were for me. I found myself with a little bit more of that “just swing the club” feeling when I was using the C-Taper 90 shaft.

The appearance of the KBS C-Taper 90 is more traditional than the original C-Taper while maintaining the same stepless design. Rather than the rigid satin finish of the C-Taper, the C-Taper 90 has a nice polished chrome finish with the classic white KBS Tour shaft label (for my money, one of the best shaft labels in the game…even if that is a strange accolade). It’s not a loud shaft, but it certainly looks classic and like a high performance piece of equipment .

Performance

With lighter weight shafts, you’re supposed to see an increase in swing speed which should result in higher launched shots. As mentioned before, the original KBS C-Taper shaft was notorious for being low launching and low spinning which was true. In fact, Matt and I frequently commented that we could hit a ball down a long hallway with the C-Taper shaft. With the C-Taper 90, this changed quite a bit. I wasn’t ballooning shots with the C-Taper 90, but I was hitting the ball considerably higher with much softer landings . The higher flight helps the ball stop faster, but there’s also an increase in ball spin which contributes to the ball stopping as well. The slight sacrifice of shot feedback from the lighter shaft was worth the performance gains I received by a long shot.

The difference in iron shaft weights is one of golf’s biggest debates. In fact, you may see a piece on PluggedInGolf.com in the near future. Many think the lighter shaft weights are the secret to unlocking the secrets to better iron play whereas others feel it’s total blasphemy and there are just flat out too many disadvantages to such a decrease in weight. At the end of the day, the on course results speak for themselves. I liked the KBS C-Taper well enough, but the C-Taper 90 helped me hit better shots and flat out get around the course in fewer strokes. From my personal experience, I can’t tell you I can make a valid argument against a high-quality lightweight iron shaft because the results were there for me. As one of the finest engineers in the game, KBS made a nicely tuned shaft in the C-Taper 90 and truly opened doors to more golfers looking for a new option in the high-performance shaft market.

Price & Specs

The C-Taper 90 is not available at retail, but its counterpart, the C-Taper Lite is available for $40.95 a shaft.

C-Taper Lite Specs:

Tapered Tip Specs

Parallel tip specs, shaft lengths, recent posts.

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20 Comments

Thanks for the review!

Do you know how these compare to the retail version, the KBS C-taper Lite? Which according to what I’ve seen on the website have the exact same specs?

http://kbsgolfshafts.com/shafts/kbs-ctaper-lite

Hi Luuk, thanks for the comment. Based on what I’ve gathered, they’re supposed to be literally identical. The C-Tape Lite and the C-Taper 90 are supposed to be the same thing.

I hope this answers your question!

yes it does many thanks

Aren’t the C Taper 90 shafts a 90 gram shaft vs the 105 or 108 grams in the C Taper Lite

I am not sure if I am late asking for an advice.

I play of 7 Handicap in Scotland. I want to buy TM SRi2 with KBS C-Taper 90 replacing my Rocketbladz stiff KBS tour shaft that served me well for the past year. I don’t hit the ball long but I have a good control on the ball and course management does add that missing bit. would C-Taper C90 give that little bit extra in my game. Thanks for any advice in advance.

It all depends on what you’re looking for. It’s a lower trajectory, stout shaft. At the end of the day, you need to hit one and see how your swing fits with it. I personally can’t play KBS Tours, but do great with C-Taper a flex lower.

Do you know why the KBS Tour c taper 90 shaft isn’t available at retail?

Unfortunately no, I can’t speak to that. The only thing I can think of is that they didn’t want to cannibalize their own shafts in the market…aka, they’re trying to keep the options simple. Of course, that’s pure speculation.

can c taper ninety fit on rs2 and rsi tp?

The RSi2 looks to be a .370 and the TP is .355 so you’d have to find them in the appropriate tip size.

I have a set of the new Adams Xtd irons. Do you know if the .370 or .355 tips fit them?

Did some Googling. Looks like XTD’s are .370, XTD Forged is .355.

Hi there, I’m looking to buy the Talormade SLDR irons, that come with the Taper C 90 shafts as stock. Do you think that the T C 90s will be easy enough to hit for the higher handicapper? Also I normally play a stiff shaft in game improvement irons, do you think that I’ll need to drop down to a regular flex in the T C 90s, considering that I’m a higher handicapper? Thanks.

That question is tough to answer since I can’t make educated comments about your game. I would guess you’d be fine in stiff flex, but you have to decide if the shaft characteristics are what you’re looking for if you’re not going to get fit. That said, just because a shaft is SUPPOSED to perform a certain way doesn’t mean it will for each individual’s swing.

Bill, I sure enjoyed your article and commentary. You mentioned that the specs are supposed to be indentical regarding the C-Taper 90 and the C-Taper Lite. Is there an OEM spec sheet for the C-Taper 90 that verifies this? I have called KBS 12 times and cannot get anyone to answer or call back.

Unfortunately I was never able to find a spec sheet either. I was only able to write was I told verbally by reps and what I read in a few different places.

I am going to buy SLDR Irons online/ebay as im currently in Cebu, Philippines with no chance of a fitting, Im an x very low handicapped and even playing once a month i play off 9. I have a quick swing speed which i have no idea exactly, but a regular hit 300+ drives and hit a 8 iron 165/170. I am confused by these new KBS Tour C-Taper 90, i do look for more control in my irons, i do hit a high ball but thats because of my power maybe, so will these irons suit me and control my straighter ball or am i better off with the KBS tour V, kindest regards

Obviously, it goes without saying that I can’t accurately answer that question without direct data relating to each shaft. If you can’t get fit, your best bet is to research the desired effects of each shaft and take your chance with the one that’s most in line with what you’re looking for on paper.

