Ping G2 EZ Driver Golf Club

This review is for the regular Ping G2 460cc. eBay appears to have the EZ version listed as the only G2 option. (The EZ is the high lofted 400cc head)

Anyway, this review is for a 460cc G2 with a 45-inch factory installed NV 65-S shaft. That's a solid inch and a half, (actually more like two), longer than what came installed on my Callaway BB 454.

This review started because my neighbor bought himself two new drivers earlier this season and ended up playing the other one more than the G2. I got to take it out for a day at the range and a couple of rounds, (I think he might be trying to dump it on me!?).

I'll tell you one thing though, this thing flies! The longer shaft generates some serious head speeds and when you combine that with a low spin ball you gain quite a bit of distance. When you stand on the tee loaded for bear you get that caveman feel, (insert Tim Allen grunt here), and you just want to tear the cover off the ball. It makes you look forward to each tee where you can pull out the driver. What I initially thought would turn out to be a slicing machine turned out to be a driver that is pretty easy to get used to, and is not at all difficult to control.

Note:
Two subtle, but significant, differences from my regular driver that definetively helps this club play as easy as it does: The G2 has one more degree of loft and is fitted with one grip-size bigger than what I'm used to. The extra loft certainly assists in adding to the carry distance, and the big handle promotes a softer grip that helps you turn the big head at the end of the long stick over at impact, (might be a combination to consider if you are looking to buy one of these).

I normally play a heavier shaft with a slightly stiffer tip that promotes more control, (and a lower trajectory), so I don't see myself dumping my 454 in the garbage container, (or on my neighbor), anytime soon. However, I just might offer to take my neighbor's unwanted G2 off his hands, (I'm all about helping a friend in need). I could really get used to the "bombs away" feel this club gives you when your eyeing up the next tee shot.

Update:
If you've read this far I'm sure you know what is coming: Yeah, I made a deal with my neighbor and the G2 now lives in my bag next to my 454. I guess I now have to pick my stick based on what course I play, or the conditions. Or I can simply pull a Mickelson and play them both!

2009 Update: Guess what? I'm still playing the G2. 3 years later and only God knows how many drivers tested and there is precious little out there that comes even close to the consistency and distance that the G2 gives. (and by now you can probably pick one up for pocket change at eBay or a resale shop!)