I play now 5 years and have tested iron shafts ... which were immediately replaced by graphite. Coming from tennis where wood and steel are replaced already by 30 years or more by graphite I don't understand why golf is late to the party again. 😂🤯🤪 great vid Matt.🤘🏻😎🤘🏻
When I was handed a KBS graphite-shafted ZX4 iron at my golf fitting, my heart sank "Am I that old?" I thought. I then took my stance and thought "I can hit this". I have been hitting them ever since. My Cleveland wedge set was off-the-shelf and are steel shafted. As of yesterday, my handicap index has gone from 17.3 to 10.9 in the ensuing 18 months.
I switched to the Recoil Dart 75 F4 shafts when I purchased a new set of Wilson Dynapwr Forged this month. Previous irons KBS Tour 105g stiff. I've definitely noticed that I have a better feel and slightly greater distance (picked up 2-3 mph swing speed). Have kept steel in my Ping Glide 4.0 wedges though. 64y, 14hcp.
I’ve been a single-figure handicapper for 20 years. Just had a fitting and for the first time they suggested graphite. Faster clubhead speed, faster ball speed, better ball flight, more distance. What’s not to like? And the bonus - graphite even looks like steel these days, so it’s my secret! I love this new technology!
I recently had a fitting as well but the graphite shafts that suited me were stupidly expensive (non stock)...so it's a matter of price that keeps me in steel shafts
Had a fitting yesterday at Scottsdale golf and they put me in the axiom shaft. Club head speed up 5 mph to 85 mph vice steel shafts but what really impressed me was the consistency. Nearly fell over when the fitter told me the cost but u sucked it up and I'm looking forward to my new p790s with axiom shafts arriving soon
I have Steelfibers in my Mizuno 225's and Vokey wedges and love them. Just as much feel and playability as my prior steel shafts but without the vibrations on miss hits. Changed due to tendon issues and I can't see me ever playing steel again. Not the fastest but I still hit a 7 iron around 165-170 and play to a low handicap so graphite isn't just for slow swingers. Look at Fred Couples and Nelly Korda, both great players who play these kind of shafts and hit the ball a good distance.
I was fit for the Mitsubishi OTi iron shafts and am so happy with the results. No more elbow strain, and my grouping has vastly improved. I'm never going back.
For some reason I stopped hitting my long irons very well and made the logical switch to a hybrid. Most of them come in graphite. What a change. I was a little faster which I had to adjust for, but I was having better contact and more importantly I was a bit straighter. I didn't analyze it all that much but things changed enough that I may change up my Calllaway Maverick next year.
Depends on the person. I'm at the higher end of swing speed, but I couldnt feel the club head and was very inconsistent with graphite in my irons. I need weight in my clubs. That may not be the case for everyone.
Were you trying a heavier weight graphite shaft like Axiom 125? My understanding from many reviews is that they feel very similar to traditional tour level iron shafts but have added benefits that can be developed with graphite construction.
There are a lot of heavier graphite options in the 110-125 or so range. They may not be the standard graphite option for some sets but they are there as upcharge options. Sounds like you used ones that were in a lower weight category than your preferred. A lot of ones inline with more standard steel weight categories. ACCRA, LAGolf, Fujikura, Mitsubishi, UST all have stuff that goes up to around 125 grams constant weight.
Great to see you enjoying them Matt! I've been playing with graphite shafts for over 20 years, and wouldn't want to go back to steel shafts when I get round to replacing my current set (Ping G30s) over the next couple of years.
I switched to graphite in my irons back in 2016 when I changed to the Callaway Apex CF16 irons. During the fitting we tried both steel shafts and graphite and with the lighter shaft my swing speed went up about 3 mph (on an 80-ish mph swing speed). That gave me a few extra yards without any downside, so spending a few hundred more for the set was a no-brainer.
Very interesting Matt thanks. Like a lot club golfers I buy off the self, some good looking clubs available for less than 800 but is a stock graphite shaft good enough straight off the shelf to the course?
Been following this all year waiting for this very video revealing the findings! I dont think I'm nearly good enough at golf to justify the switch, but it's something I have been intrigued by! Very cool!
