No, because I'm worried of the wear and tear on the shafts. Probably should look into that stat a little more. I use graphite for woods and hybrids with no problem so I don't know why I'm not looking at graphite for irons.
Changed to graphite a decade ago as it helps to stop tennis/golfers elbow. I certainly have tried steel since, and don't hit them as well. Now, here's the interesting thing, I recently bought the BENROSS COMPRESSOR TYPE R irons but have a senior flex graphite. I'm 12 handicap swing a driver around 85-90 mph. I totally pure these irons. My mates also have tried my irons, and each to a man absolutely kills it. When they realise it's an "old man's" flex, they say "I can't hit that", yet...... they just did!! My opinion is that it's down to ego. Graphite use to be quite whippy compared to steel but not anymore. Finally, as you state, we all use graphite in drivers and wouldn't think about steel. Would be interesting for you to try senior flex and I would hazard a guess that you hit them just as good.
Hi Andy I got fitted for new irons yesterday & tried all the shaft options including graphite, best shafts were 80g steel, graphite were 85g, and not as good. :-(
@@alanjordan6198 strange why any fitter would put a heavier graphite for you to try over a lightweight steel. That makes absolutely no sense. Did you not try something like a 55/60gram offering? That's where they shine.
Never played anything BUT graphite in irons. From my first set of Mizunos to my current MP-18 SCs. Went through a fitting every time (3 times altogether) and always preferred graphite over steel. With things like that, it's all about feel and preference. I don't care whether others (or maybe even the majority) use steel. My irons, my swing, my game.
I have always had steel shafts in my irons and today i got a custom fit on the p790's and surprisingly the UST RECOIL shaft S Flex was by far the best for me which was a big shock. The feel, lauch angle and distance was fantastic! Definitely recommend people being more open to trying graphite shafts 👍
I am always happy when I get to see another of your reviews. I am a hybrid/Fairway woods player. Recently had added two Cleveland CBX Wedges. Bought them both with graphite shafts. I am waiting for the delivery of the 60 degree one but I have been using the 48 degree one for the last six rounds of golf. I love the feel of graphite with it. I have never considered myself very skilled with a wedge but thats changing fast now. I chipped in a birdie with the 48 degree one yesterday. It also earned me numerous pars as well. Golfers maybe use a 48 degree from much further out but this one is very effective right next to the green as well. I had been using an old Adams chipper which is supposed to make life easier. I have far more control with the light graphite Cleveland CBX wedge. Thanks for this review Andy. Spider Dubiel
1st tried graphite around 1996 at Oakland Hills Mi. Yardage control biggest problem, then switched back to S300 steel. Currently using CF16 XP95 R300 steel, was fitted in the week and am going to switch to F9 Irons with Graphite shaft which demonstrated best dispersion and longer than my CF 16's by 12 yards. The CF19 was a couple of yards longer still, but £300 more for the 6 irons it was a no-brainer. Took the new Callaway 4 Hybrid to replace the 4 iron OMG it long my man it sooo long I'm contemplating taking the 3h and dropping my 3 wood. I agree graphite shafts have come on in leaps and bounds over the last couple of years and anyone looking at new clubs should try them in BOTH Steel AND Graphite. Be ready to be surprised if not shocked. Gr8 Video Thx.
Just changed for the same reason, swing a little steadier and the irons being lighter have certainly helped. Don't think I'll go back as I'm getting older now
Thanks for the video, good subject. After playing Pings and Titleists with steel shafts, mostly KBS Tour, for a long time, I recently went back to my old 1990's Cobras with graphite shafts. I play very nicely with them, AGAIN, LOL. The thing is that the graphite shafts are more shock aborbing and therefore there is less wear and tear on my arms, shoulders, and chest muscles. I can play everyday and not experience a lot of fatigue. I would say that steel shafts are a bit more consistent, but then I am not playing in championships like the young guys do. My graphite shafted irons are great for what I do and they allow me to play everyday without a lot of stress on my body.
I was just fitted for the Mizuno JPX919 Hot Metals and, to my surprise, the best shaft was a Recoil Stiff by UST. What surprised me was the lightness of the shaft versus steel, the dispersion was tighter, and it was just as far as steel.
Thanks for this video. I note that your steel shaft brings in the long left shot. Often particularly destructive to a score. Probably linked to swinging harder and hence getting a little ‘stuck’. I have been playing graphite for years to allow me to swing easier, focus on tempo. The key is not to fall into the trap of hitting them too hard. Yes, you can hit your 7 iron 180 if you use your s300 swing but then you give up the advantage of ‘playing within yourself’.
A little confused on something, the fitting process. From my understanding with shafts there are no industry standards, so a stiff shaft may be equal to an extra stiff shaft with another manufacturer. I have Mizuno jpx 850 with steel shafts, True Temper XP 105. My current club speed with my 5 iron is 75-80 mph. If I walk in to get fitted for some graphite shafts, where do we start at? There are so many different manufacturers out there, with different weights, different bend points and so on. How do I know that guy is not just trying the 3 he likes and how do I know I'm getting the best graphite shafts for me?
Played modus 120x all throughout college in tournament play, 34 yrs old now and for the first time put in graphite Fujikura Axiom VeloCore 105x in my irons. I haven’t been this accurate since my college tournament years and it’s literally sparked new level of enjoyment and confidence. Literally if you haven’t tried it, do your favor and get got and give it a shot. Very tough to to find fitting centers that have wide ranges of stock and high end aftermarket composite shafts I should mention, but if you have that option at your availability, don’t hesitate. Graphite has some such a long ways since the past. Look at Bryson and Sergio, even DJ and others have dabbled with great success. One thing I have to mention, with graphite, you need to have a very knowledgeable club builder to make sure the build and swing weight is in check. Axiom shafts are by far one of the best to build with, just have to take your time prepping the shaft from .370 parallel tip down to .355 taper tip (my irons are taper tip).
I went to the steelfiber i95 regular shafts in my gaming irons from the project x 6.0.And i was a skeptic myself being i played steel shafts my whole life.And i will probably never go back after switching to the steelfiber shafts.I get perfect ballflight for me abd i am able to flight them down as well.And the ability to stop my shots out of the rough is amazing.I get 1 hop and stop with these shafts comparably to my old project x 6.o,s that i couldn't get nowhere near the stop of my steelfiber i95 regular shafts.And i also am able to practice alot longer becsuse they are so much lighter and I don't get tired as quickly as i did practicing with the steel shafts.So i am a graphite shaft iron player for life now.Glad i made the switch i have dropped 6 shots off my handicap in only 8 months with the steelfiber i95,s its my approach shot percentage thats been the difference i averaged 6.5 to 8 greens a round to now i average 10 to 12.5 freens a round.
Hi Andy great discussion topic. My last 3 sets of irons were graphite, I am getting fit for new ones this year, if we ever end lock down. I have played the game for 60 years, never used wood but have used steel, fiberglass, aluminum, graphite and various combinations of material. It really comes down to what works best for our swing type.
My favourite club in the bag (5 wood) had a Kura Kage graphite shaft and when i went for a custom fit on my irons there was an option to try the same shaft so i tried it and loved the feel - Graphite all through the bag now 👍
I live in Texas and have been using Calloway graphite shafts for drivers and irons since 2001. I will never go back to steel as the graphite are more accurate and the feel is better. Since switching, I rarely ever hit a slice or hook as the shaft feel seems to make you play better. You can actually feel how the shaft swings thru its arc. You have to try it to believe it.
Playing Aldila graphite shafts at around 62g in my irons and I really like them. That being said, I never played steel, nor did I ever play heavy shafts in my irons, so there was nothing for me to get used to. Even the 2004 Adams irons I started out with already had graphite shafts in them. At this point I've gone as far and switched from S400 in my wedges to graphite shafts from UST, at around 88g uncut a bit heavier than my iron shafts for added control, especially when gripping down. The putter is the only steel shafted club left in my bag.
Got LAGolf A-series in my set. I’ve always been graphite for shafts and will say the shafts have improved. The LA shafts added 15 yards when fitted compared to KBS shafts but do have a much different feel that I’ve not gotten a chance to get comfortable with in playing situations.
Just had an iron fitting yesterday and was put into Cobra Forged Tecs with the Arccos graphite shafts. It felt odd at first, but performed beautifully. Can't wait to get them and take them out to the course.
