Feel Vs Steel The Pros And Cons Of Hickory Golf Clubs

Hickory and persimmon golf clubs have a long and storied history in the game of golf. These clubs, which are made from hardwood trees, were the standard for golfers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While modern clubs made from materials like steel and graphite have largely replaced hickory and persimmon clubs, these vintage clubs are still prized by collectors and enthusiasts for their unique feel and character.

One of the perceived advantages of hickory and persimmon clubs is their feel. Many golfers appreciate the softer, more responsive feel of these clubs, which can be a nice change of pace from the firmer, more muted feel of modern clubs. These clubs are also prized for their character and history, with many golfers enjoying the nostalgia of playing with the same types of clubs that were used by some of the greatest players in the history of the game.

One of the disadvantages of hickory and persimmon clubs is their lack of consistency. These clubs are made from natural materials, which can vary in quality and performance. This can make it difficult to find a set of clubs that performs consistently from one club to the next. In addition, hickory and persimmon clubs are generally not as durable as modern clubs, and can be prone to breaking or warping over time.

One of the biggest advantages of modern steel and graphite clubs is their consistency and durability. These clubs are made from materials that are engineered to be as consistent as possible from one club to the next, which can make it easier to dial in your game. In addition, steel and graphite clubs are generally much more durable than hickory and persimmon clubs, and are less prone to breaking or warping.

Despite the perceived disadvantages of hickory and persimmon clubs, they are still capable of impressive performance. The world record for the longest drive in a competition is held by Mike Austin, who hit a drive of 515 yards with a 43.5" steel shafted persimmon wood driver at the US Senior National Open Qualifier in 1974. This record, recognized by Guinness World Records, demonstrates the potential power and distance that can be achieved with these vintage clubs.

Ultimately, the choice between hickory and persimmon clubs and modern steel and graphite clubs comes down to personal preference. Some golfers may prefer the feel and character of vintage clubs, while others may prefer the consistency and durability of modern clubs. Whichever type of clubs you choose, the most important thing is to find a set that works for you and helps you enjoy the game.