QUESTION: Hi Mark,
I use the 1150GH Tour in my irons and the WV125 in my most lofted wedges.  The
combination is fine and I am not looking to change.  However, it seems that
Titleist Vokey recommend a lighter, rather than slightly heavier shaft in their
wedges than in the irons.  This seems at variance to your findings.  I am
interested in your comments.    Regards, Kevin
ANSWER: Hi Kevin,

Thanks for your note. 

Most stronger players will typically use the same shaft model, in their wedge clubs, as in their irons. These shafts are typically heavier, stronger shafts. But stronger players have enough power to engage both their irons and wedges for the best combination of distance and control.

However, many average players, using lighter shafts in their iron clubs, do so in the interest of achieving better speed, ease of swing, and better flight. However, these golfers often make the mistake of  using the same shaft model in their wedges.  In our wedge clubs we require feel, stability, and a controlled flight.  Lighter shafts in the wedge clubs often leads to less control of the clubhead, higher flight, and a swing that is required to adjust and compensate for the ill-suited, light wedge shafts. 

To solve these issues, Nippon Shaft engineers developed the WV series of wedge shaft models for the purpose of allowing each golfer type, to match the shafts in their wedge heads to suit their control and flight needs. For any golfer that is using a lighter shaft model in their iron clubs, they will gain feel, balance, and flight control by installing a wedge shaft model that matches their short game needs.

As a general selection guide for wedge clubs, here is some info based on the many fitting assessments I have conducted;

Current Iron Shaft Model - 750, 850, 950  Recommended Wedge Shaft Model - N.S. Pro WV105

Current Iron Shaft Model - 950, 999, 1050 Recommended Wedge Shaft Model - N.S. Pro WV115

Current Iron Shaft Model - 1150, Orange, Recommended Wedge Shaft Model - N.S. Pro WV 125

 

Regarding your comment that the Titleist Vokey wedges are offered and/or promoted in lighter shaft weights than their iron counterparts is something that I have never encountered. In North America, the standard shaft model sold in the Vokey wedges are the same weight as the WV125, which is equal to a gram weight, in the trimmed playing length, of 115 to 120 grams. While the Titleist offers their wedges in dozens of custom shaft weights, models and flexes, I have never heard of any major manufacturer promoting their wedge shafts to play lighter versus their iron shafts. 

Best regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hi

I currently have Callaway X Forged irons with Rifle Project X

Flighted 6.5 shafts, which I am happy with. In addition, I have

Cleveland CG12 wedges, (50/56/60 degrees), and they currently

have Rifle 6.0 shafts, (not Project X Flighted). I have been
finding that, at times, I lose feel of where the wedge
clubhead is, especially when pitching 30-80yds. 
 
I initially thought the solution was to replace with a 
heavier headed set of sand irons. However, I’m now wondering
if the choice in the current set is the problem and whether
I should have them reshafted.  Is it likely that the shaft
I have in my wedges is heavier than in my short irons, 
hence making the sand wedges feel lighter in the club head-
at least relatively? 
 
Is there anyway to know what the weight of my shafts in my
irons are, all I can find out is they are progressively 
weighted)?  What shaft would you recomend for wedges for 
someone using the Rifle Project X Flighted 6.5 shafts in 
their irons?  
 
If its not worth replacing just the shafts, then I am likely
to replace the sand wedges with some new Titleist Vokeys, 
but still need shaft advice.  Many thanks in advance, Fundy 
 
ANSWER: Hi Fundy,
Thanks for sending in your note. 
Shaft selection for wedges is an individual choice based on
feel, but here are some guidelines for you to think about.
First- Most golfers should play with wedge shafts that are of
the same weight as their irons or slightly heavier, and a shaft
flex that is the same as their irons, or slightly more flexible.
If you want more head feel from your wedges, which is critical
for short pitch shots, I recommend using a heavier shaft model,
and keeping the swingweight reasonably heavy. Some golfers 
“think” that a heavier shaft means a lesser percentage of 
weight in the head, which is true, but 99% of us golfers feel
more weight in the head with a heavier shaft.
Two excellent shaft options for your set of Cleveland wedges are;
N.S. Pro Superpeening Blue ‘S’, (selecting a raw shaft length
of 35.0″), or, our new N.S. Pro WV125 wedge shaft model. Based
on your existing iron shaft model, my estimate is that the 
Superpeening Blue shaft model will yield both excellent head
feel and trajectory control, and is my first choice. 
Finally, if you decide to have your wedges installed with my
shaft recommendation, make sure that your wedges have a 
swingweight as follows: 
If standard length- 
50 degree = D-3
56 degree = D-5 to D-6
60 degree = D-5 to D-6
Finally, to make your wedges play optimally, you should adjust
lie angle, grip model, grip size, and even any visual cosmetics
to insure that your wedges feel and play their best.
I see from your email address that you might be from the UK.
You might consider viewing www.nipponeurope.com for more info
on local clubmaking centers or to contact our group in Europe.
Best regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hi,

I am presently using the True Temper M-80 no. 2 flex, (I was told it meant
stiff flex) for my mid irons (5-7), and am achieving generally good results less
the occasionally push or slice.  While I have the option of replacing the NS Pro
950GH regular stock shafts in my short irons and wedges with the M80 as well, I
am also keen to try out the NS Pro 750GH shaft.  I would like to ask which flex
of the NS Pro 750GH shaft would be equivalent to the M80 stiff flex?  I prefer
lightweight shafts, so I am trying to assess whether I should use the 750GH or
the M80 for all my irons and wedges.  Thanks in advance! Jynx

ANSWER: Hi Jynx,

If you like the feel and performance of your existing model in an ‘S’ flex, than I recommend that you would also play the 750GH in an ‘S’ flex as well.

