graphite vs steel

[tdaniels]

What is the difference between graphite and steel shafts? I have heard that graphite can add some distance to your game. If this is the case then why wouldnt everyone be using them? (other than the fact that your buddies will laugh at you)

 

[GregInOz]

Golf is not only a question of distance. The driver is the distance club, which is why you are hard pressed now to find anyone playing steel in the driver.

Irons, on the other hand, are a question of consistency and distance control. It is not so important to be able to hit the odd 9 iron 160 yards as it is to hit it the same distance every time. Most are of the opinion that steel shafts are the best option for this. When graphite first became popular it was known for the occasional 'flyer'.
Modern upmarket graphite shafts are quite consistent, and in some cases can rival steel for consistency and distance control. So then it becomes an issue of personal preference and $$$. Grapite can offer a somewhat muted feel compared to steel which many people do not want in their scoring clubs - hence the prevalence of steel - and graphite is more expensive, and offers little discernible benefit in shorter clubs.

And yes, graphite shafts in irons are for ladies and old men. You are in serious danger of being laughed clear off the course unless you bring some serious game along with them.

 

[ruffin]

go with steel shafts with all clubs if you tend to slice the ball of a really stiff grafite shaft because when the shaft bends it turnds the clubface outwards making you cut accross the ball even more . add i dont slice anymore because i moved to a new steel shaft club but with the same head for the driver i loose about 20m but i hit heaps straighter.

 

[nsherman2006]

ruffin, thats not always true. I have some regular flex shafts that i hook, and others that i slice. It depends on a variety of things. I am not an expert on this, so i can't tell you why this happens, but i do know that getting a really stiff shaft isn't going to cure a slice.

 

[DaveE]

Here's a link to a test that was done comparing graphite to steel. Pretty similar results between the two so maybe it's more personal choice than anything.

http://www.rankmark.com/special/shafts.asp

 

[goatster]

ive played both in the same set of irons.i would never go back to graphite in irons.i am more accurate with steel shafts and i didnt lose any sugnificant distance by making the switch.

i will never buy another set of irons with graphite shafts.but thats just me.

 

[VtDivot]

There's also the weight factor. While you can get either shaft in a variety of weights and flexes, the steel for the most part has a heavier and firmer feel than a graphite shaft imho