Club Test 2011: Callaway RAZR-X Hybrids

From Golf Magazine (May 2011)
RAZR X
Category: Game-Improvement Hybrids
We tested: 3H (21°), 4H (24°) with Razr X Hybrid graphite shaft

Key Technologies: This stainless steel hybrid (no "forged composite," as in Razr Hawk drivers) has a clubface with "zero roll" (increases loft as much as 2.5°) so shots struck low on the face fly higher on a more consistent basis. "Variable face thickness" (VFT) is designed to increase ball speed across more of the face.

OUR TESTERS SAY: Good, dependable, all-around set; forte is hitting straight shots.

PROS
PLAYABILITY: Reliable from a variety of lies; crescent-shaped sole cuts through rough.

ACCURACY/FORGIVENESS: Very accurate sticks; testers hit laser-like straight shots on good swings.

DISTANCE: Most testers get comparable distance to their own clubs; some guys pick up a few yards.

FEEL: Comfortable weight to it; solid strikes immediately impart a soft, concentrated feel to the hands.

LOOK: Sleek, low-profile design has a narrow face that won't overpower you; slight offset helps to square club.

CONS
Somewhat forgiving on lesser swings, but some higher handicappers are left wanting more; doesn't stand out in any particular category.

From Sports Illustrated Golf+ (February 7, 2011)
Inspired by prototypes developed with Phil Mickelson, the RAZR Xs are manufactured with a new heat-treatment process that reduces face thickness for higher ball speeds. The standard model has a club face with a Zero Roll Design, which produces higher launch angles on shots hit low on the face for greater distance and a soft landing. The tour model has less offset to enhance workability.

From Golf Magazine (May 2011)
RAZR X Tour
Category: Better-Player Hybrids
We tested: 2H (18°) and 3H (21°) with Razr X Tour Hybrid graphite shaft

Key Technologies: The stainless steel clubhead (there's no "forged composite" here, as there is in Razr Hawk drivers) has a low, forward CG for a penetrating trajectory, while the variable face thickness contributes to a larger sweet spot. The face is nearly 20 percent thinner than in the Diablo Edge Tour for faster ball speeds and more distance.

OUR TESTERS SAY: Among the best hybrids tested; excellent distance and accuracy, as well as a good deal of versatility.

PROS
PLAYABILITY: Consistently produces straight shots but can be curved in both directions; leading edge and sole design are great from trouble lies and rough; a low, boring trajectory is the typical flight.

ACCURACY/FORGIVENESS: A noticeable reduction in sidespin reduces slices and hooks; minimal loss of distance on off-center hits.

DISTANCE: Longer than most (some testers say a lot longer), particularly off the tee.

FEEL: Solid thud and a springy feel; testers describe impact as crushing and addictive.

LOOK: Clean black head and brushed face and topline are classy; compact design appears easy to hit.

CONS
Low-ball hitters might prefer a bit more height than these normally deliver; a few testers comment that the shafts feel a bit long.

From Sports Illustrated Golf+ (February 7, 2011)
Inspired by prototypes developed with Phil Mickelson, the RAZR Xs are manufactured with a new heat-treatment process that reduces face thickness for higher ball speeds. The standard model has a club face with a Zero Roll Design, which produces higher launch angles on shots hit low on the face for greater distance and a soft landing. The tour model has less offset to enhance workability.

$159, graphite

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