Hi I was a graphite shaft player but moved over to soft regular steel (really light weight shaft) due to durability and have never looked back. Great Ping clubs and shafts. Lee
I was fitted by Golf Principles in Basingstoke who recommended changing from S300 120 gram to Accra 85 gram in stiff, it has taken time to adjust but now I really like them and as you said they feel very easy to hit. One thing I would say is depending on where they cut the shaft it can feel thinner so you might need extra tape to achieve the same diameter.
I have tried some graphite shafts on a simulator. Currently I play the DG S300 105’s. But I just purchased the JPX923 Pro’s with UST Recoil 95 F3 shafts. What a difference on the simulator. I should receive them next week. Can’t wait.
Quite a few tour pros use graphite shafts in just their long irons. I used to play the old generation graphite shaft irons and they were terrible. They actually started to split apart at the bottom. But this was 15+ years ago. Seriously thinking of trying graphite again as it's much better now as my speed and body need the help.
Great video Andy. At this moment I am testing P760 and Z785 irons with graphite shafts to maybe replace my V6 irons. I am 51 and a 6 handicap and have played steel shafts in my irons because I thought to have better control with them. If you go into a fitting with an open mind people can be surprised. I find graphite just as good, if not better. I want to carry a bag on my back and than graphite means a lighter bag. Graphite gives less vibration through impact on the wrist, elbow, muscles. And it seems like as you mentioned my tempo is better.Ian from TXG ypu tube channel did a great video explaining that their is no logical reason not to consider graphite in irons. Only negative with graphite is they are more expensive and the shafts are more vulnerable.
Ray, I also play the V6 irons and cannot imagine a better iron. I play to a 9hc. I am however considering having them re-shafted with a lightweight steel or possibly a graphite shaft. Lot cheaper than a new set and honestly the tech in all the newer heads is pretty much the same. Imo
wgrooms719 Hi, because I couldn’t try graphite shafts with the V6 head I didn’t knew what shaft would be a good match with the head. And that beside of the cost because reshafting at my golfstore wasn’t cheap with a good graphite shaft. After a lot of testing several brands and heads with shafts I got an even better fit than my V6 irons in the MP18 blade with graphite ProjectX LZ tour shafts. Never thought I could /would play a real blade but gave me on several days the best numbers on trackman and the six iron demo did it also great on course. Have the MP18 in PW-5 and the 4 iron in the MP18 MCC fligh high. Love the Project X LZ tour graphite shaft....90 grams ..so not too light and great control (not “whippy”) . Maybe this shaft is an option if you decide to reshaft the V6 irons..?
Hi Andy I used graphite shafts in Calloway big Bertha 30 years ago ! Used steel ever since but I’m getting fitted for Ping g 410 Irons on Monday and I’m giving graphite a go !
Today i tried srixon irons with Recoil regular shaft. This was a shock. No vibration. Better dispersion. Great sensasion. Even the tempo is better. My swing speed is moderate.
After hitting a ladies club with a Recoil graphite shaft in ladies flex. My tempo and swing speed got slower but I felt more control because I could feel the weight of the head much more. After that I have started to thinking to switch to graphite shafts. The club maker recommended the Aerotech steel fibre i95 stiff. I currently play the $-Taper 120 Black PVD in stiff.
I purchased the Mizuno JPX 900 Forged and I tried them in the KBS Tour 90 R Shaft and hit them dead straight. Tried the UST Mamiya Recoil 95R F3 Graphite shafts and hit the ball 8 yards further with a draw and picked up 3.8 MPH ball speed and 1.3 MPH clubhead speed. I love them
Seriously considering the ust recoil shafts. Mizuno DNA had them around sixth in most suitable match for me with the kbs tour and Nippon modus as the top two recommended. But tried the recoil f4 shaft and likewise my dispersion left/right, long/short was so tight compared to the recommended shafts, few extra yards and spin. Was a real eye opener using the 919 tour head.
I await the arrival of my new Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal irons with UST Recoil F3, replacing Ping G20's with CFS steel. While I may have brought an unusually decent swing to the recent fitting day, this graphite shaft was more gentle to my increasingly arthritic, 69 year old hands -- and the club head/shaft combo showed nice medium launch and reduced dispersion. 11.7 index.
Interesting video. Club fitters in our area have suggested as you near 60 years of age to start considering graphite shafts in irons. I would assume for many reasons you have mentioned.
I recently turned 70, which I find hard to believe LOL. Anyway, I play my old Cobra graphite irons now because they are easier on my body. Steel shafts transmit a lot of shock energy directly to the hands, arms, and shoulders. I play everyday, and I don't experience fatigue that I had previously. I hit a lot of balls and then I play too. I think every golfer has to make their own choices as to what to use, when.
As a professional Club builder for over 35 years and observing your swing, firstly I would never put you in S300 Iron shafts...You simply do not have the swing speed or grunt to warrant the stiff flex...Secondly your experience with graphite `R` makes greater sense. They are longer in the shaft and more flexible to suit your swing..However graphite shafts are inconsistent in their performance and do not have the consistency of steel shafts...It's a compromise you have to decide best suits your game....At your age, smoothness of swing and body flexibility `R` flex Dynamic Gold would be my recommendation...2 degrees upright...
Then how was he more consistent with the graphite shafts? It didn't look like he was compromising anything to use graphite. I think the inconsistency I always hear about is a myth
@@heavyglassglass Consistency is a relative term. The construction material contrast between graphite and steel is vy. easy to compare at the manufacturing level. Further, put these shafts on a frequency match unit and witness the oscillation difference between the two shafts. Steel shafts oscillate in a uniform manner compared to graphite.. This transfers to consistency with the golf swing and results...This is NOT.a myth but a scientific fact....Still further graphite provides a soft feel when hitting the golf ball. As golf is a game of feel you receive greater feedback in hour hands from steel shafts....especially mis hits...resulting in greater awareness and improved performance especially around the greens.. Hence all gt. players still use steel in their wedges...
Very interesting video, thanks for posting ☺ After a back injury I got fitted for graphite shafts in my irons about 26 years ago, they were great back then, lighter to swing and less vibration when hitting the ball, they really helped with my back I've recently started playing again after a long break, and will be upgrading from my old irons in the near future, and I will be going graphite shafts again for the same reasons as stated above
Great video as always. I have no problem with graphite iron shafts, have had a few over the years. Presently playing them in my Callaway's. I think year's ago quality may have been a concern, consistency and head torque not as well controlled as steel. I know now that qc is way better and there are way more custom fit options available using graphite over steel. My buddies are ego driven and feel graphite for slow swing speed and seniors. Well I am a geezer and don't care, usually lighter and less wear and tear on joints. Golf here in central B.C. coming to an end and I am heading south to Arizona. Made some progress in the index and handicap-5.4 index, 6 cap on my home course, really happy that short game and putting have come around. Good fun Andy, cheers from Canada.
simple answer for launch: lighter graphite sends ball more down the target line; heavier steel shaft drops mass more vertically, sending ball more in the air
Hi the last clubs I used were taylor made 360 with regular graphite shafts I found them kind to hands and arms ,I’m just starting back and hope there kind to me again . Good to get the question out there 👍🏻
I've been playing graphite shafts in my irons for 20 years and would never go back to steel. One major difference I found is a whole lot less wear & tear on the body. When playing a lot of golf I used to get some aches and pains in my left shoulder. About 20 years ago I tried the graphite shafts because they were something new and different and I was amazed that after about a month my shoulder aches disappeared. So to this day the only steel shaft I have is in my 56 deg. wedge.
I've always used reg steel shafts, but recently been shopping for irons. I was shocked when I tried a taylormade q10 hl (high lanch) iron with a 50 gram a flex fujikura speeder gray/black shaft Compared to all the rest of irons I hit (which was a lot) with different irons and shafts. I hit this straiter and longer with what seemed no effort. I will try them again before buying. Hope you do a video on the taylormade q10 hl irons because I didn't find but a couple on them. Enjoy watching yours
I have tried graphite shafts in irons when I got fitted for my new irons. The club head speed went up with graphite and the carry distance improved. I bought the irons with graphite shaft and have got on with them very well. I won't go back to steel shafts.
When I first started playing golf a little over 20 years ago, I bought a set of irons with graphite shafts, I liked the way they felt, but I kept breaking the shafts, although I'm sure modern graphite shafts are much more durable, I'm still weary about switching back to them.
I just went and got fit for a new set of irons. After about an hour hitting different club/shaft combos, another fitter came into the bay, he watched 3 of my swings, and then suggested to my fitter that he try me in an Alta CB shaft (pings stock graphite shaft) and I proceeded to hit the absolute best shots I hit all day. Suffice to say, I was won over. My new irons are on their way, all with graphite shafts, and I cannot wait to get them and put them in the bag!
