Gaps -- how much is too much??

[RoyJeeBiv]

it seems most iron sets have 4* gaps between clubs -- though in my recent experience, i played the best round of my life with a short set, with anywhere between 6*-8* between my irons/wedges.  this got me thinking that each player must have a 'breaking point' where the gaps become too large for comfort.

so, if you were building/buying a personalized set of irons, think about how much of a gap you could safely leave between the majority of your clubs (i.e. mid and short irons, possibly even wedges) and still score consistently.

can you not live without 4* gaps??

could you still rock a bag with 10* gaps between clubs??

somewhere in-between??

[tomvk77]

Well it all comes out to your own feeling. i have 6* gaps. and like it this way.

details below

[WUTiger]

The old rough planning rule for numbered irons:  { + 4* loft + 1/2" shaft length} = 10 yard gain in distance

This assumes average clubhead speed and striking ability. Tour pros, it's no surprise, often have 12 - 15 yd. gaps between numbered irons.

http://www.golfdigest.com/golf-equipment/whats-in-my-bag

Some of the club manufacturers go down to 3* gaps in the long irons, or only 2* if set has a 2 iron.

One thing to consider: If you do play long irons, you may find the 3i, 4i and 5i only have 3* loft differences. If you find this, consider bending the 5i 1* strong, the 3i 1* flat, and drop the 4i. You save a club amid the longer irons, allowing you to add a hybrid or another wedge.

For most models of wedges, be aware that there's only a 1/4" shaft length difference most of the time, and for Cleveland a 1/8" difference. So, figure this into your distance planning when gauging loft gaps for wedges.