Expert Review: Callaway Big Bertha B21 Driver
All photos courtesy of Aaron Rogers
About this Review: This review is my honest opinion of the driver, which I tested for one day in April of 2023.
My take
The Callaway Big Bertha B21 Driver is a remarkable golf club that excels in forgiveness, distance, and overall performance. With its impressive technology, sleek design, and adjustable features, this driver is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner looking to improve accuracy or an experienced player seeking maximum distance, the Big Bertha B21 Driver delivers exceptional results.
About the club I tested
- Model: 2022 Callaway Big Bertha B21 Driver
- Loft setting: 10.5°
- Shaft type: Graphite
- Shaft flex: Stiff
About me
- Average score: 84
- Handicap: 12
- Experience: 7 years of playing golf
- Right/Left-Handed: Right-Handed
- Typical ball flight: Straight/draw
- Golf ball used: TaylorMade TP5
- Club swing speed: 98mph
Test conditions
- When I tested the club: April 2023 at Golf Galaxy
- Days tested: 1
- Where I’ve used it: Golf Galaxy simulator
- Weather and wind conditions: N/A (indoor)
How it performs
What I was looking for
I was looking for a driver with solid forgiveness, feel, and overall performance improvement.
Why I chose to test this club
I chose to test this club due to hearing great things about it and the tremendous distance provided by this club. I didn’t really consider any other options when testing, as I wanted to put the Big Bertha to the test. I may very well change up my bag and purchase this driver due to the incredible results I achieved with distance, launch, and forgiveness especially.
What I love about it
- Distance: The Big Bertha B21 Driver delivers excellent distance thanks to its advanced technologies, such as Flash Face and Jailbreak Velocity Blades. While it may not be the absolute longest driver on the market, it still provides impressive distance capabilities.
- Launch: Its advanced internal weighting system promotes a higher launch and lower spin, optimizing ball flight and maximizing distance potential. If someone wants to add more yards to their drives, the Big Bertha B21 can help them achieve that.
- Forgiveness: This driver is highly regarded for its exceptional forgiveness. Callaway's Flash Face technology and internal weighting system maximize forgiveness on off-center hits, allowing golfers to maintain distance and accuracy even on less-than-perfect shots.
- Feel: With its Triaxial Carbon Crown construction, the Big Bertha B21 Driver offers a solid and controlled feel during the swing. It provides a satisfying response upon impact, contributing to a confident and enjoyable experience.
- Sound: The sound produced by the Big Bertha B21 Driver is both crisp and powerful. It provides instant feedback to the golfer upon impact, boosting confidence and enhancing the overall enjoyment of using the club.
Issues I’ve encountered
- Workability: While the Big Bertha B21 Driver is primarily designed for forgiveness and distance, it may not offer as much workability or shot-shaping capabilities compared to drivers specifically built for that purpose. It is more suited for golfers who prioritize forgiveness and straighter shots.
Best shot with this club
My best shot with this club was an incredible high draw. I struck the ball on the upswing, just after the low point of the swing arc, maximizing the launch angle and generating optimal backspin. The ball took off with a powerful, high trajectory, rising above the target line.
As the ball reached its apex, it curved gently from right to left, showcasing the desired draw. The flight was graceful, as the ball maintained its height and gradually descended toward the target, giving it additional carry distance.
The driver's Flash Face technology and optimized internal weighting combine to deliver an explosive impact on the ball. As the clubhead connects with the ball, there's an exhilarating sensation of pure contact. The ball soars off the tee with remarkable speed.
Value for the money vs. other options
The Big Bertha B21 Driver is often regarded as a premium club on the market, and its price typically reflects the advanced technologies and design innovations incorporated into its construction. It offers golfers a combination of forgiveness, distance, and adjustability, which are highly sought-after qualities in a driver.
When evaluating the value of the Big Bertha B21 Driver, it's crucial to consider the potential impact it can have on someone’s game. Investing in a high-quality driver like the Big Bertha B21 can be worthwhile if they are seeking improved performance, increased distance, and enhanced forgiveness
Additionally, the durability and longevity of the club should be considered. The Big Bertha B21 is built with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, ensuring it can withstand regular use and provide lasting performance over time.
It's worth noting that the value of a golf club extends beyond its initial price tag. It encompasses the enjoyment, confidence, and potential improvement it brings to someone’s game. If the Big Bertha B21 Driver aligns with their needs, playing style, and desired results, the investment can be seen as a worthwhile expenditure.
Less Expensive Alternative: The TaylorMade SIM2 Max driver could be considered a less expensive alternative. It offers forgiveness and distance-enhancing features, similar to the Big Bertha B21. The SIM2 Max driver is designed to help golfers achieve higher launch angles and reduce slices or hooks, making it suitable for players seeking forgiveness and control at a more affordable price point.
More Expensive Alternative: The Titleist TSi3 driver could be an alternative for a more premium and higher-priced option. The TSi3 driver is designed for skilled golfers who prioritize workability and adjustability. It offers advanced features such as adjustable weighting, allowing golfers to fine-tune their ball flight and maximize performance. The TSi3 driver is known for its exceptional distance, accuracy, and feel, making it a popular choice among players willing to invest in top-of-the-line equipment.
Final verdict
The Callaway Big Bertha B21 Driver unlocks a new level of performance and enjoyment on the golf course. With its impressive forgiveness, distance capabilities, and adjustability, this driver caters to golfers of all skill levels, helping them reach their full potential.