Ever since I took up the game of golf I have been kind of a club junkie, always researching new weapons to add to my arsenal. Over the weekend I was having a conversation about set make-ups and how most manucacturers’ stock sets are now 4 – UW (Utility Wedge). The individual I was speaking with asked why no 3 iron? With the popularity of hybrids, 3 irons have become a thing of the past. Hybrids are easier to hit, more forgiving and longer.
So how many hybrids do you carry? I have 1 a Ping G20 23 degree which replaces my 3 and 4 iron. I find the hybrid more versatile as I can choke down for different yardages. Therefore the longest iron I have in my bag is a 5.
The next question is what is a UW and how does it differ from a PW. In my opinion the UW could be the most important club in your bag. You see, most players carry a PW (pitching wedge) and a SW (sand wedge). Between those clubs there is a big gap in lofts. PW has 45 degrees of loft and SW has 56 degrees; a difference of 11 degrees. That is a big difference considering the difference between a 7 and 8 iron is only 4 degrees. So why carry a UW which has a loft of 50-52 (depending on manufacturer) A UW is more versatile and allows you to narrow in on those short game shots from 100 yards in. Everyone know the quickest way to lower your scorei is to have a better short game. Carry more wedges will help you get the ball closer for more one putts.
I find I use my UW in all sorts of places. It is my go to club for 100 yard fairway shots or long bunker shots (40-60) although where I use it most is around the greens for those bump and run shots. I like the UW because it has just enough loft to create spin to be creative around the greens.
So again I’ll ask “what’s in your Bag?” Here are a couple of club ideas that will help you lower scores.
What’s in Matthew Belacca’s Bag for 2012?
- Driver – Ping G20, 10.5 Stiff
- Fairway Wood – Ping G20, 5 wood
- Hybrid – Ping G20, 23 degree
- Irons – Ping I20, 5-PW
- Wedges – Ping Tour UW (52) LW (58)
- Putter – Ping Anser 3, 33 inches