This article covers the idea that specific swings will react differently to shafts so it’s impossible to blindly guess what is the best fit for someone.

I recently broke my 5 iron shaft (Taylor Made SLDR) that came with the KBS tour c-taper 90 shafts. I understand from reading above that the shaft can’t be purchased from retail. Do you know of any way I can find/purchase a replacement shaft? I love the 5 iron, it’s my most hit club in the bag other than my putter so would really like to get it repaired.

I would suggest contacting TaylorMade about having it repaired through them. They should be able to offer some solutions.

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Which KBS iron shaft is best for you?

Published: 22 September 2022 Last updated: 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.

RELATED: Which Lamkin grip best suits your game?

There are junior options too

To ensure golfers can go through their whole golfing career with a familiar KBS feel, the brand also produce two junior steel shafts (the 560 and 580). Both are designed to suit the speed of 8 – 11-year-old players.

Both shafts are lightened steel, so the weights are similar to lightweight graphite iron ranges. But, crucially golfers don’t get a heavy head feel which can cause issues when switching from graphite to steel once a child is a stronger teenager.

When should you go graphite?

Graphite irons shafts are massively misunderstood in the modern game. Many people think they’re for older golfers and slower speed players, which just isn’t the case. Graphite irons shafts are easier on the body. They remove vibration, and can suit everyone from tour players to very moderate speed club golfers.

In typical KBS fashion, the brand make three graphite models (all are available in numerous weights and flexes), here’s what you need to know about them.

How KBS graphite iron shafts differ in launch and spin

KBS TGI – Tour Graphite Iron shaft

KBS specifically target a steel-like feel from their graphite shafts. They’ve done such a good job fulfilling their brief several tour players swear it’s not actually graphite. Thinking instead it’s a steel shaft painted black.

The TGI can be matched to golfers’ speeds (there are eight weights, so the model can suit from 57mph to 100mph speed players) in exactly the same way as the brand’s steel shafts. The TGI is the company’s lowest launching and spinning graphite iron shaft, it’s pretty strong and stout, so decent players often like it.

KBS PGI – Players Graphite Iron shaft

In developing their shafts KBS have undertaken masses of research, and they say when the flex isn’t disclosed golfers often prefer the feel of graphite over steel. Their advice is to play the flex you need. Don’t be tempted to go stiffer than necessary. And if you swing a 6-iron at 70mph play a shaft that performs at that speed.

The PGI was developed to bring a steel-like feel to graphite and it’s a step up from the lower launching and spinning TGI. The PGI is widely played on the LPGA Tour, it’s the brand’s mid-launch/mid-spin graphite iron shaft. Six weights mean the model can suit from 57mph to 94mph players.

KBS Max graphite iron shaft

The Max graphite is the highest launching and spinning graphite iron shaft in the KBS line-up. It’s a model for golfers who really need help launching shots high into the air to maximise carry distance. Five weights mean the model can suit swing speeds from 51 to 82mph.

KBS graphite iron shaft swing speed recommendations

Get it right the first time

KBS reckon so long as golfers get fitted correctly the first time they can progress through KBS models throughout their playing career. It means, if like Gary Woodland you’re a C-Taper player or Cameron Smith a Tour shaft player you stay within that family but progress to lighter models as you age.

And to demonstrate how important finding the right family is KBS say to look at Adam Scott and Gary Woodland . Scott has been a Tour shaft player for years (think of his smooth, under-control swing) whereas Woodland is a big strong hitter of the ball, so he’s a C-Taper guy all day long. But, switch their clubs over and both would struggle to play, as they wouldn’t get the ball flight or shot window they’d be expecting.

Don’t forget your wedges

Today KBS are a through-the-bag shaft company. They make shafts for drivers, fairways, hybrids, irons, wedges, and putters, so if you’re taking the time to get fitted don’t neglect how the company produce five different wedges shafts too.

KBS say the Hi-Rev wedge shaft has been designed from the Tour shaft profile. There’s a lengthened tip section to give a softer feel and generate extra spin. If you play the Tour shaft you’ll likely enjoy this wedge model too. The brand’s 610 wedge shaft was designed to complement the Tour V shaft.

Where C-Taper and S-Taper fans often run shafts from their irons through into the wedges, albeit at a slightly lighter weight as wedge shots are rarely hit full out.

Want more information about KBS iron shafts? Visit their website here

How do KBS iron shafts compare in data?

Verdict: KBS iron shafts

Lots of people will look at our test pro’s data and think the shafts are performing very much alike. But the data says nothing about how different the shafts felt.

Comparing the C-Taper and S-Taper the data shows the pair as being pretty evenly matched but the difference in feel was phenomenal. So different in fact our test pro felt he just wouldn’t be able to use the C-Taper effectively on the golf course (as it’s so strong). Where the $-Taper felt brilliant and could well be his perfect match within the KBS family.

The Lite shafts produced a faster ball speed, just as KBS promised and the C-Taper Lite in particular launched and flighted shots higher with a steeper descent angle, so there’s a huge amount of tuning in ball flight and feel available from shafts.

Just as KBS promised the TGI graphite shaft produced some very good optimal numbers too, they’d be a very sensible choice for golfers looking to avoid the shock and vibration of using steel shafts. Equally the Max graphite climbed to its peak height very early in its flight, which at lower speeds will be a real benefit in maximising carry distance.

