Nippon Modus 120 Stiff vs X Stiff

Flex: Nippon Modus 120 Stiff vs X Stiff

Flex is a huge consideration for those looking to purchase a new golf club shaft. Depending on your form, swing speed, and general preference, shaft flexibility can truly be a make or break characteristic of your golf club. 

The Nippon Modus 120 Stiff and X Stiff options are tailored towards those golfers who have a relatively fast swing. The stiffer your club is the less it will bend, which can give you more control and power behind your ball. If you think your swing is just above average speed, the Stiff option may be better for you, but if your swing speed is well above the average, the X Stiff options could be something to look into.

Length: Nippon Modus 120 Stiff vs X Stiff

Both the Stiff and X Stiff options offer the same length range from 37 inches to 41 inches. Length can affect both the weight and the flexibility of the club; more specifically, the longer the club is the heavier and more flexible it tends to be. Keep this in mind as you play around with shaft length and see what works best for you.

Weight: Nippon Modus 120 Stiff vs X Stiff

Unlike the length, the Stiff and X Stiff have zero overlap, with the former weighing in at 114 grams and the latter at 120 grams. Intuitively, the lighter your club shaft is, the easier and faster it is to swing. However, faster swing speeds can cause you to have less control of your swing overall and can jeopardize your form.

If you are newer to the game and want to focus on control, having a heavier shaft might benefit you in the short term as you learn how to properly swing a club. It is important to consider your strength as well; if you don’t have a fast swing speed, getting a club that is lighter might be the right choice. Finding a balance is important when deciding on shaft weight, so try and find a middle ground that meets your needs.  

Kick Point: Nippon Modus 120 Stiff vs X Stiff

The kick point of a club can be described as the point at which a club starts to bend. Higher kick points tends to result in the ball staying lower to the ground, and vice versa. If you’re looking to get a couple extra yards off of your drive, lower kick points will normally get your ball to roll more than a lower kick point, which allows your ball to soar higher, but will generally stay in the same area once it lands.

Another point of similarity, the Stiff and X Stiff offerings from the Nippon Modus 120 are both mid-high. This will give you a little bit more arc under the ball than just an absolute high kick point, giving you a decent balance of both height and roll.

USGA Legal: Nippon Modus 120 Stiff vs X Stiff

The USGA has set out an entire rulebook that golfers who are playing in competitive events must abide by. Within that rulebook is the Model Local Rules, one of which stating that a shaft cannot be longer than 46 inches. When it comes to these two Nippon Modus 120 flex options, neither breaches this regulation.