I’ve been playing the Axiom 125x in my ‘20 P7MC irons for 6-8mo, I love them. My dispersion has decreased significantly and the combo of the insanely consistent P7MC with Axiom means max repeatability. I also previously had some wrist issues but those have subsided in the last 6mo, I’m not sure Axiom is fully responsible but I 100% agree that there is less reverberation vs. my prior shafts. I love Axioms and would recommend them to anyone who’s curious. The feel is phenomenal and it’s pretty amazing a tour weight/125g velocore iron shaft exists at all. Cheers Matt 🍻
The changes you speak about sir is you just getting better or worse in the areas over the year maybe? Love the in-depth experience between the two types of shafts……. I love the feel of them. Do they feel differ through your the year though with weathering? I work with hand and power tools all day. It’s not the weight or flex of the shaft for me……. Graphite just delivers a nice smooth feeling through the strike Makes me enjoy the game a bit more. Plus I like chipping so kinda enjoy a wild desperation every now and again…… creates those genius moments or ones that lead you to alcohol and lucky pants😂😂
I switched to the steel fiber shafts when I purchased a new set of Mizuno 223's last year. I've definitely noticed that I have a better feel and slightly greater distance.
100% will consider when the price is competitive or perhaps a graphite option is offered as a no cost option at a custom fitting. I don’t have issues with the performance anymore.
I’ve been enjoying my graphite shafts on my irons. I bought a set of stix and they’re great and I have a set of PXG irons that were too stiff so I reshafted them with graphite and I’m a relatively new golfer and having so much less reverb on fat strikes is clutch for my wrists and the lighter weight gives me a little bit back in swing speed.
Was using steel until recently but due to tendonitis in my elbows, have changed to graphite.. bad swings still always gonna injury you but the reduction in the reverberation definitely helps with my longevity… the advancement in terms of consistency for graphite is amazing that I don’t think I would go back to steel… do wish they get cheaper quicker though, that’s probably the biggest con for the average joe.. Love the feedback that you found and judging by the comments, a lot of us here have the same sentiments
Had a fitting at PXG recently. Been in Nippon 105’s since they came out and the 1050 before that. Tired a couple of the graphite options MMT etc but seemed to be too much torque on the irons and ended up back in the modus. I have an Axiom 105 shaft ready once I find someone to test and build it up correctly!
I’m a 7 handicap and just shifted into the Mitsubishi mmt iron shaft. Felt like a strange decision in the fitting but data told me it was right, will see what the season brings
I have a set of Mizuno MP 64's with R flex graphite shafts and a set of Mizuno JPX 900 forged with steel R flex shafts m. I played to a 10 hc with the graphite and a 14 with the reg flex steel shafts. I'm switching back to the 64's this year.
Thank you for this review. Just had my fitting and PXG did not have the Fujikura iron shafts available. I was told it was a cost issue. I would have gladly paid the price if they performed. I believe I compromised with the Steel fiber shafts, but they are working well. I hope this technology becomes more prevalent. I don’t really care what tour players use. I’m not going to approach their swing speeds or attack angles. I have Fujikura Velocores in my driver and fairways (not PXG) and they are optimal.
I had all my long and fairway irons refitted to graphite stiff flex and love the extra feel I have through my stoke and the control. It was a great decision for me.
Hi matt, ive been using graphite shafts in my 3-9 irons and then steel shafts in my wedges, the other thing is that my irons are blades (about 20yr old bronty of bradford) and the wedges are more modern sized irons.
I was fitted for a new set of irons last year. I went with the graphite shafts and I simply love them much lighter and a bit more swing speed something to think about if you're thinking about getting a fitting
Thank you for another video, with information and insight into something that all golfers will need to check into throughout their golfing life. I myself changed into Graphite shafts 2 seasons ago. It was mainly because of my slower swing speeds. I'm a high to mid handicap player. When going for a fitting for new irons. I knew I wanted more control and consistency. At first I was fit into a graphite shaft that gave me a lot more distances but I would also get Fliers. Nothing like expecting to stick a green with your 6 iron. Only to fly straight over 20+ yards past. The company I got fitted at. Had me come back, and get refitted. I ended up in the KBS TGI 70's. Control and consistency is outstanding. I've lowered my handicap by 8 points over this last season. Just can't pull the plug on the wedges though. Still have steel on them. Keep up the great work Matt. Cheers!
I went to the same (lighter weight) graphite shafts in my Mizuno irons and wedges in 2019 to reduce impacts to my hands and have loved the change. I did pick up a new set of wedges late last year and have tried switching back to KBS steel shafts (lighter weight) to see how they compare to the graphite shafted wedges as it relates to consistency (I'll see what this year brings!).
Cool to see your update. Been following you for quite some time and was looking forward to hear about the shafts. Will definitely got and test some combinations. Been mostly using tailor-made irons since early 2000's MB's several models went into P770 a few years ago and now thinking to get something else. Opinions? If you ever down in South East Asia let me know. Hi from Thailand. Lived here since early 2000s. Have a super day! Great content as always.
Tried them during a recent full bag fitting but the steel was still better for me. Would have been happy to change if they offered me a performance benefit.
Definitely want to try some modern graphite. I remember my very first set of graphite shafted Howson Hippos I bought from Debenhams or maybe John Lewis back in the early nineties.
