The GS53 driver from Ben Hogan Golf uses a tungsten sole weight and carbon composite crown to reposition head weight for increased forgiveness.
Fast Facts GS53 Max Driver:
Game improvement category driver
Classic shaped 460cc clubhead, 9° or 10.5°
Four-piece construction
Forged variable thickness titanium face
Carbon composite crown, tungsten sole weight
High launch with low CG, perimeter weighting
Adjustable hosel
Stock shafts: Project X HZRDUS Smoke Black, Mitsubishi Tensei Blue or UST Helium
Available for order only on Ben Hogan website $355
Projected delivery Nov. 23-25
WYNTK:
The previous driver model from Ben Hogan Golf was the GS53 and since its introduction in May 2019 the reception it received might be described as a tepid even though at $300 (later $325) it was $100 to $200 less than many competitive drivers. The new GS53 Max is meant to remedy that for this rejuvenated club company begun by golf legend Ben Hogan in 1953.
To begin with the GS53 Max has a bigger head, 460cc versus 445cc, and a 22 percent larger face which, with a larger sweet spot, helps to hit the ball more squarely more often.
The GS53 Max clubhead retains the Speed Slot of the previous model, a cutout area of the sole towards the toe that allows the toe to close more quickly, and real aid for mid to high handicap players.
The use of a carbon composite crown and tungsten rear sole weight allowed Ben Hogan engineers to move the center of gravity lower in the head and slightly further back helping even players with moderate swing speeds achieve a high ball launch. To improve forgiveness, they also were able to reposition more weight towards the outside of the head increasing impact stability and resistance to twisting.
According to CEO Scott White, “Our R&D mission for the GS53 MAX was to keep the Center of Mass as low and as far rearward as possible, which is very different when compared to the original GS53 driver which is much higher and more forward. As a result, the combination of the lightweight composite crown and tungsten sole weight allow us to position the Center of Mass so that we maximize launch while decreasing the amount of ball spin. This provides a higher ball flight … especially for players who don’t have Tour-caliber clubhead speeds … for increased carry and roll out. “
The adjustable hosel design allows changes of up to two degrees from the base loft, one degree stronger or weaker and lie angle/face angle from square to open or closed.
After years of financial and product uncertainty present owners headed by Scott White opted for a direct to consumer business model that, particularly for the company’s irons and accessories, has been popular with golfers. GS53 Max Orders being booked now have a project shipping date the week of Thanksgiving.
