B29 Blue Brick Review: Does This $169 Massive Block Training Aid Actually Fix Your Slice?
Birdie Score
Price
$169
One-Putt Summary
A well-built, pricey, and bulky swing plane trainer that delivers rapid feedback for over-the-top swings, but you're buying into Clay Ballard's ecosystem with questionable independent verification to back up the manufacturer testimonials.
Fairways (Pros)
- ✓ Instant swing path feedback
- ✓ Simulator-friendly stability
- ✓ Versatility
Hazards (Cons)
- ✗ Pricey
- ✗ Bulky
- ✗ Questionable marketing
Best For
Mid-to-high handicappers battling over-the-top swings who already follow Clay Ballard
B29 Blue Brick Review: Does This $169 Massive Block Training Aid Actually Fix Your Slice?
TL;DR: The Blue Brick delivers immediate swing plane correction for over-the-top slicers, but you’re buying into Clay Ballard’s ecosystem that comes with endless emails and ads. If you’re already a Top Speed Golf follower battling a steep swing, it works. If you’re looking for justification for paying significantly more than competing products, it may be a tough sell.
What Is the B29 Blue Brick?
**The B29 Blue Brick** isn’t just another alignment stick holder—it’s a constraints-based swing training system that physically forces your club onto the proper shallowing angle. Created by Clay Ballard (Top Speed Golf’s 692K+ subscriber YouTube instructor), this 3-pound weighted base features 11 preset drill configurations designed to cure the most common amateur swing flaw: the over-the-top, steep downswing that produces slices, pulls, and thin contact.
The Core Promise: Use tour-validated swing plane angles (60° for irons, 45° for driver) to groove professional shallowing mechanics in minutes, not months. Hit the alignment stick = wrong plane. Miss it = correct path. Simple, brutal, effective.
The system includes two collapsible alignment sticks, QR-coded video instruction for every drill setup, and covers everything from driver shallowing to wedge impact positioning to putting path control. At $169 retail ($129 with near-universal discount codes), it positions itself as the “Swiss Army Knife” replacement for multiple single-purpose training aids. Does it live up to this promise?
Build Quality & Durability: The Weight Dilemma
The Good News: Built Like a Tank
This thing is built like a tank. Their unending ads call it a “Brick shithouse.” Users consistently describe “super high quality” construction with a “decently thick metal base plate” that won’t budge during practice. The dense plastic body and weighted base (estimated 3+ pounds) provide the stability necessary for constraints-based learning—you can take full swings without the device sliding, tipping, or “going flying” if you accidentally clip it.
The metal bottom plate is the secret weapon here. Unlike lighter competitors that shift on range mats or blow around in wind, the Blue Brick stays put. This stability is non-negotiable for reliable feedback – if the device moves upon impact, the entire learning system collapses.
The Trade-Off
That same bulletproof construction creates the biggest practical limitation: portability. Multiple users confirm it’s “too heavy to carry” in a standard golf bag for pre-round warmups. It’s a pretty physically large device as well – larger than a big hardcover book, so it makes it a little challenging to store or carry in your golf bag. As it stands, this is a dedicated range session tool, not a grab-and-go warmup aid.
Durability Concerns
Here’s the reality check—if you’re an over-the-top swinger (the exact person who needs this), you WILL break alignment sticks. Users report breaking both included sticks within 2-3 sessions.
The immediate workaround recommended by experienced users:
Grab pool noodles or pipe insulation to cushion both the sticks and your club shafts. The company offers responsive customer service (one user got a replacement face plate immediately after damaging it, no questions asked), but factor replacement stick costs into your budget.
Build Quality Score
Premium materials with portability trade-offs
18/20
Effectiveness: The “I Learned to Hit Draws in One Session” Factor
This is where things get interesting—and controversial.
The Immediate Transformation Claims
The testimonials are nothing short of dramatic. A 12-handicapper who battled an unwanted fade “his entire life” reports hitting “a perfect ball flight with a baby draw right at my target” on his very first shot, proceeding to hit “shot after shot with the same result” through a 90-ball session with “well over 90%” draw or straight results.
A 72-year-old, 16-handicapper transformed “200-yard weak fades to 240-yard slight draws EVERY single time” after just two one-hour practice sessions.
Another user titled his experience: “I learned how to hit draws in one range session,” then immediately shot his lowest score ever at a course he’d never played.
