Portrush, July 1, 2012 (AFP) - McIlroy has swapped the driver that won his last year's US Open for a driver that is already providing him with an extra 15 yards off the tee.
The Northern Irishman has been testing the new Titleist 913 driver and been so impressed with computer testing feedback he put it in his bag for this week's Irish Open.
And with his next event being the British Open on July 19, McIlroy is already looking forward similar feedback with the driver at Royal Lytham and St. Annes.
"I have been testing the new 913 and all the Trackman numbers suggested I was hitting the ball longer and further," he said.
"I'm getting less spin which is great in the wind and it carries 15 yards further in calm conditions.
"The Titleist guys had it ready for me when I got here on Monday and I put it straight in the bag.
"I had my previous driver for almost two years but this one just performs so much better. I feel like I am hitting the ball a lot better than I am with this new driver and I feel that's going to make a huge difference, especially around Lytham.
"I am hitting the ball so much better, starting it on line, and controlling my ball flight better."
McIlroy indicated he will return to Royal Lytham and St. Annes later next week and for a first time in some five years since three-putting the final green to lose the 2005 Lytham Trophy to Scotland's Lloyd Saltman.
McIlroy heads to the final round of the Irish Open at Royal Portrush sharing 11th place at six under par and six strokes behind Welshman Jamie Donaldson, who carded a third round 69 to lead by a stroke on 12-under par.
McIlroy recorded just two birdies in his round at his second and third holes and with just one bogey, at fifth before ending with 13 straight pars.
"It was tough, it was tough out there, and I felt I played pretty well," he said.
"I gave myself a lot of chances for birdies but didn't quite take them. But you know, it's a decent score.
"I'm a little frustrated coming off the golf course because I do feel like I could have been a few lower."
McIlroy indicated he will return to Royal Lytham and St. Annes later next week and for a first time in some five years since three-putting the final green to lose the 2005 Lytham Trophy to Scotland's Lloyd Saltman.