HONEST REVIEW: The Expensive Taylormade M5 Driver (2019)

[@SASGolf]

Thanks for watching guys! No holding back in this review, hopefully you guys like brutal honesty.

[@matthewvernon5963]

Great review in my opinion! That's all that needs to be said on the new drivers from TM, I would also include the new offerings from Titleist and Callaway in the same basket. On your point about what driver is worth spending £500 on, I agree with it. I just got fitted for the new PXG gen 2 X driver which was £550 (PXG have actually reduced the price from the gen 1's) and was a 1.5 hour fitting with a PXG specialist, over 40 different shafts to choose from and many different head set ups with all the moveable weights. I have been playing golf for 15 years now and decided to buy this driver on the basis of the fitting experience, options available and it will be staying in my bag for at least the next 10 years. So for me, this a driver worth the money.

[@cgasucks]

It's all good, the more brutal the honesty is, the better.

[@kevintang1916]

Hi Simon, really loved your honesty. That's exactly why i like to watch your second hand "2019 bargain review" videos.

[@NovaScene]

TaylorMade will probably put you on the same naughty list Mark Crossfiled is on now 😁 But in all, we are all disappointed in the price, and the marketing since changes are marginal.. We have to say TM does make a good product, will be looking into upgrading my M4 when these drop in price come end of season 2019..

[@TopTenSite]

Nice to see an honest review. Far too many of the KZbin golf "gurus" are actually no more than thinly disguised sales reps for Taylormade and Callaway. This review tells it as it is. I'm impressed.

[@SASGolf]

Thanks Terry, I just say it as its is, only because when I do put a club in my hand that I like, hopefully you guys will have a bit trust in me, rather than just saying everything is great.

[@scottishgolftour7677]

here here terry so many are just bending over for the manufacturers to scam people lots respect for sas golf here .

[@edzamarron9009]

Thank you so much for the most honest review I have ever seen. I have been a huge fan of Taylormade for years. I was buying a new driver every year, but at $549 US dollars, Taylormade has jumped the shark and lost touch, as you say. Unless a driver is giving me 30 extra yards right out the box, I'm sticking with my M1. So long TM, but it's not my responsibility to pay these over paid tour pros.

[@SASGolf]

yeah exactly, a up in price should be an up in distance and performance! thanks ed.

[@stevewellings7657]

Couldn't agree more. In Australia it's retailing for AU$899. For the average golfer like myself who works for a living with a family to support, I'm not even interested in trying the latest form Taylormade and Callaway. Well beyond what I can afford, and at my ability as a mid handicapper, More than I can justify. I'll stick to my trusty second hand R11s for now thankyou. Excellent to see someone who says what they think. Keep up the good work. :)

[@SASGolf]

r11 s is a quality driver as well mate! thanks Steve!

[@hoodedcobra1531]

lol well u shouldn't be spending that much money cause you need to spend it on your family lol. any new driver isnt going too go 50y further then what you have now lol you gotta improve your swing to hit it further duh. or invest it on your kids and get them better then what you are. every driver out isnt for the regular weekend golfers. they are made for people who swing it in the 122+ who will see it benefit from it more. that's why u gotta learn how to swing it better if you want more. idc what people say I'll get the M5. I was hitting it way better then my M3

[@stevewellings7657]

@@hoodedcobra1531 Well, I am so pleased that you can afford to go get yourself a new M5 Driver. Good for you. As for my kids, they are not interested in golf as I have 2 at university, another an electrician, and the last is a straight A student in higher secondary school. Thank you for stating the obvious by the way, If I had the time to spend on the course or at the practice range I would, however there are other priorities. I enjoy the game and perhaps when I retire in the not too distant future I will have more time available. Until then I'll plug away and try to improve my game at a snails pace if necessary. P.S. I was merely agreeing with Simon on the subject and not complaining....DUH!!!!!

[@Mike-708]

Thank you for speaking up for your average golfer! I’ve just started playing again after a 4 year hiatus. Was a single digit handicapper and picked up the new TaylorMade drivers,, yuk!!! Can anyone, including TaylorMade, make a simple, traditional shaped driver that’s simply playable without a shaft as tall as a Redwood! Thanks again for your honest take on it.

[@cadenalbertson9478]

I’m a high handicapper and I just purchased this club used for a great price that I couldn’t turn down. I’ve only hit it on the range once but I am pretty impressed with it so far especially since I upgraded from the 2000 taylormade 360ti haha. Great review though and I love the honesty👍🏼

[@michaelticehurst5275]

Well done Simon....A truthful and unbiased review of not just a shiny new toy, but also a great insight to what pro's who do fittings really think and do. Top marks mate!