At the end of the day, KBS are all about the consumer. You get what you want, whether that be higher or lower launching, more or less spin, or a different feel, everything is on offer within the KBS iron family. Our test pro liked the $-Taper for his own game as it didn’t feel too strong, yet it felt stable and produced a good feel through the hands, and he had control over his ball flight.

KBS Founder Kim Braly on a life spend designing golf shafts

Many golfers won’t know the name Kim Braly, but the guy is a shaft legend. He has dedicated his life to creating the highest performance shafts you can buy, and we sat down with him.

How have shafts evolved over the last 150 years?

A hundred of those years were dominated by hickory shafts. Steel shafts didn’t come about until the 1930s. My father patented “Frequency Matching” (in the 1980s) which has been the biggest breakthrough during my lifetime. Until then there were no standards; the method gave a baseline to compare and match shafts. Everything I’ve achieved since is down to the Frequency Matching method he invented.

How did the Frequency Matching idea come about?

We made titanium irons with tungsten weights and wanted to see how different set-ups affected performance. We organised a golf robot, and tried two identical set ups, yet the results were entirely different. We started questioning if shafts might not be matched. My dad developed Frequency Matching as a way to compare and match (for flex, weight, profile through CPM, cycles per minute) shafts to one another. The process hasn’t changed for 30 years.

You developed the Rifle and Project X shafts which are still popular; what was different about them?

No set of shafts had been designed individually for each club until then. They were a breakthrough. We’d follow the PGA Tour (at a time when there were no tour vans) and explain to players about matching their irons. We could match a whole set to the club they felt most comfortable and confident with. We were custom fitting without really knowing it.

I’m also proud of what we’ve achieved at KBS over the last 10-12 years. If we aren’t the leaders in shaft technology I really don’t know who is.

What was the players’ reaction?

They were super interested. We had lines of people wanting to understand how shafts affected performance. We learned all sorts. In relation to frequency the lightest shaft in the bag (the driver) will be the stiffest. The weakest shaft should be in the lob wedge, as there’s lots of shots hit less than full out, and a fraction weaker shaft allows you to know where the head is.

Today, the correct fit for players is often a flex and a half stiffer than we recommended 15 years ago. At the start we were a couple of guys just trying to understand. It wasn’t about marketing; we had our mathematical theory and we wanted to understand if it worked in practice.

How have launch monitors affected modern shaft fittings?

They’re one of the best things to have happened to golf. Launch monitors have helped people understand ball flight, spin, height and launch. Every shaft I’ve ever designed has been designed with a type of player in mind.

Each KBS shaft fits into a matrix, we’ve worked on them one at a time, and the line-up is nearly 100% complete.

Where do you start designing new shafts? Is it an idea from you, or a request from a player?

We have ideas, but they have to work in practice. In golf “feel” is a huge thing. If the feel is wrong products go nowhere. I’ve enjoyed dialling in the KBS Tour Lite (steel) and KBS PGI (Players’ Graphite Iron shaft) to be “everyman” golf shafts over the last two years.

They work at specific swing speed ranges, and thanks to our options we can optimise launch and spin for golfers swinging 6-iron in the region of 80mph.

You’ve worked on a bunch of top performing shafts, but which are you most proud of?

The Precision Rifle put me on the map, set up my career and I learned loads from it. The first KBS Tour shaft was a really big deal, too. It’s the foundation stone of every other KBS shaft, where all our other current shafts start. I’m awfully proud of it.

Have you hit hickory shafts? How different are they to today’s models?

The last two tournaments I’ve played have been hickory challenges. Hickory weighs a ton (they’re 180g in a 6-iron), they’re really stiff but the torque is unreal. You can literally twist the head in your hand. Wood is strong in one direction – the one it’s grown in – which is up and down the shaft.

Will graphite shafts ever be the norm through the bag?

I’ve heard so many times how graphite represents the future. In terms of iron shafts steel is still a great material. The reason graphite became popular is its strength to weight ratio. It’s possible to make a 45in driver shaft at a “normal” swingweight.

You just can’t do that with steel, but you don’t need that as much in irons. Steel isn’t going away.

KBS make 16 different iron shafts; why so many?

Each of our profiles do different things. You may have the tendency to hit the ball low, so we have shafts designed to spin more and have a higher trajectory, and vice-versa.

For every 2.5mph of club speed change golfers need a different shaft flex, and that’s why we make half flexes. There’s also feel to consider. In our KBS Tour franchise we go from 130g to 90g in 5g increments (nine different weights), so golfers get what they need.

Whereas in a traditional three flex line-up (R, S, X) golfers get pushed into the best option available. KBS have a reputation for making good feeling shafts because golfers get shafts with the correct load at impact, which naturally feels good. Everything really does come back to fitting.

KBS C Taper vs. KBS Tour: Which Golf Shaft to Choose?

Are you looking for the best golf shaft but confused about finding one? Well, KBS C Taper and KBS Tour are the two most popular shafts worldwide. They are widely known for their build quality and style. But, between them, which one will be perfect for you?

Both gold shafts come up with different looks, performances, and technology. KBS C Taper has a very comfortable feel, whereas Tour is average. For achieving longer distances, the Tour is effective. But you can hit through the entire set by Taper.

In this article, we will clarify all the debates about KBS C taper and tour, and you will have a clear idea regarding KBS c taper vs tour.

Overview Of KBS C Taper Golf Shaft

The C-Taper shaft has superior, cutting-edge technology, but it offers even more solidity and command of the ball.

Actually, the C-Taper has a more subdued launch and spin and a more brisk, direct feel. It is ideal for players who want to improve their wedge and iron play.

C-Taper shafts provide quicker players with less spin, greater distance, and lower trajectories.

