Driver size

Question
I am a 3 handicap with swing speed of about 105 mph. I just moved from a 450 cc head down to a 400cc head because I love looking down at a smaller head. I feel I can turn the club over better. I have lost some distance with this change so my question is all things being equal will I loose distance with a driver with a smaller (50cc) head?

Answer
Hi Jim,

Yes, you will lose distance as the head becomes smaller for the following reasons: (which assume the mass of the club head remains constant)

1. As the club head becomes smaller, the spring effect of the club face decreases as well. The face is not as able to flex, rebound and transfer as much energy to the ball. With the same club head speed, the resulting ball speed will be less.

2. As the club face becomes smaller, the "sweet spot" becomes smaller as well. This means the mis hits will not go as far. I think this will be the greatest factor as even a 3 handicap mishits quite a few of his drives (rarely do you flush it).

With a smaller club head, however, comes a greatly ability to open and close the club face, as you suggest. You'll be better able to draw and hook the ball on demand.

Hope this helps.

Please visit and patronize my site.
www.probablegolfinstruction.com

Best regards,
Ken Tannar