[@SASGolf]

cheers Micheal! thank you for your continued support! nearly three years soon!

[@bobbyk3469]

Easily the best driver review anyone can watch. Most won't listen to the truth and just have to have the latest equipment. I hunt for quality clubs a year or two old that cost 1/3 the price. I just upgraded to an M1 for under $200. While I was mesmerized by your swings, I know if you put that club in my hands, the results would be no where near yours. I'd just be $400 poorer. Impressed with your honesty, but more impressed with your swing.

[@SASGolf]

haha swings getting there bob and will always stay honest!

[@leefitzsimmons7043]

One of the best honest reviews out there, too many fellow you tubers just focus on the top brand bum licking for a product review to secure a place for their next product. Keep up the good work mate, good luck with the long drive journey

[@SASGolf]

thank you mate appreciate that! honesty is the best policy, hopefully then people take me seriously.

[@sirtogii5216]

Totally agree. The extreme low spin drivers are great for about 1-2% of the market, if that. The rest will have longer drives on average with a high moi, mid spinning driver that goes reasonably when you don't hit it perfect. As for the price, I say let the market decide if it's too expensive or not. I remember back in the day when the Callaways brought out drivers that were about 400 which would be like 800 in today's money. (was it the ELC?). Anybody who doesn't want to pay that much can get last year's model at half price and still get custom fitted for it.

[@SASGolf]

thanks mate, whats your name? feel rude not knowing it lol. completely agree mate, not building clubs for the majority of the market anymore.

[@sirtogii5216]

@@SASGolfThe name is Harold (albeit with the Swedish spelling)

[@dhit6277]

Man, you were smashing the ball bro! Always enjoy your vlogs! Very refreshing to see someone tell it like it is! I tell people all the time, instead of spending $600-$700 on a new driver spend the money on lessons from a pro. It will help you far more.

[@SASGolf]

thank you mate! yeah you increase your club head speed and smash factor, you will hit the ball further! simples... kind of haha!

[@sigururarniorarson610]

Got my M5 last week with X Flex ProForce V2 7F5 and I love it.

[@andymore62]

I just got one lightly used for $300. It’s amazing.

[@dulisha]

I got m5 and m3 the other day for 300$ headcovers included lol

[@TheChaddavis1996]

Best and most honest review I have seen! I wish you had included all the manufacturers into your statements about TM more. Titleist, Callaway, Ping, etc. have all just continued to drive the price up so much that it is ridiculous. I give credit to Srixon for building a quality driver this past year for $299 and I am sure there are a couple others that I don’t know about that are cheaper and honestly good quality as well.

[@SASGolf]

thank you mate, try to be honest just so that people can take my reviews seriously! yeah the manufacturers with lower price tags I respect a lot more this year!

[@kelseystubbin2245]

I just bought one of these yesterday, and took it to the range today for a hit. Now, normally I would fade, or worse slice my drives pretty badly, but with this they were going straight and long, and about half with a slight draw, some with a slight fade. I have it set on 11.5° loft, with one weight about halfway from front to back and the other about a third of the way towards the draw side. I know it's compensating for a flawed swing but if I can hit more fairways, I'm happy. As long as I go for timing and don't try to hit it too hard, it goes where I want it to. I doubt I'll be replacing it any time soon unless it breaks or something.

[@bjermis]

Just bought an M3 50% off :) very happy!

[@SASGolf]

good buy mate! great driver for that price.

[@wildcat8797]

I’m glad I watched this before I blindly bought it. I haven’t bought a new driver in 6 years. Iv had the original rocket ballz driver for ever. Only changes I made was changing to a stiff flex as my game improved & set the loft from 9.5 to 12.5. Increased by distance by 25 yards. Looks like I’m gonna wait to get fitted before buying a new driver.

[@stevemahr9530]

Totally agree that they are ridiculously priced. I got fitted for Callaway XR Speed last year and couldn't be happier with it. Never hit further and straighter.

[@klum6047]

Great review. I got the Titleist TS2 this season. I sold my 917 D2 to buy it, expecting a world of difference on my tee shots. Not much changes or improved. So, that said, I think all the club manufactures are guilty of higher prices and over marketing their new products with few improvements. Thanks for you're honesty on this review.

[@oldfoggie123]

A breath of fresh air!....it's a pity more reviewers aren't more honest!....The only way prices will become more realistic is if they are!...very good honest review!

