A head-to-head look at two of the top shafts in the Every18 index — scores, fit, estimated used price, and which one to buy.
2021 Shafts
2023 Shafts
The Nippon Modus3 Tour 115 and the Graphite Design Tour AD CQ are dead even on overall Every18 score (97 each), so the decision comes down to how they differ underneath. The Nippon Modus3 Tour 115 is both the cheaper buy (about $135 used vs $200) and the stronger value pick, which makes it the safer choice if budget matters. They split the two traits most golfers care about: the Nippon Modus3 Tour 115 is the more forgiving shafts, while the Graphite Design Tour AD CQ is the faster one — so pick the trait your game needs most. Bottom line: choose the Nippon Modus3 Tour 115 if you fit its profile (iron shaft); choose the Graphite Design Tour AD CQ if you lean toward wood shaft.
| Metric | Nippon Modus3 Tour 115 | Graphite Design Tour AD CQ |
|---|---|---|
| Every18 score | 97 | 97 |
| Forgiveness | 76 ✓ | 71 |
| Speed | 70 | 74 ✓ |
| Feel | 84 ✓ | 74 |
| Value rating | 87 ✓ | 80 |
| Est. used price | $135 ✓ | $200 |
| Value index | 302 ✓ | 204 |
| Launch | Iron flight fit | Profile dependent |
| Spin | Profile dependent | Profile dependent |
| Fit profile | Iron shaft | Wood shaft |
Scores, value indexes, and prices are Every18 editorial estimates for comparison. Verify exact specifications, configuration, condition, and market price before purchasing.
The two are level on overall Every18 score (97 out of 100), so neither is clearly "better." The Nippon Modus3 Tour 115 suits iron shaft, while the Graphite Design Tour AD CQ suits wood shaft.
The Nippon Modus3 Tour 115 scores higher on the Every18 value index. Estimated used prices are about $135 for the Nippon Modus3 Tour 115 and $200 for the Graphite Design Tour AD CQ, so the Nippon Modus3 Tour 115 is also the cheaper buy.
The Nippon Modus3 Tour 115 rates higher for forgiveness (76 vs 71), which usually helps mid- and higher-handicap players hold more fairways and greens.
See how these stack up against the rest of the field.
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