How It Actually Works
The Blue Brick uses “constraints-led learning”—you’re not thinking about swing thoughts; you’re physically forced to avoid hitting the alignment stick. Your body learns the correct shallow plane through immediate feedback:
- Hit the stick = over-the-top path (bad)
- Clear the stick = proper shallowing angle (good)
This bypasses cognitive overload. Instead of trying to “feel” shallowing or visualize swing plane, you get instant physical verification of correctness. The learning loop is brutally simple and surprisingly fast.
“Super Secret PGA Tour Data”
Without a doubt you’ve seen their unending ads they run across the internet and social media. A common benefit they claim is that the angles they’ve chosen to use are based on tour averages.
However here’s what you have to realize, forcing people to work towards an average angle isn’t right for all people. An average is just that, an average – people are above and below that number even on the PGA Tour. People’s swings are unique and based on many factors such as size (big boys vs thin sticks), height (tall vs short), the length of your golf clubs, etc. Therefore I don’t buy into their philosophy and approach here.
The Critical Verification Problem
Here’s what I found after exhaustive research across golf forums, Reddit, YouTube, and social media: almost nothing that I could trust.
- • Reddit: Zero substantive discussions despite r/golf having 690K+ members. People recommend it or suggest it but that’s based off seeing ads. I’ve found numerous spam accounts posting on behalf of Blue Brick
- • GolfWRX/MyGolfSpy: Only “has anyone tried this?” inquiry posts with minimal user responses
- • Independent Reviews: Found exactly two semi-independent sources (Golf Simulator Videos and Golf Lab)—both use affiliate codes
- • Long-Term Follow-Ups: None. No 3-month, 6-month, or 1-year user updates anywhere
- • Launch Monitor Data: Despite being based on “tour-validated angles,” zero users have shared before/after attack angle, club path, or launch data
This silence is extraordinary for a $169 training aid. For comparison, any alignment stick alternative, swing analyzer, or training aid at this price point generates Reddit threads, forum debates, and detailed user experiences. The Blue Brick has enthusiastic manufacturer testimonials and… that’s it.
What This Means for You
If the glowing reviews are representative, this device delivers exactly what it promises for over-the-top slicers. But we simply cannot verify if those testimonials represent 90% of users, 50%, or just the enthusiastic minority who took time to write reviews on the manufacturer’s website.
The 60-day money-back guarantee becomes critical here—it’s your only real safety net. But also, at the end of the day, it helps facilitate the use of alignment sticks which is a proven alignment tool used by practically every single golf teacher.
Effectiveness Score
Promising results but lacking independent verification
21/30
Ease of Use: QR Codes and Quick-Change Drills
Setup Simplicity
The Blue Brick succeeds brilliantly at reducing range session friction. QR codes printed directly on the device link to Clay Ballard’s specific video instructions for each drill setup. Pull out your phone, scan, watch the 2-3 minute video, position your alignment stick, and start swinging. First-time setup takes under 5 minutes. There are 27 total videos available, 8 of which are setup or non-drill related videos.
The real efficiency gain comes from drill transitions. Traditional alignment stick users spend 10-15 minutes repositioning sticks when switching from shallowing work to wedge drills. Blue Brick users swap between the “shallow setting, to the inside swing setting, to the wedge setting” in seconds. This maximizes actual swing repetitions versus setup time—a genuine advantage for time-constrained range sessions.
✓ Range Friendliness
Unlike many training aids that draw awkward stares, users report “no embarrassment” using the Blue Brick at public ranges. It actually generates positive curiosity from fellow golfers. The professional appearance and stability make it blend naturally into practice sessions.
✓ Simulator Advantage
If you own a home golf simulator or practice in an indoor hitting bay, this becomes a game-changer. Traditional alignment sticks require turf—the Blue Brick’s weighted base works perfectly on simulator mats where staking alignment rods is impossible. This single feature justifies the purchase for many simulator owners.
The Learning Curve Reality
This system assumes you’re already in Clay Ballard’s instructional ecosystem. The Blue Brick doesn’t teach you WHY you should shallow or WHAT proper impact position looks like—it only provides the physical constraint once you understand the concept.
If you’ve never watched Ballard’s “20 Minute Shallowing Fix” or understand his teaching methodology, the Blue Brick becomes an expensive alignment stick holder without context. This isn’t a standalone learning tool; it’s a practice aid that reinforces concepts you should already understand.
Ease of Use Score
Quick setup with QR codes; requires instructional context
19/20
Value for Money: The $169 Question
Let’s address the elephant in the room: Is a weighted plastic brick with holes worth $169?