Well,this vlog is timely,i had a set of Taylormade 09 Burners with Dyn Gold S300s,i played them for 10 yrs (in that time my Hcp has gone from 8 to 13 and is now back to 11)and loved them.Then age(58 now) and a sore lower back caught up with me and i replaced the shafts with Project X graphites which were slightly less stiff,loved them,however,i got the old i need new clubs syndrome so i got the Titleist AP3s with the AMT Black Steel in Reg,well it's been 5 weeks now and i'm struggling with them,so i'm thinking of swapping out the shafts on one club to see how the graphite goes in the AP3. By the way i grew up in Prescot,left for Sydney when i was 21 never got back and have an Aunt and Uncle in Rainford,you should do a Down Under Tour
My ball speed and distance increased with use of graphite at my fitting. Using fujikara 70 G Vista pro. With mizuno Jpx 919 hot metal iron. Still haven’t pushed the button to purchase. Previously I had ping G 5 with stiff steel
Recently tried a graphite shaft regular stiffness with a Callaway Apex DCB seven iron. My ball flight seemed quite high, but that didn't bother me that much. They seemed much easier to hit versus my S300 Dynamic Gold steel shafts. The Callaway rep indicated that graphite will be easier for older players. Going into a fitting soon and will be definitely all over the graphite option for my irons. My biggest question is this: Are the steelfiber shafts worth the extra $70-100 per club???
Hi Andy Totally agree with you. My golf buddy has been fitted twice by Ping into graphite shafts. His last fitting 2018 was for the Ping hollow irons with graphite shafts and wow he is like a different player.Very consistent and with a regular draw. I have tried them and must agree they feel very good. I think that many golfers have hybrids and driving irons and use them as a go to club. Maybe usage of these have made us more receptive to graphite irons.
Yes Andy tried graphite shafts in a set of callaway great big bertha irons it was a long time ago, the problem at that time was they weren't consistent enough, when the weather was hot all of a sudden you hit a hit ball 30 yards further, steel was always more consistent. But I totally agree with you now the graphite shafts for irons 2018 are superb, I tried a friends the other day excellent I still prefer steel but that is a weight and feel thing for me. Who knows in another 5 years when my arthritis in my hands gets worse graphite may be my number one choice great video mate cheers Peter
@@TheAverageGolfer give it a go Andy it's only a set of shafts in and out if you don't like them just go back to steel, I don't thing you would go back to steel, my mate wouldn't and that's only after 2 months.
I absolutely love my graphite shafted irons. My irons are also like small shovels with large offset, don't knock it until you try it. I hit my 7 iron around 160 yards without stepping on it.
I game cleveland launcher hb with the 60 gram shafts. As my game got better i added lead tape to the head to increase the swing weight to d3, now they actually feel heavier than the stock setup in steel shafts. Love graphite, no soreness, easier swing, less feel tho.
I play the Titleist 716 AP1 with the Mitsubishi Kuro Kage TiNi 65 graphite shaft, and i love them. All my mates are giving me a hard time, saying "graphite shafts are for senior citizens...", but for me they work great.
I have had a set of Swix graphite shafts with torque less than the Rifle 6.0 shafts I'm using in Callaway Prototype blade irons now. However I am updating my bag and am looking at the UST Recoil shafts which I think I will put in either a set of Wilson, Cobra or Mizuno irons. Currently I'm off 6, just come back to the game after 10 years out and going to get back down low, I think graphite shafts will help with that
Hi Andy, tried clubs the other week. Fitter put in a few different shafts from 80g to 115g. Ended up trying graphite 80g reg. Hit the ball really well. Increased ball speed, dispersion good. Certainly something I'll look at when getting my next new set of irons. Great topic. Would like to have seen your ball flight when you were hitting the ball.
hi Andy, I did use a bubble shafts in my old taylormade burner lcg irons. I had my 2 best score's with them. 70 gross of the yellows at prestatyn and a 69 gross of the whites at pennant park in a comp. I only sold them as I thought I was losing distance to newer technology. maybe a return to graphite is needed. cheers Andy
+The Average Golfer I'd love to be hitting in the high 70's regularly again. still loving the game though. almost tempted to source a set of the old clubs to see what would happen.
Was on the fence about steel vs graphite for my new AP1s. I had the tour issue recoils in my AP2s but could never get them dialed in. I believe I was fitted improperly though. After watching this video I pulled the trigger on a new set of AP1s with the Tensei red graphite shafts. Thanks for helping me come to a decision. Cheers!
Hi I have just been to a demo day for Srixion irons & the shaft that came out best was mahana with a stiff shaft & to be quite honest they were amazing after playing with steel shafts they were good & I felt I didn’t have to swing the club any faster to get the distance I require.
Hi andy 2 months ago I was a 23 handicap I went to have a lesson and the pro suggested I get fitted so off I went after trying a number of different options I came away with Wilson d300 irons with graphite shafts swing speed went up dispersion was a lot tighter now handicap is at 16 because of hitting the greens more often now I’m thinking of a putter fitting
I've never owned graphite irons but have played a rental set some years ago. I missed every shot to the right but that might be down to the shaft being too soft for me. I did however see a significant improvement on my green side short game.
Yes i had Lynx Black cat's years ago with their famous Flared Graphite shaft in em.......had 2 hole in one's with them...but changed over to steel shafted Ping raptures.... which i am now looking @ also replacing.
Just bought a used set of PXG's to give them a go. My concern was that the shaft was Aerotechs Steelfiber shaft, albeit in Stiff flex. I figured if it didn't suit me I'd just have to spend the money on getting the shafts replaced. They're superb! Very easy to hit and the numbers were more consistent than with my steel shafts. A bit more testing required but I think I'll be way more open to graphite options from now on. Of course, the Steelfiber is a special kind of shaft with steel and graphite mixed so probably performs more like a steel shaft would, just lighter, but anyway, just positive about them so far.
just had fitting for ping clubs, ended up with graphite shafts, wasn't expecting it but the numbers backed it up. that's why i watched this video to get your opinion.
You couldn’t keep the grin off your face when you were hitting with the graphite shafts….I know that feeling 😃….I’ve recently moved over to some TM M1’s with graphite shafts and I love them. I’m a slow swinger of the club and these compliment my swing perfectly….no stigma…just my choice…and if I go for a fitting I’d still be very keen to have graphite shafts in my irons.
Andy, I had Titleist irons graphite, two different Cobra sets and Ping G15 with graphite. Enjoyed all of them, latest irons Ping G have steel because that's what the fitter recommended. Would have no problem using graphite iron shafts again since I had no issues. By the way I have used 5 different materials in shafts over the decades - would you believe Hickory, steel, fibreglass, aluminium and graphite. Fibreglass was poor but aluminium was good but easily damaged.
I prefer graphite over steel. I've had several shoulder injuries playing ice hockey and the graphite shafts absorb the vibrations that would transfer to that area. Translates into less fatigue at the end of a round.
Never tried graphite shafted irony other than the odd biff with other folks kit. They used to be thought of as designed to help golfers who were leaking distance and the flexes reflected that. Guess that may be changing. I always worried about wear and tear on the graphite in the bag but I suppose long shafted head covers would protect against that. Certainly bears some thinking about.
Just went to a SrixonCleveland fitting. Tge zx series were amazing. I was thinking steel, by the time I was done the 95g regular flex RECOIL F3 shafts were the clear option and it wasn't close. I was surprised
Done exactly the same went to spain played twice with graphite. Always played steel. Played some of the best golf all yr with the graphite. So much so came back and swapped my mp18sc for a set of graphite srixon 565 with the mayazaki shaft. Except for the micky taking on the course im loving them
Very good. Your dispersion was improved, because of the smoother tempo you achieved with the graphite. Better centre strike. With the steel you feel as though you have to get it through the ball so you force it a little. ( that’s just my opinion) I had the same or similar experience, I’m now using AP3 with a 90 gram steel fibre they are superb. And like you if someone would of suggested graphite well !!! I went to Precision Golf I went with an open mind and wow the new lighter shafts work. Great video,s keep up the good work. Cheers
The thing you are not talking about is KICK POINT! really this means release moment after contact. Look you said your regular shaft were high launch so this means your kick point is low and is to help golfers to get the ball airborn, middle and high kick point means a lower ball flight but more distance and lower ball spin, so if you purchase a SR or regular shaft with a high kick point you will hit the ball farther and more constant than a steel stiff shaft, in all your clubs including driver. To many golfers but what the manuf is selling and not what they need to improve their game.
