3 Wood Woes

 

Frank,

Before I ask my question, let me tell you about my level of golf. I currently have a 9 handicap. On average I can drive the ball about 290 yds. I just bought a new three wood from my local golf store with a stiff shaft. My old three wood has a x-stiff shaft. My typical shot path with my old three wood is a slight fade (which is normal for me) but the new three wood has a real strong fade. I need to change my swing path to compensate for the strong fade with the new three wood which, feels like it is lagging behind at impact more than my old club with the x-stiff shaft. My question is; do you think I should have the x-stiff shaft in my new three wood? The sales person that sold me the club thinks the opposite, he thinks the new three wood shaft (stiff) is too strong and that is probably why I have a very strong fade. I cannot get a full refund so I would like too know for future purchases if you think the shaft in my new three wood is not strong enough? 

Thanks,

--Mike D   

 

Mike,

I think the first question I would ask is; why did you get a new three-wood when the old one seems to have been working well? Second, when you bought the new one why didn’t you get the same shaft flex?

Answers to these questions would help in analyzing the problem.

Generally, a flight path to the right is indicative of a shaft flex which is too stiff. This may not only be an overall shaft flex problem but also a kick point problem. In your case, a lower kick point may help solve the problem.

If the shaft tip section was more flexible it would bend a little more  just before impact which, for a wood, will  increase the effective loft angle and close the face a little and result in less of a fade. The center of gravity location may also be very different between the two heads, which will tend to affect the head presentation to the ball.

With your average driving distance being 290 yards (a little more than the average on the PGA Tour) you would have a swing speed between 110 and 115 mph, which would normally place you in the a Stiff or X-Stiff shaft flex range for your woods.

May I suggest that you find out, and compare all the shaft specs, as well as the club frequency, swing weight and overall weight for each of the two clubs. This may answer your question.

For your next purchase take your old club (the one that works) to the store with you and test and compare the new and old on a launch monitor before you buy the new one.

I hope the old year fades away and the New Year brings you some great golfing.

 

Frank