On 2003-05-13, Clint rated this Titleist 983 E Driver a 5...(1311)
Purchase: I purchased the 983E at Tour 18 in Houston with the Stiff Grafalloy shaft. It took me two large buckets of balls hitting all eight combinations of shafts and lofts they had available with the 983E and 983K to find the right driver for my swing. I do swing hard at the driver and was looking for more consistence without the occasional strong hook left I was getting. I currently play to a six handicap but my rounds are dropping as my driver accuracy is improving. The 983E's available for me to hit had only stiff shafts and the 983K's had both regular and stiff shaft options from the four standard shaft manufacturers you can purchase when ordering your driver. This worked out great for me as I like a very stiff shaft and have been swinging a steel shafted Big Bertha III for a couple of years now. The BB's is another great driver but not a long driver compared to the Titleist 983E driver.
Pros: Both 983E and 983K drivers are a pleasure to hit with VERY large sweet spots. I hit most of the drives with tremendous carry and minimum spin. I did tend to hit the 983K off line more often and higher to the right. The main difference in the two drivers is the height of flight of the ball. The 983K definetly hits the ball higher regardless of the shaft loft or shaft type. So if you want more flight or carry maybe the 983K is for you. My Pro thought the 983K was supposed to be easier to hit but I hit both of them very well. I hit the ball high already so I chose the 983E and am VERY pleased with my choice. The Grafalloy Stiff shaft allows less play at the bottom of the swong and for me a straighter shot with low spin and plenty of height as well. This driver is a killer and I hit it even farther than my buddy's 975J,, 7.5 Grafalloy. He is now considering upgrading to a 983E or K now because I am out driving him...;)
Cons: I will need to learn to hook the ball again as my hook has dissapeared and a new longer straight drive has appeared.:) I can now only produce a slight draw after three weeks of play. This is great because I have much more confidence and control now off the tee. I hope I never see that nasty old hook again.
Quality: The ball goes further even on mishits, I presume because of the increased COR size. The 983E is very solid and produces a very nice consistent trajectory of flight. You can really "Rip It and Grip It" without as much worry of getting onto trouble. I have the tendency to try an kill my driver, especially on the par fives and I have been pleased with the in fairway results and higher potential for eagle putts on the long holes.
Review Summary: This is the best driver I have ever owned. In the past I have always been hesitant with each new technology and what it could mean to my game, but I am really getting 20-30 yards more in carry with this driver compared to my Big Bertha III Stealhead, with a stiff true temper shaft. The low spin accuracy is unbelievable.
REMEMBER: Before you buy one hit the different shaft and loft variations to dial in the driver that is right for you. It really does make a difference. You won't be sorry. Final comment: In my opinion the 983's are truly an advance in driver performance even past the 975's. That is saying alot with the success of the 975's.