The Search for the Perfect Driver

by: Tom Wishon and Tom Grundner

Published by: Sports Media Group

Reviewed by Bob Pike CSP, CPAE

According to this book, everything the average--and even above-average--golfer understands about choosing the right driver for their swing is wrong! You'll know the author is right--and you'll have the sinking feeling that you've cost yourself a lot of strokes off the tee box because of your driver.

This author is highly credible--he developed the clubmaker's certification testing for both groups that offer such training and certification. He has spent close to thirty years as a master clubmaker, fitter, and designer of clubs.

So what does the average (and above-average) golfer believe about the driver?

1. The right shaft is the most important thing about the perfect driver
2. Longer shafts will enable you to hit the ball farther
3. Graphite is better than steel for a driver shaft
4. Once you get above 10 degrees of loft, you are sacrificing distance
5. A truly custom-fitted driver will cost more than the retail "name" driver.

I could go on, but if you're any kind of golf nut (as I am) you've heard (and probably believe) at least four of the five statements. And we'll both be wrong for believing them.

In this book Tom demonstrates that while flex is important, most of the flex is dampened because the club is held in our hands--which are soft and not rigid. He explains why a shorter shaft and perhaps a steel shaft would be better suited to a lot of golfers--except the very athletic and those with great eye-hand coordination. He explains why a 350CC head may do as much or more for you than the monster 460CC heads being touted today. And he definitely helps you see how a fitting by an expert clubfitter (who probably does not work at your golf club or the local retail shop) will save you strokes, increase your confidence and enjoyment of the game and also save you money. After all, if you had the perfect driver and perfect set of irons, wedges, and putter--how could advertising induce you to try the latest and greatest--instead of working on your swing?

This book might just be your best investment in your game this year!

Armchair Interviews says: Run, don't walk. Order your book online or head to your local bookstore today.

Author's Web site: http://www.wishongolf.com