Martin Hopley
By

The TaylorMade M2 Rescue hybrid is nominally part of the M2 family, but there are a number of differences to the driver and fairway.

TaylorMade M2 Rescue Hybrid

Firstly the head is all steel rather than a mix of steel and a carbon composite crown, which is understandable given the head size. This has a knock on effect on the visuals, which instead of being hi-tech black and white are now just plain black all over, including the shaft.

Some may prefer this look, but like the M1 Rescue, it does not give the same alignment assistance or the same visual wow factor as the AeroBurner when you pick it up.

TaylorMade M2 Rescue Hybrid

The head shape is deeper than the AeroBurner Rescue from above and with the darker finish it looks more like a shrunken fairway than a traditional hybrid.

TaylorMade M2 Rescue Hybrid

The face is also taller, which will help with the forgiveness and maybe that is what gives the bulkier look. I do like the single set of white grooves in the centre of the face to help you line up with the ball.

TaylorMade M2 Rescue Hybrid

These are more to the heel of the club as that is where the sweet spot is, so getting the right position at impact will make a real difference to performance.

The sole features an improved and larger Speed Pocket, again in black, to enable the face to flex more at impact.

TaylorMade M2 Rescue Hybrid

So far, so sleek and black and a real difference to the brash style of the AeroBurner Rescue.

Take it to the range and the M2 Rescue gives the mid to high flight you would expect from a hybrid of this style, with pretty good distance and performance from all lies.

TaylorMade M2 Rescue Hybrid

Unfortunately, the sound and feel were nothing to write home about, as whatever they have done internally to the head with the deeper face and bigger Speed Pocket is not enhancing things elsewhere. Speaking to the TaylorMade designers I found that whenever the slot is made bigger it increases performance, but does not always improve the sound.

As I explained in the M2 fairway review, the longer Thick Thin Fluted hosel exists to try and improve the sound, but it really has its work cut out in the M2 Rescue and this could be a deal breaker for some.

TaylorMade M2 Rescue Hybrid

The stock Matrix Reax shaft is the same as the one I tried in the M2 Fairway and M2 Driver and for whatever reason I was not getting on with it, or the head, as the numbers compared to the AeroBurner were not as good.

TaylorMade M2 Reax Shaft

However get custom fitted with one of the free alternative shafts at a TaylorMade fitting centre and you may get better results.

As I mentioned in my AeroBurner Rescue review, it may not be a looker or feel that great, but it went and was fun to hit. Over time the AeroBurner actually grew on me as I experienced the performance it delivered from all lies, so the M2 has its work cut out if it is going to replace the AeroBurner or the excellent TaylorMade R15 Rescue in your bag.

TaylorMade M2 Rescue Hybrid

The M family is all about multi-material and carbon composite and the all steel M2 Rescue seems a bit lost in their company. The performance is acceptable, but the looks and sound are not quite up to the same high standards as the rest of the M clan, which is a shame as the dream team combination of the M1 driver with the M2 fairway is excellent.

Golfalot Rating: 4 stars
More from TaylorMade
Share:

Gallery

TaylorMade M2 Rescue Hybrid - Product Details

UK Launch19 February 2016
UK Launch RRP£159
USA Launch19 February 2016
USA Launch RRP$199.99
Handicap Range
Low
High
GolferMens, Women
Hand AvailabilityLeft, Right
Left Handed Lofts19°, 22°
Right Handed Lofts19°, 22°, 25°, 28°
MaterialSteel
Lie61°
Head Volume109 cc
Club Length40.75 inches
Swing WeightD3
Shaft NameTM Reax 75, TM Reax 65, TM Reax 55, TM Reax 45
Shaft TypesSteel, Graphite
Shaft FlexLadies, Regular, Stiff, X Stiff
GripTM Arrow
Number/Loft3/19°, 4/22°, 5/25°, 6/28°
Manufacturer's WebsiteTaylorMade Website

User Reviews

January 2017

I'm very pleased, hit it very straight with a neat draw, carry about 190-200 yds, overall very positive.

October 2016

Got the 25 degree with the matrix white tie shaft and in the words of Old Tom Morris it's fecking awesome.

September 2016

I'm gutted to say that I wish I hadn't purchased this club. I play off 6 and am fairly consistent. However, with this rescue the feel and sound is disappointing and although I was fitted it doesn't perform anywhere close to my TaylorMade Burner SuperFast 2.0. My mistake, just wanted a new club to fill the gap to my 3 metal. I think a metal wood 5,6 or 7 would be a more sensible option.

August 2016

Just purchased the M2 hybrid in 22 and 28 degrees. Hit them pretty good in the simulator from first swing, felt very solid at impact and the sound was not a problem. I've played all Titleist woods for a few years and in my opinion, nothing else sounds as powerfully pleasing. But, I found the M2 easier to hit, especially on off center hits. Brought them home and hit the 28 at my house with a real ball (not a sim) and wow! Nice high launch and carry, and set quickly. I'm really excited about my next round and that 195 yard par 3 that kicks my butt! Would strongly suggest anyone in the market for a hybrid to take a look at this club/clubs.

Write a Review

Facebook Comments