First Look: Bridgestone P01-7 and J817 Drivers

This month, two new Bridgestone drivers have been deemed conforming by the USGA. Bridgestone hasn’t released any details, however, we are expecting Bridgestone to release a new JGR model later this year. Either (or both) of these could potentially fit the bill.

Tour B J817

A dual-weight design that appears to keep mass movement to a minimum; suggesting the configuration options may be more about enhancing a draw bias rather than creating the low penetrating ball flight associated with forward CG. The name creates a bit of intrigue. Tour B suggests it might fit inside the new premium line, while J817 suggests a more mainstream offering. We’re betting it’s the latter.

Identification markings:

SOLE: (B logo), (weight screw), (line), (loft), (line), (weight screw) J817
TOE: TOUR B
HEEL: BRIDGESTONE, GOLF

P01-7

A single weight design which, based on positioning, suggests it could be used for swing weighting and increasing draw bias. The name doesn’t fit with the current Bridgestone lineup, so it’s entirely possible the P stands for prototype.

Identification markings:

• SOLE: (line), P01-7, (line), (B logo), (weight screw)
• FACE:POWER MILLING, TECHNOLOGY

As always, we’ll have more details as they become available.