Ryan Barath/Golf
Before we get started, I want to be crystal clear: both graphite and steel have their place when it comes to finding the right iron shafts for different golfers. But when it comes to new options—especially for faster swing speed players, graphite iron shafts are pushing the boundaries of technology, and golfers are benefiting from the performance.
The latest example is Axiom iron poles From Fujikura who were the first to incorporate their Velocore technology. This is the same Velocore stabilization technology that helped make wind serieswhich includes both original lines and TR lines, is one of the most popular lumber and driver on the PGA Tour.
axiom technology
Axiom’s graphite iron shafts have been developed using Fujikura’s high-speed ENSO analytics, giving engineers the ability to accurately monitor the shaft during the golf swing and specifically at impact. This gave Fujikura the ability to configure materials and profile to build a comprehensive line of shafts and to develop a weighted and flexible system to help golfers find the perfect fit. Shafts range from 75g regular soft all the way up to 125g X-stiff.
The core technology and design of Axiom shafts is a three-length system that creates a specific weight and flexible fit for long, medium, and short irons, allowing club builders to fine-tune shafts for a precise fit through the set for any golfer. In addition to the construction and installation advantages, Velocore-powered iron poles have shown increased spherical velocities thanks to tip stability, which also helps create tighter dispersal and spherical flight windows.
Axiom test
In addition to being a golfer who does testing, I’m also a club builder with years of experience building clubs, so testing the new Axiom gave me the opportunity to see how they perform and stack up for product consistency from a building perspective – which is exactly the same. Important in my opinion.
I am very pleased to report that each shaft is within a very tight 1 gram tolerance, which makes the final build process a lot easier compared to other graphite iron shafts I have worked with in the past. It’s a testament to Fujikura’s quality control.
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The unique three shaft system for the short, medium and long irons also made building easy and straightforward, and given that these shafts are only available to Fujikura’s dealer network of leasers, you should expect to see very tight specs for the ultimate golfer.
Finally, to go along with the Fujikura Axiom shafts (rigid flex model 105), I paired them with a set of Miura’s MC-502 heads which seemed like a perfect fit since both companies are known for their attention to detail and made in Japan heritage.
Results
Rather than focusing on comparative numbers, which are quite individual, I think it’s more important to focus on the results found on the course, and the 105 strong Axion flex shafts I built did not disappoint. Given that my usual iron bar is in the 120-115g range, I was a little concerned that it would feel too light. However, the balance point and swing weight resulted in a full shaft and club that feel similarly weighty to my heavier steel options but provide additional clubhead speed through the ball thanks to the lighter overall weight.
Miura MC-502 irons
Starting at $379 for iron
New to the MC-502 is increased face advancement (less offset), and a softer, more rounded topline and toe profile found their way from the drawing board to the final product. The result is an iron that is easy to align while offering an unparalleled level of confidence and playability.
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I found this particularly useful with the 4 and 5 irons as the slightly extra speed made the longer approach less taxing and gave me more confidence to land longer.
As for the crucial feel component, I really liked that the Axiom delivered a stable feel on hard shots and really helped reduce vibrations on michine—which made a huge difference in offering constructive criticism to my own. Bad strikes. Unlike many graphite poles of the past that reduced feedback to the point where they feel “unresponsive,” the Axiom delivered the perfect blend of information without the sting, along with plenty of control over the flight of the ball.
Overall, if you’re a golfer looking for a tour-performance graphite shaft in both heavier and lighter weight options, the Axiom is a graphite iron shaft that I would put at the top of my list of options to test during my next fitting.
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