I have already decided to change to graphite shafts on my next set of clubs. I have tried some of my friends graphites and they feel better and travel further then my current set
I changed to graphite shafts a year ago and find them to be perfect. My main reason was that I live in Queensland Australia and the humidity can be really bad most of the year and no matter how well you look after your clubs they start pitting on the shafts.
@@karlschlobohm2023 Hi Karl, haven't really seen any gains or minuses in my irons (Taylormade) but as I keep them in a locker at the club near battery chargers for the carts it makes life easier for as the humidity is awful.
So this is an interesting video, I'm 52 and I don't hit my irons very far. I am wondering whether a fitting with graphite shafts might be of benefit to me.
I just fit graphites into my irons, and so far the transition is interesting, still getting used to them. So far the visible results are good, not used them long enough to provide the data.
Matt, how does the Axiom coating/decals hold up to wear marks or clubs clattering in the bag? Any issues? I’m thinking about getting some matt car paint protection film to wrap around the wear points?
I've been playing the Fuji Pro 115 x for 2 and a half years. I've taken my handicap from 6 to 0.8 over that time. The feel, control and consistency of graphite is far superior to steel in my opinion.
I've only ever played graphite since 1994, My first set by budget more then by conscious decision was a set of Ping Zing, Green lie with Novus red graphite shafts (stiff). My next set was again used Yonex VX with Graphite (Stiff (2008)), and my current (3rd ever set) used set PXG Steelfiber 95 Reg. Co-incidently a couple of Saturdays ago I hit a steel Elevate 95 and was surprised how good it was, with very little vibration. Maybe I'll go in the other direction?, Axioms look incredible though.
So I play with JPX921 with a graphite Mamiya recoil ESX 460 F3 shaft. Play a lot better than my JPX 800 with steel shaft but that could be due to the club upgrade
Been playing with graphite since the early 90s had a set of maruman variety21 then moved onto a set of mitsushiba tour cavity back paired with 1-3-5 Taylor Made flextwist graphite woods, currently playing cobra air x irons graphite, PXG hybrids graphite PXG 0211 driver graphite, can only remember using steal shaft on pitch and put when first learning. Got fitted for the cobra and steal didn't even get mentioned.
I got fitted into graphite irons by cobra after a fitting by a tour fitter. Like you it's a fitting few would get, I definitely think there is a cost element, it's not as easily available either. Until the tour guys start gaming graphite I don't think there will be much demand for fitting services to stock much either until then
Wow, Matt! Diving into your graphite adventure a year later is like watching a golf transformation story unfold. Super cool to see how you tackled those initial doubts head-on and came out swinging (literally) with some pretty impressive results. 🏌♂💥 The bit about the feel of graphite shafts and the tech advancements really caught my attention. Makes me wonder what switching could do for my own game! Pricey, yes, but hey, maybe it's worth the investment? 🤔 Thanks for breaking it down for us, and kudos for keeping it real with the pros and cons. Can't wait to see where this takes you next, and maybe it's time I give those graphite shafts a shot too! Keep the great content coming! 🌟
I'm considering/looking at the Eleven Hybrid Irons set. I'm a high handicapper(22) with physical limitations (shoulder surgeries and neck fusion). I'm also very tall at 6'6", if that makes a difference.
I have been playing graphite for years. They are better for me in every way possible. They have made constant injuries of my hands, wrists, and elbows a thing of the past. My dispersion is tighter and swing with more ease. Bottom line, more people don't play them because pros won't. When that happens, the move to them will be rapido.
I went to graphite in my irons in 2013. I hit them more consistently and my flight paths are higher resulting in more spin on the greens. My swing speeds are not as great as they were in my 30's so graphite just made more sense.
I have graphite shafts in my Srixon ZX5 irons. I like them, they are Accra shafts. Think back to the time all shafts were steel, even in drivers and woods. Now, I don't think you can by a steel driver/FW. Soon all or the majority of the irons will have graphite shafts, it only makes sense!!
I am a 73 (soon to be 74) old golfer with a history of handicaps from a low of 8 (years ago) to a present high of 14. I found as I got older I was hitting my long irons less and less probably due to my inability to hit them well. So last year I took the plunge and bought a set of irons from a prominent online manufacturer with graphite shafts. I did not get fitted for them but just decided to take the chance. I could not be happier with the outcome. I now can pull out the longest iron in my bag and hit it with greater confidence than I have had in years. Admittedly they are almost exactly one club stronger in loft than my old clubs and that may also be a factor as to why I like them but they are just easier to hit farther and straighter than I have hit in years. Just standing on the tee with your friends and putting it over the green into a strong headwind is a wonderful feeling.