Not every golfer or swing style can benefit from the KBS C-Taper golf shaft. If you want better control at high swing speeds, the C-Taper is for you.

Read Also: KBS $-Taper vs Project X LZ | Which One To Choose?

Overview Of KBS Tour Golf Shaft

The KBS tour shaft accommodates golfers of varying skill levels. Mid-flight iron and wedge players will appreciate the distinctive smoothness of the KBS tour steel shaft.

It is designed to enhance energy transfer, making it more straightforward and more effective to hit long irons and short wedges.

This tour shaft is a high-end golf shaft relied on by some of the finest golfers in the world due to its responsive feel and precision.

It is an excellent shaft for most golfers to try out because of its softer feel, more responsive loading, and professional control and accuracy.

Read Also: Tour Flex Vs Stiff Flex: Which Flex To Choose?

KBS C Taper vs Tour: Comparison Table

KBS C taper and KBS tour come in various designs and materials. In this section, we will show you a comparison table to understand the difference correctly.

What Are The Differences Between KBS C Taper and Tour Golf Shaft?

There are some significant differences between KBS C Taper and KBS Tour. After reading this section, we will be able to distinguish them.

With a very stiff tip portion but a relatively soft overall feel, the C-Taper is one of the most stable shafts available. Shafts with comparable properties typically sound and feel lifeless, unresponsive, and challenging to play.

On the other hand, The KBS Tour Lite is much like the regular Tour in terms of feel. The general “dampening” reduces roughness on all mishits, making them feel pleasant in your hands.

Just like it was described, the KBS Tour Lite shaft has a very comfortable and light swing.

Read Also: Ventus Red Vs Blue: Everything you need to know

Design and Look

KBS C-Taper looks and feels very different from your standard irons. This shaft is designed to get the best possible output by making it comfortable.

On the other hand, the KBS Tour shaft is customizable to your swing and ball flight preferences across six different flex and weight levels.

There are no steps in the C Taper, and the labels are much more visible than in a standard KBS rectangle. Indeed, the look of the Tour is also attractive.

However, the fact you need to be careful is if you want greater distance and accuracy from your irons, you should try out the KBS Tour shaft.

Performance

To get green in C-Tapers, you need to hit the lowest flying bullets, and then you can shoot through the complete set.

It might be challenging to get wedges to settle and stay put. A noticeable improvement occurs upon switching to the lighter flex.

When you compare it with the regular KBS Tour setting, you can see that you’ll be able to carry the ball around a club further.

A lighter golf shaft often results in increased launch height and spin rate. You’ll have greater distance and a steeper slope angle, improving your ability to halt on the greens.

With the C-Taper, golfers can maintain a firmer grip even when their swing speeds are incredibly rapid.

But, the KBS Tour shafts excel in accommodating players of varying skill levels, from high to mid handicaps, who tend to more relaxed swing speeds.

Whose swing speeds aren’t quite up to the required level, but who want overall flexibility, the KBS Tour is a great option.

Again, players who are more physically dominant or swing quickly may find that the C-Taper shaft’s sharp feel encourages them to keep turning despite their shortcomings.

Read Also: S300 vs S400 Golf Shaft: Which One Should You Choose?

The KBS C Taper shaft, which takes its cues from the preferences of Tour pros, is made for those who need a low, penetrating trajectory and a high degree of shot control.

KBS Tour steel shafts have a distinctively smooth feel and are ideal for mid-trajectory irons and wedges.

The KBS C-TAPER improves energy transfer for a responsive feel and reduces spin and trajectory precision for its taper and tip diameter optimization.

Offering a lower trajectory, less spin, and increased distance, the KBS Tour shaft is ideal for golfers looking for a club that is easy to hit with their swing.

KBS C Taper or Tour: Which Golf Shaft to choose?

It is difficult to say which shaft will be perfect for you from here! By keeping your requirements in mind, you need to choose the perfect one.

The effectiveness of KBS C Taper with a soft and controlled swing. If you want a good control swing, go for the C Taper.

When swinging more quickly and forcefully, which sometimes results in a loss of control, the shaft holds up well.

However, with KBS Tour, it’s crucial to make sure it’s a solid equipment mix for your specific swing if you want to improve distance through quicker swing speeds and a more fabulous launch.

Read Also: Tensei Blue Vs Orange: Which Golf Shaft To choose?

Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)

Some frequently asked questions may help you to find your query.

Does KBS C Taper give better performance than KBS Tour?

It will ultimately depend on your requirement. Please review our article, gather information, and choose the perfect one for you! The top golfers in the world choose KBS shafts because of their quick reactions and comfortable play.

Does KBS Tour feel better than C Taper?

Though the KBS tour has various options to get the best feel, the versatility of the C-Taper is one of its greatest strengths. It is critical to assess one’s fitness levels with the C-Taper initially. For those who want overall flexibility with their irons and wedges, the KBS Tour will be a perfect option for them.

Which one covers a better distance between C Taper and Tour?

The C-TAPER shaft has been shown in third-party studies to increase average distance by 5 percent compared to the industry leader. With the KBS Tour, golfers will get a more significant lift and an easier launch with their irons and wedges because of the increased energy transmission efficiency.

Does KBS C Taper give good control?

Several of the best players in the world use the KBS C-TAPER shaft on Tour because it provides them with the most shot control and responsive feel. But, the KBS Tour is a premium golf shaft relied upon by some of the world’s greatest golfers because of its precision.

Is it true that a heavier shaft plays stiffer?

Yes, it is true! But, if the average model is too heavy for you, the 20% lighter Tour Lite may be the perfect compromise. To get the most out of their KBS shafts, many players discover they need to tweak their setup.