[@SASGolf]

thanks Ken, yeah just being myself now, as I have definitely been in the same boat as all the other reviewers, but this is taking the biscuit.

[@PartyPete199]

I’ve used Taylormade M2 & M4 and they were long but dispersion was occasionally erratic. The M5 has been much better. The lighter head and the moveable weights have insured that I no longer have a hook. Even if I pull it slightly the dispersion is way better. Also, in wind the ball travels further than with the M2 and M4 which I’m putting down to less spin. Generally, I’ve found its do with the shaft not the club head that causes most of inconsistencies. Hence, your point, go and get custom fitted 👌🏻

[@Matt-qo8ct]

The Apple comparison is spot on! Only positive is last years “unbeatable, no.1 driver in golf” halves in price and people can get their hands on it for realistic money. Finally an honest opinion!

[@SASGolf]

yeah would be great to do the same thing as apple, would be a great PR move from them! cheers Matt

[@mjes51]

Good to see someone who is not afraid to say it as it is. I totally agree with you regarding what Taylor Made has turned out to be. They are charging high prices for a product that is even par with the other manufacturers who build drivers for the average golfer. But if you really look at it, all the big names are charging more and more. They wonder why golf is diminishing. The price to play, the price for good equipment and slow play are not helping.

[@SASGolf]

couldn't of said it better myself mate, completely agree! thanks

[@barking_mad6649]

Stand up and applauds. About time a KZbin pro had the decency and honesty to say what every other KZbin Pro is thinking but not actually saying in their reviews.

[@SASGolf]

haha thanks for the standing ovation! just was honest, helps when they haven't sent you the club!

[@MichaelJones-xs3yx]

Brilliant honest review mate 👍 Plus side of TM bringing out the M5 and M6 and outpricing it for 95% of people is that you can now pick up M3 and M4s for rock bottom prices. Defo the way forwards for me and many others. Love the videos mate, keep them coming! 👍

[@SASGolf]

yeah the m3s and m4s are a steal now, quality products at affordable prices. just can't get fitted for them!

[@vivitoisright382]

The most honest review this year, thank you. It almost feels like the prices are set so people don't buy, It's ridiculous and insulting. Oh, and are we going to grow the game with these prices?

[@SASGolf]

well we are only 16 days in haha! hopefully with these kind of videos people will realise they don't have to pay a lot of money to enjoy the game!

[@jamesmartin810]

I think you raise a great point re: lower price point drivers. As I see it, the reason these companies don't come out with a £200 driver is because they fully well know the jump in performance between something that costs £200 and £500 would be negligible, meaning the consumer will go for the lower option and TaylorMade misses out on revenue.

[@SASGolf]

yeah true, but would be a great PR move from one of them though! one flex, one loft just for the average beginner golfer.

[@alanjordan6198]

Like the honesty. A couple of years ago Callaway brought irons fro around £1500 (I think?) To me all that did was open the gates for everyone to increase their prices & increase their profits. As you said TM have done this over the past 2 years. That's means by 2025 we could be paying over £1000 for a driver! It's gone crazy

[@hubmann714]

You nailed it! Cobra seems to be doing it right. Has the best price and is actually out performing the bigger name/bigger price guys as well

[@SASGolf]

yeah looking forward to testing it tomorrow. even if it is a bit behind the others, human error plays a bigger part in distance with any driver if your not a tour pro. cheers Caleb!

[@cwugrad396]

Titleist 2 year cycles is why I’m a fan of their gear

[@SASGolf]

yeah plus I do feel they have produced something this year that is actually better than they're previous models.

[@W.T.F.7777]

Thats why I buy Titleist too. Also can use my 913 coustom shift to new ts driver..^^

[@no9scrum]

what peevs me off about golf on youtube is the hypocrisy of alot of channels who release a video one week on how you dont need to spend alot of money to play golf. Then in the very next weeks video suggest that there's basically no point in even trying to golf unless you've been fitted for clubs, and then introduce the newest and bestest ever driver that you need to spend a cool grand on or you'll be struck by lightning on the 13th tee box.. Golf IS expensive regardless of what people say, it just is.. People appreciate honest videos like this where someone perhaps more knowledgeable reinforces my already doubting mind that i dont need to spend my life savings on equipment! Keep it up!

[@SASGolf]

thank you for that mate and I agree, it is expensive and the reviews on youtube will never change as if you get sent something free you feel obliged to give it praise. luckily I was sent this one haha!