Always used steel shafts in my irons Ping ZZ-65 stiff shafts 108.6grams. Just got fit for some PXG 0211 irons in Mitsubishi MMT 70 shafts. They're amazing! My tempo is better I make better contact gained 3mph club head speed added 9 yards/ club. (Lofts same in sets and best of all I swing it as good on my last shot as the first. Used to be spent come the 18th hole hands and wrist hurt now ready for another 18. I will never go back!
I have played graphite for years, this year I went back to steel to try to tighten up my dispersion after playing all year with KBS tour 90 shafts in my irons I'm going back to graphite.
I play a graphite regular ust shaft in Apex Pro 16 irons that took me from 17 down to 11.5 due to accuracy improvement. Got them second hand cheap is why I got graphite. I would've never bought those shafts new but now am biased toward the graphite.
Use graphite shafts in my irons after a recommendation, to aid tennis elbow. They are fantastic and as you say, I don’t seem to have to swing as hard, therefore produce more rhythm. I’d never go back to steel.
I have been using graphite for 10 years in my irons living in Canada. First started with Taylor Made Irons, This year I purchased a new set of Srixon irons with graphite and I love them. Would never use anything else.
Now that I have made it through the whole video, I have actually rebuilt a set of XR irons with graphite shafts, and like the feel. Graphite is rarely used in irons, as you mention, aside from seniors or ladies. I still think it is more of an ego thing.
I just stepped out of a set of KBS Tour C-taper 130X steel shafts to UST Recoil 95 Stiff. My swing speed has dropped about 10mph on driver and I got fitted and UST Recoil 95 graphite is what worked best. I also feel like I wear out over a round and am tired at the end and swinging 130X was just tough where now I go play 27 holes and feel fine.
Just been fitted for mavrik max/pro combo irons with graphite shafts, felt so more responsive, normal speed and carry 7 iron 75mph 140 carry, graphite gave me 81mph 150 carry felt so much better, found it hard not to hit out of the middle
Change in launch angle. Could the heavier shaft lead to an ever so slight cast that leads to delivering slightly more loft, thus launching a degree higher?
Very worthwhile video Andy , I am personally looking at changing to a new set with graphite , I used to sell Howson/Hippo across Europe and could never understand why people would buy irons with graphite shafts , now that the technology has advanced so much it has to be considered as you rightly say there has always been a barrier to that choice mainly due to us thinking its for women .
I have graphite shafts in my irons, I used to suffer from golfers elbow using steel shafts, never had a problem since using graphite. I get a higher ball flight and wouldn't use anything else.
Andy, I’m quite surprise that you can drastically change the shaft weight from 130 gm. to 55 gm. without any big different in swing speed, you must be very well adapted to different total weight and swing weight. I had switched from NS Pro 950 S to KBS TOUR 90s to Steelfiber almost 10 years ago due to ache and pain but I have to say that steelfiber did have a very similar feel to steel shaft but I had maintained similar shaft weight and also built my sets of i20 and s55 to the same MoI. Now switch over to i500 with UST Recoil F4 and the result is really excellent. I believe that with current technology, graphite shaft is offering better performance and fitment to any golfers much better than steel shafts. I’ll never go back to steel.
I have tried both. Every time i am professionally fitted i prefer graphite. They balance better and seem more consistent. Yes, there is the stigma of graphite but i like it better.
Tried Ping i210 and i500 7 irons with recoil graphite shafts on a couple of rounds last week (borrowed from the pro) Heads aside, the clubs just feels so much nicer to swing, lighter, and are a better shock absorber (easy on the elbows). Its graphite for me when I change the irons after Xmas
Had graphite shafts in the first ever set of irons I brought, they were okay but the odd one would really fly a fair bit further than expected. That was many years ago , recently tried some yo ex irons with a graphite shaft but just couldn't control the club head they just felt too soft and whippy.
No offense but this is the kind of misinformation that turns people off graphite shafts. There are no known physics that would allow a shaft to change properties from shot to shot so the cause of that odd one flying farther was something else like a flyer out of the rough or, for the inconsistent hitters out there, hitting one flush when you normally don't. You might have a difference from shaft to shaft, but even that I would highly doubt. You never hear about that sort of thing with drivers so I'm not sure why it would suddenly happen with irons.
I’ve been playing graphite in my irons for 2 years. I’m usually fit into project x 6.5 130 gram shafts. I swing driver about 117mph. But I prefer a lighter weight shaft. Couldn’t find a lightweight steel that was stable enough. The graphite shaft in my irons is 85 grams but plays as stiff as the project x 6.5 steels. Graphite is stiffer by weight than steel so it’s a great option. Also they dampen vibration really well so a cold day with a mis hit doesn’t hurt your hands at all. I’ll never play steel again.
Easy answer is skill level. If you play graphite over steel shafts on a dry course the steel shafts can cary though the terrain. My graphite’s shafts bend or catch and loose almost all club speed and power.
i recently had my irons and wedges fitted graphite 85g stiff and 100g stiff from 115g stiff steel I also went down 10g on driver and fw and a little shorter I'm still getting to the I had developed an over swing with the old combination I think we are more inclined to swing within ourselves with the lighter club and thus get a better result . i tried 85g stiff steel and it was too whippy for me . I not saying its the answer but you often hear the pros saying they're swinging a 75/80 % and they are in the top level of sports people , I think we think that they mean their flat out max speed when its actually their max controlable speed we on the other hand try to swing at 75/80% of our max speed I'm working on control as opposed to my old smash and bang theory hopefull it will net better scores
Graphite shafts vary a lot in quality. The best I have used are Penley iron shafts. They are very expensive but consistent across a set. The best for myself are the lightweight steel Nippon shafts. I have similar performance at a much lower cost. Consider using a softer shaft as well. I am using the nippon 950 GH and like it a lot. The lighter and softer shafts just make it easier for average swing speeds.
That may have been true in the past, but it is no longer true. You will find that After market graphite shaft have much tighter tolerances than steel shafts.
@@banditbaker1675 I was very impressed with the Tensei and also had a try with the UCT recoil shaft and also impressive. Also very sorry to hear about your health and I hope you are on the mend, best wishes on behalf of all TAGERS
Many thanks Andy, that is appreciated. The treatment that I have received from the medics has been superb, so hopefully it wont be too long before I can get back out onto the golf course.
I play the aerotech steel fibres in my irons. They are amazing! no more tennis elbow too! Graphite shafts are still evolveing but steel are not. The big change now is graphite shafts don't come in silly colours and graphics all over them. the steel fibres most people think they are steel
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
Have you ever tried graphite shafts in irons?
No, because I'm worried of the wear and tear on the shafts. Probably should look into that stat a little more. I use graphite for woods and hybrids with no problem so I don't know why I'm not looking at graphite for irons.
Changed to graphite a decade ago as it helps to stop tennis/golfers elbow. I certainly have tried steel since, and don't hit them as well. Now, here's the interesting thing, I recently bought the BENROSS COMPRESSOR TYPE R irons but have a senior flex graphite. I'm 12 handicap swing a driver around 85-90 mph. I totally pure these irons. My mates also have tried my irons, and each to a man absolutely kills it. When they realise it's an "old man's" flex, they say "I can't hit that", yet...... they just did!!
My opinion is that it's down to ego. Graphite use to be quite whippy compared to steel but not anymore. Finally, as you state, we all use graphite in drivers and wouldn't think about steel. Would be interesting for you to try senior flex and I would hazard a guess that you hit them just as good.
Hi Andy I got fitted for new irons yesterday & tried all the shaft options including graphite, best shafts were 80g steel, graphite were 85g, and not as good. :-(
@@alanjordan6198 strange why any fitter would put a heavier graphite for you to try over a lightweight steel. That makes absolutely no sense. Did you not try something like a 55/60gram offering? That's where they shine.
@@granty1954 fitter said they were the graphite option for the irons.
Never played anything BUT graphite in irons. From my first set of Mizunos to my current MP-18 SCs. Went through a fitting every time (3 times altogether) and always preferred graphite over steel.
With things like that, it's all about feel and preference. I don't care whether others (or maybe even the majority) use steel. My irons, my swing, my game.