Meet Jalal, a passionate golf writer and the driving force behind Golfertroop.com, your go-to destination for all things golfing! Whether you’re a seasoned golfing veteran or a beginner taking your first swing, Jalal is here to assist you in making the most out of your golfing experience.

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KBS C Taper Lite vs KBS Tour: What are the Differences?

The golf club is undeniably a crucial piece of equipment in the game of golf.

Yet, many might overlook the fact that the shaft of the club is as pivotal to performance as the clubhead itself.

The shaft plays a significant role in the swing, profoundly influencing the head’s performance. Therefore, investing in the right shaft is paramount.

KBS is a brand that has earned a sterling reputation for its superior shafts, with standout offerings like the KBS C Taper Lite and the KBS Tour.

Both shafts are at the peak of the industry, courtesy of the meticulous precision employed in their creation.

Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of these two exceptional golf club shafts to understand what sets them apart.

KBS C Taper Lite and KBS Tour: Overview

Since its inception, the KBS C Taper Lite steel shaft has undergone significant enhancements.

Forged from premium steel and honed to perfection, this shaft is renowned for its high trajectory and minimal spin.

Despite these attributes, it remains impressively lightweight and facilitates effortless swings. Moreover, it excels in achieving elevated launch angles, yet does not compromise on accuracy.

Conversely, the KBS Tour shaft has carved a niche for itself with its distinctive mid-trajectory and long carry distances.

It further sets itself apart with a smooth, tactile feel and precise shot feedback. As such, it proves ideal for golfers seeking versatility in their shot options, all the while maintaining a medium flight path.

Performance

In terms of performance, both clubs offer great performance. However, your choice will be largely determined by your swing speed and preferences.

The KBS C Taper Lite shaft exhibits stellar performance, particularly in facilitating high-launch scenarios.

Its design intricately aids in taming excessive spin, thereby enhancing shot accuracy. It’s a prime choice for golfers seeking considerable control over their spin rates.

The KBS Tour shaft, on the other hand, excels in executing shots that necessitate low to medium trajectories.

Despite this, it still provides a degree of adjustability in the swing’s trajectory, though within specific parameters.

Surprisingly forgiving, this shaft delivers a smooth, soft feel that belies its sturdy steel construction.

The KBS C Taper Lite has a sleek and amazing design for a shaft. It has a matte/brushed chrome finish which helps to give it an industrial look.

Together with its red and white label, this shaft looks very classy. Additionally, the KBS C-Taper is made with a firmer tip section which provides a stiffer feel at impact.

The KBS Tour, on the other hand, has a softer tip for a more responsive feel.

This difference in the tip section affects the overall feel of the club and can impact the player’s ability to control the ball.

The KBS Tour also has a simple but stylish look. It also has a brushed chrome finish, but its label is red and black. This is quite useful when it comes to differentiating these two shafts.

Construction

KBS C-Taper Lite is a lighter weight shaft than the KBS Tour and is designed for golfers who benefit from more clubhead speed and a lower ball flight.

The KBS Tour is a heavier shaft and is geared towards players who prefer a more controlled ball flight and a slower swing speed.

The KBS C-Taper Lite and KBS Tour are both premium shafts, however, the KBS C-Taper Lite is generally more expensive.

You would think the Tour will be more expensive due to its heavier weight and more complex design.

The KBS C-Taper Lite is a lighter-weight option, which makes it more accessible for a wider range of golfers. Unfortunately, the price doesn’t seem to be on the good side of affordability.

The price difference between the two shafts can vary depending on the retailer, but in general, the KBS C-Taper Lite is more expensive, from our research on different retailers.

It’s worth noting that investing in a high-quality shaft like the KBS C-Taper Lite can have a significant impact on a golfer’s performance.

So the extra cost may be worth it for players who are serious about improving their game.

Pros and Cons

KBS C-Taper Lite:

High launching characteristics, ideal for golfers struggling with getting the ball airborne.
It might be slightly more forgiving than the Tour
Lower spin rates can be advantageous for players fighting excessive spin.
The firm feel may not appeal to golfers seeking a softer, smoother impact sensation.
Lower spin characteristics might not be beneficial for players seeking more spin for control.
Smooth, responsive feel that appeals to a wide range of players.
Provides a medium trajectory, ideal for golfers seeking control and versatility.
Excellent shot feedback, aiding in better strike quality and overall game improvement.
Although forgiving, it might not be the best option for beginners who need maximum assistance with mishits.

KBS C Taper Lite vs KBS Tour: Which is Better?

These two shafts all have their similarities and their differences. With their only difference being in trajectory, spinning, and accuracy, it can be said that both shafts are legendary.

In conclusion, the type of golfer you are will help you to determine which shaft is best for you.

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The 10 biggest PGA Tour players using KBS shafts in 2021

KBS is the leading shaft innovator in golf and the brand's shafts are used by some of the biggest names on the PGA Tour.

Leading golf shaft innovator KBS - the first single branded shaft company to offer a full set of options across the bag - delivered 25 global Tour victories during the 2020 season and golf's most sought-after shaft supplier are now in the bags of some of the biggest names in golf, including winners of all four of golf's major championships.

When World No.1 Dustin Johnson claimed his first Green Jacket at Augusta last November, the American had KBS Hi Rev 2.0 shafts in his wedges, as he dominated the field to win his second major title.

We've picked out the 10 biggest names on the PGA Tour who currently have a KBS shaft in their bag, so check them out in our list below.

