TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver Review (2024 Update) - SirShanksAlot.com

Distance off the tee is the holy grail for many golfers, and choosing the right driver can make all the difference. The TaylorMade Burner 9.5 driver, known for its innovative technology and impressive performance, has earned a loyal following over the years. Join me as we explore the key features that make this club special, from its Dual Crown Technology and Inverted Cone Technology to its SuperFast Technology. We’ll delve into user experiences, compare it to other drivers, and discuss whether the TaylorMade Burner 9.5 driver could be the key to unlocking more distance in your own game.

Key Takeaways

TaylorMade’s triple threat: The Burner 9.5’s Dual Crown, Inverted Cone, and SuperFast Technologies combine to offer impressive distance, forgiveness, and a satisfying feel, particularly benefiting mid-to-high handicappers.
Performance meets affordability: The Burner 9.5 delivers excellent value for its price, especially on the pre-owned market. It’s a smart choice for golfers seeking a balance of performance and budget.
Customize for optimal results: A professional club fitting can fine-tune the Burner 9.5 to your swing, maximizing its performance and helping you achieve your golfing goals.

What Makes the TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver Special?

The TaylorMade Burner 9.5 driver earned its reputation through a combination of innovative technologies: Dual Crown Technology, Inverted Cone Technology, and SuperFast Technology. These features work together to deliver impressive distance, forgiveness, and a satisfying feel. Let’s take a closer look at each component:

Understanding Dual Crown Technology

The Burner 9.5’s Dual Crown technology is more than just a visual detail—it’s a key performance feature. By using a smaller crown, TaylorMade engineers lowered the club’s center of gravity. This design promotes a higher launch angle and lower spin rate, a combination that maximizes distance. Think of it like launching a rocket: a lower center of gravity helps the ball take off with more power and less resistance.

How Inverted Cone Technology Expands the Sweet Spot

Hitting the sweet spot consistently is every golfer’s goal. The Burner 9.5 gets you closer with its Inverted Cone Technology. This expands the sweet spot on the clubface, meaning even off-center hits maintain impressive ball speed and distance. This translates to more forgiveness on those less-than-perfect swings, helping you keep shots straighter and longer, even when you don’t quite find the center.

SuperFast Technology: Increasing Swing Speed

The name says it all: SuperFast Technology helps you generate more speed. TaylorMade achieved this through a combination of a lightweight club head and an aerodynamic design. Faster swing speeds translate directly to increased distance off the tee.

Key Specs and Performance

This section gets into the details of the TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver, exploring the features that make it perform.

Fujikura RE*AX Graphite Shaft

The TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver features a Fujikura RE*AX graphite shaft, coming in at a light 49 grams and measuring 46.25 inches. This shaft design helps golfers achieve faster swing speeds for more distance off the tee. It’s a key part of the Burner’s performance, making it a solid choice for those looking to add extra yards to their drives.

Loft Options and Weight Distribution

The Burner 9.5 offers three loft options—9.5, 10.5, and 12 degrees—to suit different swing styles and preferences. The 460cc titanium clubface is large and strategically designed. This expanded sweet spot improves weight distribution across the clubface, creating more forgiveness on off-center hits. This means even slightly mishit shots can still achieve respectable distance and accuracy.

Launch Angle and Spin Rate Insights

TaylorMade engineered the Burner 9.5 to optimize launch conditions. The club’s technology promotes a higher launch angle with a reduced spin rate. This combination contributes to increased distance, as discussed in our Burner 9.5 driver guide. It’s this balance of launch and spin that makes the Burner 9.5 a good option for golfers looking to improve their long game.

Burner 9.5 vs. Other Drivers

Picking the right driver can feel like a treasure hunt, but understanding how the Burner 9.5 stacks up against the competition makes the decision easier. We’ll break down distance, accuracy, forgiveness, and that all-important “feel” to help you see how this club performs.

Distance and Accuracy Comparison

TaylorMade designed the Burner ’09 with a few key goals in mind: faster swing speed, a higher launch angle, and a lower spin rate. They achieved this using Dual Crown Technology, which essentially slims down the club’s crown and lowers the center of gravity. Today’s Golfer reported that the Burner outperformed competitors like the Yonex Nano Speed, Ping G10, and Hi Bore XLS, demonstrating impressive distance and accuracy on the launch monitor. This data suggests that the Burner’s design tweaks translate to real-world performance gains.