Regarding the question of using the 750GH in all your irons and wedges, you might consider reading some of the Q&A’s in this blog regarding WEDGE SHAFTS. Click on this category on the right side of this page to read some of these.

In general, most golfers benefit from a wedge shaft that is the same weight or heavier than their iron shafts, and a flex that is the same flex, or a bit more flex than their irons shafts. The thinking is that a wedge is swung with a shorter swing and with less force, which for many golfers equals a shaft that gives more of a sensory experience with more weight and a bit more flex.

If you choose the N.S. Pro 750GH model for your irons, you might consider the 950 or 1050 iron shaft model for your wedges, with a raw shaft length of 35.5″. Regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hi,

My 2008 Cobra S2 iron set has Nippon 1030GH stiff flex and includes a Cobra S2 PW, SW and LW.  I like the feel of my 60 degree LW, but I get way too much roll. 

So, I am replacing with a Titleist Vokey SM 60.07 and a 64.07 and have noticed on the demo range that I have better control and stopping ability with these. 
Titleist offers the 105T and 970 Nippon Shafts, and I would like to know what you might recommend, especially knowing my current iron setup, shaft, weight.  I realize you will likely say 105T due to my current shaft weight, but wanted to
confirm and also get your thoughts on the flex?  Thank you, JB

ANSWER: Hi JB,

If the Vokey wedges that you tested gave you better control and more spin, and the existing shafts did not make the club play too heavy, then you should consider buying the wedges with the shafts that you tested.

Also, make sure that your new wedges match your iron set in terms of lie angles and grip specifications. There is no sense in finding a wedge set that performs better, control-wise and spin-wise, but also requires you to adjust your posture or alignment or grip pressure different than your irons.

You might consider reading some of the wedge Q&A’s on this blog. Go to the right side of this page, under the READ ANSWERS heading, and click on the WEDGE category.

Regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hello,

I currently play Titleist AP2 (2008 Model) with Nippon NSPro100 shafts (S-flex). 
I love them.  My handicap has fluctuated between +1 and -2.  I am getting older
(48), and, although I’m not short, I don’t play the power game anymore.  I make
hay with accuracy, ball striking and putting.

I have Callaway X-Forged wedges, with the standard shaft (DG-S300).  I find them
a little “boardy” for my tastes.  I’d like to reshaft the wedges with a Nippon
WV model.  I’d like to make sure the trimmed shaft weight is not LESS than my
trimmed iron shafts.  First, what is the weight of my NS Pro 100’s?  Is it 115
pre-trimmed?  Second, Golfsmith lists the WV125 as weighing 133, and the WV125
weighing 122 (untrimmed at 37″).  What will these weigh when trimmed to produce
a 35.25″ sand wedge and 35.125″ lob wedge?  Of course, my clubmaker will adjust
swingweight to my liking.

Thanks, Chris

ANSWER: Hi Chris,

After trimming, and depending upon the length of your wedges, the NS PRO WV 125 will weigh in at approximately 119-124 grams, and the WV 115 will be in the range of 110-114 grams. Thus, the WV 125 will be heavier than your iron shafts, and the WV 115 will be similar to slightly heavier. Regards, Mark 

QUESTION: Hi

I recently purchased Mizuno MP-68 clubs fitted with the Nippon R 950GH shafts to
assist me with ball flight. My 56 degree sand wedge (Mizuno MP T-10) has a 
Dynalite XP Gold shaft. (114g), I was hoping to changing the wedge shaft to a
Nippon Shaft to keep consistency through my clubs.

I understand that wedges should contain a heavier and stiffer shaft to assist in controlling your swing. What will be the best shaft (with appropriate weight) for my sand wedge that
will match the my iron shafts…?

Thanks for your assistance…

Zac

 
ANSWER: Hi Zac,

You might consider reading more on this subject. There are several Q&A’s located in the READ ANSWERS section of this blog, on the right side of this page, under the category of- “Wedge Shafts”.

Some shaft models to consider for your sand wedge are our NS PRO 1050 model, or our NS PRO WV 105 model. The specifications for these models are located at www.nipponshaft.com.

Best regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hi!
I play 1050GH Stiff in my irons, and I love the feel of them. I am surprised
how smooth and good they feel compared to my old set with DG-HL S300. They are
+0.5″ length.

Now I am thinking about my wedges. Standard Titleist Spin milled 54 and 60. Now they feel little heavy and stiff.