The 10 biggest PGA Tour players using KBS shafts in 2021

DUSTIN JOHNSON

World Ranking: #1

KBS Shaft Used: KBS Hi Rev 2.0 (Wedges)

JUSTIN THOMAS

World Ranking: #3

KBS Shaft Used: KBS TOUR Graphite Hybrid 105s+

PHIL MICKELSON

World Ranking: #86

KBS Shafts Used: KBS TD 80 C5 TX (4-wood) & KBS Tour-V 125 S+ (Wedges)

World Ranking: #22

KBS Shaft Used: KBS Tour (3-iron) & KBS Tour 130X (4-9)

GARY WOODLAND

World Ranking: #41

KBS Shaft Used: KBS Tour C-Taper 130X (Utility Iron), KBS Tour C-Taper 130X (4-PW) & KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 125X (Wedges)

VIKTOR HOVLAND

World Ranking: #13

KBS Shaft Used: KBS Tour 120 X (4-PW) & KBS Tour-V 130 X (Wedges)

SHANE LOWRY

World Ranking: #38

KBS Shaft Used: KBS Tour 130X (4-PW)

JUSTIN ROSE

World Ranking: #33

KBS Shaft Used: KBS Hi Rev 2.0 135 (Wedges)

CAMERON SMITH

World Ranking: #30

KBS Shaft Used: KBS Tour 130 (Irons & Wedges)

MATT KUCHAR

World Ranking: #43

KBS Shaft Used: KBS Tour 120 S (Wedges)

For more information on the full KBS shaft line-up, vist their website .

NEXT PAGE: Take a look at the revolutionary KBS 1 One Step putter shaft!

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Classifieds- For Sale Forum

A few cool Items (Mevo + Limited Edition ZX5 Black, KBS Tour custom shafts, 24 ventus blue, c taper blacks)

By kskills 23 hours ago in Classifieds- For Sale Forum

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kskills 4 posts

nv00021 1 post

Avidswampthing66 1 post

MikeVirginia 1 post

May 11 2024

May 12 2024

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Avidswampthing66

Pretty sure uncut shafts are not allowed in BST

🤖 A.I Smoke TD 10.5 w/ GD VF 5S

Sim 2 Ti 5W w/ Diamana TB 70S

2024 Apex UW w/ Tensei 1K Pro Blue 70S

Apex Pro 4-5 Nippon Modus 105S

Apex CB 6-PW Nippon Modus 105S

Jaws Raw 50S, 54W, 58Z

Chrome Tour X

11 minutes ago, Avidswampthing66 said: Pretty sure uncut shafts are not allowed in BST

oh I didn't know this

22 hr kskills changed the title to A few cool Items (Mevo + Limited Edition ZX5 Black, KBS Tour custom shafts, 24 ventus blue, c taper blacks)

4 minutes ago, kskills said: oh I didn't know this

Dude if there were Zx7's they would have been mine by already!!!

MikeVirginia

What are specs on Ventus Blue 24? Mike

born4golf77

14 hours ago, kskills said: oh I didn't know this

All u have to do to list it is prep tip and cut 1/8th off butt. After that it's no longer new or uncut

10 hours ago, MikeVirginia said: What are specs on Ventus Blue 24? Mike

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Best Irons Shafts 2024 - And Specific Recommendations

By DanSueltz May 10th, 2024

See our picks for the best iron shafts for 2024 – featuring multiple new steel and graphite iron shafts and removing discontinued shafts. Remember that selecting the best iron shaft or iron-shaft combination starts with knowing your game. For simplicity, we’ve grouped iron shafts by swing speed. However, so much more goes into fitting the right shaft – tempo, transition, release, launch angles, spin, swing path and more. Without a custom club fitting and knowing your numbers, trusting off the shelf or manufacturer suggested shafts often lead to frustration and disappointment.

New Enhancements for Iron Shafts

The newest irons and shafts in 2024 are producing greater distance, forgiveness and accuracy for our customers because we properly tune the iron and shaft combination to your handicap and swing dynamics. We’ve put the newest iron shafts from Aerotech , ACCRA , Fujikura , Project X , True Temper, Graphite Design , KBS , OBAN , Mitsubishi , Nippon and others through rigorous testing. Choose your handicap range or swing speed to see how each iron shaft stacks up.

2024 Guide to Best Iron Shafts

Recommendations are based on distances, trajectory and spin generated within 4 categories of swing speeds. As a starting point, our testing and proprietary BGF Fitting System takes into account more than 20 shaft attributes. It also accounts for a golfer’s physical attributes - height, weight, wrist crease-to-floor measurements, strength (distance), launch characteristics (actual and desired trajectory, spin, dispersion), and swing dynamics (tempo, transition and release point).

Take our FREE Fit Quiz to Find Your Iron Shaft |

Professionals/ low handicaps (6 iron distance is 200+ yards with swing speeds 90+ mph)

Low to mid-handicaps (6 iron distance 175 – 200 yards with swing speeds between 80-90 mph), mid to high handicaps (6 iron distance 150 – 175 yards with swing speed less than 80 mph, seniors, juniors, ladies (6 iron distance under 150 yards), **note: our more popular shafts are highlighted in red..

Trying to Decide Between Graphite and Steel Shafts? Read This...

BEST IRON SHAFTS FOR PROFESSIONAL OR LOW HANDICAPS (200+ YARDS WITH A 6 IRON)

If your swing speed with a 6 iron is 90+ mph, you should be getting close to 200 yards of distance or more from your 6 iron. While these are the best iron shafts for 2024, not every shaft fits your swing. And, if you’re not getting these distances or happy with the trajectory, spin and landing angle, it is time for a custom iron fitting. It is the fastest and most precise way to get dialed in to the best iron shaft or iron-shaft combination for your swing.

