Are mini drivers the key to finding more fairways and attacking more par 5s or just a lot of hype? In this podcast, Matt explains the facts about mini drivers, evaluates the five most common reasons for putting a mini driver in the bag, and recommends three of his favorite mini drivers.
Watch this video on YouTube HERE
Listen to the Plugged In Golf Podcast on iTunes HERE
Download this episode HERE
Check out GolfN HERE
The PluggedInGolf Podcast is sponsored by Shot Scope.
Editor In Chief at Plugged In Golf
Matt has worked in nearly every job in the golf industry from club fitting to instruction to writing and speaking.
He founded Plugged In Golf in 2013 with the goal of helping all golfers play better and enjoy the game more.
Matt lives in the northwest suburbs of Chicago with his wife and two daughters.
He founded Plugged In Golf in 2013 with the goal of helping all golfers play better and enjoy the game more.
Matt lives in the northwest suburbs of Chicago with his wife and two daughters.
Latest posts by Matt Saternus (see all)
- PXG Hot Rod ZT Putter Review - February 25, 2026
- Callaway Quantum Max D Driver Review - February 24, 2026
- VA Synystr CB Shaft Review - February 20, 2026
5 Comments
Matt, you mentioned in your podcast that you did a youtube video on hitting driver vs 3 wood off the tee. I did a search and couldn’t find it. Would you have the link for it? Thanks.
Stanley,
No problem, it’s right here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_UPAserzFg
-Matt
I am a golfer that for years couldn’t hit a driver farther than my 3 wood. I found out last year that I was living in the heel of any driver I tried, at driver length. I picked up a BRNR (2023) mini at the end of 2023 and it was a revelation for me off the tee. As a 20 handicap, I got my FiR up to 50% and I was hitting it farther than any other driver I’ve had and well past my 3w. I’m in the process of testing it against my current driver (45″ Wilson Carbon) and a thriver (44.5″ TSR2 & 4 head). I’m finding the shorter shaft is what I need to make more center contact with a driver, so I have a feeling the thriver idea will win out even if I don’t play the TSR’s. But the BRNR has been a fantastic option for me off the tee and has helped me play better golf.
What do you think about using a Thriver as a 3 wood replacement if there is no intention to use the club off of the fairway? I am getting more comfortable with my traditional driver, but it seems logical to use a Thriver as the next club instead of a mini driver or 3 wood if it is only used off the tee when less than driver distance or theoretically better accuracy is desired. Any thoughts? Also, any recommendations on length, loft or swing weight? I was thinking a 12 degree driver turned up to 14 degrees, maybe 43.5” and d1 or d2 swingweight. I am unaware of any place to get fit for a Thriver, although there are builders who will build it to spec. I appreciate any thoughts you have, and as always, your articles and podcasts are great.
George,
Yes! (insert Jack Nicholson nodding meme)
I have a 12* driver that plays about 43″. Not sure what the swing weight is. I know this is not factually accurate, but it *feels* like I’ve never hit that thing any way but flush and straight.
As for the fitting piece, you could go to Club Champion and have them put a high lofted driver head on a 3W shaft. I don’t know of anyone who fits specifically for a thriver.
Best,
Matt