Is there really a difference between steel and graphite shafts

Question

I'm 15 and looking into new irons. there is a hundred dollar difference between them. is it really worth it?

Answer 1

At 15 years of age, learn to play with the clubs you now own.When the handicap ( calculated using USGA method ) reaches  into the single digits, and you have the knowledge to distinguish between shafts, their advantages and disadvantages then consider whether steel or graphite is  best for your swing speed. Never act hastily when purchasing clubs.

Answer 2

Yes there is a difference between steel and graphite shafts. (other than the price difference).  

Steel shaft: Last longer and more durable; more feel when you swing as an entire club and less feel of the club head; It is a heavier club and some players prefer heavier clubs for the feel;  Swing speed doesn't effect the club head because there's no bending of the shaft (unless you are superman and swing REAL fast)

Graphite shaft: Better feel of the club head and thus give you better feedback on how you are striking the ball so you can make minor adjustments to change ball flight and spin; Lighter clubs if you are walking the course and carry your bag; because they break more easily, the club head of the shorter clubs could hit against the longer club's shaft and scratch/damage it if your bag doesn't have proper dividers.

As far as distance, they both will hit just as far if you hit it properly.

Realistically, at your age, it probably won't make any difference if you use graphite or steel.  If you are concerned about carrying all that weight in your bag because you walk the course, and can afford the extra 100 bucks, get graphite, otherwise, I would go with the steel shaft and use the money you saved on playing couple more rounds of golf.

Answer 3

You're 15 so get the steel shafts.  Graphite shafts are for older players and female golfers with slower swings.  

Answer 4

It depends on your stroke. With graphite you have to swing much harder (or I find), then a metal shaft. Graphite is more flexible, it will bend a lot more then a metal shaft. So if i was you, id borrow a graphite shaft and a metal shaft and take them to a driving range and decide on your comfort zone.

Answer 5

I being the same age have wondered this.  After about 2 years with graphite shafts two of my irons broke (and if you get mad easily they are easy to break) both were not out of frustration but just hitting the ball.  My brother uses steel and they've lasted for 4 years, so Id go with steel.

Answer 6

ive played both....steel is great and so is graphite....i can deduce at you age and skill it probly wont matter...i would go with steel....for the extra feel...some say it doesnt matter but i believe you can work the ball more with steel....