James, my particular set starts at the 6 iron through the Gap wedge. However my 6 iron has the same loft as my old 5 iron and they are both straighter and longer. However I don't think anyone should make pronouncements about what clubs seniors should use. Everyone is different.
Purchased new irons, Takomo. I'm 75, thought it might be time, and went with the KBS tour light. Have only played with them twice, but so far, I love them. I think with today's technology, we will see the pros going to them. Thanks for your thoughts, and stats. Enjoy this year's golf. ❤🏌️✌️
Graphite is inconsistent in that it is impossible to make two shafts with identical torque characteristics. I was an amateur international and won many tournaments and although I am now in my eighties I would never use graphite shafts in irons. Irons are NOT for distance, but are for accuracy, not only lateral accuracy but also distance accuracy (control of distance). Graphite is good in woods as they provide greater distance, but NEVER for irons.
Good, honest comment and very possibly true. However, I think as long as the individual graphite iron shaft is consistent in its own flex, it should be fine even if the torque is 0.1 or 0.2 different from the next iron. More than that would probably not be ideal.
I will ALWAYS use graphite in my irons, I don't care what anyone says. It feels so much better than Steel imo. I hate that more club manufacturers don't offer stock graphite options!
I would, has I did have graphite g25 ping, and they were a great iron, although my g425 iron's steal shaft are good. I think the g25 were more on line than the g425. Plus g425 got more distance because of the degree angle, if g25 had the same angle of degree I would have the same distance as the g425
When I was younger I always thought steel shafts in irons was the only way to go, now that i am older and my son (a great golfer) is inquiring about graphite shafts which i now use (approaching 80 years of age). I think Graphite is the way to go even for youngsters just past their 50th birthday!!!...
🤣,it’s not uncommon ..tour players play with graphite irons …..it’s just that ,the new materials make them more attractive now ,, I will be switching back to graphite ,I can’t get on with steel now ,. It’s nice to tinker,,
@@Mattfryergolf funny that when people see that I'm using graphite their immediate response is always "Aren't they for seniors?" I then ask if they've dropped 4-5 shots off their handicap in 6 months before...
Can the graphite be recycled? Metal can be, obviously. Golf can be a bit guilty of having a bit too much plastic, although there are a lot of positive contributors back to the environment. I’d go graphite if it could be recycled - I think the technological opportunities could be endless.
Matt, do certain iron heads work better with graphite than steel and vice versa? I ask this question because I want to take my current irons and try graphite shafts
I was in graphite but on my last fitting my speed had increased in all factors so needless to say that the fitter told me I’d outgrown graphite as it was starting to affect my consistency, I tried the stiff graphite but couldn’t get on with them so ended up back in a lighter steel shafts but that doesn’t go to say that I won’t end up back in graphite as old age slowly creeps up on me 🏌🏼♂️😂
![GEEK TIMË [OFFICIAL AUDIO]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/ry-6RvkH880/mqdefault.jpg)
I play now 5 years and have tested iron shafts ... which were immediately replaced by graphite. Coming from tennis where wood and steel are replaced already by 30 years or more by graphite I don't understand why golf is late to the party again. 😂🤯🤪 great vid Matt.🤘🏻😎🤘🏻
Great comment Eric!!🤘🤘
@@ZaxDrumsandMore 🙏🏻🤘🏻😎🤘🏻
When I was handed a KBS graphite-shafted ZX4 iron at my golf fitting, my heart sank "Am I that old?" I thought. I then took my stance and thought "I can hit this". I have been hitting them ever since. My Cleveland wedge set was off-the-shelf and are steel shafted. As of yesterday, my handicap index has gone from 17.3 to 10.9 in the ensuing 18 months.
I switched to the Recoil Dart 75 F4 shafts when I purchased a new set of Wilson Dynapwr Forged this month. Previous irons KBS Tour 105g stiff. I've definitely noticed that I have a better feel and slightly greater distance (picked up 2-3 mph swing speed). Have kept steel in my Ping Glide 4.0 wedges though. 64y, 14hcp.
I’ve been a single-figure handicapper for 20 years. Just had a fitting and for the first time they suggested graphite. Faster clubhead speed, faster ball speed, better ball flight, more distance. What’s not to like? And the bonus - graphite even looks like steel these days, so it’s my secret! I love this new technology!
That's awesome!!
