Golf Gear Review: Graphite Design Tour AD CQ Shaft

Quick Take

In just 50 words—this shaft is all about consistency. The Graphite Design Tour AD CQ offers a mid-high launch with decent spin, producing a reliable draw. The kick? Modest. It’s like the trusty friend you can always count on when you need to nail that shot.

Let’s Talk About First Impressions

You know, when it comes to golf gear, being surprised is pretty rare. You can spot a monster iron from a mile away, but shafts? Now that’s a different story! They really keep you guessing. So, I tend to dive in without peeking at the specs—just to keep it fresh. My experience rocking the Graphite Design Tour AD CQ was a prime example of how fitting shouldn’t just be a numbers game; it’s all about what feels right when you swing.

Eye Candy: Looks Matter

Let’s be real for a moment—looks do matter, especially in golf. The Graphite Design Tour AD CQ has this flashy gold and red design that immediately caught my eye. It’s reminiscent of their Tour AD VF, mixing a vibrant butt end with that sleek black midsection. What’s more, the gold and red blend is something you don’t see every day. So, if you’re looking to turn heads in the bag room, this one definitely stands out.

As for the graphics? Classic Graphite Design style. They’ve kept it clean and timeless. A cool ring graphic transitions from gold to black with the “Tour AD” logo snugly sitting at the top. For those wanting a more minimalist look, there’s an option for a logo-down installation.

Feelin’ Good: The User Experience

Testing the Tour AD CQ against its sibling, the Tour AD FI, took me on a bit of a rollercoaster. Golf shaft feel could be one of the most subjective experiences ever. According to Graphite Design, this shaft is firm in the butt and mid, but softens up a touch in the tip. Yet, swinging it felt unique—stiffer than I expected.

When I took a whack at it (without glancing at the spec sheet), the CQ felt less "poppy" compared to the FI, but it packed a modest kick right below the grip. I didn’t feel much load, but that energy transfer through the ball was snappy—just the right amount to get my attention.

Performance: What’s the Real Deal?

Now, prepare yourself for a curveball. The performance of the Tour AD CQ was way off from what the specs suggested. Like, I should totally be rejecting this shaft based on the numbers alone. But in reality? This bad boy was fantastic. It falls in the same launch range as the Tour AD IZ but tends us with higher spin—definitely “high launch with mid spin.”

Funny thing is, on the course, it wasn’t about the number; it was about how it felt. The CQ handled my aggressive swings like a pro. I could mis-hit without worrying. When I went for that extra juice, the shaft held up marvelously without twisting or spraying my shots all over.

Predictable Patterns = Happy Golfer

When I connected solidly with the ball, the results were as predictable as a cliché golf joke! Center-face hits produced a gentle draw that felt perfect. A few mishits? They still launched on that same mid-high trajectory, just a little straighter. It gave me the freedom to aim down the right with confidence, changing my usually preferred shot shape.

However, I did notice that the spin would creep up at times—particularly on those not-so-perfect hits. Yet, solid contact maintained that reliable draw. I could also lay down a medium cut, though I preferred a little less spin for my liking.

Consistency is Key

After a few rounds at the driving range swinging the CQ, I’d scribble notes that read: “The feel isn’t groundbreaking. The numbers won’t blow your mind. But if I had to pick one shaft to nab a fairway, this would be right there at the top.” Sometimes, it’s the no-nonsense shaft that ultimately becomes your best friend on the course.

This Graphite Design shaft comes in various weights, from 40 to 80 grams, and offers a range of flex options—Lite/Senior, Regular, Stiff, and X-Stiff. So whether you’re just starting out or seeking that pro-level performance, there’s likely a model that’s got you covered.

Final Thoughts: Never Judge a Shaft by Its Specs

I’ve got to be honest: there was a moment when I thought I wouldn’t like the Graphite Design Tour AD CQ. The specs felt “off,” the colors weren’t my usual jam, and let’s be real, even the name is a bit quirky (“CQ” stands for “ConQuest,” just so you know). However, it’s the first shaft in a while that really challenged my go-to choice. It’s a stellar reminder that sometimes, you can’t just fit golf clubs based on numbers. Real life counts for a lot too.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re curious about checking out the Graphite Design shafts, take a look at their website.

Whether you’re just getting into golf or tuning your gear for an upcoming tourney, remember to keep the human touch alive in your fittings! After all, it’s all about having fun while playing your best game!