I am a high handicapper.  Last Spring I finally retired my old maple 4-wood and purchased a new Taylor Made R7 5-Metal.  I tried swinging the same way as I did my old club and could barely get the ball off the deck.  I tried moving the ball forward and backward in my stance and changing the angle of descent; all to no avail.   This hs been very frustrating because hitting my old 4-wood was one of the best shots in my bag, but the club was wearing out.   How should I be handling this new club?

David, I am not qualified to offer official advise.  However, I love my 5-wood (metal as you call it).  I have had a few that I couldn't hit well, but the one that fits my set (Warrior Custom Golf) is perfect.  Rather than buying a brand name off the shelf, I would suggest getting the proper fit from a pro.  They will check out your swing, the swing speed, and put that together will all your measurements to come up with a proper fitting club.  I know you probably like your R7, so do I.  But, my other clubs come from my set that I had fitted for me.  I would suggest at least taking your 5-wood to Nevada Bob's or some similar facility where they can measure you, check your swing using an electronic indicator, and letting you hit some clubs.  This Forum has a very good T2G Pro that will probably give you some better advise, but I find that there is no substitute for confidence.  I play with clubs that I have confidence.  I am getting older, so my swing speed may slow some soon.  When that happens, and my shots are consistantly off target, I will get another fitting.  Good luck, Scoops!