Awesome 🤘🏻😎🤘🏻
I have had the same experience, i am also converted, it’s given me swing speed and ball speed back. No loss of control, so no cons for me
I recently had a fitting as well but the graphite shafts that suited me were stupidly expensive (non stock)...so it's a matter of price that keeps me in steel shafts
Had a fitting yesterday at Scottsdale golf and they put me in the axiom shaft. Club head speed up 5 mph to 85 mph vice steel shafts but what really impressed me was the consistency. Nearly fell over when the fitter told me the cost but u sucked it up and I'm looking forward to my new p790s with axiom shafts arriving soon
I have Steelfibers in my Mizuno 225's and Vokey wedges and love them. Just as much feel and playability as my prior steel shafts but without the vibrations on miss hits. Changed due to tendon issues and I can't see me ever playing steel again. Not the fastest but I still hit a 7 iron around 165-170 and play to a low handicap so graphite isn't just for slow swingers. Look at Fred Couples and Nelly Korda, both great players who play these kind of shafts and hit the ball a good distance.
Nice! The feel is far better for sure!
I was fit for the Mitsubishi OTi iron shafts and am so happy with the results. No more elbow strain, and my grouping has vastly improved. I'm never going back.
For some reason I stopped hitting my long irons very well and made the logical switch to a hybrid. Most of them come in graphite. What a change. I was a little faster which I had to adjust for, but I was having better contact and more importantly I was a bit straighter. I didn't analyze it all that much but things changed enough that I may change up my Calllaway Maverick next year.
Depends on the person. I'm at the higher end of swing speed, but I couldnt feel the club head and was very inconsistent with graphite in my irons. I need weight in my clubs. That may not be the case for everyone.
Were you trying a heavier weight graphite shaft like Axiom 125? My understanding from many reviews is that they feel very similar to traditional tour level iron shafts but have added benefits that can be developed with graphite construction.
There are a lot of heavier graphite options in the 110-125 or so range. They may not be the standard graphite option for some sets but they are there as upcharge options. Sounds like you used ones that were in a lower weight category than your preferred. A lot of ones inline with more standard steel weight categories. ACCRA, LAGolf, Fujikura, Mitsubishi, UST all have stuff that goes up to around 125 grams constant weight.
Great to see you enjoying them Matt! I've been playing with graphite shafts for over 20 years, and wouldn't want to go back to steel shafts when I get round to replacing my current set (Ping G30s) over the next couple of years.
I switched to graphite in my irons back in 2016 when I changed to the Callaway Apex CF16 irons. During the fitting we tried both steel shafts and graphite and with the lighter shaft my swing speed went up about 3 mph (on an 80-ish mph swing speed). That gave me a few extra yards without any downside, so spending a few hundred more for the set was a no-brainer.
Very interesting Matt thanks. Like a lot club golfers I buy off the self, some good looking clubs available for less than 800 but is a stock graphite shaft good enough straight off the shelf to the course?
Been following this all year waiting for this very video revealing the findings! I dont think I'm nearly good enough at golf to justify the switch, but it's something I have been intrigued by! Very cool!
I’ve been playing the Axiom 125x in my ‘20 P7MC irons for 6-8mo, I love them. My dispersion has decreased significantly and the combo of the insanely consistent P7MC with Axiom means max repeatability. I also previously had some wrist issues but those have subsided in the last 6mo, I’m not sure Axiom is fully responsible but I 100% agree that there is less reverberation vs. my prior shafts. I love Axioms and would recommend them to anyone who’s curious. The feel is phenomenal and it’s pretty amazing a tour weight/125g velocore iron shaft exists at all. Cheers Matt 🍻
I'm in the midst of changing shafts on my irons this season and have been giving graphite a serious thought. This video helps!!
The changes you speak about sir is you just getting better or worse in the areas over the year maybe?
Love the in-depth experience between the two types of shafts……. I love the feel of them. Do they feel differ through your the year though with weathering?
I work with hand and power tools all day. It’s not the weight or flex of the shaft for me……. Graphite just delivers a nice smooth feeling through the strike
Makes me enjoy the game a bit more. Plus I like chipping so kinda enjoy a wild desperation every now and again…… creates those genius moments or ones that lead you to alcohol and lucky pants😂😂
I switched to the steel fiber shafts when I purchased a new set of Mizuno 223's last year. I've definitely noticed that I have a better feel and slightly greater distance.
100% will consider when the price is competitive or perhaps a graphite option is offered as a no cost option at a custom fitting. I don’t have issues with the performance anymore.
Thinking about putting the graphite UST Recoil shafts in my Mizuno 221’s
I’ve been enjoying my graphite shafts on my irons. I bought a set of stix and they’re great and I have a set of PXG irons that were too stiff so I reshafted them with graphite and I’m a relatively new golfer and having so much less reverb on fat strikes is clutch for my wrists and the lighter weight gives me a little bit back in swing speed.
