Ram and Rawlings are venerable brand names that target value-priced golfers. Equipment from both would merit attention by entry-level players and, in some cases, by avid recreational enthusiasts.
For Ram, its name is part of the new Huffy Sports golf portfolio, which also includes Tommy Armour and TearDrop.
We have a split strategy for the full-line clubs, with Armour being the premium line and Ram being our attack brand [TearDrop is just putters], explained John Gutelius, Huffy vp of golf marketing. Ram is an established, authentic brand that has been around 60 years.
With extremely low prices, Ram -- and Rawlings, whose name is licensed for golf products -- won't be found at most on-course locations, but rather at off-course shops and discount department stores, as well as specialty web sites.
The Rawlings name has strong recognition in sports, said spokesman Randy Turner. Thats a start, right there. Beyond the name, we offer inexpensive, quality golf equipment.
Heres a look at the latest from Ram and Rawlings.
RAM
Two individual drivers, the Ram 420 and the Rhythm, along with a full Concept line of woods, comprise the latest company offerings.
The Rhythm is the higher-priced driver, with a suggested retail price of $99.95. With a 400cc forged titanium head and Apollo graphite shaft, the Rhythm driver promises a high launch angle and low backspin rate. It comes with just one face loft at 10 degrees.
As might be deduced, the Ram 420 driver features a 420cc forged titanium head with a deeper face to promote topspin. It has a face loft of 10.5 degrees and a suggested retail price of just $75.
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Information: • Ram and Rawlings specs • Get your Ram 420 driver here |
Both the Ram 420 and the Rhythm drivers are geared for players of all skill levels.
Rams Concept woods are targeted at mid to higher handicap players. Theres a 360cc forged titanium driver plus Nos. 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11 fairway woods, all with graphite shafts. Suggested retail prices for the Concept woods are $45 each.
Were trying to reach out to as many golfers as we can, said Gutelius. Not everyone can afford, or wants to buy, drivers that cost $300 and more. These are quality products that will perform and hold up well, and they deliver great value.
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| Ram's 420 driver has 10.5 degrees of face loft. (Provided to SportsLine) |
RAWLINGS
Two titanium drivers for right-handed players only, at 400cc and 450cc, along with a four-ball putter, make up the newest clubs carrying the Rawlings name.
The Deep Blue driver is 400cc and has a face loft of 10.5 degrees with a suggested retail price of $69.99.
The Big Red and Black Jack drivers are essentially the same, differing only in shaft color scheme. Both 450cc models have a lightweight graphite shaft and oversized tip to lessen torque. Suggested retail price for either model is $89.99.
The Rawlings 4-Ball putter, also available for righties only, is a variation of the oversized T-shaped mallet and looks similar to many popular models. The four balls, which vary in size, are designed to help with alignment. Theres a white polymer face insert to enhance feel at impact. List price with steel shaft is $69.99.
Again, testers recommended these drivers and the putter as best for entry-level players
Also targeted for new or occasional players are 16-piece Rawlings sets complete with driver, two fairway woods, irons, putter and bag, with suggested retail prices of $199.99 per set with steel-shafted irons and $229.99 with graphite.
Editor's note: Chuck Stogel writes about golf equipment. Look for his columns each week on GolfWeb and PGATOUR.COM.
