graphite shafts

Question
I want to reshaft my ping irons from metal to graphite, do it myself.  What should I spend on shafts? I'm a 12 hc.  Can I really play the difference between a $25 and a $75 shaft?

Answer
Hey Dolen,

Hard to say whether you could tell the difference or not. As a 12 handicap, my instinct is to say that you probably could not, especially in the shorter irons, but that's just a guess.

I'm more curious about why your switching to graphite.  I've always been a fan of steel shafts over graphite in irons.  The shafts are always matched better in steel and give a more consistent feel throughout the set.  I also think you get better feedback through the vibrations of the shaft up into your hands.

Graphite is great at dampening the vibrations at impact.  I used to sell a lot of graphite shafts to older folks who suffered from some tendonitis or arthritis.  The graphite didn't jar their hands and wrists so badly, especially on mis- hits.  Other than that, I don't really think you gain enough to make it worth the expense.  Look at what the tour guys use.  Almost none of the best players in the world have graphite shafts in their irons.  If there was really a significant advantage you'd see them in everybody's irons.

Here's what I suggest...take the money you were going to spend on the new shafts, and buy a series of lessons from a good pro.  Space them out a week or two apart, so you have time to work on the things they tell you.  I bet you'll drop into the single digits a heck of a lot faster this way than by re shafting your sticks.  Just a thought.

Good Luck.

John