Select the Right Custom Shaft for You

Steel Shaft vs. Graphite Shaft

Lets look at some of differences between the two types of shafts.

• Steel shafts are less expensive than graphite

• At one time Steel shafts were considered more durable than graphite. Steel shafts will last forever as long as they are not bent, rusted or pitted. Actually, quality Graphite shafts will also probably last forever as long as they are not chipped, cracked, or the laminate-seal is not peeling.

• The vibrations from Graphite shafts are less than Steel shafts. This would be good if you're tired of your hands stinging on miss hit shots. However, you might want that added feedback that Steel shafts offers by actually feeling how well you hit the ball.

• The most important difference is that Graphite shafts are lighter weight than Steel shafts. According to clubmaking and equipment guru Tom Wishon, the difference in weight between Graphite shafts and Steel shafts will translate, for most golfers, into an additional 2-4 mph of swing speed with graphite. And that could mean an extra 6-12 yards of distance with a Graphite shaft, compared to a Steel shaft.

Standard Shaft Flexes

R = Regular Flex
S = Stiff Flex
A = Senior Flex
L = Ladies Flex

Standard Shaft Lengths

Irons & Hybrids	Men’s		Women’s
Irons & Hybrids	Steel	Graphite	Steel	Graphite
1	40.0	40.5	39.5	40
2	39.5	40	39	39.5
3	39	39.5	38.5	39
4	38.5	39	38	38.5
5	38	38.5	37.5	38
6	37.5	38	37	37.5
7	37	37.5	36.5	37
8	36.5	37	36	36.5
9	36	36.5	35.5	36
PW	35.5	36	35	35.5
Wedges	35.5	36	35	35.5
Steel Woods
Driver	43.5	44	42.5	43.5
3W	43	44	42	43
5W	42	43	41	42
7W	41	42	40	41
9W	40.5	41.5	39.5	40.5
11W	40	41	39	40
13W	39.5	40.5	38.5	39.5
15W	39	40	38	39
Titanium Drivers
Driver	44	45	43	44
3W	43	44	42	43
5W	42	43	41	42
Putters
Standard	35		34