I have always had steel shafts in my irons and today i got a custom fit on the p790's and surprisingly the UST RECOIL shaft S Flex was by far the best for me which was a big shock. The feel, lauch angle and distance was fantastic! Definitely recommend people being more open to trying graphite shafts 👍
I am always happy when I get to see another of your reviews. I am a hybrid/Fairway woods player. Recently had added two Cleveland CBX Wedges. Bought them both with graphite shafts. I am waiting for the delivery of the 60 degree one but I have been using the 48 degree one for the last six rounds of golf. I love the feel of graphite with it. I have never considered myself very skilled with a wedge but thats changing fast now. I chipped in a birdie with the 48 degree one yesterday. It also earned me numerous pars as well. Golfers maybe use a 48 degree from much further out but this one is very effective right next to the green as well. I had been using an old Adams chipper which is supposed to make life easier. I have far more control with the light graphite Cleveland CBX wedge. Thanks for this review Andy. Spider Dubiel
1st tried graphite around 1996 at Oakland Hills Mi. Yardage control biggest problem, then switched back to S300 steel. Currently using CF16 XP95 R300 steel, was fitted in the week and am going to switch to F9 Irons with Graphite shaft which demonstrated best dispersion and longer than my CF 16's by 12 yards. The CF19 was a couple of yards longer still, but £300 more for the 6 irons it was a no-brainer. Took the new Callaway 4 Hybrid to replace the 4 iron OMG it long my man it sooo long I'm contemplating taking the 3h and dropping my 3 wood. I agree graphite shafts have come on in leaps and bounds over the last couple of years and anyone looking at new clubs should try them in BOTH Steel AND Graphite. Be ready to be surprised if not shocked. Gr8 Video Thx.
Just changed for the same reason, swing a little steadier and the irons being lighter have certainly helped. Don't think I'll go back as I'm getting older now
Thanks for the video, good subject. After playing Pings and Titleists with steel shafts, mostly KBS Tour, for a long time, I recently went back to my old 1990's Cobras with graphite shafts. I play very nicely with them, AGAIN, LOL. The thing is that the graphite shafts are more shock aborbing and therefore there is less wear and tear on my arms, shoulders, and chest muscles. I can play everyday and not experience a lot of fatigue. I would say that steel shafts are a bit more consistent, but then I am not playing in championships like the young guys do. My graphite shafted irons are great for what I do and they allow me to play everyday without a lot of stress on my body.
I think that is another positive from using graphite George
I was just fitted for the Mizuno JPX919 Hot Metals and, to my surprise, the best shaft was a Recoil Stiff by UST. What surprised me was the lightness of the shaft versus steel, the dispersion was tighter, and it was just as far as steel.
Thanks for this video. I note that your steel shaft brings in the long left shot. Often particularly destructive to a score. Probably linked to swinging harder and hence getting a little ‘stuck’. I have been playing graphite for years to allow me to swing easier, focus on tempo. The key is not to fall into the trap of hitting them too hard. Yes, you can hit your 7 iron 180 if you use your s300 swing but then you give up the advantage of ‘playing within yourself’.
A little confused on something, the fitting process. From my understanding with shafts there are no industry standards, so a stiff shaft may be equal to an extra stiff shaft with another manufacturer. I have Mizuno jpx 850 with steel shafts, True Temper XP 105. My current club speed with my 5 iron is 75-80 mph. If I walk in to get fitted for some graphite shafts, where do we start at? There are so many different manufacturers out there, with different weights, different bend points and so on. How do I know that guy is not just trying the 3 he likes and how do I know I'm getting the best graphite shafts for me?
Played modus 120x all throughout college in tournament play, 34 yrs old now and for the first time put in graphite Fujikura Axiom VeloCore 105x in my irons. I haven’t been this accurate since my college tournament years and it’s literally sparked new level of enjoyment and confidence. Literally if you haven’t tried it, do your favor and get got and give it a shot. Very tough to to find fitting centers that have wide ranges of stock and high end aftermarket composite shafts I should mention, but if you have that option at your availability, don’t hesitate. Graphite has some such a long ways since the past. Look at Bryson and Sergio, even DJ and others have dabbled with great success. One thing I have to mention, with graphite, you need to have a very knowledgeable club builder to make sure the build and swing weight is in check. Axiom shafts are by far one of the best to build with, just have to take your time prepping the shaft from .370 parallel tip down to .355 taper tip (my irons are taper tip).
I went to the steelfiber i95 regular shafts in my gaming irons from the project x 6.0.And i was a skeptic myself being i played steel shafts my whole life.And i will probably never go back after switching to the steelfiber shafts.I get perfect ballflight for me abd i am able to flight them down as well.And the ability to stop my shots out of the rough is amazing.I get 1 hop and stop with these shafts comparably to my old project x 6.o,s that i couldn't get nowhere near the stop of my steelfiber i95 regular shafts.And i also am able to practice alot longer becsuse they are so much lighter and I don't get tired as quickly as i did practicing with the steel shafts.So i am a graphite shaft iron player for life now.Glad i made the switch i have dropped 6 shots off my handicap in only 8 months with the steelfiber i95,s its my approach shot percentage thats been the difference i averaged 6.5 to 8 greens a round to now i average 10 to 12.5 freens a round.
Hi Andy great discussion topic. My last 3 sets of irons were graphite, I am getting fit for new ones this year, if we ever end lock down. I have played the game for 60 years, never used wood but have used steel, fiberglass, aluminum, graphite and various combinations of material. It really comes down to what works best for our swing type.
My favourite club in the bag (5 wood) had a Kura Kage graphite shaft and when i went for a custom fit on my irons there was an option to try the same shaft so i tried it and loved the feel - Graphite all through the bag now 👍
I live in Texas and have been using Calloway graphite shafts for drivers and irons since 2001.
I will never go back to steel as the graphite are more accurate and the feel is better. Since switching, I rarely ever hit a slice or hook as the shaft feel seems to make you play better. You can actually feel how the shaft swings thru its arc. You have to try it to believe it.
Playing Aldila graphite shafts at around 62g in my irons and I really like them. That being said, I never played steel, nor did I ever play heavy shafts in my irons, so there was nothing for me to get used to. Even the 2004 Adams irons I started out with already had graphite shafts in them. At this point I've gone as far and switched from S400 in my wedges to graphite shafts from UST, at around 88g uncut a bit heavier than my iron shafts for added control, especially when gripping down. The putter is the only steel shafted club left in my bag.
Got LAGolf A-series in my set. I’ve always been graphite for shafts and will say the shafts have improved. The LA shafts added 15 yards when fitted compared to KBS shafts but do have a much different feel that I’ve not gotten a chance to get comfortable with in playing situations.
Switched to recoil shafts in my P790’s earlier this year. Love em. I very much doubt I’ll return to steel.
Lots liking that shaft
Just had an iron fitting yesterday and was put into Cobra Forged Tecs with the Arccos graphite shafts. It felt odd at first, but performed beautifully. Can't wait to get them and take them out to the course.
Hi
I was a graphite shaft player but moved over to soft regular steel (really light weight shaft) due to durability and have never looked back. Great Ping clubs and shafts.
Lee
I was fitted by Golf Principles in Basingstoke who recommended changing from S300 120 gram to Accra 85 gram in stiff, it has taken time to adjust but now I really like them and as you said they feel very easy to hit. One thing I would say is depending on where they cut the shaft it can feel thinner so you might need extra tape to achieve the same diameter.
Got recoil f3 shafts in my ping i500 and ping g700. Love them.
I have tried some graphite shafts on a simulator. Currently I play the DG S300 105’s. But I just purchased the JPX923 Pro’s with UST Recoil 95 F3 shafts. What a difference on the simulator. I should receive them next week. Can’t wait.
Quite a few tour pros use graphite shafts in just their long irons. I used to play the old generation graphite shaft irons and they were terrible. They actually started to split apart at the bottom. But this was 15+ years ago. Seriously thinking of trying graphite again as it's much better now as my speed and body need the help.
Great video Andy. At this moment I am testing P760 and Z785 irons with graphite shafts to maybe replace my V6 irons. I am 51 and a 6 handicap and have played steel shafts in my irons because I thought to have better control with them. If you go into a fitting with an open mind people can be surprised. I find graphite just as good, if not better. I want to carry a bag on my back and than graphite means a lighter bag. Graphite gives less vibration through impact on the wrist, elbow, muscles. And it seems like as you mentioned my tempo is better.Ian from TXG ypu tube channel did a great video explaining that their is no logical reason not to consider graphite in irons. Only negative with graphite is they are more expensive and the shafts are more vulnerable.
