This SHOCKED me...Graphite v Steel Shaft Test

[@pauldavey422]

i worked with a specialist graphite shaft company for a couple of years - Swix shafts from norway - they make high performance ski poles. They main difference in quality of graphite shafts is the build method. If you wind the shaft using a carbon fibre thread then cure it, you will have millions of air pockets in the shaft that react differently every swing - how a fishing rod is made. If you laminate sheets of high grade carbon fibre to whatever spec you choose then compress the shaft - you virtually eliminate all the air pockets creating a very rigid consistently reacting shaft, what a golfer - and skier wants. BUT....very expensive production process.

[@user-iy3zn1rt6g]

I appreciate the time it took you to write this that’s actually really fascinating

[@KirklandBelmont]

@@user-iy3zn1rt6g I appreciate you appreciating his post

[@ColtSteel25]

If you're looking for the best made graphite shafts, using the methods you posted, how would one ask or research those who make shafts the correct way?

[@-Thunder]

The issue I have with simply going into a fitting and trying graphite vs. steel is they take a bit of time to work out the timing due to the feel difference. I went from the heaviest steel shafts down to 90g graphite stiff shafts. I just committed to it and after a few days I really started to settle in. I wanted lighter, softer feeling clubs. I think the difference in performance (anecdotal) was negligible, but I'm happy with graphite and glad I changed.

[@coobay4786]

I changed to graphite 20 years ago. Reason was 20 years ago I went from playing golf once every couple of weeks to playing 2 to 3 times a week and I started having problems with my left shoulder and neck always aching with pain. I switched to graphite and after about 6 weeks the pain was gone and has never returned. I would assume the graphite absorbed more of the vibrations. I never saw any difference in distance or accuracy.

[@Douggi]

I have the same issue, alot of Pain just under my left scapula.. i Will try some graphites

[@nongienong6900]

Me too.

[@Mboogie69]

Yep. I switched after a back injury has slowed my swing way down. It’s helped get a little speed back without hurting myself again

[@ghstrdio]

Does graphite last as long as steel?

[@coobay4786]

@@ghstrdio if you don't abuse them they'll last longer than you.

[@Stekman101]

I got fitted into aerotech shafts. i95 in long and mids, and 110 in 8 and 9. Love the feel; my trajectory and dispersion is the best I've had.

[@bobbys4327]

I went with graphite long ago. Steel gave me golf elbow from impact. Never went back to steel. Love the feel of graphite! Just got some Mizuno MP-54 heads off ebay like new. Put UST Mamiya recoils in them and wow, after 30 years with my old clubs these are in the keeper bag!

[@darrenarbergolf]

I see a lot more people choosing graphite in the fittings I do. I think the manufacturing process of graphite has improved dramatically over the years to make them perform more consistant throughout the set. Great video, and really interesting viewing.

[@Mattfryergolf]

Glad you thought so and good to get your feedback Darren

[@DetVen]

I started using graphite when I started getting golfer's elbow really bad. It's made a huge difference and there wasn't a drop off in my game, which is nothing to brag about, but so happy to play them.

[@alandye4654]

Been playing graphite for years. Makes my joints Very Happy! Best move I could've made!

[@seajan808]

PXG 0211 DC with stiff graphite Mitsubishi MMT’s . Incredible !!! Best clubs I’ve hit so far .

[@miguelitoaniceto5882]

This is probably one of the most insightful videos I’ve seen. Great job on this one.

[@garfscarf]

Great video Matt. Very interesting. I started with graphite shafts but have moved to steel. Still play poorly ha but I prefer the steel.

[@GrumpyTy34er]

Just switched to graphite shafts. They are apparently for seniors (Callaway's 460 | F2 shafts) but I just swing a bit slower, which I should be doing anyway for my swing and it works out.

[@mattyh4665]

If you tried the MMT’s or steelfibers I think you would have a different opinion of graphite. The MMT’s like Fowler is playing is available all the way up to 125TX and plays true to flex. Many of the graphite shafts are actually tip stiffer than the steel counterparts. The recoil 95’s that you tested are good shafts but have a very smooth profile and obviously are very light. I would think the Recoil 110’s would have been a better test, as the weights would feel more familiar with. Of course Mizuno offers the recoil 95’s stock so I suppose that is why they chose them. The MMT’s and Steelfibers are available in weights that better players are more familiar with which can make the transition super easy.

