Forty years—that’s when the original metalwood, the “Pittsburgh Persimmon” was introduced. TaylorMade is celebrating the anniversary by bringing to the market the Original One, a mini-driver that pays homage to the original drivers from decades past, but uses the latest technology you’ll find in the company’s M5 and M6 drivers.
The Approach: This isn’t TaylorMade’s first stab at a mini-driver, which to some appears to find the middle ground between a driver and a 3-wood. They created “mini” versions of SLDR and and Aeroburner, both of which found a cult audience for a club you could smash off the tee, or hit off the fairway with equal measure. Smaller than a driver, and with characteristics that emphasize control and forgiveness, TaylorMade’s latest driver for the mini market captures the imagination.
Forgiving
Most players can’t successfully hit their driver off the deck, but that’s where Original One Mini-Driver is different. With a high moment-of-inertia, essentially the club’s level of forgiveness, the Original One is accurate off the tee, with more control and forgiveness than a fairway wood, and with the face height and centre of gravity that allows you to get it in the air from the short grass.
TwistFace
TaylorMade’s signature technology of the past two years is built into Original One. TwistFace straightens draws and cuts, adding spin to toe hits, and cutting back on spin for shots from the heel, helping you find more fairways.
Tri-Material Body
A carbon crown and 50-gram sole plate made of steel make Original One stable and easy to hit, while the Speed Pocket increases face flex and generates more distance.
Adjustable
12-position adjustability allows for four degrees of total adjustment in loft.
Who’s it for
Created as an anniversary product—though still much bigger than the drivers from 40 years ago—Original One is for the golfer that struggles with hitting their driver, and wants the versatility of a club that can be struck off the tee, and the fairway, with equal measure.
Specification, Pricing & Availability
The Original One Mini Driver ($499.99 CAD) is be available in 11.5° or 13.5° lofts and come equipped with Mitsubishi’s Diamana F Limited shafts in 55g (R), 65g (S) or 75g (X) flexes at 43.75” at a D3 swing weight. The stock grip is Golf Pride MCC Decade grips in black & blood orange. The Original One Mini Driver is also available through custom fitting, allowing for numerous additional custom shaft and grip options.
I love my 12 degree SLDR Mini Driver. Consistently long and straight. Ideal for tight par 4’s where hitting the fairway is a must.
I need an x stiff ; what are my options ?
Hi Eldon, It’s available through custom order so there are lots of shaft options.