[@simonsouthby-ryland7431]

Great vid Simon. Agree to a certain extent, but whether they have lost touch or not, these beasts will sell. And to your point on companies offering a £200 'budget' offer, they do...it's called the M3 and M4, where you can buy a brand new one at sub £250 now, and because the shaft connector has stayed the same can still get fit for a shaft if needed. Keep the great content coming.

[@SASGolf]

yeah your right to be far, would be a good PR move in my eyes though, but getting everything a year later is pretty much the same thing. cheers mate will do!

[@Joetorious1]

Great, honest review. I recently hit the M3 (and the Titleist TS3, which I preferred), and TBH, after a decade (or more) of tech advancement, I’m still in love with my R7 SuperQuad.

[@andrewmccleave]

Great honest review, and glad someone is speaking the truth... would love to see a test of an average player hitting the 2016 M2 v’s the new M5 so we can see the data... and prove it’s all just marketing jargon!

[@SASGolf]

yeah going to test the m2 against the m6 as there similar build profiles. see what happens! you can probably tell not much will haha.

[@HarryLivestream]

Excellent idea

[@barking_mad6649]

@@SASGolf When you do the test could you do 10 shots on each club on three different days? Statistically this gives a much better dataset than say 5 numbers on one day which as you know can be a good one or a bad one depending on how you're feeling that day :)

[@slice2scratchgolf302]

Finally someone not trying to suck up to major companies and tell it like it is.. I’m thinking clubsforcash/golfbidder for my next one. Incidentally, as a fitter, are you guys understanding of people wanting a half hour fitting just to determine what type of shaft suits them before getting a second hand club?

[@SASGolf]

yeah we offer a fitting and if you buy from us then great if not no worries, great thing about interchangeable shafts. be great to have a fitting centre of all previous years clubs, that would be cool.

[@TXchadTX]

Personally I don't mind yearly release cycles. And you don't have to buy it. The only people complaining about the price of this thing are the ones who THINK they need the newest tech to compete. If you want a TM driver - but don't have $500 to blow - go buy a 2016 m2 for $165 and you've got the same thing. I have that in the bag still and I've yet to find anything to beat it. People forget to look at the other side of the coin. When they release new drivers every year - that means the one from last year goes on sale and the one from two years ago goes down even further. Look at the price differences between two year old TM stuff and two year old Titleist stuff. They all work equally well. So in a way this helps the "cheaper" golfer.

[@SASGolf]

true mate, thanks for the comment and do agree with you, just finding the right combo is a bit harder as can't get fitted for last years equipment. thanks mate.

[@S.forbes]

👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 Some honesty from a reviewer. I am beginning to see this more and more on youtube as it is slowing becoming apparent that all golf clubs are basically now maxed out distance and forgiveness wise. I especially like the point you made about "What are Taylormade gonna say next year" when they have admitted themselves that this is the fastest driver they can make without it being illegal 🤣🙈 You have a new subscriber sir 👍🏾👏🏾

[@SASGolf]

thanks for sub mate, and can't wait for there marketing campaign next year haha!

[@Calens001]

This is the best video you've done mate. Please do more of this type of content.

[@SASGolf]

thank you pal, will do!

[@seanphillips4623]

One of your best videos fella. Good luck this season 💪⛳️

[@SASGolf]

thanks Sean, im looking forward to it!

[@HarryLivestream]

Thanks for your true comments! They are good but like you said - not for average Joe’s anymore..

[@SASGolf]

cheers mate, try and keep it honest so you know when I have a good driver in my hands, you will hopefully believe me!

[@colincameron4217]

Hi Simon, thanks for the honest review. It's good to see someone who is still in touch with the typical golfer. Could you do a 2016 M1 vs 2019 M5 review on quad. What does all the development, marketing, twist face and spread foam actually produce? Would be interesting. Love the channel and keep up the honest and great content. Cheers.

[@colincameron4217]

Spread! Might not be such a crap typo in the end

[@SASGolf]

yeah hopefully do some comparisons next week and get some numbers for you all! thanks Colin

[@business7956]

Great review mate.... best i have ever seen on youtube. Very very honest. Welldone

[@SASGolf]

cheers mark! thanks for the support.

[@hauxon]

I totally agree and just bought a brand new M4 D-Type driver for 180 pounds (half price) to replace my trusty old 2003 Callaway Great Big Berta II 415 :-) Callaway actually does have cheaper driver for sale here in Europe called XR Speed. Very nice looking driver but nobody seems interested in testing it. I found very few reviews on it and the famous KZbin golfers seemingly have no interest. Sells for 255 pounds here in Iceland.

