Equipment Review: PowerBilt TPS 460cc Driver, by Jeffrey Reed

I’ve known of the PowerBilt name since my days as a junior golfer, and have always recognized PowerBilt clubs as solid, reliable performers. Add the PowerBilt TPS 460cc driver to that select company. An innovative mix of materials and design makes this club a big dog with teeth.

It’s no surprise that the new PowerBilt 460cc driver, produced from super-premium TVC beta titanium, recently helped two long drive competitors qualify for the World Long Drive finals in Mesquite, Nevada. One competitor, Johny Barnes, 56, of San Antonio, Texas drove the ball 351 yards with his PowerBilt 460cc driver to win a district qualifier.

I didn’t hit any range balls that distance during my test drive of the 460cc club, but I did surpass 300 yards on a few attempts. The flight of the ball was majestic, and the club lined up at address automatically. As soon as I gripped this club, in fact, it felt as comfortable as an old shoe.

Here’s the skinny from PowerBilt. This 460cc driver has the highest strength-to-weight ratio available. The super-premium TVC beta titanium, combined with a breakthrough "fiberized forging" process allowed PowerBilt to make the walls stronger but thinner. Thinner walls mean the weight can be redistributed to the perimeter of the club head to help golfers achieve maximum distance off the tee, while also creating a larger sweet spot to help keep the ball in play.

During manufacturing, each piece of titanium is placed in forging dies and hammered multiple times, creating a very tight, very dense grain structure. Compared to typical forged pieces, "fiberized forged" pieces have a higher yield strength, tensile strength and greater durability. Thin walls allowed for the redistribution of weight – tungsten weights sit inside the sole for a feeling of confidence and security off the tee. No need for adjustable weighting with this club: the ball flies straight – and long!

The entire club is manufactured with care, including a Winn V17 grip, and Aldila brilliant lightweight composite graphite shaft, which enhances squaring of oversized club heads like PowerBilt’s 460cc driver at impact. Stiff and regular flex shafts are available; lofts are available in 9-, 10.5- and 12-degree models.

I like the teardrop shape of the club face, and the oval-shaped club head. Most of all, I like the fact my drives were long and straight. I highly recommend the PowerBilt TPS 460cc driver for everyone from low- to high-handicap calibre. It’s a versatile performer. For more information, visit www.powerbilt.com.