Shaft length question

I have been fitted and measured, and all agree that I require 1 inch over on my iron lengths. I have been playing steel, and now am considering graphite.

Since graphite is usually 1/2 inch longer than steel on a given set, does that mean I would be 1/2 inch over for the graphite, or would I still be 1 inch over?

Also, should I apply the extra length requirement to a 3-4 hybrid I am consdiering?

Thanks

Ken1222,

Shaft length is the major factor which determines contact on the face. If you fit into one inch over on your irons, I would stick with one inch over on the hybrid as well. The reason why some companies make graphite shafts a half inch over is to compensate for the swing weight lost with a lighter shaft, so they do not have to use heavier heads. Although it simplifies things for them, it is not good for their customers. If you are +1 inch in steel, you will be +1 inch in graphite as well, assuming you retain the same swing mechanics switching from steel to graphite.

Since graphite is usually 1/2 inch longer than steel on a given set, does that mean I would be 1/2 inch over for the graphite, or would I still be 1 inch over?


I am not sure I understand your question, but the graphite should be longer than the steel, an 1/2 to an inch depending on the manufacturer, to maintain the swingweight. If your 1 inch over, that yields a heavy SW club in steel. If your swing stays the same you will need the standard graphite added length to give you the same swingweight so you would still need to be 1/2 over the steel length in graphite. An alternative is to go 1 inch over as in steel but try to weight the heads, BUT try the longer shafts first. Easy to cut, not too easy to lengthen the clubs to feel as if never cut.

I recently read an article by Tom Wishon regarding hybrids. The article made me think about the two Callaway Heavenwoods that are sitting in my closet because I can't seem to pure them the way I'd like. I have been forced to leave them out of the bag and have relied on a Adams I-Wood instead. I did a quick search and this was the closest thread I could find regarding my question. Keep in mind all my clubs are outfitted with Uniflex Steel shafts.

After reading the article I inspected my 2H and 3H against my normal 3 iron and found that the 2H (17*) was an inch longer than the 3 iron (38.5") and the 3H (20*) was half an inch longer than the same 3 iron. Mr. Wishon suggested that the hybrids should maintain the same length as the irons that they replace. The Adams club comes in at 38.5 inches (which is why I think I feel more comfortable with it) but the problem is its the same loft as my 4 iron so it becomes a little redundant. So my question is are most of you in line with Wishon's suggestion and playing hybrids that are the same length as the irons they replace or are you playing stock versions that may be longer? Should I have my Heavenwodds fit and cut down or learn to hit them the way they are?

Thanks in advance for your help,
Seth

I think this is a depends question. Part of the reason we use hybrids is that they are easier to hit. Making shafts longer negates this somewhat. The other reason, especially for slower swinger is to get proper yardage gaps. The longer shafts on the hybrids aids this since slow swingers often have only 5-8 yards between say a four and three iron. This is why companies are finally starting to design hybrids in lengths and lofts to match sets with proper gaps in mind. I suspect the first hybrids were an outgrouth of utility and escape clubs so this wasn't an issue. Like the original ginty.

Thanks Allin!

I think I am going to take my hybrids to a clubfitter and see what they think. Hopefully he will be able to shed more light on the subject. I am really not looking for more distance so much as I am looking for consistant yardage gaps. I also feel like they will be a little more accurate and easier to hit. If anyone else has any experience with this I would love to hear more.

Seth