ClubTest 2017: TaylorMade M2 fairway wood review

CATEGORY: Game Improvement Fairway Woods

PRICE: $250

WE TESTED: 3 (15°) and 5 (18°) with TM Reax (55 and 65) graphite shaft.

KEY TECHNOLOGY: A high-strength steel face combines with a longer, more flexible Speed Pocket for faster ball speeds.

Buy Now for $249.99

LOOK

Bold appearance projects the power within; contrasting colors on the crown draw attention to the hitting area, and attractive grid pattern catches the eye without being showy; the Casablanca of clubs—an absolute classic in black and white.

FEEL

Testers like the balance through the swing; hard-rubber-mallet response and nice muted click let you know when you nail it.

ACCURACY/FORGIVENESS

Its greatest attribute; the M2 produces target-seeking missiles with plenty of sidespin correction and help on heavy and thin hits.

Buy Now for $249.99

Playability

A perfect driver replacement with plenty of carry and roll off the tee; very effective from the fairway and all kinds of trouble; repeatable shot shape and medium-high trajectory.

"So much fun to play: easy to hit, class-leading distance and a firm, springy feel."

- Hoai Hoang, Index 11.5, Age 42

Distance

Players with higher swing speeds get superior yardage—the 3-wood is as long as some drivers; exceptional length on mis-hits.

Cons

Some guys find the two-tone design distracting; other players prefer more workability and feedback on off-center hits; not the easiest to swing through thick rough.

Bottom Line

The new M2 is one of the best sticks in the test. Stronger players find powerful distance combined with all the accuracy they need. A great choice to replace the driver on tight holes, and they work hard to hunt your target from a variety of lies.