Reviewed - KBS 610 & HI-REV 2.0 Wedge shaft

KBS has announced that it will be adding two new models to it's 2015 range. This will enable them to become the first company to offer a range of tour validated shafts to the golf market. 

The new 610 WEDGE and HI-REV 2.0 have now been integrated into KBS's line-up of popular shafts and have been in play on the PGA & European Tour for some time. 

“KBS is the first steel shaft company to really focus on developing shafts expressly for wedges, which in many respects are the most important clubs in the bag, especially for Tour players,” said Kim Braly, R&D and Tour operations director. “Along with the putter, wedges are the scoring clubs so any shaft design that helps to lower scores is going to prove popular with golfers at all levels.”

KBS 610 Wedge Shaft

The 610 WEDGE shaft delivers a lower, more penetrating ball flight with controlled spin that enables skilled players to produce eye-catching knock-downs and other workable shots into and around the green. The firm tip section of the shaft (.355) reduces spin and delivers greater control and the wider butt from which the shaft derives its name (.610) ensures even more feel as well as shot-making. There are three flexes between 110g and 125g (R, S & S+) and a length of 37 inches.

KBS Hi-Rev Wedge Shaft

The Hi-Rev 2.0 features an active tip section (.355) that increases the effective loft of the club head, delivering a higher ball launch with more spin for added stopping power and accuracy. It has a butt diameter of .600 and three flexes between 115g and 135g (R, S & X). 

Our opinion of the new KBS 610 Wedge shaft

Having used KBS shafts (C-Taper) in my clubs for a number years, but never in my wedges I was intrigued to find out just how their new 610 Wedge performed. 

First things first - I tested the 120 gram shaft ( I prefer a slightly lighter shaft) with one of Muira's stunning 57th anniversary  56* forged heads. 

I tested the new shaft at the PGA Merchandise show in Orlando on what was a blustery day; perfect to see how a shaft promising low spin and added control would perform. 

I certainly noticed the difference in flight compared with my current wedge shaft with the ball coming off consistently lower and penetrating into the wind. The shaft also felt stable throughout the swing giving me in a sense of control and with it confidence that is vital for great wedge play. 

One thing to note with this shaft is that it will take the spin off the ball. Something the tour pros love as they control their distances that way, but maybe this would not suit all golfers, many of whom are looking for increased backspin. 

All in all if you are looking for serious control of your ball flight with your wedges and create the spin to afford a lower ball flight there are great option and also include several weight options meaning you can tweak a little to find your perfect match. 

Our opinion of the new KBS HI-REV 2.0

The KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 is designed to create a greater amount spin, it acheives this thanks to it's softer tip section which effectively increases the loft and spin at impact.

While this shaft was not ideal for my game the contrast between the Hi-Rev 2.0 and the 610 was startling. There has long been as school of thought that wedge shafts should be stiff and are not all that important when compared to loft and bounce, but the Hi-Rev 2.0 shows that you can create significantly different flights with your wedge shaft. 

If you are a golfer that would like more height when playing into and around a green and also want to create more spin the Hi-Rev 2.0 could be perfect for you. 

The next time you change you wedges it is well worth asking your local pro or club fitter about the different shaft options available. As I found out in Orlando, It could make a big difference to how your wedges perform. 

Both shafts are available at select KBS dealers from this month at an installation RRP of £30 or €35.

For more information on KBS Wedge shafts please visit the KBS website - Click here