[@jaymorin7131]

I reshafted my ZX5s with i80 F2s and they feel awesome. The irons came with i95 F3s and they played too stiff. The F2s feel more like Rs with great feel.

[@lindsaynewell6319]

very helpful test. If you'd gone back and changed your first 2 guesses after the 3rd one you probably would have got 5/5. I'm looking for new irons this year (after 15+ years playing the same irons) and was considering graphite (getting older, slow swing) but this test helps me think about it differently 🙏

[@unshavengamer5542]

Perfect timing, I was going to get fitted soon and it’s exactly what I wanted to know

[@Mattfryergolf]

Hope it helped

[@joejohnson1454]

In the 80’s I started playing golf with an excellent scratch golfer. He was 6’2” used Muzino blades with TT steel shafts; X-stiff 9-wedges; stiff 6-8 ; regular 3-5. Over the years he only updated his driver and 4 wood to latest technology. Never changed his irons and is now in his 70’s.

[@brianjohnson8918]

If you prefer the feel of one vs. the other that's pretty much end-of-discussion, select from within the type you prefer. Otherwise, get professionally fit & the launch monitor will tell you which to get based on metrics such as dispersion, ball flight, and distance.

[@chilliguitar]

I have just changed to graphite at the age of 63 , and it has been a transformation in my game , I’m striking the ball so much better. But the best is I feel more confidence.with them.

[@marklags2396]

I was fitted into the Mitsubishi MMT 80 stiff for my irons and absolutely love them. Good information in this video. Thanks Matt.

[@hardwork371]

I used to have steel shaft PING irons and just received my new PING G425's with graphite shafts in early February and the difference is amazing. The feel and forgiveness is so different and it instils such confidence and according to my Arccos Golf Caddie my overall game has improved 6.2 strokes over my last 10 rounds and that's playing on soggy fairways, wet greens and winter greens. I don't use 'irons' anymore but graphies are wonderful. BTW Arccos Caddie combined with new clubs really dials in my distances.

[@Frankiep72]

What brand and model are the graphite shafts on your G425's?

[@hardwork371]

@@Frankiep72 My G425 Max Driver is Mitsubishi Tensei AV series 55-Flex R, 3 425 Hybrid - ALTACO 70/SR, G30 3 & 4 FAIRWAY WOOD - TFC 419 R, G410 5 HYBRID - ALTACO 70-R, 425 IRONS ALTACO AWT /R. I'm thinking of replacing G30 3 & 4 for 425 Hybrids in near future and may look at PING wedges @50dg, & 60dg.

[@Frankiep72]

@@hardwork371 thanks!

[@Jobu58]

Switched to graphite (regular) M1's 7 years back, way easier on the body for sure. Just got fitted for P790's and went with a stiff graphite shaft, slightly heavier than the regular M1 graphite shafts, but a little better distance and better dispersion as well!

[@blue24563]

I’m a good player but I always preferred graphite because it helps me really feel the weight of the club head. That’s always been my main focus when swinging. But they are more expensive to replace.

[@metalheads-golf]

I've got the same reasoning. Know where the clubhead is helps me a lot in golf journey. 🤘🏻😎🤘🏻

[@ScottDreyfus]

Graphite has absolutely nothing to do with feeling the weight. The balance point of that shaft does

[@part1801]

I like this video, thank you I played steel shafts my entire life and at 50 I got a set a graphite Taylor Made irons. My experience is that my 6 - 4 irons go much further on solid shots, almost too good, but I don't like the shorter clubs nearly as much . I hit the shorter irons a little shorter and I wish I still had my Mizuno irons for the shorter clubs. I'm going to customize my next set with a little different shafts and heads on P-7 for my next set.

[@lkae4]

I believe Steelfiber has flight control tech in their shafts just for folks like you. Check them out.

[@colynmiles6206]

Now play Aerotec i95 steelfibre stiff shafts in my irons ,lightness of graphite, stiffness of steel, perfect combination after playing S300 Dynamic gold for years. Really recommend for the older golfer.

[@lewwilliams347]

this is so true... i was fitted into steel S shafts based on my swing speed alone. I chose to buy x stiff 130g because a well timed swing felt so repeatable in comparison... i have actually gained distance in the end as the feel i get with the broom sticks gives me more confidence to fully commit to the swing. There is no perfect formula, its down to the individual

[@Mattfryergolf]

It sure is

[@stuartmann8938]

Great video Matt, I’ve recently got graphite after a fitting and can concur with your comments about length dispersion, taking a bit of time to get “average distance dialled in.

