A decade ago, TaylorMade became the first to bring a mini driver to market. It was like the long ago “spoon,” a 2-wood by the history of the game, but a mini-driver in modern vernacular. The company is leaning into its own history with the R7 Quad, touching on one of its more popular drivers from the past, while adding new modern twists to the design.
“The R7 Quad Mini Driver is one of those projects that got everyone excited from the initial concept, and being able to bring back one of the most iconic clubs in TaylorMade history was a dream come true,” says Chandler Carr, TaylorMade Product Manager, Product Creation.
Key technologies
Adjustability
As was the case in 2004 when TaylorMade released the R7, there’s four weights in the R7 Quad Mini Driver, allowing player to really dial in their shape. By placing the heavier weights forward, players will get a penetrating flight. That contrasts against putting the heavier weights in the back to help control the centre of gravity and make the club more forgiving. Additional weights can be purchased for a wider range of adjustability.
New crown
The R7 Quad uses what TaylorMade calls “Infinity Carbon Crown,” following on the path of using carbon in the crown of its drivers and fairway woods. This one is “confidence inspiring,” according to the company, and allowed engineers to move discretionary weight.
Tried and tested
You’ll also find some key TaylorMade tech in the Mini Driver, including Twist Face, which straightens shots hit on the heel or toe, and Speed Pocket, which helps with face flexing. The goal, TaylorMade says, is to make the Mini Driver playable from both the fairway and tee.
Shaft
TaylorMade engineered some elements just for the Mini Driver, including a new Speeder MD shaft designed for a stable feel and lower spin rates.
Noteworthy
Available in 11.5 degrees in both right and left-handed, and 13 in right-handed.
Is it for me?
The R7 Quad brings the best of new tech—carbon crown, for example—to make a club that’s easy to hit on those tighter par-4s, but also allows you to challenge the longer par-5s from the fairway.