Steel vs Graphite Shafts

[Haze]

What are the major differences in shafts? Does one give more distance than the other? What is everyone's preference? Also what about stiffness? I know there is firm, stiff, extra stiff and so on. How do you determine which one is best for you? Does either one help fight slicing? Thanks.

[Everardo]

What are the major differences in shafts?
Vibration dampening and construction. Since you can find steel or graphite in a variety or weights, flexes, bend profiles, etc everything else can stay similar. There are old myths and notions that graphite is cheap, meant for seniors or ladies...don't believe them.

Does one give more distance than the other?
Simple answer is NO. The general idea is that graphite will give better distance because the shaft itself is lighter which allows you to swing the club a little faster. However you can find graphite and steel shafts in a variety of weights.

What is everyone's preference?
Most people's preference are steel because it's what most players grew up playing. In the past steel was far superior to graphite so people used it more, plus steel is generally more cost effective. Graphite quality and cost have been getting better in recent years though.

Also what about stiffness? I know there is firm, stiff, extra stiff and so on. How do you determine which one is best for you? Does either one help fight slicing? Thanks.
You can get whatever stiffness you want/need in either steel or graphite. No material in general will help slicing more than the other, that lies with your swing and have the correct shaft fit for you.

As far as picking the correct one, I personally would be skeptical of anyone trying to fit you online, without seeing your swing and talking with you personally.

If you don't know of one in the area, I can help find a few clubfitters for you to talk with.