[@jeffcook8842]

As a visually impaired golfer, I do not hit the ball perfectly every time. Often just a Little behind, or high on the ball. Through several sets of irons Both steel and graphite, I Found that a slight miss hit with steel although it might sting a little the shot was much better. As a result, I use regular lightweight steel shafts ins tead of the recommended senior graphite. Slight mishits although a little more painful, are much more accurate. However as the last time I used graphite irons was in '16, I will give graphite a serious look when I upgrade.

[@william8654]

Never had interest in graphite until I was on vacation and rented clubs. TaylorMade M2s in graphite R. My driver speed is around 95. Right off the bat I noticed my 7-8-9-W had a much higher ball flight than my normal ball flight without a loss of distance. Also felt much softer at impact. Looking to get fitted soon for new irons and will look hard at graphite irons for sure.

[@ydargybwen]

Tested 8 different shafts last time I went for a fitting and ended up with a stiff steel when the fitter pegged me as regular to begin with. Felt more control and got better dispersion with the stiff. Project x lz 6.0

[@ATbaitboats]

Would the tape affect the performance of the club? Great video Matt, very helpful.

[@barrymurton8988]

Bearwood lakes, I used to work opposite but never got to play there as I retired before it was completed - Pictures always look great!

[@jacobmccain8082]

I had some issues with my elbow so went to Aerotech 115 gram graphites in my irons a few years back. Elbow got better, tried to go back to PXLZ, couldnt do it. Like my graphites so much I put them in my wedges. And I'm not an old guy with no speed, generally hit my 7i 165-170 carry.

[@jibbone-leelong1657]

This good to know, three years ago I developed tendonitis in my lead elbow from working out it's hard to keep my arm straight when golfing from the pain. Looking at a new set now, likely will go graphite.

[@VoodooZ]

No coverage of Mizuno's 3D shaft fitting device?

[@mikesnowden1054]

I have graphite, as I was recommended them for the shock absorbtion. I'd previously found the original Big Bertha irons to throw in an occasional very hot one, and hated them. My last Mizuno fitting was Project X 5.5 Evenflow - as recommended by DNA. but with Steel Weight heads; needed that to get the feel of a shaft putting in some release. My fitted Callaway rogue woods have the same shaft too. This may be a unique order, but Mizuno did it!

[@freemarketspeople3514]

Graphite is better than it used to be. It still not good enough. Younger golfers should avoid them still. The more athletic swing will result in more snapped club heads, mishits flaring more, and inconsistent shot shapes with off center shots.

[@brentninedorf6617]

Would be interesting to take weight differences out of the mix and focus purely on the feel and dispersion then. The light weight may have been more of a factor than the graphite construction in feeling where the clubhead was. If you had shafts all between 110-120 g then the weight differences aren’t playing as big of a role.

[@michaelcaruso1256]

Just went with graphite in my new SM9 54 & 58 and so far like them a lot.

[@techclub8528]

When I first started playing this year I got myself some Wilson launch pad with graphite regular off the shelf and they were great to learn but I noticed the dispersion could be like 50 yards off different ball strikes. Got myself some p770 now in steel 120s but I think I might of jumped a bit early to a low handicap set plus with these I noticed pain in my finger joints when playing. My next set might be somewhere in the middle maybe PXG gen 7 with a graphite Stiff 110 or 95 steel fibre

[@Teamleider2010]

I got fitted on the new stealth irons with Ventus graphites after playing years with steel...last steel was Projectx 105 Z now Ventus graphite stiff....awsome swap and for my elbows too

[@seadog1062]

Would love to see a retest with the X100 vs Aerotech 125 X flex or MMT 125 TX. Great vid!

[@matthewbeard4704]

Just got a set of jpx-921 with recoil graphite shafts. They are unbelievably good

[@codeynumazu6926]

Switched to graphite recently, golf game improved dramatically.

[@davevosper4306]

I would prefer graphite after trying my brothers set , but cost does hamper me for the future.

[@DavidSmith-lo7wf]

Interesting blind test. I am considering trying graphite when I get fit next (maybe this year). I am now in my 40s and have old sports injuries and may not change sets for many years again so I'm just getting older....