[@neilconway3693]

Thank you so much for your comments, I totally agree. If Taylor Made continue on this road they'll end up like "Tesco" greedy market leaders to desperate brand management and on their backsides. Which would be a great shame for them. Spot on review, I just wish other youtubers would give their honest opinions too.

[@SASGolf]

thank Neil for you kind comments. do feel one of these companies will go bust, purely by pricing themselves out of the market and massive too player bills!

[@davidstephens6813]

Absolutely love this review. Passionate views which are bang on. Yes Taylormade here is getting the brunt of it, but it highlights a much bigger problem in the golf equipment market. Just no incentive for the big brands to offer the lower end anymore, as the prevalence of launch monitors and 'proof' of performance would either kill the higher end or highlight some deliberate dialling down (encouraging anticompetition agreements between brands). I hope this sparks conversations with others out there doing these reviews, but I suspect many will just be too protective of their relationships with the big boys. Thanks so much Simon for having the balls to speak out. Hope it continues! (oh, and you looked to be smoking that M5!)

[@SASGolf]

thanks for that David, good read and glad you like the honesty. your right its not about the driver as such but more where the market is going! P.S yeah I hit it quite well haha!

[@sderden]

Dude that Ball Tee loading system is so cool! Good Truth review as well.

[@SASGolf]

its awesome mate, especially for someone lazy like me lol!

[@mrp1019]

Nice review Simon. As a high handicapper with a 12 year old driver which I am looking to replace I now see I should be first looking at 'earlier versions' of clubs rather than paying a premium to subsidise their sponsorship of tour players.

[@SASGolf]

true lots of great drivers out there that are even 4 your old that will be a big upgrade!

[@tidanfly80]

Just bought a M5 with Tensei Orange 60 for 337 £ brand new! Member discount from the store I usually shop 🥰👌

[@iangethen6656]

May I congratulate you on one of the best reviews of a club I have ever seen,I agree with you that prices are getting obscene and there needs to be a price cap

[@SASGolf]

thanks Ian, high praise! we were all thinking it, I'm just the one that said it I guess.

[@steveparish4209]

Love this guy. His opinion is not bought and paid for and he's got a helluva swing, too!

[@SASGolf]

thanks of the love Steve! swings getting there ;)

[@krabboy22]

Dude, I love how your are remaking your channel! Keep up the effort it is very refreshing.

[@SASGolf]

thanks Brooks! giving it everything this year!

[@chadgalland2493]

Love the honesty of this vid, now you need to do one with the other brands too. Sets of irons shouldn't be over 1000 driver shuldnt be over 400 ect. People seem confused why more people don't get into or stay in golf well this is one of several reasons.

[@SASGolf]

yeah more reviews coming and your right on the price issue and people staying in golf.

[@andrewcowley7182]

Agree with all u said . I bought the 2016 M2 new 400€ , great driver but never buying anything brand new again .

[@SASGolf]

awesome driver mate, yeah don't change, especially as its one of the best looking drivers as well!

[@kfraser01]

A great, honest video giving you even more credibility, well done !!

[@SASGolf]

haha trying to get as much credibility as I can! Thanks mate

[@michaelwilliamson3737]

Interesting to hear that it would be a hard driver to the average golfer - someone who shoots in the 80s most games. If it is low spin, people on simulators will get sold on an occasional long ball but won't enjoy the inconsistency in course. Which will lead them to test the 2020 model next year and the cycle continues.

[@SASGolf]

yeah exactly mate, no point gaining 20 yards, if you can only do it 2/10 drives, all about the averages. cheers Micheal.

[@GolfinGuitarist]

Well, I'm sold. I'm buying 5 of these. You have a good pitch, Simon.

[@SASGolf]

haha, good man, il apply for the commission!

[@bund440]

Wow, how refreshing to here an honest review. I’ve not tested this driver, I don’t like TaylorMade products. However I would have to say that I can’t believe what poor quality TaylorMade’s clubs are given the price they expect people to pay.

[@SASGolf]

Thanks for the praise mate! completely agree with you, sorry for late reply!

[@TenPester]

Just picked up an M5 Tour used for £100. Well worth it.

[@paws057]

Yeah, that is a lot of money for a driver but I keep mine for a long time and the set I'm using now is 15 years old so I don't mind spending the money every 15 years!:)

[@petermartinaitis8166]

Absolutely spot on if you're going to spend £500 on one club get professionally fitted by a club maker not some sales rep from American Golf.

