Does this justify a hybrid?

[Jmdmbike]

You're exactly right about swing speed. Last time I was on the meter, I was swinging high 70s, low 80s. I don't swing it with everything I have since I'm still working on my swing mechanics, tempo, and ball striking. I figured getting those more correct, more consistent, was most important and that eventually I'll work full speed swings into it. I know distance will eventually come for me and my clubs, but today I play the game so I still want to enjoy it now, hence the reason I'm looking into new options. I'm really glad to hear about your 7w experience. It's cool to see more people that really like fairway woods as much as I do. It seems (seemed?) like not that many people like to hit them.

I also went to the higher lofted fairway - 7 wood - to replace the 3 hybrid. Nice club to hit - easier than a hybrid with a lower loft IMHO. 9 wood would typically be a 4 iron / 4 hybrid replacement. If you're more comfortable with your fairway woods, you should definitely check out a 7 and a 9 wood.