Do you replace a 4i w/ a 4 hybrid?

J_Tizzle · April 15, 2020

In general, I'm all for it. Want the most playability of your clubs.

I have not ordered a 4i in any set of clubs I've purchased for a while. With that said, my 4i replacement is either my 4 driving iron (G410 Crossover) or a 4h (Adams 9031 23*). Both are great, but I prefer the Ping from the tee and my course has 2 par 3's that can reach out in the 220 range and 3 of the par 5's can be reached with the 4i if I nut a drive. Only time the Adams gets much play is if I'm playing a really long course, which sucks because I've hit some career shots with that Adams.

Pepperturbo · April 15, 2020

Though I don't use hybrid anything, I would think there's a difference between hybrid replacement iron and general hybrid. If I had to guess the latter would have a longer shaft and maybe a slightly different head design for purpose.

ChipNRun · April 15, 2020

"(If someone knows of new model sets still offering true IR hybrids, please share!)"
Follow-up from @mootrail :"The 2019 Mizuno JPX Fli-Hi Hybrid is their latest version of their long iron replacement for the JPX 919 Hot Metals. But they are miles different and better then the 2012 original for the JPX 800s and the 2014 update for the JPX EZs. The first two gens were built with the same length shaft, loft and covered the same distances as the irons they replaced. This version (2019) is built with a bit longer shaft then the corresponding iron and with a stronger loft."
Here's comparison of 2016 and 2019 FLI-HI models...
[img]https://s3.amazonaws.com/golfwrxforums/uploads/595/XZETPVLZF4SB.png[/img]The closest mesh between the two cycles is the 2016 5H and the 2019 6H.
The 2019 version retains the drop down crown. This keeps COG lower, and allows systematic bending of the hybrid to blend in with the Hot Metal irons family. The 2019 isn't a direct iron replacement hybrid as in 2016 - lofts and shaft lengths don't allow direct replacement. But, the JPX hybrids and the Hot Metals can be coordinated.One note: Mizuno has placed the base price for a 2019 FLI-HI at $125, the same as individual irons. So, a player can swap in FLI-HI hybrids without an upcharge.

bodhi555 · April 16, 2020

Depending on manufacturer you could investigate a 4 Hybrid with a steel shaft option, a la Webb? Titleist certainly used to offer this with the 818's, not sure about anyone else out there but may be worth trying?

Should be a shorter shaft so won't travel as far, should think it would be more accurate too.

Pepperturbo · April 17, 2020

@bodhi555 - not convinced a shorter shafted hybrid equates to less distance, depends on SS and ball striking skill. I hit my shorter 44" driver as far as a standard 45-46" driver. I don't believe an 1" length matters much to hybrid or wood. Besides, many people like myself naturally grip down 3/4" on all clubs.

mootrail · April 17, 2020

ChipNRun Posted: Apr 15 2020 4:15PM

"Here's comparison of 2016 and 2019 FLI-HI models...

The closest mesh between the two cycles is the 2016 5H and the 2019 6H."

I just picked up the new 6 and still have my old 5. It hasn't been out, but based on my new 4, I going to guess 10 yards longer. Can't wait to find out! The face is definitely hotter on the new ones.