What shaft should I choose to get the same good feel that I have in my irons,
and should I go + 0.5″ length?
And can you recommend a wedgehead that YOU think makes the best combo with that
Nippon Shaft??? Thanks for answer! ME

 
ANSWER: Hi ME,

Glad to hear that the 1050GH is clicking for you.

Regarding your wedge shafts- it is quite common for golfers to choose a wedge shaft that is slightly heavier and slightly more flexible than their iron shafts. So I would recommend the NS PRO WV 115 wedge shafts. They are available in .355 taper tip, which is what your wedges require.

Regarding the lengths- There are many possibilities and ideas as to matching the optimum length. One suggestion, for example, is something similar to the following length scheme;

if 9 iron = 36.25″

and PW  = 36.00″

54 Degree = 35.75″

60 Degree = 35.50″

Regarding your question about the optimum wedge head for the WV 115 shaft- it is far more important to select the wedge head based on your distance requirements, swing requirements, how you contact the turf, your typical turf and sand conditions, etc., versus a concept of matching the head to the shaft.

Regards, Mark

QUESTION: HI,

I have the Nippon 1100 shafts in by Callaway forged irons….

I want to re-shaft my Scratch Wedges.. It does not appear I can get the 1100 as
those are for Callaway only. 

What is the closest Nippon Shaft to the 1100 if I can’t get that one??? TC

ANSWER: Hi TC

My first advice is to read some of the posts in the “WEDGE SHAFTS” category of the READ ANSWERS section on the right side of this page.

When conducting fitting assessments, I find that many golfers choose a shaft model that is heavier, and not quite as stiff, while some choose a wedge shaft model that is similar in flex and weight.

A few options for your to consider are our NS PRO Superpeening Blue, in a soft S flex, our WV 125 wedge shaft, or the 1150GH Tour shaft model. The shaft specifications for these models are located at www.nipponshaft.com.

You might also consider talking with the Scratch Company regarding wedge shaft choices.

Best regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hi,

Could you explain the differences in flex and trajectory between the NS Pro 970
and NS Pro 950?  My daughter has MP-68 irons (3-PW) with stiff NS-Pro GH950’s,
1″ shorter than standard lengths (as indicated by Mizuno iron specs).  We need
to purchase USGA conforming-groove Vokey wedges.  Titleist only offers the 970
as an options for the US market.  As the wedge shafts would have to be cut 1″
shorter than standard Vokey’s length, should we purchase the 970’s in regular or
stiff flex?   We just want to be sure that the flex of the 950 shafts in the
irons (1″ short) and the 970 shafts in the wedges are closely similar.

Thank you. Alpha

ANSWER: Hi Alpha,

These models are very similar with just a few more grams in the tip section of the NS PRO 970 model. The feel and the flight will be similar. If you go with the 970 model, choose the same ‘S’ flex, even at -1″. If your daughter likes the S flex in her Mizuno irons at -1″, there is no reason to change to a full flex more flexible in the wedges.

If sounds like your daughter is a competitive player, playing in national events. I would consider reading through a number of the posts in the “WEDGE SHAFTS” section on the right side of this page.

After reading these Q&A’s, you might install the 970 model, in an ‘S’ flex, in the wedge clubs, and play with these for a bit. If any of the posts resonate with you, and/or your daughter feels that the 970 model is not a perfect fit, or is too heavy or too light or too anything else, you can always have the shafts changed.

Despite the fact that all of us want to have the right shaft installed in the first place, this is not always a realistic view. The only true method of finding one’s optimum feel and flight is via live testing and side by side comparison. Regards, Mark

QUESTION: Hi,
I am a lady golfer playing off a 2 handicap. Last year I was fitted for r7 TP
irons (mens) with 950GH R shafts. I love them. I am now looking to purchase 3 TP Z groove wedges-  a 52, 56 and 60 degree. If these are also fitted with 950GH shafts, will this work?

Thanks, Tracy

ANSWER: Hi Tracy,

Thanks for sending in your note.

I am glad that you have found our shafts to your liking. Many better playing women golfers do exceptionally well with our shaft models. In last year’s United States Women’s Open, 121 of the 157 players used Nippon Shaft models in their clubs. Also, the Women’s British Open was won with Nippon Shaft iron shafts.

In 2010, the first two events on the LPGA Tour have also been won by Nippon Shaft, as well as the recent Australian Women’s Masters, and the Australian Women’s Open. So you are in great company.

Regarding your wedge question, for golfers, who use their wedges as primarily full swing clubs, I recommend installing the same shaft in their wedges as their current irons. So if this case for you- use the same 950GH model in your Taylor Made wedges. For golfers, who use their wedges as primarily short pitches, chip shots, greenside shots, etc., then I recommend a wedge shaft to give a bit more weight and feel. In your case- this means a shaft like the NS PRO 1050GH or either the NS PRO WV 105 or NS PRO WV115 wedge shafts.

For more information and comments, please click on the WEDGE category on the right side of this page. There are quite a few posts on this subject.

Best of luck. Mark