As a professional golfer, I understand the importance of having the right equipment to help me perform at my best. One of the most critical components of my golf club is the shaft. Over the years, I have used various golf shafts from different brands, and two of the most popular ones are Nippon and Project X golf shafts. Both brands have a reputation for producing high-quality golf shafts that cater to different golfers’ needs.
In this article, I will share my experience of using Nippon and Project X golf shafts and provide a detailed comparison between the two. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the key differences between these two golf shafts and which one might be the best fit for you.
Table of Contents
What to know about Nippon Golf shafts?

Nippon Shaft is a Japanese company that has been producing golf shafts since 1959. The company started by producing steel shafts for irons and has since expanded to producing a full range of golf shafts for both irons and drivers. Nippon Shaft’s reputation for quality and consistency has made it a popular choice among professional golfers and amateur players alike.
Key Features and Technologies used in Nippon Golf Shafts:
Nippon Shaft uses advanced technologies to produce golf shafts that offer superior performance, accuracy, and feel. Some of the key features and technologies used in Nippon golf shafts include:
- Multi-step swing weight matching: Nippon Shaft uses a multi-step swing weight matching system to ensure that each golf shaft has the same swing weight and balance point. This system helps golfers achieve consistent results with each swing.
- Proprietary steel alloys: Nippon Shaft uses proprietary steel alloys to produce golf shafts that are stronger, lighter, and more responsive than traditional steel shafts.
- Variable wall thickness: Nippon Shaft uses variable wall thickness to create golf shafts that are more stable and offer better control.
- Nanotechnology: Nippon Shaft uses nanotechnology to produce golf shafts that have a more uniform grain structure, which results in a smoother feel and better performance.
Different Models of Nippon Golf Shafts and Their Characteristics:
Nippon Shaft offers a wide range of golf shafts, each designed to cater to different golfers’ needs. Some of the most popular models of Nippon golf shafts include:
- N.S. PRO MODUS3: This is a steel shaft that is popular among professional golfers. It offers a low trajectory and excellent accuracy, making it ideal for players who want more control.
- N.S. PRO 950GH: This is a lightweight steel shaft that is designed to produce a high launch and maximum distance. It is an excellent choice for players with a slower swing speed.
- N.S. PRO ZELOS: This is a graphite shaft that is designed to produce a high launch and maximum distance. It is an excellent choice for players who prefer the feel of a graphite shaft.
Pros and Cons of Using Nippon Golf Shafts:
Pros:
- Superior performance and accuracy
- Consistent results with each swing
- Wide range of models to choose from
- Advanced technologies and materials used in production
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other golf shaft brands
- Limited availability in some regions
- May not be suitable for players who prefer a different feel or trajectory
What to know about Project X Golf shafts?

Project X is a brand of golf shafts that is owned by True Temper Sports, which has been producing golf shafts since 1946. The Project X brand was launched in 2006 and quickly gained popularity among golfers due to its high-performance and consistency.
Key Features and Technologies used in Project X Golf Shafts:
Project X golf shafts use advanced materials and technologies to produce golf shafts that offer superior performance, accuracy, and feel. Some of the key features and technologies used in Project X golf shafts include:
- Dual Torsional Control: Project X uses Dual Torsional Control to reduce twisting and increase accuracy during the swing.
- Zonal Design Theory: Project X golf shafts have a unique Zonal Design Theory that optimizes the performance of each section of the shaft for better overall performance.
- Materials: Project X uses advanced materials such as high-strength steel, carbon fiber, and titanium to produce golf shafts that are stronger, lighter, and more responsive.
- Stepless Design: Project X golf shafts have a stepless design that offers a smooth feel and consistent performance.
Different Models of Project X Golf Shafts and Their Characteristics:
Project X offers a wide range of golf shafts, each designed to cater to different golfers’ needs. Some of the most popular models of Project X golf shafts include:
- Project X HZRDUS: This is a graphite shaft that is popular among professional golfers. It offers a low trajectory and excellent stability, making it ideal for players who want more control.
- Project X EvenFlow: This is a graphite shaft that is designed to produce a high launch and maximum distance. It is an excellent choice for players with a slower swing speed.
- Project X LZ: This is a steel shaft that offers a unique feel and trajectory. It is an excellent choice for players who want a mid-launch and low spin.
Pros and Cons of Using Project X Golf Shafts:
Pros:
- Superior performance and accuracy
- Consistent results with each swing
- Wide range of models to choose from
- Advanced technologies and materials used in production
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other golf shaft brands
- Limited availability in some regions
- May not be suitable for players who prefer a different feel or trajectory
Nippon vs. Project X Golf Shafts
Nippon and Project X are two of the most popular brands of golf shafts available in the market today. While both brands use advanced materials and technologies to produce high-performance golf shafts, there are some key differences between them.
Key Features and Technologies:
Nippon and Project X use different technologies to produce their golf shafts. Nippon focuses on producing shafts that are lightweight and offer a soft feel. They achieve this by using advanced materials such as graphite and steel alloys and optimizing the weight distribution throughout the shaft.
On the other hand, Project X focuses on producing golf shafts that offer superior accuracy and consistency. They achieve this by using advanced technologies such as Dual Torsional Control, Zonal Design Theory, and Stepless Design.
Flex:
Both Nippon and Project X offer different flex options to suit golfers with varying swing speeds and strengths. Nippon offers the following flex options: regular, stiff, and extra stiff. Project X offers six different flex options: 5.0 (regular), 5.5 (firm regular), 6.0 (stiff), 6.5 (extra stiff), 7.0 (tour extra stiff), and 8.0 (extremely tour extra stiff).
Swing:
The swing of a golf shaft refers to how the shaft feels when it is being swung by the golfer. Nippon shafts are known for their smooth and consistent feel throughout the swing, while Project X shafts have a more stable feel with a slightly stiffer tip section.
Weight:
Nippon shafts are generally lighter than Project X shafts. Nippon shafts typically range from 70-120 grams, while Project X shafts can range from 60-130 grams.
Length:
Both Nippon and Project X offer standard lengths for their shafts, but custom lengths can also be requested. The standard length for Nippon shafts is 43.5 inches, while Project X shafts range from 42.5 to 46 inches depending on the model.
Launch and Spin Angle:
The launch and spin angle of a golf shaft can greatly affect the trajectory and distance of a golfer’s shot. Nippon shafts are known for producing a mid to high launch with moderate spin, while Project X shafts have a lower launch with low spin.
Overall, both Nippon and Project X offer quality golf shafts with different features to suit golfers of different skill levels and swing styles. It’s important for golfers to get properly fitted for their golf shafts to ensure maximum performance on the course.
Performance Differences:
Nippon golf shafts are known for their smooth and responsive feel, making them an excellent choice for players who prefer a softer feel and want more control over their shots. They are also ideal for players with slower swing speeds who want to maximize distance.
Project X golf shafts, on the other hand, are known for their stability and consistency, making them an excellent choice for players who want more control and accuracy. They are also ideal for players with faster swing speeds who want to reduce spin and maximize distance.
Golfer Type | Best Suited Shaft |
Slower Swing Speed, seeking soft feel and control | Nippon |
Faster Swing Speed, seeking stability and consistency | Project X |
Seeking mid-launch, low spin | Nippon |
Seeking low launch, low spin | Project X |
Overall, both Nippon and Project X golf shafts are excellent choices for golfers looking for high-performance golf shafts. The choice between the two brands ultimately comes down to the golfer’s personal preferences and playing style.