The SLDR 460 and SLDR 430 are both known among golfers as amazing and distinct drivers. While the two drivers are distinct, it’s difficult to tell what the differences between the two mean. What is the difference between the SLDR 460 and 430?
The SLDR 460 is a forgiving driver geared toward experienced golfers seeking an upgrade, while the SLDR 430 is a precise but unforgiving driver made for expert golfers. Both are similar and excellent drivers.
In this article, I’ll provide some insight into the most important features of the SLDR 460 and 430, including their loft, shaft weight, shaft length, shaft flex, shaft material, clubface area, and moment of inertia (MOI). Here’s everything you need to know.
SLDR 460 vs 430 Summarized
| SLDR 460 | SLDR 430 | |
| Loft | Available in 8°, 9.5°, 10.5°, and 12° RH (9.5° and 10.5° for LH) with adjustable loft and weight position | Available in 9°, 10.5°, and 12° loft and allows for 1.5° addition or subtraction of loft |
| Shaft Length and Weight | 45.5 in (115.57 cm) for men or 44.5 in (113.03 cm) for women with shaft weight ranging from 55 to 61 g (1.9 to 2.1 oz) | 45.5 in (115.57 cm) for men or 45.25 in (114.935 cm) for tour with shaft weight ranging from 65 to 68 g (2.3 to 2.4 oz) |
| Shaft Flex and Material | Flex options include Regular, Stiff, and X-Stiff. Shaft constructed with graphite. | Flex options include Senior, Regular, Stiff, and X-Stiff. Shaft constructed with graphite. |
| Clubface Area | 460 cm3 (15.55 oz) | 430 cm3 (14.54 oz) |
| Moment of Inertia (MOI) | Low | Lowest |
SLDR 460 vs 430: Loft
The SLDR 460 is highly adjustable. The driver is available in 8°, 9.5°, 10.5°, and 12° lofts for right-handed players. Left-handed golfers can choose from 9.5° and 10.5°. The adjustable loft and weight position allow for hundreds of adjustment combinations.
The SLDR 430 is less adjustable but still offers great options. The driver is available in 9°, 10.5°, and 12° lofts. You can adjust the loft by 1.5° in either direction. While the SLDR 430 is less versatile, it is still an excellent fit for professional golfers who know exactly what loft they need.
SLDR 460 vs 430: Shaft Length and Weight
The SLDR 460 and SLDR 430 offer similar shaft length options, as both are generally sold with a 44.5 in (115.57 cm) men’s shaft. The SLDR 460 offers a 44.5 in (113.03 cm) women’s shaft, while the SLDR 430 offers a 45.25 in (114.935 cm) tour shaft. The SLDR 460 is generally lighter than the SLDR 430, making it a better option for golfers with slow swing speeds.
SLDR 460 vs 430: Shaft Flex and Material
The SLDR 460 and SLDR 430 both use a shaft constructed from premium graphite. The SLDR 430 offers more shaft flex options than the SLDR 460. The SLDR 460 can be purchased in Regular, Stiff, or X-Stiff flex options, while the SLDR 430 also provides an option for seniors.
SLDR 460 vs 430: Clubface Area
The SLDR 460 is more forgiving than the SLDR 430. The SLDR 460 has a 460 cubic centimeter clubface. As a result, swings with the SLDR 460 are more likely to result in a nice arc. The SLDR 430 has a smaller clubface, which makes it more powerful for experts but may result in too many bad shots for inexperienced players.
SLDR 460 vs 430: Moment of Inertia (MOI)
The SLDR 460 has a low MOI, while the SLDR 430 has one of the lowest MOIs. Both clubs aren’t particularly forgiving and should be used by experienced golfers. While this does make the clubs a poor option for novice golfers, it’s worth noting that both are very powerful in the right hands.
Final Thoughts
The SLDR 460 and SLDR 430 are both amazing drivers produced by TaylorMade. While they might seem superficially similar, they’re also very distinct in important ways. The SLDR 460 makes a great pick for experienced golfers and those seeking a super-adjustable driver, while professionals may enjoy the power that the SLDR 430 offers.