Forgiveness Factor

For mid-to-high handicappers, forgiveness is a game-changer. Both the 2007 and 2009 TaylorMade Burner drivers are known for their forgiving nature, helping golfers maintain distance and accuracy even on off-center hits. The 2009 model takes it up a notch with Dual Crown Technology and Inverted Cone Technology. The Inverted Cone expands the sweet spot, while the Dual Crown, as we mentioned, lowers the center of gravity and increases the club’s MOI (moment of inertia). Plus, the 2009 version has a larger clubface compared to older TaylorMade drivers, further enhancing forgiveness.

Feel and Sound at Impact

Beyond the tech specs, how a club feels and sounds can significantly impact your confidence on the course. Reviewers describe the Burner’s sound as a “nice bonus,” complementing its long, straight ball flight. That satisfying “crack” at impact can boost your enjoyment of the game. Winner Golf Gear sums it up well, praising the TaylorMade Burner Driver for its consistent performance, combining technology, performance, and affordability.

User Experiences and Expert Opinions

This section covers what golfers of all skill levels, along with industry experts, have to say about the TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver. We’ll look at user reviews, expert analysis, and the driver’s durability over time.

What Golfers Say

Golfers who have used the Burner 9.5 often praise its performance. One golfer, after a custom club fitting, loved the club’s distance, straight ball flight, and excellent results on a launch monitor. Many appreciate the Burner’s combination of technology, performance, and reasonable price, making it a solid option for players. Some golfers comparing the 2009 Burner and the R9 460 found the in-store testing environment made it tough to assess the clubs properly. This highlights the value of testing clubs on the course whenever you can.

Professional Insights and Recommendations

Experts highlight several key features that make the Burner 9.5 perform well. TaylorMade touted the driver’s large titanium clubface as a major selling point in its 2009 design. The SuperFast Technology is another important aspect, designed to improve swing speed and distance. Keep in mind that driver technology has continued to evolve since the Burner’s release. While it’s still a good club, newer models might offer advantages for today’s game. Switching to a newer driver could significantly impact your game, depending on your current equipment and playing style.

Long-Term Durability

The TaylorMade Burner 9.5 has a reputation for durability. Tests by Today’s Golfer showed that even a frequently used Burner can still perform well on the fairway. Golfers who have kept their 2007 Burner TP drivers agree, saying they haven’t found a comparable modern club. These long-term user experiences demonstrate the club’s lasting value and performance.

Pricing, Value, and Where to Buy

Current Market Prices and Value

The TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver is a compelling option for golfers seeking a balance of performance and affordability. Originally retailing for $299.99, it’s now readily available in the pre-owned market, often between $79.99 and $150. This significant price drop makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious players or those looking to experiment with a new driver without a major investment. You can explore current prices and available models on eBay.

Where to Buy

Finding a TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver is fairly easy thanks to its popularity and presence on various online marketplaces. eBay offers a wide selection of new and used clubs, often with competitive pricing and free shipping. 2nd Swing Golf specializes in pre-owned golf equipment, providing detailed club information and condition ratings. For those who prefer to inspect clubs in person before purchasing, checking your local golf shops or pro shops is always a good idea.

Discounts and Trade-In Options

Snagging a deal on the Burner 9.5 is often possible through various discounts and trade-in opportunities. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or promotions offered by online retailers. Trading in your old clubs at 2nd Swing Golf is a smart way to save, offsetting the cost of the Burner 9.5 by giving your current clubs a new home. Some local golf shops may also offer trade-in deals, so it’s worth inquiring about their policies. This can not only save you money but also help declutter your golf bag.

Is the Burner 9.5 Right for You?

Skill Level Considerations

The TaylorMade Burner 9.5, with its Dual Crown and Inverted Cone Technologies, offers a compelling blend of distance and forgiveness. These technologies lower the center of gravity and increase the moment of inertia (MOI), making it easier to launch the ball high and straight, even on off-center hits. The larger clubface and longer shaft compared to some other drivers contribute to faster swing speeds. While beneficial for all skill levels, these features are particularly advantageous for mid- to high-handicap players who may struggle with consistency. The higher launch angles and lower spin rates promoted by the Burner 9.5 can help these golfers achieve greater distance and improve their overall game. For a detailed review and helpful tips, check out this TaylorMade Burner driver review.

