Picking the right golf shaft is a great way to set yourself up for success before you even swing a club on the course, but with so many options available, it can be difficult to distinguish between them all.
Tensei CK and AV Raw golf shafts are both high-quality, low-launch, and low-spin shafts, but the CK Is better for players with aggressive and powerful swings, whereas the AV Raw is suitable for almost all golfers.
In this article, I’ll discuss the primary differences between these two types of golf shafts to help you develop an informed opinion on them. Let’s get started!
Are Tensei CK and AV Raw the Same?
Both Tensei CK and AV Raw shafts are made by the company Mitsubishi, so many people assume that they are the same thing. However, there are distinctions between the two that are important to know about before choosing one or the other. The following table outlines some important specifications:
| Specification | Tensei CK | AV Raw |
| Length | 46 inches (1168.4 mm) | 46 inches (1168.4 mm) |
| Tip | 3 inches (76.2 mm) | 3 inches (76.2 mm) |
| Weight | 57-82 grams (2.01-2.89 oz), depending on the flex | 50-78 grams (1.76-2.75 oz), depending on the flex |
| Torque | 3.9-6.5, depending on the flex | 2.8-5.8, depending on the flex |
The primary difference between the Tensei CK and the AV Raw is that the Tensei CK shafts are usually stiffer and heavier than the AV Raw options.
Tensei CK shafts are best for delivering a low-spinning ball, and typically, the shafts have great feedback. The boron-reinforced tip helps add additional stability and encourages more accurate drives. AV Raw shafts have a stiff tip and are low-launch. The technology provides greater stability and control, but it is a bit easier to swing than the CK shafts due to the lighter weight.
Tensei CK and AV Raw: Which Is Better?
Both Tensei CK and AV Raw shafts are high-quality and well-performing shafts, and the best one for you depends on your golfing style and swing.
I recommend Tensei CK shafts for people with hard, fast swings that struggle with bringing down the spin. I also think Tensei CK shafts are better for players with more aggressive swings because they’re stiffer, and stiff shafts are efficient as long as they get enough power from the player.
AV Raw shafts are a bit more adaptable, so virtually any kind of golfer could have success using one. The counterbalanced shaft helps reduce swing weight and generate more speed, so golfers with slower swings may benefit from using an AV Raw.
If you’re unsure of what kind of golfer you are, or if you’re purchasing the shaft as a gift for someone else, I suggest going with the AV Raw over the CK because it works with all sorts of players, not just aggressive ones with powerful swings.
Conclusion
Tensei CK and AV Raw shafts are extremely similar, but there are some crucial differences between the two that may make a big difference in a player’s performance. CK shafts are stiffer and heavier than RV Raw, so they’re more suitable for golfers with powerful and fast swings. On the other hand, RV Raw shafts are suitable for a wider variety of golfers.