[@eastpride1]

First of all, the M6 is the more forgiving of the two drivers, which is targeted for non-pro players and it’s $50 cheaper ($500). Secondly, every decent driver released this year is $450+ so it’s not like the rest of the competition isn’t expensive as well. I’m not saying I would pay that much for a driver but you’re acting like the competition is at $350 and TM is charging $1000

[@muffessional]

A new M3 is now available at £250 now from some sellers which is amazing when you consider the achievable small differences between the M5. Frightening!

[@SASGolf]

+Steven Rawlings exactly mate, an M3 is great but for £250.

[@mujarice]

I'm with you. I feel this way about a few brands but Taylormade in particular. Good vid.

[@SASGolf]

thanks Matthew, yeah callaway aren't far behind on price point to be fair.

[@dmax169]

Pretty sure you can still buy an M3 for a much cheaper price bracket and for the higher handicap guys TM offer full sets including drivers so they do cover the market from a price point perspective. Otherwise, go the Srixon Z785. Also an amazing driver at a better price point

[@bluffgubben]

Good and honest review. So many tubers be like "amazing driver, its so amazing" closest thing to honest from another one is Rick Shiels that says M2, original, still is one of the best feeling and performing driver.

[@SASGolf]

Original M2 driver is a beast, and you can get it for a great price now! thanks

[@nickdelia9122]

Love the honest review... too many other good, affordable drivers coming up to be messing around with these really expensive do-overs.

[@SASGolf]

+Nick DeLia very true mate! Bargains everywhere.

[@nickmillar3975]

Very good Video I have the m3 , so upgrade to m5 wouldn’t be much better ? How about the f9 cobra. I really like the look of it ??

[@SASGolf]

if you have an m3 mate stick with it, you won't see any gains in distance and dispersion if it was fitted for you correctly! cheers nick

[@tonypayne3338]

Completely agree with your comments about the way the top end market has gone. You tell it as it is. By the way, please, can I have a fitting on my current 915 D3 to find out the optimum settings for me? Cheers Simon all the best.

[@SASGolf]

+Tony Payne Thanks tony and yeah not a problem, we’ll book it in next time your up in the shop 👍

Wow loved your total honesty !!!

[@SASGolf]

thanks George!

[@tchadwic82]

If you were going to buy a driver purely for long drive. What would you buy? Or as per normal golf are all the top guys within inches of each other?

[@SASGolf]

well interesting will be getting fitted for one, but wouldn't care what it looks like, just care that the numbers would be spot on.

[@millkdy]

Yes, you are right and that is the trend of the current consumer market. Let's be honest, we as a consumer don't buy a product or in this case a driver because they go longer or they are more accurate, even if they do, what's the big deal. We are not going to hit 10 yards farther and we are not going to hit more fairway every round. We as a consumer buy things because of the joy we get from a new product or the fact that we are keeping up with the market. It's a vicious cycle. A little example, I don't even know which driver I use. I bought it from Callaway HQ in Carlsbad, California about six years ago after being properly fitted. To this day, I hit my driver much longer and much more accurately than any driver I try at my local PGA Superstore. Shaft length at 44.25 inches with 8.5 degrees loft. No one uses shaft this short why? because when the swing machine tests, ball goes much farther when it's hit using 45.5 inches. I feel much more comfortable and calmer using shorter shaft and can really swing at it with confidence. 44.25 I get 114 mph swing speed and with 45.5 inches I got 108 mph. Find something comfortable for yourself and get fitted. The only way you can increase the ball speed.

[@SASGolf]

couldn't of said it better myself mate. all about finding that right combo of head and shaft. then right amount of distance as well of consistency. cheers Eugene

[@bcjaerialphotography4265]

TaylorMade til this year did make an entry level driver the Rocketballz black was 179 I actually own one and it’s really long and accurate

[@jamesharrison5004]

Already seen M6 for £450 and M5 for £399 on presale - I just sold my M2 and bought an almost new M4 with Hzrdus shaft for £200. Next year I Can see me buying an M6 head for about £150. No disadvantage to being a year behind.

[@SASGolf]

yeah your right mate, waiting a year won't cause any harm. great plan.

[@petelee7013]

So what would you compare it too that’s more on the consumer end for drivers ?

[@chrismayor5147]

Brilliant Simon, good honest common sense review. Inflation is less than3% so that is little or nothing to do with 150 increase on 350 over 2 years. Waste of money. Great points about what would make it worthwhile, but who would not be changing their swing in 15 years? Especially older players, just getting older with aches, pains injuries etc.

