NS PRO 850GH Shaft Review: Lightweight Power

Alright golf geeks, gather 'round because today we're diving deep into something pretty sweet for your sticks: the Nippon NS PRO 850GH shafts. If you're like me, always on the hunt for that extra bit of performance without breaking your back, then these might just be your new best friends. We're talking about a seriously popular option in the iron shaft world, and for good reason. The 850GH is all about offering a lighter feel while still packing a punch when you need it. So, if you've been feeling a bit sluggish with your current irons or just curious about what all the fuss is about, stick around. We're going to break down what makes these shafts tick, who they're best suited for, and whether they'll help you finally nail that elusive fairway shot. Let's get into it!

Understanding the Nippon NS PRO 850GH

So, what exactly is the Nippon NS PRO 850GH shaft, and why should you even care, right? Well, guys, this shaft is part of Nippon Shaft's seriously impressive lineup, and it’s carved out a niche for itself as a lightweight steel option that doesn't compromise on feel or performance. We're not talking about those super heavy, traditional steel shafts here. The 850GH is designed to be noticeably lighter, and this is a huge selling point for a lot of golfers. The idea behind a lighter shaft is pretty straightforward: it can potentially lead to increased swing speed. And who doesn't want more swing speed? More speed often translates to more distance, and on the golf course, distance is king, isn't it? But here's the kicker, and this is where Nippon really shines: they managed to make it lighter without making it feel flimsy or unstable. That's the magic! They've achieved this through some clever engineering and material science, focusing on a mid-kickpoint design. This mid-kickpoint is crucial because it provides a good balance between launch angle and spin. It’s not going to launch the ball excessively high like a low-kick shaft might, nor will it keep it too low like a high-kick shaft. It’s that sweet spot that works for a broad range of players. The weight distribution is also meticulously handled, contributing to that consistent feel throughout the swing. You won't feel like you're swinging a wet noodle, which is sometimes a concern with ultra-lightweight components. Instead, you get a shaft that feels responsive and stable, helping you make confident swings time after time. It's this blend of lightweight design, balanced kickpoint, and consistent feel that has made the NS PRO 850GH a go-to for countless golfers looking to optimize their iron play. It’s a testament to Nippon’s dedication to producing high-quality, performance-driven golf equipment that appeals to a wide spectrum of players, from amateurs looking to gain an edge to seasoned pros seeking a reliable performer.

Key Features and Benefits

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty, shall we? What makes the Nippon NS PRO 850GH shaft stand out from the crowd? Well, there are a few key features that golf enthusiasts rave about, and they all add up to some pretty significant benefits on the course. First off, and we’ve touched on this, is the lightweight construction. We’re talking significantly lighter than many traditional steel shafts. This isn't just about making your bag easier to carry, though that's a nice bonus! The reduced weight can translate directly into faster swing speeds. Think about it: less mass to accelerate means your body can whip the club through impact with more velocity. This can lead to increased ball speed and, ultimately, more distance off the clubface. It’s like taking the training wheels off your swing! But don't confuse lightweight with weak. Nippon has nailed the balance here. The second major feature is its mid-kickpoint. This is a big deal, guys. A mid-kickpoint generally promotes a mid-trajectory launch with a good amount of spin. This is ideal for a vast majority of golfers because it helps the ball get up in the air quickly enough for optimal carry distance, but not so high that it balloons and loses steam. It provides that predictable ball flight that every golfer dreams of. You know what you're going to get, shot after shot. This predictability is gold when you're trying to hit specific targets or navigate tricky course conditions. Thirdly, we need to talk about the consistent feel and stability. Despite being lightweight, these shafts are designed to feel incredibly stable throughout the swing. Nippon achieves this through precise manufacturing and material selection, ensuring that the shaft performs reliably under the pressure of impact. This means you get excellent feedback from the clubface, letting you know exactly what’s happening at impact. You’ll feel the clubhead, the strike, and the overall sensation of the shot, allowing for better adjustments and more confidence. This consistent feel is crucial for developing a repeatable swing. Finally, the durability of these shafts is top-notch. Nippon is known for making shafts that last, and the 850GH is no exception. You can bang away on the driving range or play a full 18 holes without worrying about the shaft giving out on you. It’s an investment that pays off in the long run, both in performance and longevity. So, to sum it up: lighter weight for speed and distance, a mid-kickpoint for optimal launch and spin, consistent feel for confidence and feedback, and superb durability. That’s a winning combination, if you ask me!