Blue Brick Retail
$169
(often discounted)
With Discount Codes
$129
(near-universal)
DIY Alternative
$5-50
(alignment sticks)
The Case FOR the Investment
- 1. Efficiency multiplier. If you’re spending 30+ minutes per range session just setting up and adjusting alignment sticks on hardpan grass or range mats, the Blue Brick saves you hundreds of hours annually. Time is money—especially for golfers with limited practice windows.
- 2. Multi-tool consolidation. Independent reviewer at 36holes.com calculated that purchasing separate specialized aids for shallowing, path control, wedge impact, and putting alignment would cost $300-500. The Blue Brick consolidates these functions at a lower total cost.
- 3. Integrated instruction. The comprehensive video library from Clay Ballard (692K+ subscribers, established teaching methodology) adds significant value beyond the physical device. You’re not figuring out drills yourself—you’re getting professional-grade instruction. Then again, these videos can be found on YouTube.
- 4. Build quality justification. The metal base plate, dense construction, and stability engineering separate this from DIY alternatives. You’re paying for precision, durability, and reliability.
The Case AGAINST
- ✗ Commoditization is happening. 3D-printable “blue brick golf” models exist online. Tech-savvy golfers report printing functional equivalents for $50 in materials. Forum users share DIY wood block designs with drilled holes using basic tools.
- ✗ Limited adjustability. Competitor Stryper SwingMate ($133) offers multi-axis ratcheting with horizontal spin and sliding positions for swing customization. Blue Brick gives you 11 fixed angles—no adjustments, no customization for non-standard swing characteristics.
- ✗ Retail absence raises questions. Not available on Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, PGA Tour Superstore, Golf Galaxy, or any major retailer. Direct-to-consumer only distribution eliminates competitive pricing pressure and prevents hands-on evaluation before purchase.
- ✗ The verification void. When spending $169 on golf equipment, most golfers rely on Reddit discussions, forum debates, and independent reviews to validate purchase decisions. That ecosystem doesn’t exist for the Blue Brick—you’re buying based on manufacturer testimonials and trust in Clay Ballard’s reputation.
Alternative Cost Comparison
| Solution | Cost | Adjustability | Independent Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Alignment Sticks | $20-40 | Manual | Extensive |
| Golf Towel Drills | $0-20 | Infinite | Strong (MyGolfSpy endorsed) |
| DIY PVC Pipe | $8 | Manual | GolfWRX users sharing |
| Stryper SwingMate | $133 | Multi-axis ratchets | Growing reviews |
| Tour Aim 2.0 | $129 | Fixed slots | Strong |
| The pathpal | $90 | Fixed slots | Growing reviews |
| WhyGolf Alignment Discs | $129.98 | Fixed slots | Growing reviews |
| Blue Brick | $169 ($124 w/codes) | 11 fixed slots | Minimal |
Value Reality Check
Most users will primarily utilize 2-3 of the 11 slots regularly. If you’re exclusively working on driver/iron shallowing, you’re paying $169 for functionality you could achieve with $30 in alignment sticks and YouTube instruction.
However, if you practice indoors, own a simulator, hate setting up sticks on hardpan ranges, and actively use multiple drill configurations, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
⭐ The 60-Day Guarantee Matters
The money-back guarantee transforms this from a risk into a trial. If you’re considering a purchase, treat it as a 60-day test drive. Order it, use it for 8-10 range sessions across various drills, and evaluate whether the efficiency gains and swing improvements justify keeping it versus returning for a refund.
Value for Money Score
Justified for dedicated practitioners; expensive vs. alternatives
18/25
Versatility: Beyond Shallowing
The 11-Drill Configuration
The Blue Brick’s “Swiss Army Knife” reputation comes from covering nearly every swing path correction scenario:
- 1. Driver Shallowing (45° angle)
- 2. 6-Iron Shallowing (60° angle)
- 3. Wedge Shallowing (steeper angle)
- 4. Inside Swing Path Work
- 5. Anti-Stuck Drills
- 6. Square Divot Training
- 7. Angle of Attack Optimization
- 8. Wedge Impact Positioning
- 9. Putting Path Control
- 10-11. Additional specialty angles
Users confirm this versatility transforms range sessions from single-focus practice to comprehensive game development. One session can address driver path, transition to iron contact quality, then finish with wedge precision—all without carrying multiple training aids.
Realistic Versatility Assessment
Most golfers will default to their primary swing fault correction (typically shallowing for over-the-top players) and occasional use of 1-2 additional drills. The full 11-configuration capability is impressive on paper but likely underutilized by average users.
Versatility Score
Genuinely covers full bag across multiple swing elements
5/5
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This
STRONG BUY Recommendation
- ✓ Home simulator owners. If you practice indoors where traditional alignment sticks are useless, this becomes essential equipment. The weighted base works flawlessly on mats where ground-staking is impossible.
