“Standard” golf club specs

Other specifications such as flex, torque and even grip size are more
generic in nature. One company idea of each of these specifications may
be completely different from another

company’s model with a similar nomenclature. The reason behind this
is each company developed their own standard internally to differentiate
certain specifications. One company’s R-flex may quite very well
be stiffer or more flexible than another company’s R-flex. This has
been well documented in the “Modern Guide to Shaft Fitting”
book.

The same could be said of grip size as well, as one company’s mid-size
may be larger or smaller than another company’s mid-size grip. The
terms oversize and jumbo do not provide exact measurements as
does degrees or inches when referring to loft or length.

Length is surely one specification that ought to have a “standard”.
In essence it does in the way that it is measured, but not when it comes
to manufacturing golf clubs. Graphite-shafted clubs are generally longer
than their steel-shafted counterparts for swingweight purposes. With the
addition of hybrid clubs, models with the same number engraved on the
sole can vary quite considerably from one manufacturer to the next as
the head weight dictate the final length.

It is possible to go to several different club fitters and get completely
different results. For example, a certified Ping clubfitter may suggest
that you use a 2° upright iron. Titleist might recommend 3° upright,
while a local independent clubfitter may recommend 1° upright. At
first a consumer may be confused, but they need to know what the so-called
standard lies of each of these models are to begin with. These very well
might end up with the same result (i.e. 64° #6-iron).

While lacking standards among golf clubs, you as a custom clubmaker,
take all of the variables out of a set when you custom fit and assemble
a set. Lengths, lofts and lies can be changed to fit the player. Custom
clubmaking eliminates the concern for standards, creating a best fit club
or clubs to the individual without the huge concern with club standards.

Hopefully you will use the word “standard” as a reference only.
Probably the better terminology ought to be average or benchmark to take
the place of standard. Use it to compare one club with another. But remember, if all clubs (or specifications) were standardized, then there would be no diversity available to golfers of all shapes, sizes, strengths and skill levels. Educate yourself or consult those in the know as to what the actual specifications are and how they relate to your game.

“The only standard there is in the golf industry is there are no standards.” Jeff Summitt

by Jeff Summitt
Hireko Technical Director
jsummitt@hirekogolf.com