In a notable development ahead of the 2025 Charles Schwab Challenge, PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp was observed testing the Krank Formula Fire LD driver—the same model Bryson DeChambeau famously used to secure his 2024 U.S. Open victory. This driver, primarily designed for long-drive competitions, is engineered to handle exceptionally high swing speeds and offers a unique combination of distance and forgiveness.
Knapp, recognized for his smooth swing and impressive clubhead speed averaging 123.5 mph, currently ranks within the top 10 on the PGA Tour for clubhead speed and averages 307.2 yards off the tee. However, his driving accuracy has been a concern, with a ranking of 169th in accuracy and 127th in strokes gained off the tee. This may have prompted him to explore equipment options that could enhance both distance and precision.
The Krank Formula Fire LD driver features a 7.5° loft and incorporates advanced technologies such as a cupped face forged design and a pronounced bulge and roll on the clubface. These features are intended to maintain ball speed and accuracy, even on off-center hits, making it appealing to players seeking to maximize their driving performance.
Bryson DeChambeau’s success with this driver has been well-documented. After transitioning to the Krank driver, he achieved notable feats, including a record-breaking 58 at LIV Golf Greenbrier in 2023 and leading the LIV Golf League in driving distance with an average of 333.3 yards while hitting 66% of fairways. DeChambeau has praised the driver’s performance, stating, “Ever since I put this driver into play, it’s not been really my golf swing… everything comes back down the middle of the fairway.”
Knapp’s experimentation with the Krank driver reflects a broader trend among professional golfers to explore unconventional equipment choices in pursuit of competitive advantages. As he continues to refine his game, it remains to be seen whether the Krank driver will become a permanent fixture in his bag.
This move underscores the evolving landscape of golf equipment, where innovation and performance data increasingly influence players’ decisions. As the Charles Schwab Challenge unfolds, all eyes will be on Knapp to see if this equipment change translates into improved performance on the course.