Was using steel until recently but due to tendonitis in my elbows, have changed to graphite.. bad swings still always gonna injury you but the reduction in the reverberation definitely helps with my longevity… the advancement in terms of consistency for graphite is amazing that I don’t think I would go back to steel… do wish they get cheaper quicker though, that’s probably the biggest con for the average joe..
Love the feedback that you found and judging by the comments, a lot of us here have the same sentiments
Had a fitting at PXG recently. Been in Nippon 105’s since they came out and the 1050 before that. Tired a couple of the graphite options MMT etc but seemed to be too much torque on the irons and ended up back in the modus. I have an Axiom 105 shaft ready once I find someone to test and build it up correctly!
I’m a 7 handicap and just shifted into the Mitsubishi mmt iron shaft. Felt like a strange decision in the fitting but data told me it was right, will see what the season brings
Changed to graphite last season……dropped handicap to 11.7 from 16……I’m 58
I have a set of Mizuno MP 64's with R flex graphite shafts and a set of Mizuno JPX 900 forged with steel R flex shafts m. I played to a 10 hc with the graphite and a 14 with the reg flex steel shafts. I'm switching back to the 64's this year.
Thank you for this review. Just had my fitting and PXG did not have the Fujikura iron shafts available. I was told it was a cost issue. I would have gladly paid the price if they performed. I believe I compromised with the Steel fiber shafts, but they are working well. I hope this technology becomes more prevalent. I don’t really care what tour players use. I’m not going to approach their swing speeds or attack angles. I have Fujikura Velocores in my driver and fairways (not PXG) and they are optimal.
I had all my long and fairway irons refitted to graphite stiff flex and love the extra feel I have through my stoke and the control. It was a great decision for me.
Hi matt, ive been using graphite shafts in my 3-9 irons and then steel shafts in my wedges, the other thing is that my irons are blades (about 20yr old bronty of bradford) and the wedges are more modern sized irons.
I was fitted for a new set of irons last year. I went with the graphite shafts and I simply love them much lighter and a bit more swing speed something to think about if you're thinking about getting a fitting
I ordered a set of Takomo 201's with their Obsidian 95s shafts. 25grams lighter than my project x 6.0s. Can't wait for them to arrive.
Thank you for another video, with information and insight into something that all golfers will need to check into throughout their golfing life.
I myself changed into Graphite shafts 2 seasons ago. It was mainly because of my slower swing speeds. I'm a high to mid handicap player. When going for a fitting for new irons. I knew I wanted more control and consistency.
At first I was fit into a graphite shaft that gave me a lot more distances but I would also get Fliers. Nothing like expecting to stick a green with your 6 iron. Only to fly straight over 20+ yards past.
The company I got fitted at. Had me come back, and get refitted.
I ended up in the KBS TGI 70's. Control and consistency is outstanding. I've lowered my handicap by 8 points over this last season.
Just can't pull the plug on the wedges though. Still have steel on them.
Keep up the great work Matt. Cheers!
I went to the same (lighter weight) graphite shafts in my Mizuno irons and wedges in 2019 to reduce impacts to my hands and have loved the change. I did pick up a new set of wedges late last year and have tried switching back to KBS steel shafts (lighter weight) to see how they compare to the graphite shafted wedges as it relates to consistency (I'll see what this year brings!).
Cool to see your update. Been following you for quite some time and was looking forward to hear about the shafts. Will definitely got and test some combinations. Been mostly using tailor-made irons since early 2000's MB's several models went into P770 a few years ago and now thinking to get something else. Opinions? If you ever down in South East Asia let me know. Hi from Thailand. Lived here since early 2000s. Have a super day! Great content as always.
Tried them during a recent full bag fitting but the steel was still better for me. Would have been happy to change if they offered me a performance benefit.
Definitely want to try some modern graphite. I remember my very first set of graphite shafted Howson Hippos I bought from Debenhams or maybe John Lewis back in the early nineties.
I swtiched last fall to graphite and I think it made it easier to hit. And iI definitely don't regret it!!
I have already decided to change to graphite shafts on my next set of clubs. I have tried some of my friends graphites and they feel better and travel further then my current set
I changed to graphite shafts a year ago and find them to be perfect. My main reason was that I live in Queensland Australia and the humidity can be really bad most of the year and no matter how well you look after your clubs they start pitting on the shafts.
Hey Chris, I’m also in Qld. What clubs do you play and has the graphite improved your game do you think? Cheers, Karl
@@karlschlobohm2023 Hi Karl, haven't really seen any gains or minuses in my irons (Taylormade) but as I keep them in a locker at the club near battery chargers for the carts it makes life easier for as the humidity is awful.
So this is an interesting video, I'm 52 and I don't hit my irons very far. I am wondering whether a fitting with graphite shafts might be of benefit to me.