Ray, I also play the V6 irons and cannot imagine a better iron. I play to a 9hc. I am however considering having them re-shafted with a lightweight steel or possibly a graphite shaft. Lot cheaper than a new set and honestly the tech in all the newer heads is pretty much the same. Imo
wgrooms719 Hi, because I couldn’t try graphite shafts with the V6 head I didn’t knew what shaft would be a good match with the head. And that beside of the cost because reshafting at my golfstore wasn’t cheap with a good graphite shaft. After a lot of testing several brands and heads with shafts I got an even better fit than my V6 irons in the MP18 blade with graphite ProjectX LZ tour shafts. Never thought I could /would play a real blade but gave me on several days the best numbers on trackman and the six iron demo did it also great on course. Have the MP18 in PW-5 and the 4 iron in the MP18 MCC fligh high. Love the Project X LZ tour graphite shaft....90 grams ..so not too light and great control (not “whippy”) . Maybe this shaft is an option if you decide to reshaft the V6 irons..?
Hi Andy I used graphite shafts in Calloway big Bertha 30 years ago ! Used steel ever since but I’m getting fitted for Ping g 410 Irons on Monday and I’m giving graphite a go !
Today i tried srixon irons with Recoil regular shaft. This was a shock. No vibration. Better dispersion. Great sensasion. Even the tempo is better. My swing speed is moderate.
After hitting a ladies club with a Recoil graphite shaft in ladies flex. My tempo and swing speed got slower but I felt more control because I could feel the weight of the head much more. After that I have started to thinking to switch to graphite shafts. The club maker recommended the Aerotech steel fibre i95 stiff. I currently play the $-Taper 120 Black PVD in stiff.
I purchased the Mizuno JPX 900 Forged and I tried them in the KBS Tour 90 R Shaft and hit them dead straight. Tried the UST Mamiya Recoil 95R F3 Graphite shafts and hit the ball 8 yards further with a draw and picked up 3.8 MPH ball speed and 1.3 MPH clubhead speed. I love them
Seriously considering the ust recoil shafts. Mizuno DNA had them around sixth in most suitable match for me with the kbs tour and Nippon modus as the top two recommended. But tried the recoil f4 shaft and likewise my dispersion left/right, long/short was so tight compared to the recommended shafts, few extra yards and spin. Was a real eye opener using the 919 tour head.
I await the arrival of my new Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal irons with UST Recoil F3, replacing Ping G20's with CFS steel. While I may have brought an unusually decent swing to the recent fitting day, this graphite shaft was more gentle to my increasingly arthritic, 69 year old hands -- and the club head/shaft combo showed nice medium launch and reduced dispersion. 11.7 index.
Interesting video. Club fitters in our area have suggested as you near 60 years of age to start considering graphite shafts in irons. I would assume for many reasons you have mentioned.
I recently turned 70, which I find hard to believe LOL. Anyway, I play my old Cobra graphite irons now because they are easier on my body. Steel shafts transmit a lot of shock energy directly to the hands, arms, and shoulders. I play everyday, and I don't experience fatigue that I had previously. I hit a lot of balls and then I play too. I think every golfer has to make their own choices as to what to use, when.
As a professional Club builder for over 35 years and observing your swing, firstly I would never put you in S300 Iron shafts...You simply do not have the swing speed or grunt to warrant the stiff flex...Secondly your experience with graphite `R` makes greater sense. They are longer in the shaft and more flexible to suit your swing..However graphite shafts are inconsistent in their performance and do not have the consistency of steel shafts...It's a compromise you have to decide best suits your game....At your age, smoothness of swing and body flexibility `R` flex Dynamic Gold would be my recommendation...2 degrees upright...
Then how was he more consistent with the graphite shafts? It didn't look like he was compromising anything to use graphite. I think the inconsistency I always hear about is a myth
@@heavyglassglass Consistency is a relative term. The construction material contrast between graphite and steel is vy. easy to compare at the manufacturing level. Further, put these shafts on a frequency match unit and witness the oscillation difference between the two shafts. Steel shafts oscillate in a uniform manner compared to graphite.. This transfers to consistency with the golf swing and results...This is NOT.a myth but a scientific fact....Still further graphite provides a soft feel when hitting the golf ball. As golf is a game of feel you receive greater feedback in hour hands from steel shafts....especially mis hits...resulting in greater awareness and improved performance especially around the greens.. Hence all gt. players still use steel in their wedges...
Very interesting video, thanks for posting ☺
After a back injury I got fitted for graphite shafts in my irons about 26 years ago, they were great back then, lighter to swing and less vibration when hitting the ball, they really helped with my back
I've recently started playing again after a long break, and will be upgrading from my old irons in the near future, and I will be going graphite shafts again for the same reasons as stated above
I am playing now over 8 years the Recoil 95 graphite shafts in my irons and I love it, best move ever.......
Great video as always. I have no problem with graphite iron shafts, have had a few over the years. Presently playing them in my Callaway's. I think year's ago quality may have been a concern, consistency and head torque not as well controlled as steel. I know now that qc is way better and there are way more custom fit options available using graphite over steel. My buddies are ego driven and feel graphite for slow swing speed and seniors. Well I am a geezer and don't care, usually lighter and less wear and tear on joints. Golf here in central B.C. coming to an end and I am heading south to Arizona. Made some progress in the index and handicap-5.4 index, 6 cap on my home course, really happy that short game and putting have come around. Good fun Andy, cheers from Canada.
Great play Allan, I'm a geezer and dont care also!
simple answer for launch: lighter graphite sends ball more down the target line; heavier steel shaft drops mass more vertically, sending ball more in the air
Hi the last clubs I used were taylor made 360 with regular graphite shafts I found them kind to hands and arms ,I’m just starting back and hope there kind to me again . Good to get the question out there 👍🏻
I've been playing graphite shafts in my irons for 20 years and would never go back to steel. One major difference I found is a whole lot less wear & tear on the body. When playing a lot of golf I used to get some aches and pains in my left shoulder. About 20 years ago I tried the graphite shafts because they were something new and different and I was amazed that after about a month my shoulder aches disappeared. So to this day the only steel shaft I have is in my 56 deg. wedge.
I've always used reg steel shafts, but recently been shopping for irons. I was shocked when I tried a taylormade q10 hl (high lanch) iron with a 50 gram a flex fujikura speeder gray/black shaft Compared to all the rest of irons I hit (which was a lot) with different irons and shafts. I hit this straiter and longer with what seemed no effort. I will try them again before buying. Hope you do a video on the taylormade q10 hl irons because I didn't find but a couple on them. Enjoy watching yours
I have tried graphite shafts in irons when I got fitted for my new irons. The club head speed went up with graphite and the carry distance improved. I bought the irons with graphite shaft and have got on with them very well. I won't go back to steel shafts.
Great feedback Tony thank you
When I first started playing golf a little over 20 years ago, I bought a set of irons with graphite shafts, I liked the way they felt, but I kept breaking the shafts, although I'm sure modern graphite shafts are much more durable, I'm still weary about switching back to them.
De Shambeau plays graphite in his irons. You won't break one with your swing.
@@Macallan562 If Bryson was pounding the ground like the hacker I was back then, he might be able to do it.
I just went and got fit for a new set of irons. After about an hour hitting different club/shaft combos, another fitter came into the bay, he watched 3 of my swings, and then suggested to my fitter that he try me in an Alta CB shaft (pings stock graphite shaft) and I proceeded to hit the absolute best shots I hit all day. Suffice to say, I was won over. My new irons are on their way, all with graphite shafts, and I cannot wait to get them and put them in the bag!
Hope all goes well for you Ben
Well,this vlog is timely,i had a set of Taylormade 09 Burners with Dyn Gold S300s,i played them for 10 yrs (in that time my Hcp has gone from 8 to 13 and is now back to 11)and loved them.Then age(58 now) and a sore lower back caught up with me and i replaced the shafts with Project X graphites which were slightly less stiff,loved them,however,i got the old i need new clubs syndrome so i got the Titleist AP3s with the AMT Black Steel in Reg,well it's been 5 weeks now and i'm struggling with them,so i'm thinking of swapping out the shafts on one club to see how the graphite goes in the AP3.
By the way i grew up in Prescot,left for Sydney when i was 21 never got back and have an Aunt and Uncle in Rainford,you should do a Down Under Tour
Will be interesting to know how the graphite shaft works for you. Would love to get to Oz one day
Have played graphite shafts in my irons for about 10 years. Just bought a new set this year. Got to keep up with the head technology.
