Project X HZRDUS Smoke Black RDX
Project X’s HZRDUS shaft family has been an absolute hit ever since it was first introduced. A big reason for the success of HZRDUS has been their “Black” shaft models known for their extremely stout and stable profiles for the aggressive swingers out there. If you’re looking to swing for the fences while keeping launch and spin low, the HZRDUS Black options have always delivered those characteristics. The new Project X HZRDUS Smoke Black RDX is the latest member of the family which utilizes premium aerospace-grade carbon fibers to continue the reputation of one of the most stable shaft profiles in golf.
The Looks
This is the perfect opportunity to use one of my favorite lines of all time. The Project X HZRDUS Smoke Black RDX could be “none more black“. Aside from some white outlining, the shaft is pretty much all glossy black. Oh, and of course the signature multi-color HZRDUS spec graphic at the top of the mid section. It’s a pretty serious, all business look in your driver or fairway wood.
In the tip section of the shaft, there’s a Hexcel logo. Hexcel is a leader “in composites technology for aerospace and military operations” that Project X collaborated with in this generation of HZRDUS shafts. Project X used two of Hexcel’s aerospace-grade HexTow carbon fibers to make the Smoke Black RDX both extremely stable and stiff for the aggressive swinger. I’ll elaborate more in the next section.
How Does it Feel?
If you’re into specific technicalities, Project X used “Hexcel’s new HexTow HM54 high modulus carbon fiber and high tensile strength HexTow IM2C carbon fiber” in the Smoke Black RDX. The end result is a very stout shaft that keeps its stability throughout the swing. I think the biggest difference from previous HZRDUS Black shafts is that the RDX is more crisp with much better response in your hands. Like the other HZRDUS Black shafts, I would add that the Smoke Black RDX isn’t for the faint of heart even though it has a better overall feel than previous generations. To “maximize the feel” of this shaft, you better have the swing to load it.
On-Course Performance
| Club Speed | Ball Speed | Launch Angle | Spin | Carry (Yds) | Total (Yds) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 115.2 | 172.8 | 9.6º | 2171 | 285.5 | 316.7 |
The Project X HZRDUS Smoke Black RDX does exactly what it says it does. The ultimate goal here is to make the shaft as stable as stable can possibly be in a golf shaft. I touched on how stable the shaft is as a result of the HexTow carbon fibers, but it really came out in performance. First of all, as long as I finished my swing, my dispersion was so tight it was like I just dumped my shag bag out in a pile about 315 yards down range. Ok, that may be slightly exaggerated, but control and consistency were automatic.
Second, I was able to really just put all I had into the swing and let the shaft keep everything under control. Like I just said above, I still had to really focus on finishing my swing. Given the Smoke Black RDX’s stout nature, you really can’t take any swings off. I was putting everything I could into every swing to get those numbers above. That’s totally fine, of course, but just be aware of that when you’re considering this shaft.
When I kept seeing 9º-10º launch angles and 1800-2200 spin numbers, I thought I might see some ropes dive bombing out of the sky. What this means is that the ball is starting low and the lack of spin keeps it from carrying in the sky. To my sweet surprise, this wasn’t the case. My launch was low and piercing, and my spin stayed low but just enough to avoid any diminishing returns. A lot of players will find the combination of stability, low launch, and just enough spin to be deadly off the tee.
Final Thoughts – Project X HZRDUS Smoke Black RDX Shaft
At this point, I don’t think anyone will be surprised to find out that Project X was able to make a HZRDUS Black shaft that’s low launch and low spin. In my opinion, the huge difference is how much better the Smoke Black RDX feels than the previous two. It still definitely feels very stout and very firm, but there’s a lot more feedback and life in the hands. This isn’t scientific, but I felt the improved feel made me more comfortable and in tune with the shaft. By feeling “better connected to it”, I was able to trust the club more and just let it rip without sacrificing control. This level of trust ultimately led to more ball speed and more distance with accuracy.
Of course, I’m just one person. As always, I strongly encourage everyone to get fit or properly test the shaft first. Especially with a shaft like the Project X HZRDUS Smoke Black RDX. You’ll really want to know what you’re signing up for, and if you’re the right match, you’ll really be able to do some damage off the tee.
Hi Bill. Love your reviews. I’m trying to decide on the ventus black 6x vs the HZRDUS black RDX 60 TX. My swing speed is 120-123 mph. Did you notice a difference in feel/performance between the two? Need a new shaft for my TSI3 8.0.
I’d have to A/B them in a session with a monitor to be honest. I’d say it might be a little bit of hair splitting and will vary quite a bit between players based on subjective feels and preferences as well as unique physical responses between different people.
How would you compare it to the smoke green? sounds similar in performance but with better feel?
Couldn’t really tell you without A/B’ing them in a driver. I haven’t hit the Green outside of my 3 wood in forever.
Current set up on a SIM Max (10.5 head) is with a Evenflow Riptide 6.0-S 60G. Launch is way too high (high teens to 10 degrees) and looking for a lower launch alternative. SS is right about 100 (ranges I see are 95-105 mph).
Can’t really advise you much with just that info. Do you have any idea why you’re launching it high? Do you know your angle of attack on average?
I wonder how the RDX compares to the Hzrdus smoke black shaft?
It’s been awhile since I’ve hit the original Smoke, but I’d say the RDX has more feedback, stability, and plays more stout.
315 is a bomb but I’d argue if you got the launch up to 12-14 degrees you’d be hitting it even farther . Great review!
You’re telling me. Couldn’t do it though. Too much of a big timer swing for me!
What club head were you using in your testing?
Good question, I honestly can’t remember. Likely either a Cobra or Tour Edge.
Hi. Looking to buy a Callaway UW with a RDX 70g in 5.5 (regular) I’ve got 115g stiff shafts in my Driver and stiff shafts in my irons. As the RDX is quite stout, would the 5.5 be ok? I know you’ll say get fitted, but don’t really have the time. Thanks
Sorry meant 115g stiff shafts in my irons.
I know you don’t want the fitting answer, but there’s really no away to make an association based on that information. If you’re looking for a blind jumping off point, I’d say stay consistent with your flexes.
I dont agree with the comments stating the smoke black is some sort of telephone pole. Even in the 6.5 flex is no where near as stiff as the fujikura Ventus shafts. A 106 mile per hour clubhead speed with an agressive load can play the 6.5 flex. As always, try before you buy, but dont sleeep on this shaft. In my opinion the 6.5 flex is closer to a stiff plus than a x.
I have this shaft in a 6.0 and a Sim2 driver and it feels soft compared to the Smoke RDX, I have not hit it on a launch monitor yet but thats my first impressions. Definitly more flex that my origianl Grafalloy Blue Stiff shaft. Swing speed around 100, driver carry is around 235
Compared to which Smoke RDX?
Thx for the review Bill!! I’m a 1HI and had similar results as you but with the original Black Hzrdus in 6.0 62g. SS is a little less about 105-110 with a quick transition. When I try to crank it up, the shaft holds stable even on mishits and doesn’t get crazy when I overdo the high right miss. Tried the Smoke 6.0 and definitely softer feeling and makes this worse. So, curious how the RDX shaft flex/feel/flight compares to the original Black and if a 6.5 in RDX black would a better choice?? Thx!!
Going stiffer in flex is going to impact your right/left misses, so not sure I have enough to advise on the flex change.
I didn’t think the Smoke felt softer than the original, just smoother and cleaner. I would say the RDX has a good bit more stability compared to the Smoke.
So I’m not sure if that really helps, but I’m also not totally clear with what you’re looking to address. If the original is working for you, what are you looking to change up?