Hybrid vs Iron

[dtlocke]

Every “hybrid versus iron” comparison I’ve seen compares a hybrid with a longer graphite shaft and swung less downward, to an iron with a shorter steel shaft swung more downward. Obviously those other variables affect the comparison. But I want to know: what is the effect of the clubhead itself? So I would really like to see a comparison that keeps the shaft type length and the swing style all the same but just uses a hybrid head versus an iron head. Has anyone seen such a comparison? If so, could you link me to it please? Thanks so much!

[SugarLandGolfer]

I think the issue is that it’s not a fair comparison for multiple reasons.

 

1) head weight - hybrid heads are typically heavier than iron heads, so it doesn’t really make sense to put the same shaft in them

2) center of gravity (cog) - by their very nature, hybrid heads have a very different cog than iron heads. This (typically) helps get the ball higher into the air for hybrids

3) graphite shaft and swing weight - steel shaft to graphite shaft won’t make sense. Most people with hybrids need some speed help on the long irons, so they get a lighter graphite shaft. Typically for swing weight purposes, graphite shafts are 1/2”-1” longer than their steel counterparts.

4) iron/hybrid purpose - typically the purpose of a hybrid is to do things you have trouble with in the iron it’s replacing. The two most common are forgiveness (moving cog backwards) and height (due to increased speed with lighter shaft and cog further back). 
 

Because of these things (and probably many more), I’m not sure what the usefulness of a direct comparison would be. The differences are intentional, and they are designed with specific goals in mind. 

[azgreg]

I build my hybrids with the same shaft, length, loft, and lie as the iron they are replacing. I notice a bit higher ball flight and slightly more distance but not much. The comparison is between Maltby TE irons and Nickent 3DX hybrids.

 

I also play a TM Rescue Mid 3 and 4 hybrid sometimes and they have longer and lighter shafts and are about a club longer than my 3 and 4 irons.

 

 

Edited April 24, 2021 by azgreg

[STL_Baller]

TXG did a great video of this recently comparing fairway, hybrid, and iron with the same loft (all be it whatever their stock shafts were).  Carry distance was very similar (within a few yards) the biggest differences were in launch, apex and spin.

 

FWIW I used to have a 21* 985h and a 21* 712CB both with the same length DG X100 in them.  They were within a few yards of carry but the hybrid landed softer and stayed much closer to its landing spot than the iron....my experience from back in 2012ish.