Quote:
Originally Posted by shadyb421
isnt it the longer the shaft the further the ball goes. because my X hot 3 wood is 1 1/2 inch longer than standard and plays just like my driver
|
Each 1/2 inch increase in length has to potential to add 2 to maybe 3 yards.
But, each increase in length also decreases the chances of making sweet-spot contact with the ball. Most people find that while their clubhead speed decreases just a little bit with a shorter shaft, the shorter shaft increases control dramatically and results in much more frequent sweet-spot contact. And, the more frequent sweet-spot contact usually results in an increase in drive distance.
The best evidence of this is the fact that the average length of the drivers of the PGA TOUR members is less than 45 inches. Usually between 44 1/2 and 44 3/4 inches. If the players with the best swings in the world -- the PGA Tour pros -- aren't very often using drivers over 45 inches long, what hope to we amateurs have? The OEMs aren't helping as most drivers off the rack are 45.5 inches today, and there are quite a number that are 46 and even a fair number that are 46.5 inches long now. The vast majority of people would be much better off with a driver shaft that is 44 inches or less. Sure, you give up the potential for those once a round super-long drives, but if you can hit twice as many fairways in a round and give up 5 or maybe 10 yards, isn't that worth it?
Like with all things golf, you should be fit for your driver length. If you can control a 46" inch shaft the same as a 44" inch shaft, then sure, you can pursue those extra yards. But, most people are a lot better off with a 44" inch shaft.