What's in the Bag: 2024

13 + ?

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!