Heavier shafts : better feel but distance lost?

bokbokgolf · July 3, 2006

Please help.....

Been playing with graphite shafts for about 3 years now. My average SS is in the low 70's
with smooth tempo. Carry distance for 7 irons is 145 yards but very high trajectory.
For some reasons, I just don't get the same feel compared to when I was playing with
steel shafts TTDG R300.

A friend of mine suggests me to swith back to TTDG R300 but with soft stepping i.e.
a 3iron shaft for 5iron head. Since I am not playing with 3&4 irons anyway so I figure
that it might not be a bad idea to try.

My question is will I really get the better feel back and how about any potential distance lost?

Appreciate comments please....

gunmetal · July 4, 2006

In the feel category, switching from graphite to steel is like switching from freshly cooked pizza to cold pizza - completely different feel - so yes you should get the same feel that steel provides if you go to steel - although soft stepping would change the feel from your original steel a bit.

Clearly you will lose some distance. The heavier the club, the less swing speed you'll be able to generate, which will result in less distance. It may not be much, but then again, it might be more than you thought. If you want to go steel, I'd recommend Precisions new Microlite Shaft as they weigh in around 80grams. I think they come in an A flex to, which might suit you well.

bokbokgolf · July 6, 2006

Yes, Microlite A Flex might be more suitable for me. Thanks

duker51 · July 11, 2006

I went with heavier (134 grs stiff) steel shafts in my irons, and a heavier (88 grs between stiff and X stiff) graphite driver shaft on my club fitter's recommendation. I have never driven the ball better and my accuracy with my irons has improved greatly. I would suggest you work with a club fitter to find out what is really best for your swing speed and level of ability. I did it, and it really changed my game. I was stuck at 11 for the last 2 years, and I am now enjoying my 7.4 hdcp. I didn't make any swing changes, I just had the shafts changed and I dropped 3.5 strokes. The right gear makes a difference. Good luck in your search!!!