My first post of 2024.
Welcome back to the blog and I hope you have had an amazing festive period, with friends and family. I had a great Christmas and also turned 40 shortly after, receiving an amazing golf gift… more on that later!
I haven’t played much golf due to the hideous weather in the North East of England but I have been exploring my bag set up for the coming season to see where, and if, I can make improvements. I only carry 13 clubs currently at present, so I have the option of adding a club where needed.
I started with my Arccos data, identifying any clear gaps across the bag. This is the ‘Smart Range’ feature on Arccos and it uses an algorithm to identify a reliable range where shots finish up, removing outliers. Other than a strange gap around in between my 9 and 8 iron, gapping overall isn’t too bad.
As you can see though, there are two gaps around my 5 iron and hybrids set up. As a result, I have decided to change the top end of the bag and have added a 3-wood in. This will take me to 14 clubs. Before I swap out my 4 hybrid for a 5, I may play around with the loft, adding a degree, and see if I notice any changes. The other option is to swap out the 4 hybrid (21 degree) for a 5 at or around 23-24 degrees.
The 3 Wood
I have gone for a Titleist TSi2 3-wood in 15 degree, specced similarly to my fitting for TSi2 hybrid, purchased earlier in the year - 1 extra layer of tape on the grip, standard length and a stiff shaft. Excited to get it in the bag and explore out on the course, where it can be hit off the tee (i’m thinking 3 or 4 holes) and where I can put it to use off the ground.
Wedges
My current wedge set up still includes a Chipper. My short game has improved lots since I added it into the bag but I find myself relying much less on it for the ‘bump and run’ style shots, often opting for a PW or 9i in its place. I carry a 50 degree GW and a 56 degree SW in Cleveland CBX2. I am quite happy with them although they are looking a tad worn after 2.5 years and a fair bit of practice.
I am considering the Ping Glides in the 50 and 54 degree option, with the potential for a 58 too. The added 58 would replace the Chipper, which I would retire.
The Birthday Surprise…
I was spoilt on my 40th, receiving a raft of amazing gifts and experiences, that I wont forget anytime soon. Just when i thought I’d reached a peak, a rather generous Uncle landed with a golf club box. He hadn’t discussed any clubs purchases with me and he knows I would have got fit for a new club, so I was a little surprised to say the least. I got to opening it, literally like a kid on Xmas, and saw the Scotty Cameron pitch repairer and nearly died. I have never received a gift as generous in my entire life.
Inside the box was a Scotty Cameron Phantom X 7.5 in the same length as my old Ping Anser putter. I’m still in shock now!!!
I have played 18 holes and a 9 hole match so far and i’m loving it. Will be monitoring my putting data over the coming months to see if anything changes. What I have noticed is that in this honeymoon period, I feel more inclined to hit a few putts and fell as though I ‘want to do well with it’, which is odd I know, but it’s just the feeling I have.
Finally….. A Driver
I’ve been scouting around for a Driver to replace my Titleist TS2. I got it second hand and have played it for the coming up 3 years. It's in reasonable shape but I would love to try the new TSR2 and put it up against my TS2.
My dilemma is whether to approach the wedge end of head towards a driver! My mind isn’t made up and after trialling the 3 wood, I may have answers!
Any ideas and considerations are welcome, as ever!
Realised my what's in the bag, didn't include what is in my bag 😔 so here goes:
Driver Titleist TS2 10.5 degree stiff
3-wood Titleist TSi2 15 degree stiff
3 and 5 rescue Titleist TSi2 stiff
Ping i210 irons stiff
Cleveland CBX2 50 and 56 wedges
Cleveland Chipper
Scotty Cameron Phantom X 7.5 Putter
Good to see you back! I'd say wedges at a start rather than driver, as I'd not expect it to change much unless you've upped swing speed. New wedges are always useful, and you could think about whether you'd like slightly different lofts as well. Possibly get a loft and lie check on your 9 iron as well as that's a bit of a funny gap!