How well do you know the tools in your bag? For the most part, golfers have a general idea of what each club is designed to do. Where things get interesting is when you hand them three clubs with different head shapes, but almost identical lofts.
For example, a 3-iron, 3-hybrid and 7-wood all have about 20 degrees of loft, but as we saw in the latest edition of GOLF.com’s RoboTest series, they can produce wildly different launch and spin characteristics.
The test is designed to highlight how the clubs differ and which one might be best for your game. Check out the entire test below.
And if you’re wondering about the numbers, here’s a snapshot of how each club performed at 92 mph.
7-wood: 19 degrees (launch) | 5,200 RPMs (spin) | 200 yards (carry)
Who it’s designed for: Someone who doesn’t hit it out of the center on a regular basis and requires maximum forgiveness. This golfer might also need help launching it high and stopping it on the green.
Insights (Kris McCormack, Fully Equipped co-host and VP of tour and education at True Spec Golf): “When it comes to the demographic of a player, the 7-wood is more forgiving and designed for the player who needs more launch and spin. It’s a long iron replacement that you’re hitting into a green and expecting it to hold. The lower, deeper CG in the 7-wood is going to allow you to hit it higher, and it did [during the test].”
3-hybrid: 14 degrees | 2,940 RPMs | 225 yards
Who it’s designed for: A golfer who needs a secondary option off the tee and isn’t launch and spin deficient. Compact profile makes it a good option for the better player who still needs some semblance of mishit protection.
Insights: “The 3-hybrid is a more compact design with a forward CG. It’s also a long iron replacement, but it’s going to play and perform more like a traditional long iron.”
3-iron: 15 degrees | 3,640 RPMs | 205 yards
Who it’s designed for: Strong ball-striker who wants a consistent look throughout their iron set and places a premium on workability and launch variability.
Insights: “I would expect the player using the 3-iron to be a little bit better ball-striker. They’re looking for a particular launch window and number. They’re also looking to shape and control shots.
Want to overhaul your bag for 2023? Find a fitting location near you at GOLF’s affiliate company True Spec Golf. For more on the latest gear news and information, check out our latest Fully Equipped podcast below.