- ✓ Chronic over-the-top slicers (12-20 handicap range). If you’ve struggled for years with an unwanted fade or slice caused by steep swing plane, and you’re already following Clay Ballard’s instruction, the Blue Brick appears to deliver rapid, dramatic correction based on available testimonials.
- ✓ Time-efficient practice seekers. If you value maximizing swing repetitions over setup logistics and practice on hardpan ranges where alignment stick placement is frustrating, the convenience justifies the cost.
PROCEED WITH CAUTION
- ⚠ Reddit/forum research addicts. If you require extensive independent reviews, community discussions, and unfiltered user experiences before purchasing golf equipment, the information void surrounding this product will frustrate you. You’re buying based on manufacturer testimonials and 60-day guarantee risk, not community consensus.
- ⚠ Budget-conscious golfers. At $169 ($129 with codes), this is a premium-priced training aid when $5 alignment sticks can accomplish similar swing path training with more manual setup effort. Other alignment stick holders can be found between $80-$120.
- ⚠ Players seeking customization. The 11 fixed angles cannot be adjusted. If you need personalized angle settings or horizontal rotation adjustments, look at competitors like Stryper SwingMate. I also take issue with forcing a swing into a specific angle without purpose or consideration of your own body type and swing characteristics.
AVOID IF
- ✗ You don’t have an over-the-top swing. If you already hit draws, struggle with hooks, or have an inside-out path, this device addresses a problem you don’t have.
- ✗ You’re a true beginner (30+ handicap). Without basic grip, setup, and posture fundamentals, the Blue Brick may groove incorrect patterns. Get personalized instruction first.
- ✗ You need retail availability. Not sold through any major golf retailer—direct-to-consumer only. No hands-on testing before purchase, no price competition, no in-store returns.
The Bottom Line: Results Without Proven Verification
The B29 Blue Brick is a professionally engineered training aid that appears highly effective for its target demographic based on available testimonials. The constraints-based learning methodology is sound, the build quality is premium, and the efficiency gains for dedicated practitioners are real.
But here’s what you need to know before buying:
You’re making this purchase decision in a verification vacuum. The enthusiastic testimonials may represent typical user experiences, or they may represent the exceptional outcomes that motivated people to write reviews. We simply cannot tell because the normal ecosystem of golf equipment verification, Reddit discussions, forum debates, independent reviews, long-term follow-ups, doesn’t exist for this product. This is made more significant by proven spamming of these forums by accounts clearly advertising on behalf of Blue Brick, calling into question every discussion or post made.
The 60-day money-back guarantee becomes your primary risk mitigation. If you’re in the target demographic (over-the-top slicer, Clay Ballard follower, simulator user, or dedicated range practitioner), order it, test it thoroughly for 8-10 sessions, and keep it if it delivers results or return it if it doesn’t.
For everyone else, the combination of high price, lower priced alternatives, limited independent verification, and fixed-angle limitations suggests waiting for broader market validation or considering proven alternatives like basic alignment sticks, the pathpal, the Tour Aim system, or the adjustable Stryper SwingMate.
The Blue Brick may fix your slice. But you’re buying on faith in Clay Ballard’s reputation, not community-verified results.
Categorical Scoring Breakdown
| Category | Score | Max | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness | 21 | 30 | Immediate feedback works, but zero independent verification |
| Build Quality & Durability | 18 | 20 | Premium construction, but weight limits portability |
| Ease of Use | 19 | 20 | QR codes and quick-change drills excel, requires instructional context |
| Value for Money | 18 | 25 | Efficiency gains vs. DIY alternatives debate |
| Versatility | 5 | 5 | Genuinely covers full bag across multiple swing elements |
| TOTAL SCORE | 81 | 100 | B Rating |
Effective but Expensive with Verification Concerns
FAQ: Your Blue Brick Questions Answered
Does the Blue Brick work for left-handed golfers?
Can I use my own alignment sticks?
Will this work if I practice at a driving range with hard, compacted mats?
How long until I see results?
Is this just overpriced alignment sticks?
Can I travel with it or bring it to the course?
Do I need to follow Clay Ballard’s instruction to use this effectively?
What’s the best alternative if I don’t want to spend $169?
Is there a warranty or guarantee?
⛳ The 19th Hole: Final Verdict
A well-built, pricey, and bulky swing plane trainer that delivers rapid feedback for over-the-top swings, but you're buying into Clay Ballard's ecosystem with questionable independent verification to back up the manufacturer testimonials.
Birdie Score: 81/100