My ball speed and distance increased with use of graphite at my fitting. Using fujikara 70 G Vista pro. With mizuno Jpx 919 hot metal iron. Still haven’t pushed the button to purchase. Previously I had ping G 5 with stiff steel
Recently tried a graphite shaft regular stiffness with a Callaway Apex DCB seven iron. My ball flight seemed quite high, but that didn't bother me that much. They seemed much easier to hit versus my S300 Dynamic Gold steel shafts. The Callaway rep indicated that graphite will be easier for older players. Going into a fitting soon and will be definitely all over the graphite option for my irons. My biggest question is this: Are the steelfiber shafts worth the extra $70-100 per club???
Hi Andy
Totally agree with you.
My golf buddy has been fitted twice by Ping into graphite shafts.
His last fitting 2018 was for the Ping hollow irons with graphite shafts and wow he is like a different player.Very consistent and with a regular draw.
I have tried them and must agree they feel very good.
I think that many golfers have hybrids and driving irons and use them as a go to club.
Maybe usage of these have made us more receptive to graphite irons.
Again lots of golfers using them and proving very successful, my eyes have been opened!
@@TheAverageGolfer You seemed to swing much easier with the graphites. It seemed effortless.
@@davidleigh2573 definitely improved my tempo David
Yes Andy tried graphite shafts in a set of callaway great big bertha irons it was a long time ago, the problem at that time was they weren't consistent enough, when the weather was hot all of a sudden you hit a hit ball 30 yards further, steel was always more consistent. But I totally agree with you now the graphite shafts for irons 2018 are superb, I tried a friends the other day excellent I still prefer steel but that is a weight and feel thing for me. Who knows in another 5 years when my arthritis in my hands gets worse graphite may be my number one choice great video mate cheers Peter
They have certainly moved on a lot and I may consider switching
@@TheAverageGolfer give it a go Andy it's only a set of shafts in and out if you don't like them just go back to steel, I don't thing you would go back to steel, my mate wouldn't and that's only after 2 months.
Sad to say, but if you have arthritis in your hands today, it will be worse in the future
I absolutely love my graphite shafted irons. My irons are also like small shovels with large offset, don't knock it until you try it. I hit my 7 iron around 160 yards without stepping on it.
I game cleveland launcher hb with the 60 gram shafts. As my game got better i added lead tape to the head to increase the swing weight to d3, now they actually feel heavier than the stock setup in steel shafts. Love graphite, no soreness, easier swing, less feel tho.
I play the Titleist 716 AP1 with the Mitsubishi Kuro Kage TiNi 65 graphite shaft, and i love them. All my mates are giving me a hard time, saying "graphite shafts are for senior citizens...", but for me they work great.
If they work then who cares
I've been using the same irons for the last year. Love them.
I have had a set of Swix graphite shafts with torque less than the Rifle 6.0 shafts I'm using in Callaway Prototype blade irons now. However I am updating my bag and am looking at the UST Recoil shafts which I think I will put in either a set of Wilson, Cobra or Mizuno irons. Currently I'm off 6, just come back to the game after 10 years out and going to get back down low, I think graphite shafts will help with that
It is a great shaft that I also tried yesterday
I have the UST Recoil shaft in my Mizuno 900 Forged and I absolutely love them.
Hi Andy, tried clubs the other week. Fitter put in a few different shafts from 80g to 115g. Ended up trying graphite 80g reg. Hit the ball really well. Increased ball speed, dispersion good. Certainly something I'll look at when getting my next new set of irons.
Great topic. Would like to have seen your ball flight when you were hitting the ball.
Will resolve ball flight software issue soon
hi Andy, I did use a bubble shafts in my old taylormade burner lcg irons. I had my 2 best score's with them. 70 gross of the yellows at prestatyn and a 69 gross of the whites at pennant park in a comp. I only sold them as I thought I was losing distance to newer technology. maybe a return to graphite is needed. cheers Andy
Great scores bring back the bubble shaft!
+The Average Golfer I'd love to be hitting in the high 70's regularly again. still loving the game though. almost tempted to source a set of the old clubs to see what would happen.
Was on the fence about steel vs graphite for my new AP1s. I had the tour issue recoils in my AP2s but could never get them dialed in. I believe I was fitted improperly though. After watching this video I pulled the trigger on a new set of AP1s with the Tensei red graphite shafts. Thanks for helping me come to a decision. Cheers!
Hi I have just been to a demo day for Srixion irons & the shaft that came out best was mahana with a stiff shaft & to be quite honest they were amazing after playing with steel shafts they were good & I felt I didn’t have to swing the club any faster to get the distance I require.
Hi andy 2 months ago I was a 23 handicap I went to have a lesson and the pro suggested I get fitted so off I went after trying a number of different options I came away with Wilson d300 irons with graphite shafts swing speed went up dispersion was a lot tighter now handicap is at 16 because of hitting the greens more often now I’m thinking of a putter fitting
I've never owned graphite irons but have played a rental set some years ago. I missed every shot to the right but that might be down to the shaft being too soft for me. I did however see a significant improvement on my green side short game.
New shafts are far different though
Yes i had Lynx Black cat's years ago with their famous Flared Graphite shaft in em.......had 2 hole in one's with them...but changed over to steel shafted Ping raptures....
which i am now looking @ also replacing.
Just bought a used set of PXG's to give them a go. My concern was that the shaft was Aerotechs Steelfiber shaft, albeit in Stiff flex. I figured if it didn't suit me I'd just have to spend the money on getting the shafts replaced. They're superb! Very easy to hit and the numbers were more consistent than with my steel shafts. A bit more testing required but I think I'll be way more open to graphite options from now on. Of course, the Steelfiber is a special kind of shaft with steel and graphite mixed so probably performs more like a steel shaft would, just lighter, but anyway, just positive about them so far.
As you might know I really enjoyed the PXG irons and the steelfiber shaft is something that may develop I think. Good luck
@@TheAverageGolfer Did you not get to try that shaft when Lawrence was giving you your initial shaft fitting?
We will all be in graphite eventually... when was the last time that you hit a steel shaft in a driver?
My next set will be graphite because there is no loss in performance from my testing and it drastically helps golfers elbow issues.
just had fitting for ping clubs, ended up with graphite shafts, wasn't expecting it but the numbers backed it up. that's why i watched this video to get your opinion.
I have got a set of mcgregor vip foil tourney with graphite and all one length and I love them
You couldn’t keep the grin off your face when you were hitting with the graphite shafts….I know that feeling 😃….I’ve recently moved over to some TM M1’s with graphite shafts and I love them. I’m a slow swinger of the club and these compliment my swing perfectly….no stigma…just my choice…and if I go for a fitting I’d still be very keen to have graphite shafts in my irons.
Just got fitted with graphite shafts for a new set of Srixon. Waiting to try theme out.
Good to know how they go Pete
Andy, I had Titleist irons graphite, two different Cobra sets and Ping G15 with graphite. Enjoyed all of them, latest irons Ping G have steel because that's what the fitter recommended.
Would have no problem using graphite iron shafts again since I had no issues.
By the way I have used 5 different materials in shafts over the decades - would you believe Hickory, steel, fibreglass, aluminium and graphite. Fibreglass was poor but aluminium was good but easily damaged.
Thats so good, thats a shaft history!
I prefer graphite over steel. I've had several shoulder injuries playing ice hockey and the graphite shafts absorb the vibrations that would transfer to that area. Translates into less fatigue at the end of a round.
Never tried graphite shafted irony other than the odd biff with other folks kit. They used to be thought of as designed to help golfers who were leaking distance and the flexes reflected that. Guess that may be changing. I always worried about wear and tear on the graphite in the bag but I suppose long shafted head covers would protect against that. Certainly bears some thinking about.
Yes that is worth noting John but our drivers/hybrids seem ok?
I have graphite shafts in my Sim2 irons and my new Srixon ZX 5 irons will have graphite shafts.
I use the graphite shafts in my irons and I love them! No difference in distance, however they feel softer and far less vibration than steel.
A lot do seem to like them David
Just went to a SrixonCleveland fitting. Tge zx series were amazing. I was thinking steel, by the time I was done the 95g regular flex RECOIL F3 shafts were the clear option and it wasn't close. I was surprised
Nice choice, that shaft and head will feel amazing, good luck 👍
@The Average Golfer
Thank you... I was surprised but they were so easy to hit. Exactly like you were saying, easier to hit
Done exactly the same went to spain played twice with graphite. Always played steel. Played some of the best golf all yr with the graphite. So much so came back and swapped my mp18sc for a set of graphite srixon 565 with the mayazaki shaft. Except for the micky taking on the course im loving them
Thats interesting Martin and your right there is a stigma attached but its ok to use in hybrids!!
R U taking the dollers more ?