Playing Style Compatibility

If you prioritize distance and accuracy off the tee, the TaylorMade Burner 9.5 could be a great fit. Its design caters to players seeking maximum distance without sacrificing forgiveness, making it an excellent choice for mid- to high-handicap golfers who benefit from a driver that helps correct slight mishits. As this review notes, both the 2007 and 2009 models are geared towards this playing style. Even if you’re not a high-handicap player, the Burner 9.5’s forgiving nature can still be a valuable asset, providing confidence and consistency off the tee.

Budget and Long-Term Value

The TaylorMade Burner 9.5 offers excellent value, especially considering its performance benefits. It delivers a compelling combination of distance and forgiveness, a worthwhile investment for golfers looking to improve their game without overspending. For a comprehensive guide, see our TaylorMade Burner 9.5 driver buyer’s guide. Even older models can offer great performance and value, making the Burner 9.5 a potentially budget-friendly option without compromising quality, as highlighted in this golf club review.

Customization and Fitting

Getting the right fit for your golf clubs can dramatically improve your game. This section explores why professional fitting is so important, discusses shaft flex choices for the TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver, and explains the impact of grip customization.

Why Professional Fitting Matters

Professional fitting is crucial for maximizing your performance on the course. It ensures your club specifications complement your individual swing. A TaylorMade Burner Driver review emphasizes how custom fitting can significantly improve both accuracy and distance. Think of it like tailoring a suit—a proper fit makes all the difference. A club fitting ensures your driver works with your swing, not against it, making it a smart investment for any golfer looking to improve.

Shaft Flex Choices

The TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver comes with a stock REAX 49 shaft, designed to work well for a variety of swing styles. GolfLink reviews note this shaft’s standard 46.25-inch length helps generate faster swing speeds, higher launch angles, and lower spin rates. However, exploring different shaft flexes (regular, stiff, or extra stiff) during a fitting can further enhance your performance. The Burner 9.5 also offers several loft options—9.5, 10.5, and 12 degrees—allowing you to fine-tune your launch trajectory for optimal distance.

Grip Customization

Don’t overlook grip customization—it can significantly impact your control and comfort. A proper club fitting will include grip size adjustments, ensuring the grip fits your hand perfectly. This seemingly small detail can lead to better control and more consistent swings, boosting your confidence and overall performance on the course.

Care and Maintenance

Taking good care of your TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver will keep it performing at its best for years. It doesn’t take much, but regular maintenance is key.

Cleaning and Storage

After every round, take a few minutes to clean your driver. Use a soft cloth, warm water, and a bit of mild soap to wipe down the clubface. This removes dirt, grass, and other debris that can build up and affect your club’s performance. Once it’s clean, always store your driver in a protective headcover. This simple precaution prevents scratches and dings, especially during travel or storage.

Regripping and Reshafting

Your grip is your only connection to the club, so keeping it in good condition is essential. Grips wear down over time, even with regular use, which can impact your control and comfort. Plan on regripping your driver at least once a year, or more often if you play frequently. When choosing a new grip, consider your hand size and swing style for optimal performance. Beyond the grip, the shaft itself plays a crucial role in performance. If your driver isn’t performing as well as it used to, consider reshafting. A fresh shaft can significantly improve both distance and accuracy. Consult with a professional club fitter to find the ideal shaft flex and weight for your swing. They can help you maximize your performance with a shaft perfectly tailored to you.

Alternative TaylorMade Drivers

If the Burner 9.5 isn’t quite the right fit, plenty of other TaylorMade drivers are worth checking out. Each model offers a unique blend of technology and performance, so finding one that suits your swing and playing style is key.

TaylorMade SIM2

The TaylorMade SIM2 driver is praised for its innovative design and performance. Its Forged Ring Construction combines a lightweight, high-strength aluminum frame with a full carbon sole and crown. This design boosts the driver’s stability and enhances overall performance. Golfers appreciate the SIM2’s excellent forgiveness and lower ball flight, making it a solid choice for increased distance and accuracy off the tee. The SIM2 Max, in particular, is known for its versatility, catering to a wide range of players from beginners to seasoned pros.

