What is the differance between graphite and steel shafts for golf clubs?

Question

What is the differance between graphite and steel shafts for golf clubs?

Answer 1

Steel shafts are stronger, less prone to damage, and generally less expensive than graphite and are made from high-carbon or stainless steel. Steel shafts can offer more control and have a greater emphasis on accuracy than distance - they do not suffer from the same twisting or flexing as graphite. They do require a faster swing speed to generate the same distance as a graphite shaft. Most are of a stepped design, (you'll know when you see them) with the shaft diameter getting thinner at each step, but you can also find 'rifled' steel shafts - supposedly these are more precise.

Generally graphite is more expensive than steel but much lighter weight (some are more than 50% lighter), which potentially allows for greater clubhead speed and more power. this is a major plus vs steel but it sacrifices control due to shaft flexing and torque, and in some cases inconsistency between shafts - how much of an issue this is depends on the shaft. Graphite also soaks up vibration better than steel, so it tends to be less uncomfortable if you dont catch the ball sweetly.

In general drivers and woods are almost all fitted with graphite shafts now, as steel is noticeably heavier, and would slow your swing a lot with such long-shafted clubs. For irons, although many sets do come with graphite shafts, steel is still popular.

As with many things to do with golf, it comes down to feel and personal preference.

Answer 2

Steel shafts are stiff and heavier, whereas graphite shafts are lighter and more flexibe. Steel shafts are used on irons, drivers use graphite shafts.