Rob...........People come to the Minors after they approach the Majors on ideas they come up with. Practically everyone has a notion on design that plays the game and most Majors won't even give you the time of day. Over the years I have had many come to me with all kinds of design ideas. Some good...some just downright horrible. But, I always congratulate them for burning the midnight oil. I respect those that take the time to try and design something that they feel will enhance someones game.
Materials, coatings, structural...you name it....They come in all shapes and sizes. I explain to most what I feel is right or wrong with their design or idea. I give them an honest review and how I feel a change here or there will help them. But, most importantly, my opinion on where to sell it and how to present it and if it will sell at all. For the most part I can look at a golf club or a design concept and tell if it will retail or not. I let them down easy as I know how fragile some are after all the time involved just thinking of an idea and putting it on paper or hand making a crude prototype, which most do, But, I especially take great care to tell them to keep thinking and who knows....they may be the next Karsten.