[@Mattfryergolf]

They may help… worth a try

[@northwestrider369]

The first thing the guy said about graphite feeling softer, I owned 2 sets of irons with graphite shafts, and both times I returned to steel because I like a soft feel and steel has felt softer to me. I know everyone is different, but for me, steel has a softer feel.

[@kent3874]

I think the problem with this test is that not all graphite shafts are the same, same for steel, so to make an assumption on graphite shafts in general, like stating graphite is less consistent or softer, based upon these 2 graphite shafts, is not a good assumption. Graphite shafts have come a long way, and there are many different types now, so dont think one can make such a generalization based upon hitting 2.

[@kevinodriscoll3904]

Steel alloys with molybdenum or other metals allow for flex and feel! It’s not helpful that manufacturers have dumbed down steel shafts to R, S etc.

[@sliver8682]

Got fitted for a set of irons last year with graphite shafts. Absolutely love them

[@Mattfryergolf]

Class, it’s what works for you

[@laneholt2767]

You failed to mention the most important thing- Deceleration at Impact ( AKA- Newton’s Third Law) , which is particularly dependent on the flexibility of the tip of the shaft which drastically affects ball flight and dispersion. The Nunchuk XI iron shaft was designed to decrease Deceleration at IMPACT . That is why it is the best of the best.

[@garyhummel1190]

Okay, i'm curious, how did all your distances run pretty close. With all shafts the same length. Usually, graphite irons are 2 full swingweights less than irons. Even with the shafts being longer

[@bananaball1212]

I have a bad left elbow- tendonitis. Will this help dampen the vibration?

[@SteenWinther]

I don't really get the test methodology in this video: When you change shafts (with different masses) and keep the club head mass constant, then the swing weight of the club will change. By replacing a 120 gram shaft in a C7 club with a 90 gram shaft, the swing weight will go to C5 (according to my calculations). Shouldn't you adjust the clubs to identical swing weights to elliminate the feel of varying swingweights?

[@robertlongo4571]

After 10 years of Graphite I've gone back to a R400 129g Steel Shaft as it clearly helps me to remain in sequence during Transition/Downswing resulting a better contact/faster Ball speed (Distance) and tighter Dispersion.

[@benastley8098]

I tried stiff graphite recoils and I was spraying it everywhere when I was swinging hard. Stiff or X steel for me but I’ll be graphite in a decade or two when I can’t throw my arms through the ball full bloodied. Swing easy and they’re pretty tidy

[@mattyh4665]

If you wanted to graphite a go try the MMT’s in a 125TX. Guys as fast as Ricky Fowler are gaming them and they are every bit as stable as the heavier steel options.

[@keithingle2119]

One million percent agree with trying the MMTs 😍 I have the 125TX MMTs and they are phenomenal

[@banditbaker1675]

I find the prejudice against graphite shafts for Irons amusing, (they are only for seniors & ladies). Clearly, nobody told that to Bryson LOL Now that manufacturers have managed to separate shaft weight from its Flex you can have lightweight steel shafts and heavy graphite shafts in various Flexes. There should be an optimised shaft for everyone.. I would have loved this to have been a "double-blind" test with neither of the Matt's knowing what the shafts were. It would have made Player Matt's description of the "feel" of each shaft and Fitter Matt's analysis of numbers produced by each shaft very interesting indeed.

[@KevinORourke25]

I'm 72 and I just bought a set of Mizuno 921 JPX . The feel is terrific for me. More physically forgiving when I hit fat shots, which I do alot!

[@Mattfryergolf]

Glad they are working

[@jdietzVispop]

How about shaping? Is one better generally than the other?

[@Thataintnothing]

Will be 65 next Month and Just switched to Mizuno JPX 921 Hot Metal with 95 Gram recoil , Great Irons but think I needed Heavy , More weighted Irons , Old Ball Player with still Good Speed and Power

[@jamesthemagnificent3904]

I have developed really bad elbow pain, and just started researching if graphite could help- this is a very timely video- thanks a lot!!

[@DetVen]

I went to graphite 2 years ago because of getting a bad case of golfer's elbow and it's been a Godsend. Once I got used to used to hitting a higher flighted ball and more spin, I feel like it's only improved my game.