Very good. Your dispersion was improved, because of the smoother tempo you achieved with the graphite. Better centre strike. With the steel you feel as though you have to get it through the ball so you force it a little. ( that’s just my opinion) I had the same or similar experience, I’m now using AP3 with a 90 gram steel fibre they are superb. And like you if someone would of suggested graphite well !!! I went to Precision Golf I went with an open mind and wow the new lighter shafts work. Great video,s keep up the good work. Cheers
I'd have to agree with all of that!
The thing you are not talking about is KICK POINT! really this means release moment after contact.
Look you said your regular shaft were high launch so this means your kick point is low and is to help golfers to get the ball airborn, middle and high kick point means a lower ball flight but more distance and lower ball spin, so if you purchase a SR or regular shaft with a high kick point you will hit the ball farther and more constant than a steel stiff shaft, in all your clubs including driver.
To many golfers but what the manuf is selling and not what they need to improve their game.
Always used steel shafts in my irons Ping ZZ-65 stiff shafts 108.6grams. Just got fit for some PXG 0211 irons in Mitsubishi MMT 70 shafts. They're amazing! My tempo is better I make better contact gained 3mph club head speed added 9 yards/ club. (Lofts same in sets and best of all I swing it as good on my last shot as the first. Used to be spent come the 18th hole hands and wrist hurt now ready for another 18. I will never go back!
I have played graphite for years, this year I went back to steel to try to tighten up my dispersion after playing all year with KBS tour 90 shafts in my irons I'm going back to graphite.
I play a graphite regular ust shaft in Apex Pro 16 irons that took me from 17 down to 11.5 due to accuracy improvement. Got them second hand cheap is why I got graphite. I would've never bought those shafts new but now am biased toward the graphite.
Use graphite shafts in my irons after a recommendation, to aid tennis elbow. They are fantastic and as you say, I don’t seem to have to swing as hard, therefore produce more rhythm. I’d never go back to steel.
thxs for the feedback
Switch my Zx4 stiff steel shafts to PXG 0211 with mitsubishi.chemical graphite shafts 80g stiff, game changer hitting my irons further and straighter
I have been using graphite for 10 years in my irons living in Canada. First started with Taylor Made Irons, This year I purchased a new set of Srixon irons with graphite and I love them. Would never use anything else.
Another convert
Now that I have made it through the whole video, I have actually rebuilt a set of XR irons with graphite shafts, and like the feel. Graphite is rarely used in irons, as you mention, aside from seniors or ladies. I still think it is more of an ego thing.
Your quite right but hopefully the mindset will change
I just stepped out of a set of KBS Tour C-taper 130X steel shafts to UST Recoil 95 Stiff. My swing speed has dropped about 10mph on driver and I got fitted and UST Recoil 95 graphite is what worked best. I also feel like I wear out over a round and am tired at the end and swinging 130X was just tough where now I go play 27 holes and feel fine.
Really interesting
Just been fitted for mavrik max/pro combo irons with graphite shafts, felt so more responsive, normal speed and carry 7 iron 75mph 140 carry, graphite gave me 81mph 150 carry felt so much better, found it hard not to hit out of the middle
My last fitting (PXG 0211’s) they put me into ACCRA i70’s.
About 15 rounds & even more range sessions in now.....
I’m never going back to steel....
Change in launch angle. Could the heavier shaft lead to an ever so slight cast that leads to delivering slightly more loft, thus launching a degree higher?
Very worthwhile video Andy , I am personally looking at changing to a new set with graphite , I used to sell Howson/Hippo across Europe and could never understand why people would buy irons with graphite shafts , now that the technology has advanced so much it has to be considered as you rightly say there has always been a barrier to that choice mainly due to us thinking its for women .
Yes very true, the advance in the shaft tech is incredible and I think you will see a movement towards graphite in the future.
Just moving to graphite from stiff nippon modus 105.
Swinging same swing speed without the effort. Ball traveling further
I have graphite shafts in my irons, I used to suffer from golfers elbow using steel shafts, never had a problem since using graphite. I get a higher ball flight and wouldn't use anything else.
Andy, I’m quite surprise that you can drastically change the shaft weight from 130 gm. to 55 gm. without any big different in swing speed, you must be very well adapted to different total weight and swing weight. I had switched from NS Pro 950 S to KBS TOUR 90s to Steelfiber almost 10 years ago due to ache and pain but I have to say that steelfiber did have a very similar feel to steel shaft but I had maintained similar shaft weight and also built my sets of i20 and s55 to the same MoI. Now switch over to i500 with UST Recoil F4 and the result is really excellent. I believe that with current technology, graphite shaft is offering better performance and fitment to any golfers much better than steel shafts. I’ll never go back to steel.
I am alos very surprised, did try the UST shaft yesterdaty and got on very well
My old set used to be graphite and I loved them but then I got a crazy stupid deal on a set of AP1’s so I couldn’t say no. Ps I’m down to 8.2 now 👍🏻
Ap1's are good arent they! great news on hcp
I have tried both. Every time i am professionally fitted i prefer graphite. They balance better and seem more consistent. Yes, there is the stigma of graphite but i like it better.
Tried Ping i210 and i500 7 irons with recoil graphite shafts on a couple of rounds last week (borrowed from the pro) Heads aside, the clubs just feels so much nicer to swing, lighter, and are a better shock absorber (easy on the elbows). Its graphite for me when I change the irons after Xmas
really interesting feedback from your recent test thxs John
Had graphite shafts in the first ever set of irons I brought, they were okay but the odd one would really fly a fair bit further than expected. That was many years ago , recently tried some yo ex irons with a graphite shaft but just couldn't control the club head they just felt too soft and whippy.
I do think there are varying qualities in the shafts David
No offense but this is the kind of misinformation that turns people off graphite shafts. There are no known physics that would allow a shaft to change properties from shot to shot so the cause of that odd one flying farther was something else like a flyer out of the rough or, for the inconsistent hitters out there, hitting one flush when you normally don't. You might have a difference from shaft to shaft, but even that I would highly doubt. You never hear about that sort of thing with drivers so I'm not sure why it would suddenly happen with irons.
I’ve been playing graphite in my irons for 2 years. I’m usually fit into project x 6.5 130 gram shafts. I swing driver about 117mph. But I prefer a lighter weight shaft. Couldn’t find a lightweight steel that was stable enough. The graphite shaft in my irons is 85 grams but plays as stiff as the project x 6.5 steels. Graphite is stiffer by weight than steel so it’s a great option. Also they dampen vibration really well so a cold day with a mis hit doesn’t hurt your hands at all. I’ll never play steel again.
Easy answer is skill level. If you play graphite over steel shafts on a dry course the steel shafts can cary though the terrain. My graphite’s shafts bend or catch and loose almost all club speed and power.
Would it make much of a difference if you have a herniated disc? Is it worth switching to graphite ?
i recently had my irons and wedges fitted graphite 85g stiff and 100g stiff from 115g stiff steel I also went down 10g on driver and fw and a little shorter I'm still getting to the I had developed an over swing with the old combination I think we are more inclined to swing within ourselves with the lighter club and thus get a better result . i tried 85g stiff steel and it was too whippy for me . I not saying its the answer but you often hear the pros saying they're swinging a 75/80 % and they are in the top level of sports people , I think we think that they mean their flat out max speed when its actually their max controlable speed we on the other hand try to swing at 75/80% of our max speed I'm working on control as opposed to my old smash and bang theory hopefull it will net better scores
great comments
Graphite shafts vary a lot in quality. The best I have used are Penley iron shafts. They are very expensive but consistent across a set. The best for myself are the lightweight steel Nippon shafts. I have similar performance at a much lower cost. Consider using a softer shaft as well. I am using the nippon 950 GH and like it a lot. The lighter and softer shafts just make it easier for average swing speeds.
arghh right Ok , I will try
That may have been true in the past, but it is no longer true. You will find that After market graphite shaft have much tighter tolerances than steel shafts.
@@banditbaker1675 I was very impressed with the Tensei and also had a try with the UCT recoil shaft and also impressive. Also very sorry to hear about your health and I hope you are on the mend, best wishes on behalf of all TAGERS
Many thanks Andy, that is appreciated. The treatment that I have received from the medics has been superb, so hopefully it wont be too long before I can get back out onto the golf course.
@@banditbaker1675 great news take care
I play the aerotech steel fibres in my irons. They are amazing! no more tennis elbow too! Graphite shafts are still evolveing but steel are not. The big change now is graphite shafts don't come in silly colours and graphics all over them. the steel fibres most people think they are steel