Who is the NS PRO 850GH For?

Alright, so we've established that the Nippon NS PRO 850GH shaft is pretty darn impressive. But who is it actually for? That's the million-dollar question, isn't it? We don't all swing the club the same way, and a shaft that works wonders for one golfer might not be the best fit for another. Generally speaking, the NS PRO 850GH is an excellent choice for mid-handicap golfers and high-handicap golfers who are looking to improve their game. Why? Because of that lightweight design we keep talking about. For players who might not have the raw swing speed of a tour pro, these shafts can help them generate more clubhead speed naturally, without having to force it. This can lead to increased carry distances and a more forgiving feel on off-center hits. If you find yourself struggling to get the ball airborne with your current irons, or if you're just tired of leaving shots out there due to a lack of speed, the 850GH could be a game-changer. It’s also a fantastic option for golfers who have previously used lighter graphite shafts but are looking for the consistency and feel of steel. Sometimes, as golfers progress, they might feel that graphite shafts become a bit too whippy or lack the precise feedback they desire. The 850GH offers a compromise, giving you the lightweight benefits without sacrificing the solid feel that many players prefer from steel. Furthermore, golfers who tend to have a moderately fast swing tempo but not an extremely aggressive one will find the mid-kickpoint particularly beneficial. It promotes a balanced launch that isn't too high or too low, making it versatile for a wide range of course conditions and player abilities. If you're someone who experiences fatigue during a round, the lighter weight can also be a significant advantage, helping you maintain your swing quality through all 18 holes. However, it's probably not the best fit for golfers with extremely fast swing speeds or those who tend to hit the ball very high already. For those players, a heavier shaft with a lower kickpoint might offer better control and stability. Ultimately, the best way to know if the 850GH is right for you is to get fitted. A good club fitter can assess your swing speed, tempo, and typical ball flight to determine if this shaft aligns with your goals. But as a general rule, if you’re seeking more distance, a more consistent ball flight, and a responsive feel without the burden of a heavy shaft, the NS PRO 850GH is definitely worth a serious look.

Performance on the Course

Okay, guys, let's talk about the real reason we're all here: how does the Nippon NS PRO 850GH shaft perform when you're out on the course, facing down that intimidating pin? We’ve covered the tech, we’ve talked about who it’s for, now let's see if it lives up to the hype. The first thing you'll notice, and we’ve stressed this, is the lightweight feel. As you swing, the club feels noticeably quicker through the air. This isn't just a subjective feeling; it often translates into tangible gains in clubhead speed. What does this mean for your shots? Well, for starters, you’re likely to see an increase in carry distance. That 7-iron that usually lands just shy of the green might now be carrying onto the green, giving you a much better chance at birdies. It makes the game feel a bit easier, doesn't it? Beyond just raw distance, the 850GH offers a fantastic balance of launch and spin, thanks to that mid-kickpoint. You'll find that your iron shots tend to launch at a good, solid trajectory. They’ll get up quickly enough to clear hazards but will also have enough penetrating power to cut through the wind. This means fewer ballooning shots on breezy days and more consistent yardages. The spin characteristics are also well-managed, helping the ball stop on the green rather than running out too far, which is crucial for approach shots. One of the standout aspects of the 850GH's performance is the consistent feel and feedback. Even though it’s lightweight, it doesn’t feel flimsy. You get a reassuring connection with the ball at impact. You can feel the strike, whether it’s pure or slightly off-center, and this feedback allows you to make better decisions and adjustments on the fly. This stability throughout the swing provides a sense of control and confidence. When you step up to the ball, you know the club is going to do what you want it to do, leading to more aggressive and accurate swings. For players who are transitioning from graphite, this steel feel in a lighter package is often a revelation. They get the benefits of reduced fatigue and increased speed, but with the familiar, solid response of steel. Durability is another point worth mentioning here. These shafts are built tough. You can count on them to perform consistently round after round, year after year. They aren't prone to the same kind of wear and tear that some other components might experience. In summary, the NS PRO 850GH delivers on its promise of lightweight performance. It offers increased swing speed for more distance, a balanced launch and spin for consistent ball flight, and a stable, responsive feel that inspires confidence. It’s a shaft that can genuinely help elevate your game, making those challenging approach shots feel more manageable and those long carries a reality.