[@jamesthemagnificent3904]

@@DetVen Thx Geo Boss- sounds v positive

[@dillonbates1102]

Great video, I think we need to bring the "yeah" counter in 😆. 12:35

[@vikrampitre2343]

I swing 6/iron 80mps, and was losing distance. Bought KBS TGI 80gms (expensive); to replace my AMT Black; def felt better than the AMTs, however they did not increase ball speed and the soft tip had a tendency of creating a bigger divot. Switched to the heavier NSPro 105 and my dispersion has narrowed and speed also increased. Got me a bit confused. Possibly coz I do have a fast tempo.

[@vikrampitre2343]

Forgot to mention just switched to a combo of HM Pro & HBM225 - waiting for the rains to stop in Sydney (:

[@randygibsongolf4618]

Awesome I'm debating on getting a full graphite set next......this helps.

[@Mattfryergolf]

Glad it has helped

[@keitho6018]

I play aerotech x stiff 115gm , less stress on my joints like by kbs 130x... We all (99%) play graphite in our woods no? Worth a shot getting fitted for irons..

[@Mattfryergolf]

Yep you are right Keith

[@dbanks1277]

My first set of clubs steel. Mistake. Second set stiff graphite. Much more comfortable. Also much lighter overall. Bag much lighter to carry around. I can feel the lightness in the swing and it feels like it has more speed and weight control through the swing. Less work both swinging and carrying around! I specifically searched for graphite shafts for every club in bag.

[@Neocram666]

If you want a low launch and spin graphite try Fujikura pro tour spec, think you can get an x flex too

[@ShubhaangSinha]

Love the video Matt. I'm looking to order a set of clubs online since my local stores do not have the clubs I want available for a fitting. Was wondering whether R-Steel are comparable to S-Graphite in terms of recommended swing speed, etc. if I'm buying off the shelf? I do like the idea of less vibration off the turf especially while practicing at the range, but not at the cost of high dispersion and reduced accuracy.

[@zarlodious1]

My fastest clocked swing speed with driver is 134, I hit my wife's ladies flex graphite just fine graphite is superior these days! I use stiff steelfiber i95 with Srixon 745.

[@SpiritFJT]

It would have been nice to see distance dispersion numbers for each shaft, especially short to long .

[@carlr2837]

Interesting watching Matt talk about the second one, knowing it is the graphite stiff. He had all the clues, but got it wrong. "lighter, but firm". "a lot higher" "spinny". Except that one, he was essentially right on the rest, only mistaking the steel s for the steel x before he had hit the steel x.

[@warrenburch6545]

I have graphite shafts in all of my clubs except for the putter and I love them. They’re easier on my hands when I make a bad shot.

[@scottsliger3606]

Steel over Graphite I'm 65 and steel has better control and higher launch. . I made the mistake in a fitting thinking it would help my game going to graphite but once playing in the real world, it's back to steel. Because of cost it'll be next year. It's almost cheaper to by a new set then to reshaft.

[@keithingle2119]

My biggest issue with this video, is that the Mizuno guy keeps referring to the fact that graphite is lighter... it CAN be lighter, but definitely not always the case. I play 125gram TX graphite shafts in my irons and 135gram graphite shafts in my wedges...and I'm a high swing speed player - 118 with the driver...I also came from 130X CTapers (absolute poles)....I LOVE my MMTs in my irons

[@robertsolachnek7493]

Hi, what about Rifle shafts.thank you

[@Pronzini1]

I have Calloway clubs, one set is graphite, the other is steel. Its not a big difference, but I prefer the graphite.

[@clivelodge5858]

I've recently changed to graphite G425s. The ball goes higher, straighter, longer and stops more quickly.

[@bigal6274]

As a bad golfer, I find that steel shaft is far more forgiving with bad hits on irons.

[@Mattfryergolf]

Have you tried graphite?

[@bigal6274]

@@Mattfryergolf my first set was full graphite. Not bad on the tee box, but in the grass if I catch too much ground I would lose a lot. Current steel shafts, and still hit the ground more than I'd like, it feels like I still catch more ball. Might be mostly in my head, been awhile since I tried graphite. I'm open minded 👌

[@stuartmann8938]

I got fitted for some Ping G425’s recently and ended up with graphite shafts. They felt so much better than steel in the studio and now that I’ve used them real world I think the feel off the face is brilliant, ball flight is so much higher so stops more on the green.

[@golf007sd2]

Very informative Matt....well done!

[@UnfilteredGolfer]

Great video Matt!i game those recoils in an f4 on my hm pro 921's and i do it because they feel better for me...exactly what they are suppose to!and performance is better than my older modus 105's...