Take our FREE Fit Quiz to Find Your Iron Shaft

BEST IRON SHAFTS FOR STRONG SPEED OR LOW TO MID HANDICAP PLAYERS (175 – 200 YARDS WITH A 6 IRON)

If your swing speed with a 6 iron is between 83 - 90 mph, you should typically see between 175 – 200 yards of distance or more from your 6 iron. For mid-handicappers, we often see a lot of variance in distances, especially when standard flex and even standard stiff flex shafts are used. Hands down, these are the best iron shafts for 2024 but there are a lot a variances across brands and shaft weights. Your shot dispersion should be less than 10 yards right to left and 5-7 yards front to back, ensuring you’re getting more greens in regulation and fewer putts!

FOR MID SWING SPEED PLAYERS (150-175 YARDS WITH A 6 IRON)

If your swing speed with a 6 iron is less than 83 mph, you can expect between 150 – 175 yards from your 6 iron. Shot trajectory is extremely important - you should get enough launch and spin to stop the ball on the green without sacrificing distances. And there is no need to artificially create spin. There are a number of best iron shafts for 2024, but it is extremely important to get fit for the right shaft. Increase distance and hit more greens just by getting the right shaft in your irons.

FOR SLOWER SWING SPEEDS (UNDER 150 YARDS WITH A 6 IRON)

If your swing speed with a 6 iron is a bit slower, we’ve still got a perfect solution for you. From your swing and personal dynamics, the shaft we recommend and all the other parameters we ask in our Custom Club Fitting Quiz helps us optimize the shaft for your swing – no change to the swing and you get the perfect balance of distance, trajectory and spin. A word of caution, lighter shafts, especially steel, will play softer than their given flex. Trust a custom club fitter and club builder to fit and build the clubs properly for YOUR swing.

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KBS Tour C-Taper .370 Steel Iron Shafts

Shaft services optional, description.

Inspired from Tour player feedback, designed to complement the KBS Tour shaft's exceptional shot control with performance targeting players with a fast swing tempo.

Designed to impart lower launch and less ball spin.
Enhanced for Custom Tuning

trimming instructions

Additional trimming details from KBS

KBS C-TAPER Shaft

KBS C-Taper Lite .370" Iron Shafts

KBS C-Taper Lite .355 Steel Iron Shafts

KBS $-Taper Lite Chrome .370" Iron Shafts

KBS $-Taper Lite PVD .370" 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.