Comparison with Other Shafts

So, how does the Nippon NS PRO 850GH shaft stack up against its rivals in the crowded iron shaft market? It's a question many golfers ponder when trying to make the best choice for their game. Let's pit it against a couple of common comparisons to give you a clearer picture. First off, let's look at its stablemate, the Nippon NS PRO 950GH. The 950GH is arguably one of the most popular steel iron shafts of all time, known for its incredible balance of feel, control, and performance. The 850GH is essentially a lighter version of the 950GH. If you love the feel and stability of the 950GH but find it a bit too demanding on your swing speed, the 850GH is the natural progression. The 950GH generally offers a slightly more penetrating ball flight due to a lower kickpoint, while the 850GH's mid-kickpoint promotes a slightly higher, more forgiving launch. Think of it as: 950GH for control and a traditional feel, 850GH for added speed and a lighter sensation. Next, consider KBS Tour shafts. KBS offers a range of popular steel shafts, like the KBS Tour and the KBS Tour 90. The KBS Tour is generally a bit heavier and designed for a more demanding player with a faster swing, often producing a lower, more controlled flight. The KBS Tour 90 is closer in weight to the 850GH, but it typically has a slightly lower kickpoint, leading to a lower ball flight than the 850GH. So, if you're looking for that higher, more effortless launch that the 850GH provides, it often edges out shafts like the KBS Tour 90. Another comparison point might be lighter graphite shafts. Many golfers start with graphite because it's light and forgiving. However, as their game progresses, they might crave the crisp feel and feedback that steel shafts offer. The 850GH bridges this gap beautifully. It gives you the lightweight advantage, similar to many graphite shafts, but delivers the solid, responsive feel that golfers associate with steel. It's the best of both worlds for many players. Finally, let's briefly touch on other lightweight steel options from brands like True Temper (e.g., XP series). While these also aim for lighter weights and increased speed, the specific feel, kickpoint, and launch characteristics can vary significantly. The NS PRO 850GH has a very distinct and well-regarded feel that many golfers find exceptionally pleasing and effective. It's not just about weight; it's about how that weight is engineered and distributed. In essence, the 850GH carves its own path by offering an ultra-lightweight steel option that maximizes swing speed and promotes a balanced, high-launching trajectory, all while retaining a remarkably stable and responsive feel. It’s a unique proposition that appeals to a specific, and quite large, segment of the golfing population.

Final Verdict: Is the NS PRO 850GH Right for You?

Alright, golf buddies, we’ve dissected the Nippon NS PRO 850GH shaft from every angle. We've talked about its lightweight prowess, its balanced kickpoint, and the sweet feel it offers. Now, let's tie it all up with a final verdict. Is this shaft going to be the magic bullet that lowers your handicap? Well, maybe not a magic bullet, but it's definitely a seriously strong contender for a lot of golfers out there. If you're a golfer who struggles with swing speed and wants to generate more effortless power, the 850GH is a prime candidate. Its lightweight nature can directly contribute to faster clubhead speeds, leading to more distance and a more forgiving experience. For those mid-to-high handicappers looking to add yards and get the ball airborne more easily, this shaft is practically tailor-made. Furthermore, if you've been playing with heavier steel shafts and are starting to feel the strain, or if you're coming from graphite but desire that crisp steel feedback, the 850GH hits a sweet spot. It offers the best of both worlds: lightness and responsiveness. The consistent feel and stable performance it provides can boost your confidence, helping you make more aggressive swings and achieve more consistent results. The mid-trajectory launch it promotes is also incredibly versatile for a wide range of players and conditions. However, as we’ve noted, it might not be the optimal choice for players with extremely fast swing speeds or those who already hit the ball very high and spin it excessively. For those players, a heavier or differently weighted shaft might offer better control. The ultimate deciding factor, as always in golf, should be your individual swing and goals. A professional club fitting is your best bet to confirm if the 850GH aligns perfectly with your game. But based on its performance characteristics – the blend of lightweight speed, stable feel, and balanced launch – the Nippon NS PRO 850GH shaft earns a big thumbs-up. It’s a proven performer that continues to be a favorite for good reason, offering a fantastic upgrade for golfers seeking that extra edge without the physical toll of heavier equipment. Give it a shot; you might just find your irons singing a new, longer tune!