I just fit graphites into my irons, and so far the transition is interesting, still getting used to them. So far the visible results are good, not used them long enough to provide the data.
Matt, how does the Axiom coating/decals hold up to wear marks or clubs clattering in the bag? Any issues?
I’m thinking about getting some matt car paint protection film to wrap around the wear points?
I've been playing the Fuji Pro 115 x for 2 and a half years. I've taken my handicap from 6 to 0.8 over that time. The feel, control and consistency of graphite is far superior to steel in my opinion.
i will change to graphite next year, I would do it sooner but the reasons you bring up is the reason I have waited.
most definitely will adopt graphite for Irons!
Nice one Matt. Excellent thought provoking content.
I've only ever played graphite since 1994, My first set by budget more then by conscious decision was a set of Ping Zing, Green lie with Novus red graphite shafts (stiff). My next set was again used Yonex VX with Graphite (Stiff (2008)), and my current (3rd ever set) used set PXG Steelfiber 95 Reg. Co-incidently a couple of Saturdays ago I hit a steel Elevate 95 and was surprised how good it was, with very little vibration. Maybe I'll go in the other direction?, Axioms look incredible though.
So I play with JPX921 with a graphite Mamiya recoil ESX 460 F3 shaft. Play a lot better than my JPX 800 with steel shaft but that could be due to the club upgrade
Been playing with graphite since the early 90s had a set of maruman variety21 then moved onto a set of mitsushiba tour cavity back paired with 1-3-5 Taylor Made flextwist graphite woods, currently playing cobra air x irons graphite, PXG hybrids graphite PXG 0211 driver graphite, can only remember using steal shaft on pitch and put when first learning. Got fitted for the cobra and steal didn't even get mentioned.
That's a sweet set up!
One problem is swapping the shaft steel is much easie4 for the home club builder,. Howefer you dress it up graphite is the future.
I got fitted into graphite irons by cobra after a fitting by a tour fitter. Like you it's a fitting few would get, I definitely think there is a cost element, it's not as easily available either. Until the tour guys start gaming graphite I don't think there will be much demand for fitting services to stock much either until then
Some great points there! Be interesting to see where they go
Wow, Matt! Diving into your graphite adventure a year later is like watching a golf transformation story unfold. Super cool to see how you tackled those initial doubts head-on and came out swinging (literally) with some pretty impressive results. 🏌♂💥 The bit about the feel of graphite shafts and the tech advancements really caught my attention. Makes me wonder what switching could do for my own game! Pricey, yes, but hey, maybe it's worth the investment? 🤔 Thanks for breaking it down for us, and kudos for keeping it real with the pros and cons. Can't wait to see where this takes you next, and maybe it's time I give those graphite shafts a shot too! Keep the great content coming! 🌟
I'm considering/looking at the Eleven Hybrid Irons set. I'm a high handicapper(22) with physical limitations (shoulder surgeries and neck fusion). I'm also very tall at 6'6", if that makes a difference.
I have been playing graphite for years. They are better for me in every way possible. They have made constant injuries of my hands, wrists, and elbows a thing of the past. My dispersion is tighter and swing with more ease. Bottom line, more people don't play them because pros won't. When that happens, the move to them will be rapido.
I went to graphite in my irons in 2013. I hit them more consistently and my flight paths are higher resulting in more spin on the greens. My swing speeds are not as great as they were in my 30's so graphite just made more sense.
Good to hear they are working! Did you get fit for them?
I took up golf when I retired 6 years ago and have used graphite clubs the whole time.
I have graphite shafts in my Srixon ZX5 irons. I like them, they are Accra shafts. Think back to the time all shafts were steel, even in drivers and woods. Now, I don't think you can by a steel driver/FW. Soon all or the majority of the irons will have graphite shafts, it only makes sense!!
I think your right! Only a matter of time!
I am a 73 (soon to be 74) old golfer with a history of handicaps from a low of 8 (years ago) to a present high of 14. I found as I got older I was hitting my long irons less and less probably due to my inability to hit them well. So last year I took the plunge and bought a set of irons from a prominent online manufacturer with graphite shafts. I did not get fitted for them but just decided to take the chance. I could not be happier with the outcome. I now can pull out the longest iron in my bag and hit it with greater confidence than I have had in years. Admittedly they are almost exactly one club stronger in loft than my old clubs and that may also be a factor as to why I like them but they are just easier to hit farther and straighter than I have hit in years. Just standing on the tee with your friends and putting it over the green into a strong headwind is a wonderful feeling.
Irons are for accuracy NOT distance. Older golfers should use "rescue" clubs in place of long irons as speed is necessary to hit long irons properly.
