Chiping around the green?

Question

I have been using a 56 w/graphite shaft for a while to chip around the green. I recently got a 56 w/steel shaft and I keep leaving it low and way right most of the time. I'm thinking it has to do with the shaft? Steel heavier and I'm lagging it behind?

Any input would be helpful. Thanks

Answer 1

Chipping is like putting....its all about feel.  You have an entirely different swingweight in the new wedge...its going to take a bit of time to get the feel and stroke right again is all. In response to others I chip with everything from a 4 iron to a LW depending on the situation and the conditions.  The Pros are not the only ones who practice and have learned the shots...they just make more money at it.

Answer 2

You might just have to get used to the new weight of this club.  also a steel shafted club requires a faster swing speed to hit it the same as a graphite shafted club.

Answer 3

Anytime you change a part of gear in your bag, you will have to go through a learning curve.  

The design of your wedge, bounce, rounded leading soul, squared etc. has a lot to do with it...When you say low and right, (assuming that your a right hander) I'de say that face of the wedge is opened up at impact, by hitting the grass way too soon, by grabbing and twisting ever so slightly...if your in practice...pick the worst conditions that you ball can find itself in near the green...and find the right combination to get the results that you seek.

The biggest factor that I deal with in chipping...is that one blade of wide grass that will be in between the ball and the face of the wedge...how will it effect my ability to control the roll and distance...

Answer 4

With a much slower swing speed during chipping, it is definitely not the flex issue with the shaft.  I would put my bet on the 'balance' of the club.  Most steel shaft clubs feel different than graphite because the shaft is heavier, so you probably are off in your timing because you can't feel the club head as good as you use to.

Like any new club, you just have to keep practicing with it and get use to the new feel.  Since you're hitting it way right, you're probably right about lagging the club behind.  Try keeping your body and head quiet, chip like a putting stroke... it should improve your direction and distance control.

Answer 5

Why are you using a 56 degree wedge to chip around the green? Wedges are the hardest clubs to hit softly. Just because you see Tiger and Phil do phenomenal things around the green with their wedges remember they do this for a living, practice more hours than you put in playing and have the technique. Only resort to the 56 when you must carry a hazard or the rough. Use lower irons when the front of the greens are open.The problem is with the mechanic, not the shaft.