[@grilledchimi]

just put the rocoil f4s in my 919s to replace the modus 105s as well. I wanted to see if it would help with golfers elbow. So far it feels like butter going through the ball. so nice.

[@garrettmckelvie]

MMT 125TX irons shafts for me...joint pain gone and better dispersion than my old DG X7

[@TLRChad]

The 125TX is a wonderful shaft. My shaft of choice as well.

[@garrettmckelvie]

@@TLRChad great minds think alike!

[@briantorney980]

Due to today's technology there is almost no difference between steel and graphite iron shafts UST Recoil and Steelfiber offerings are great. I haven't tested the KBS proto graphite shafts yet but I expect they are also excellent. I've found that "senior" golfers have better results as they have slower swing speeds but get really good results.

[@billwallenstein3387]

Your dead on. You’ve got to know/be able to feel where the head is at the apex of your swing. I loved the feel of graphite shafts and did use them for a few years but ultimately went back to a steel shaft for more consistency and fewer missed hits.

[@mjheggie2]

Would’ve liked to have seen the dispersion chart and averages with fluctuations, cool video though 💪🏻..

[@leehager5410]

Fascinating, another brilliant video, well done.

[@Mattfryergolf]

Thank you Lee

[@farrzmd3038]

That’s a great video. I thought it just came down to weight of shaft. Didn’t realize that many variables came into play

[@Mattfryergolf]

Yep, a lot think like this!

[@maddyjoshthompson3408]

So the statement of there aren’t many x flex graphites kind of tickled me considering I can name two large brands that produce 110-130g graphite shafts in x and tx. Mitsubishi and Accra both have a great selection of x/tx flex graphite shafts. Not sure if KBS does. I play Accra 110i Tour Series x flex shafts in my full set. You should test MMT 125 shafts versus Accra 110i Tour vs PX 6.5 steel. And see if the results are the same. I feel like you’d love the Accra shafts Matt.

[@crispygolf2986]

I just got steelfiber fc115’s in x flex. Not sure what he’s referring to

[@maddyjoshthompson3408]

@@crispygolf2986 yeah not sure if the fitter just isn’t very up to date with his info or just isn’t knowledgeable. Either way if I went to a fitter and he said something that blatantly incorrect I’d probably second guess the rest of his knowledge as well.

[@adriancox-thesantjordigolf3646]

Good one Matt.

[@metalheads-golf]

Cool too see and educational. I game graphite stiff and love the feel of them. But I don't know if they would be the best for me. 🤘🏻😎🤘🏻

[@CCHRISTOF]

I can't get on with graphite shafts. The heads feel heavy and floppy. I just changed my Ping G410's graphite for G425 steel. The steel feel so much more balanced.

[@marceldubois5073]

I went from steel to graphite last year and noticed right away the graphite is less jarring!

[@johnwallace520]

I'm waiting on the delivery of my new 225's with graphite shafts. I have never played graphite irons before but the feel was great and the distance better. Allied to my back which can give me grief, I am hoping the lighter weight and the better feel will have me hitting it well this summer.

[@TheVsa17]

How’s it going so far?

[@johnwallace520]

@@TheVsa17 It's going very well thanks. I can't really tell any difference in feel to my old JPX900 forged, except maybe in the 7 iron which feels/sounds slightly harder on off centre hits. I reckon I have gained between 5 and 10 yds a club on average but some of that is probably down to me having more movement and less back stiffness than in the past. I can't say the improvement in my back is down to the lighter shafts but it might just be helping me. I am hitting my 5 and 6 irons better than I used to hit the old ones, by a considerable margin and I am more like 15/20 yds longer on those. Overall I am very happy with the clubs and the shafts and I seldom give any thought to the fact that the shafts are graphite. I haven't seen any of the suggested lack of accuracy nor have I seen any of the fliers: I am just enjoying the game.