[@SASGolf]

thanks Chris! yeah probably over exaggerated the 15 year no swing change. just don't want someone to spend a load of money on a driver if they have major swing changes in the pipe line!

[@chrismayor5147]

SAS Golf maybe Simon, but just to illustrate your points and educate those without as much knowledge. Just started following, and really enjoying your videos. Keep it up, it's great!

[@victorrodriguezsr6081]

Sounds like a review on TM and not the M5 driver. I know the price point and acept the fact that the price point is out my range. Don't need your help with that. Nice swing though.

[@jamesneil7212]

Hi Simon, good to see honest reviews. With you liking honesty I’ve got to say I feel your reviews are not backed up with anything other than an opinion. Would be great to see some actual numbers as to how it performs against last years M3 and Epic Flash which has just been released. With regards your price, I popped into my local pro shop and have had a fitting with the M5 and Epic Flash and the RRP is £449 NOT £499. Not very professional to give your followers incorrect information. I agree with you regards pricing that it’s gone expensive but they are all doing it and are all £449. Be great if you could give a comparison to others as my local golf store did this and Taylormade came out tops based on my club head speed ranging between 95-105. Really looking forward to seeing the new ping driver, maybe you could get a launch monitor and give some numbers which are fact based. I’ve been looking at your videos and love all the trick shot stuff, I recognise your course being Burford Golf Club as I played there last year in a golf day.

[@andybibby4091]

What a breath of fresh air this review is 👍

[@SASGolf]

thank you Andy, appreciate the support!

[@Brettymac24]

Hi simon, if you had to chooses driver out of the 2 .. would you choose the M1 2017 version or m3 ?

[@SASGolf]

which ever performs better mate. if price wasnt a factor, I would say m3 purely because it looks better and I hit it better when I tried it. but honestly go with what goes further and more consistent!

[@Brettymac24]

Thanks for the reply mate, price isn’t really a factor.. was just after an honest recommendation.. refreshing to see a brutally honest review

[@mattj3351]

So is it going in your bag that’s what we all want to know 😉😂 Totally agree with what you’re saying, refreshing to see these honest type of reviews rather than sitting on the fence in fear of being out of favour by the brands when they send out new clubs!

[@SASGolf]

its worrying as a pro I get 40% off trade and I still can't afford it lol

[@birdieboyfullam]

As a avid reader of You Tube golf review's It was refreshing to see your Honest review pop up on my feed. Another review of a taylormade driver from your "average joe" point of view, Yes at last.On principle I won't look at this driver £499!!! Good luck to the guy that can walk to the first hole and tee it up with the M5 but for the "average joe" playing i think there's far better choice for that golfer out there. The Taylormade marketing train roll's on but this average joe won't be on it.

[@SASGolf]

thanks brain and welcome to the channel! glad you liked the review and more to come mate. plus your not and average Joe ;)

[@birdieboyfullam]

@@SASGolf Cheers lad.. keep up the great work!!

[@iankoch956]

would it be worth getting someone of mid handicapper 15 plus to hit the new bats and then compare with your stats, so we can see a fast swing speed v maybe slower less consistent swing and this could also apply to your older clubs/bargain reviews as well. also just subscribed so thanks for the honesty- refreshing

[@SASGolf]

thanks for the sub mate, and see if I can get it in the hands of a mid handicapper!

[@iankoch956]

also would be interesting to see what new or older clubs compare to the bats he is currently gaming, cheers for the reply

[@andyholt7038]

So brutally honest. Thank you for doing this!

[@SASGolf]

more to come Andy, thanks!

[@geoffreydewit9101]

Very good video. Completely other message that you would hear on other channels. This is refreshing.

[@SASGolf]

thanks Geoffrey, they all think it to be fair.

[@33115566]

You'd think that making driver heads in China might lower the price. What is the per unit cost for Chinese driver heads? $20? $20 head, $50 shaft, $5 grip, assembly costs, R&D, marketing and other fixed and variable costs---$275.

[@SASGolf]

potentially lower than that mate on the production costs, you think ben ross, has the same shafts and selling drivers at £200 with margin lol.

[@sirtogii5216]

Material cost is miniscule though. R&D, marketing (incl the pro payments) and the margin for the resellers is what makes it expensive.

[@krabboy22]

I buy and sell clubs on eBay all the time but I did buy a set of epic pros this Dec in a close out for 70% off original price and I’m playing them . If you do that with driver also you can stay ahead of the price gouging these retailers are doing. You just have to be patient and you can get deals and play new tech if you want!