COMMENTS

C-taper
Inspired by Tour player feedback, the KBS C-TAPER shaft is designed for players requiring a low piercing trajectory and superior shot control. NOTE: (.370) Parallel Shaft is a single length shaft that will be Tip & Butt Trimmed to length. Trimming CAN change how the shaft will play. 3-PW will be 8 pcs.
KBS C-Taper Iron Shaft Review
50 Words or Less. The KBS C-Taper iron shaft is amazingly accurate, responsive, and easy to control. Low spin and stout feel make it a "must test" before installing. Introduction. I'll go ahead and say it: the KBS C-Taper is not an iron shaft for the faint of heart, but man, is it a killer shaft. While low launch and low spin shafts generally feel stout and boardy, the C-Taper feels firm ...
KBS C-Taper Shaft Review
More Information-. Inspired from tour player feedback, the KBS C-TAPER shaft is specially designed to produce a lower flight and spin rate while delivering the signature benefits of a piercing trajectory and smooth feel. By stiffening the shaft profile in the lower taper rate and early tip section, the C-TAPER is engineered to maximize shot ...
KBS C-Taper Lite Shaft Review
I cannot find anything on where the KBS Tour C-Taper Lite 105 R. In a Tour Regular, is that in between an standard Regular and standard Stiff? I used to play Project X 5.5, is this similar. 2nd item, the Nippon 105 Regular, how does that lay out compared to standard Regular and standard Stiff. Thanks in advance!
KBS Tour C-Taper .355 Steel Iron Shafts
Inspired from Tour player feedback, designed to complement the KBS Tour shaft's exceptional shot control with performance targeting players with a fast swing tempo. Features: Designed to impart lower launch and less ball spin. Enhanced for Custom Tuning. trimming instructions.
KBS C-Taper Lite Iron Shaft Review
Overall Impression. As mentioned, the KBS C-Taper Lite iron shafts are easily one of the best on the market for my game. They feature a look and feel of graphite with the stability and predictability of steel. A lighter overall weight produces more clubhead speed throughout the swing, while the shaft's build characteristics produce a mid-to ...
KBS C-Taper Lite Shaft Review
The difference between the KBS tourV and the KBS C taper light is the tour V will launch a lot lower with less spin and roll out more. The C taper lite is mid to high launch and stops better on the greens for me. I played the tourV for the last 5 yrs and just got fitted for the C taper lite on my new Srixon irons and love them.
Kbs C Taper Shaft Review
The KBS C-Taper steel shaft model is one of the most stable and well-built iron and wedge shafts available. Designed from the constant input of golf professionals, C-Taper is a tour-level golf shaft that gives more control to aggressive swingers. Players with quick tempos or that enjoy feeling a more stable golf shaft will love the C-Taper from ...
KBS C-Taper 90 Iron Shaft Review
The original C-Taper shaft felt a little stout for me, but the C-Taper 90 has a little softer feel. It has some similarities to the KBS Tour 90, but with the consistency of the C-Taper. Being a lighter weight shaft, the C-Taper 90 felt easier to swing and like a lot less of a "battle" than the original C-Tapers were for me.
KBS Tour vs C Taper Shafts: Comparison
The KBS C-Taper steel shaft comes with five loads and flexibility options. Mass ranges from 110gm and 130gm, with flexibility increasing with mass. There is a normal, systematic, rigid, rigid plus, and additionally rigid variants, each with its unique load structure. Each load and flexibility spectrum is designed to generate a deep ball ...
KBS C-Taper Shaft .355" Tip
Inspired by Tour player feedback, the KBS C-TAPER shaft produces a lower flight and spin rate while maintaining the benefits of a piercing trajectory and smooth feel. Incorporating signature KBS technology, the C-TAPER shaft maximizes energy transfer to improve distance and ball control. Independent testing of the C-TAPER resulted in 5% lower ...
KBS C-Taper Lite .355 Steel Iron Shafts
As a result, an average of 5 yards increased distance was seen during robot testing. The C-TAPER LITE come with the signature KBS brushed satin finish. Spin Control. Mid-High Flight. .355" Taper Tip. 5+ Yards Added Distance. Trimming Instructions. KBS C-Taper Lite .355" Taper Tip Shafts produce a piercing trajectory and smooth feel.
Which KBS iron shaft is best for you?
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 ...
KBS C Taper vs. KBS Tour: Which Golf Shaft to Choose?
Technology. The KBS C Taper shaft, which takes its cues from the preferences of Tour pros, is made for those who need a low, penetrating trajectory and a high degree of shot control. KBS Tour steel shafts have a distinctively smooth feel and are ideal for mid-trajectory irons and wedges. The KBS C-TAPER improves energy transfer for a responsive ...
KBS Tour Iron Shafts Review
SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHANNELhttp://txg.ca - Our initial test of the KBS tour iron shaft range that has just been added to the TXG shaft wall! In this video we st...
KBS C-Taper Lite .370" Iron Shafts
Featuring a constant taper design and proportionate wall thickness, the C-TAPER LITE maximizes energy transfer for maximum distance. As a result, an average of 5 yards increased distance was seen during robot testing. The C-TAPER LITE come with the signature KBS brushed satin finish. Spin Control. Mid-High Flight.
KBS C Taper Lite vs KBS Tour: What are the Differences?
The KBS C-Taper Lite and KBS Tour are both premium shafts, however, the KBS C-Taper Lite is generally more expensive. You would think the Tour will be more expensive due to its heavier weight and more complex design. The KBS C-Taper Lite is a lighter-weight option, which makes it more accessible for a wider range of golfers. Unfortunately, the ...
The 10 biggest PGA Tour players using KBS shafts in 2021
KBS Shaft Used: KBS Tour C-Taper 130X (Utility Iron), KBS Tour C-Taper 130X (4-PW) & KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 125X (Wedges) VIKTOR HOVLAND. World Ranking: ...
A few cool Items (Mevo + Limited Edition ZX5 Black, KBS Tour custom
Black ZX5 4-p white pearl custom KBS tour 120 preowned Standard lll Used for two weeks. midsize plus 4 $1200 Black ZX5 4-p black c-taper stiff brand new midsize plus 4 $1400 pre owned Black C-taper 120 Stiff Pulled from zx5 $350 Graphite Design IZ-6X Titleist tip 44.5 10 rounds. $200 Edited 23 minutes ago by kskills add
Best Irons Shafts 2024
The newest irons and shafts in 2024 are producing greater distance, forgiveness and accuracy for our customers because we properly tune the iron and shaft combination to your handicap and swing dynamics. We've put the newest iron shafts from Aerotech, ACCRA, Fujikura, Project X, True Temper, Graphite Design, KBS, OBAN, Mitsubishi, Nippon and ...
KBS Tour C-Taper .370 Steel Iron Shafts
KBS Tour C-Taper .370 Steel Iron Shafts KBS. SKU: FS0027. $49.95) Current Stock: Quantity: Decrease Quantity of undefined Increase Quantity of ... KBS C-TAPER Shaft. Related Products Sale. View Options. KBS C-Taper Lite .370" Iron Shafts $54.95. Sale. View Options. KBS C-Taper Lite .355 Steel Iron Shafts ...

$ 49.95

LOW LAUNCH. LOW SPIN. SIGNATURE FEEL.

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KBS C-Taper Lite Shaft Review

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Kbs C Taper Shaft Review

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C-Taper Steel Shaft

Studio fitting

Which KBS iron shaft is best for you?

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…

Players’ models

KBS $-Taper iron shaft

KBS Tour iron shaft

How KBS players’ steel shafts differ in launch and spin

KBS Tour V iron shaft

KBS C-Taper Lite, $-Taper Lite, and Tour Lite iron shafts

KBS iron shaft swing speed recommendations

Average speed KBS iron shaft models

There are junior options too

When should you go graphite?

How KBS graphite iron shafts differ in launch and spin

KBS TGI – Tour Graphite Iron shaft

KBS PGI – Players Graphite Iron shaft

KBS Max graphite iron shaft

KBS graphite iron shaft swing speed recommendations

Get it right the first time

Don’t forget your wedges

How do KBS iron shafts compare in data?

Verdict: KBS iron shafts

KBS Founder Kim Braly on a life spend designing golf shafts

KBS C Taper vs. KBS Tour: Which Golf Shaft to Choose?

Overview Of KBS C Taper Golf Shaft

Overview Of KBS Tour Golf Shaft

KBS C Taper vs Tour: Comparison Table

What Are The Differences Between KBS C Taper and Tour Golf Shaft?

Design and Look

Performance

KBS C Taper or Tour: Which Golf Shaft to choose?