[@TheVsa17]

@@johnwallace520 I’m in the process of exploring the world of graphite shafts in irons, just seems more beneficial overall in various aspects. How do you like the 225s? I have a set of 921 HMP’s already that I love but have been eyeing the 223s due to favoring a more compact shape

[@johnwallace520]

@@TheVsa17 I have always played with forged irons because of the massive satisfaction I get from middling a shot which just feels like a hot knife through butter. The 225's feel slightly harder than my old forged JPX900 on off centre hits but feel just as sweet as ever on centre strikes. I tried the 223's at my fitting together with a few others and they just weren't forgiving enough for me. When I hit them well they felt great but off centre I got a poor trajectory and feel. Off centre the 225's were a good bit longer. When hit properly the 225's were also a bit longer than the 223's for me and I found in the longer irons that I couldn't get much more distance out of the 223 5 iron than I could a well struck 7 iron. In the 225 I was able to keep a bigger differential between the clubs. My iron club speed is a good bit slower than I used to be and I now only get low to mid 80mph on a decent strike with a 7 iron - good enough for about 155 carry and 165 total but I also find it quite easy to deloft these irons and go for a low runner if the conditions suit. I can get the 5 iron out to about 200yds if I go for the low trajectory shot. My very traditional playing partner has just ordered a set of 225's having had a few hits of mine and he has also gone with the graphite shaft. He was the last person on earth I thought would go graphite!

[@davyhendrix]

I'm going to try graphite irons I am a senior player and want to break 100 for 18 holes if possible

[@tmiller12051]

Super cool video! Love to see it

[@QuarterOzzy]

I just got fitted last fall and went with steel. My next set will be graphite.

[@hegwah2957]

always had graphite throughout the bag

[@lcalvin5601]

i think weight matters more. i have been messing with u500 driving irons for about a year now. graphite feels too light and steel too heavy. i think i need something around 110g weight.

[@BombproofCraftsman]

KBS has graphite shafts up to 110g x flex. I play the KBS TGI 80 & really enjoy them.

[@lcalvin5601]

@@BombproofCraftsman i will have to check it out. i gave up on the u500 and just bought a 620cb 3iron matching my long irons. DG x100 shafts. i put the x100 in the U500 and it felt like a sledge hammer. crazy how much of a difference a few grams makes.

[@BombproofCraftsman]

@@lcalvin5601 totally get the few gram difference! I tried to save $20 on a shaft for my 48* wedge. Wanted the same weight as my irons. Put an 83g shaft in it (irons are 80g) & figured I wouldn’t be able to tell a difference. I was most definitely wrong.

[@lcalvin5601]

@josh arnold lol makes sense thst my x100 felt like a hammer. Going from 90g to 130g.

[@BombproofCraftsman]

@@lcalvin5601 lol 40g difference is HUGE! That’s almost half the weight of the 90g shaft you started with.

[@lkae4]

Steelfiber is a tremendous graphite shaft with almost steel-like feedback and consistency. The problem for me is that it's too much like steel and can cause wear and tear on the joints. Hoping Recoil 95 stiff can approximate the consistency while mitigating the wear and tear.

[@tapastro]

Great vid, but would've loved to have an X flex graphite in the mix - not surprised you didn't get along with the R flexes. I have a set of 125 F5 protos that I'd be interested in your feel response to.

[@parker2969]

I do terrible with graphite, steel is all I play these day other than driver. I do very stiff though

[@justbobgolf]

Super interesting stuff Matt! I just switched from steel stiff to graphite stiff, and let’s just say I’m not that old😅

[@stuartkennedy4570]

Is that guy a golf instructor or a dancer….he never stood still. Geez

[@camd3041]

I know this is an old video. But can I ask, is there anyone out there that uses graphite for P and A and steel for other irons?

[@davegaught7590]

I’m wondering how the graphite shafts will be on my joints? Fingers, elbows, wrist , you name it?? I’m thinking it will reduce the after game agony?

[@Mattfryergolf]

They can definitely help, maybe try some custom fitting. There's a new video coming very soon reviewing my first year with graphite shafts. Keep an eye out for it!

[@mugz_1437]

Why don’t pro’s recommend graphite to us average golfers when going for a fitting? Graphite produces more spin and yeah all are “game improvement forgiving irons” are very strong loft and produce low spin. For example TM stealth 7 iron produces high 5k spin when it should be close to 7k so with us using a graphite wouldn’t this help the spin get closer to the correct spin rate or am I missing something?

[@krijnkraakman]

I play graphite regular flex, I play golf with a physical disability, so steel is way too heavy for me. I work as a club fitter, for most clients I fit I prefer the graphite shaft option available by any brand

[@Mattfryergolf]

Interesting to hear this, thank you

[@krijnkraakman]

@@Mattfryergolf no problem! My plessure