James, my particular set starts at the 6 iron through the Gap wedge. However my 6 iron has the same loft as my old 5 iron and they are both straighter and longer. However I don't think anyone should make pronouncements about what clubs seniors should use. Everyone is different.
Purchased new irons, Takomo. I'm 75, thought it might be time, and went with the KBS tour light. Have only played with them twice, but so far, I love them.
I think with today's technology, we will see the pros going to them. Thanks for your thoughts, and stats.
Enjoy this year's golf.
❤🏌️✌️
Nice! Sweet set up
Graphite is inconsistent in that it is impossible to make two shafts with identical torque characteristics. I was an amateur international and won many tournaments and although I am now in my eighties I would never use graphite shafts in irons. Irons are NOT for distance, but are for accuracy, not only lateral accuracy but also distance accuracy (control of distance).
Graphite is good in woods as they provide greater distance, but NEVER for irons.
Good, honest comment and very possibly true. However, I think as long as the individual graphite iron shaft is consistent in its own flex, it should be fine even if the torque is 0.1 or 0.2 different from the next iron. More than that would probably not be ideal.
Times have changed old man so has technology
I was fitted for graphite shafts last year and my handicap has come down by 4 shots, dont think apart from my wedge I'll ever play steel shafts again
I will ALWAYS use graphite in my irons, I don't care what anyone says. It feels so much better than Steel imo. I hate that more club manufacturers don't offer stock graphite options!
I’m considering graphite shafts in my Ping G425 irons (5-Uwedge),,,it will with the health of my body,,,,,
i want to try the 105 X Axiom but the price to reshaft my T100's is tough lol i play project X right now and i just get no feel
Been playing graphite for 25 years. Best move I have made so far as golf is concerned.
Price point and availability will keep me in steel for a long time to come. But should the opportunity arise for me to try I would be open to it.
I been playing graphite shaft since i started but it's nothing new my clubs are from 1993 so not much text into those lol
I would, has I did have graphite g25 ping, and they were a great iron, although my g425 iron's steal shaft are good. I think the g25 were more on line than the g425. Plus g425 got more distance because of the degree angle, if g25 had the same angle of degree I would have the same distance as the g425
Valid points
When I was younger I always thought steel shafts in irons was the only way to go, now that i am older and my son (a great golfer) is inquiring about graphite shafts which i now use (approaching 80 years of age). I think Graphite is the way to go even for youngsters just past their 50th birthday!!!...
I would use modern graphite or mixed media shafts in a heartbeat, but I’m a tight arse, so I couldn’t justify the additional cost.
Did you see an increase in your distances by using the graphite shafts?
🤣,it’s not uncommon ..tour players play with graphite irons …..it’s just that ,the new materials make them more attractive now ,, I will be switching back to graphite ,I can’t get on with steel now ,. It’s nice to tinker,,
Some interesting stats there
I have a graphite in my driving iron was given it as a gift. I will say it all depends on the golfer and there budget.
I agree very individual!
bought tommy armour ti100 graphite irons in 1996 and never looked back.
I switched to Project X Catalyst graphite iron shafts last season and saw better stats too.
That's good to hear
@@Mattfryergolf funny that when people see that I'm using graphite their immediate response is always "Aren't they for seniors?" I then ask if they've dropped 4-5 shots off their handicap in 6 months before...
Graphite is great and all until you drop your heavy cart bag on a leaning club and snap it in half.
Can the graphite be recycled? Metal can be, obviously.
Golf can be a bit guilty of having a bit too much plastic, although there are a lot of positive contributors back to the environment.
I’d go graphite if it could be recycled - I think the technological opportunities could be endless.
I'm not sure, I will have a look into this.
Get back to your bottle cardboard and can boxes. Who puts a comment about that on here wrong channel
Can’t get used to a decision like this being described as controversial
What were the cons
Matt, do certain iron heads work better with graphite than steel and vice versa? I ask this question because I want to take my current irons and try graphite shafts
Day 60 can have the er5
Did that actually dunk?!?
Yeah the cameraman was frantically nodding at me! Thought someone was creeping up on me 😂
I'm sorry but it's a known fact from professional fitters. Graphite is designed for swing speeds 65mph or less
Graphite all the way.
What makes this controversial ?
That a "pro golfer" plays all graphite... Something I know a lot of good golfers would steer away from.
I will never subscribe to this rubbish.
I was in graphite but on my last fitting my speed had increased in all factors so needless to say that the fitter told me I’d outgrown graphite as it was starting to affect my consistency, I tried the stiff graphite but couldn’t get on with them so ended up back in a lighter steel shafts but that doesn’t go to say that I won’t end up back in graphite as old age slowly creeps up on me 🏌🏼♂️😂
Switched to graphite 20+ years ago and haven't looked back and no plan to go back.