[@SASGolf]

100% brook, those epic pros are beautiful and if you can get them for a good price, then your laughing!

[@krabboy22]

I’m playing off 6 and I love these clubs and got them under 600 bucks on clearance.@ golf Galaxy 4-pw these will last me a few years. I see all kinds of clubs buying and selling but these just fit me perfectly!!!!!

[@jukeboxheros7021]

I still play my TM Tour Bunner from the 90s😳, if ain't broke... Although I do hear my golf budies snickering in the background🤣, but I do like that shinny M5.

[@rustyhill9588]

Now that is a honest review!

[@marksheehangolfcourses4722]

Are golf club sales(new) about to hit their peak as more quality videos like this is informing the common golfer that paying 350+ to change from a year old driver is not going to see dramatic improvements, spend the money on lessons instead !

[@SASGolf]

yeah even a driver that is 4 years old with the right shaft will keep up with these. educating on ball flight numbers is the key to longer drives! cheers mark!

[@MrMannydac]

I think cobra have nailed it this year. A decent driver, as good as anything on the market but at a reasonable 350 quid. Taylormade can only charge this amount if people buy them, so don’t!

[@SASGolf]

yeah hitting it tomorrow mate. interesting as everyone is saying the same about the cobra driver. could be a big year for them!

[@jasonmclean5937]

You make perfect sense I have to M3 golf driver from last year I think the M5 won’t be no longer than the M3 think they’re building a driver for the tour player not the consumer anymore

[@MP60]

Jason McLean me too - got my pro to fit me and paid the extra $ for a Graphite Design shaft. Played with a 2 handicapper last weekend who had the new M5; I smoked him by 10-20m with monotonous regularity.

[@amgolfer3591]

Simon is your last name Law? You look and sound like Jude Law man. Wow!! I hope you know Jude Law? Love his acting. Anyway, great video. I'm so glad I found you my friend--so refreshing.

[@SASGolf]

haha thank you mate, sadly I have the most common name in the world 'Simon Smith'

[@cahal21]

Make it sound like this is only Taylormade. Callaway, new Ping, Titleist are all at the same price point. Don't have to like it and by all means grab last year's gear for cheaper but they are all the same, TM is no worse.

[@SASGolf]

yea true, ping is staying around £349 which i think is right. True always going to have the second hand market and to be honest, can see that growing this year.

[@yakkyuu12]

I think he forgot to ALSO ADD in the UPGRADE PRICE of the upgrading of the shaft, I also think getting personalized fitting is an ADDED COST- This is EASILY all together $700 = driver, upgrade shaft, personal fitting and your preference in a grip--- NOT adding in sales tax!!!

[@SASGolf]

i know its getting ridiculous!

[@danielhendricks8278]

i understand completly what your saying, and next year, they will ad another $70 on top of the already ridiculous price. i getting fitted for a new driver soon, and if im being honest i am will to pay that price for it, but it better be leaps and bounds better then the previous modle, if its not im just gonna get the previous modle

[@SASGolf]

mate, if they add another £70 next year, I will go off haha. thanks Daniel.

[@barryglynnglynn2841]

spot on. I bought some M2 irons and a M2 driver 15 months ago only to find three months later that that model was no longer made and superceded by a more expensive one. They are a joke and ripping off the public. £500 for one club, bugger off Taylormade

[@SASGolf]

m2 range is good mate, I know what you mean, but if you have clubs that work for you, doesn't matter what come on out afterwards! thanks Barry.

[@marke8006]

Really liked this video a very honest review. Regarding price I feel all the top manufacturers should bring out a cheaper range of drivers & woods that the average golfer can afford. Last year I upgraded my clubs and bought the 2017 Driver & 3 wood as I couldn’t justify the £400+ & £300+ price tags! If they bring irons & putters out in different ranges & prices surely they can Drivers & wood. Otherwise this sport will become very elitist & only the rich will be playing it!

[@SASGolf]

yeah good point mark, they do it with there putters, so shouldn't be to difficult to market the same with drivers!

[@carlosisnana4740]

Just paid 400 Canadian for a new m5..im smashing it way further than my Titleist 917..

[@cwones8904]

I hope they sell well & flood the market... therefore in around 12 months time the second-hand value could be under 1/2 price.. 😁

[@SASGolf]

haha, I like they way your thinking!

[@MattChat56]

Awesome. So if I can find a new M3 I should just pull the trigger on that if the price is right