TaylorMade Stealth

The TaylorMade Stealth driver represents a significant advancement in driver technology. Its revolutionary carbon face enhances both ball speed and distance. Designed for a larger sweet spot, the Stealth offers improved forgiveness on off-center hits. Players often mention its powerful and consistent ball flight, making it a popular choice for those looking to maximize their game. The driver’s sleek aesthetics and cutting-edge technology make it a standout option for amateur and professional golfers alike.

TaylorMade M4

Known for its exceptional forgiveness and distance, the TaylorMade M4 driver features Twist Face technology. This innovative design corrects mis-hits by providing a more forgiving face, resulting in straighter shots, even on imperfect contact. The M4 also boasts a Geocoustic design that enhances the sound and feel at impact, a feature appreciated by players who value feedback during their swings. Overall, the M4 remains a reliable option for golfers seeking a balance of distance, accuracy, and playability.

Where to Buy the Burner 9.5 Driver

Ready to add the TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver to your golf bag? You have several reliable options for purchasing this classic club, both online and in physical stores. Here are some of the most popular retailers:

Golf Galaxy

Golf Galaxy is a great place to start. They offer a wide selection of golf clubs, including new and used TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Drivers. This allows you to find one that suits both your playing style and your budget. Browse their online inventory or head to a local store for a more hands-on experience. The staff can offer personalized advice and help you find the right fit.

Dick’s Sporting Goods

Another solid option is Dick’s Sporting Goods. They also carry a range of TaylorMade drivers, including the Burner 9.5, both in-store and online. Shopping online offers convenience, while visiting a store lets you see the club up close. Plus, their knowledgeable staff can answer any questions.

PGA Tour Superstore

The PGA Tour Superstore is a haven for golf enthusiasts. You’ll find an extensive selection of TaylorMade drivers here, including the Burner 9.5, in both new and pre-owned condition. Many locations also host demo days, giving you the chance to test the club before buying it. This can be invaluable in determining if the Burner 9.5 is the right driver for you.

Global Golf

Global Golf specializes in new and used golf equipment. They have a large inventory of TaylorMade clubs, including the Burner 9.5 Driver. What sets Global Golf apart is their detailed product descriptions and condition ratings for used clubs. This transparency gives you confidence in your purchase.

2nd Swing Golf

Finally, 2nd Swing Golf is another excellent resource for new and used golf equipment. They offer a wide selection of TaylorMade clubs, including the Burner 9.5 Driver, and also provide trade-in options. This allows you to offset the cost of your new driver by trading in your old clubs. Their expert staff can also help you find the perfect club for your game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver still a good choice today?

While technology has advanced since its release, the Burner 9.5 remains a relevant option, especially for golfers seeking a balance of distance, forgiveness, and affordability. Its innovative features like Dual Crown and Inverted Cone Technology still hold up, making it a worthwhile choice for mid- to high-handicap players and those on a budget. However, if you’re a more experienced player or have a higher budget, exploring newer models might offer additional performance benefits.

What are the key features that make the Burner 9.5 stand out?

The Burner 9.5’s standout features include Dual Crown Technology for a lower center of gravity and higher launch, Inverted Cone Technology for an expanded sweet spot and greater forgiveness, and SuperFast Technology for increased swing speed and distance. The combination of these technologies makes it a forgiving and distance-oriented driver.

Where can I buy a TaylorMade Burner 9.5 Driver?

You can find the Burner 9.5 at various online retailers like eBay, Global Golf, and 2nd Swing Golf. These platforms offer both new and used clubs, often at competitive prices. Checking your local golf shops or pro shops is also a good idea, especially if you prefer to see the club in person before purchasing.

How does the Burner 9.5 compare to other TaylorMade drivers like the SIM2 or Stealth?

While the Burner 9.5 offers excellent value and performance, newer models like the SIM2 and Stealth incorporate more recent technological advancements. The SIM2 boasts Forged Ring Construction for enhanced stability, while the Stealth features a revolutionary carbon face for increased ball speed. These newer models might offer advantages in terms of distance and overall performance, but they typically come at a higher price point.

What should I consider when choosing the right shaft flex for my Burner 9.5?

Getting the right shaft flex is crucial for optimizing your performance with the Burner 9.5. Factors like your swing speed, tempo, and desired ball flight all play a role. While the stock REAX shaft is designed to work well for many golfers, a professional club fitting can help you determine the ideal shaft flex (regular, stiff, or extra stiff) to maximize your distance and accuracy. They can also help you fine-tune the loft and grip to perfectly match your swing.