Hitting long irons with more distance and accuracy is a skill that every golfer desires. Long irons are essential tools for tackling tough par-3s, reaching long par-4s, and laying up on par-5s. Whatever the situation, mastering long irons is key to improving your overall game.
However, it’s easier said than done. Hitting long irons can be challenging, even for seasoned golfers. But fear not, some simple tips and tricks can help take your long iron game to the next level. Let’s explore some techniques to help you achieve greater accuracy and distance with your long irons.
What Are Long Irons And What Do They Do On The Golf Course?
Long irons are a type of club that is used to hit the golf ball long distances. They have a shallow face and large head and fewer lofts than other clubs so they can produce a much longer shot than other types of clubs. Long irons are 2, 3 and 4 in number, with each iron offering a different degree of loft. The higher the iron number, the more loft it has, meaning that shots hit with a 4 iron can be much longer than those hit with a 2 iron.
The use of long irons on the golf course is primarily for hitting approach shots into a green or onto fairways from greater distances. When playing in windy conditions, a long iron can be great for providing the player with more control over the ball and its trajectory Long irons are also useful when hitting off tight lies, they provide more accuracy than others. As such, they are very beneficial on courses with fairways and difficult lies.
Ultimately, long irons should be used on the golf course when players need to hit a long, accurate shot. Long irons offer more loft than other clubs and are useful in windy conditions or off-tight lies. They can also be great for those who want more control over the ball and its trajectory. However, they should only be used by experienced golfers as improper use of long irons can easily lead to a poor shot.
For novice golfers, it is recommended that they start with other types of irons such as mid-irons and even wedges before attempting to use a long iron. With practice and proper technique, long irons can benefit the golf course, allowing players to hit long, accurate shots.
Get The Right Settings For Hitting Long Irons
Hitting long irons is often considered one of the most challenging tasks in golf. However, you can enhance your performance with diligent practice and unwavering patience. A strong grasp of golf fundamentals is crucial to consistently hitting long irons effectively. Elements such as stance, grip, and swing plane play significant roles when using any golf club, particularly long irons.
Stance and Grip
A proper stance is essential for hitting long irons accurately. Position your feet shoulder-width apart, ensuring your weight is evenly distributed on both feet. Slightly lean forward, placing your hands ahead of the ball at the address. This position enables a full shoulder rotation during the backswing.
A firm grip on the club is equally important. A suitable grip is vital for hitting long irons as it provides control over the clubface throughout the swing. A neutral grip, with your palms facing each other, is advised for long iron shots. This grip helps you square the clubface upon impact.
Ball Position
Ball positioning is a critical factor in consistently hitting long irons and excelling in iron play overall. The ideal ball position for long irons is slightly forward of the center of your stance. However, many amateur golfers tend to overcompensate, placing the ball too far forward in their stance. This is primarily because they want to help the golf ball become airborne, but it’s a significant mistake.
When the ball is placed too far forward in your stance, it’s easy to make contact with the ball during the upward motion of the swing. This results in hitting the ball beyond the point of impact as the club ascends, leading to a shallow, thin shot or even a topped shot. It’s essential to trust the loft of the club, even with the relatively lower loft of long irons, and position the ball slightly forward of the center of your stance.
Swing Plane
To excel in long iron shots, players need to master the art of proper swing planes. In golf, maximized compression against the clubface is key to achieving the distance and accuracy desired. Players can achieve this increased distance and control by aiming for an upward-angled swing plane that allows a solid down strike on the ball. A little bit of practice and patience can go a long way in perfecting the technique and getting great results on the course. Take the time to develop your swing plane and witness its difference in your game.
Follow Through
As a golfer, I can attest to the importance of proper follow-through, especially when it comes to hitting long irons. In fact, it’s just as crucial as your initial swing. Once you make contact with the ball, keeping your head still and finishing with a full shoulder turn can make all the difference. Not only will this help you maintain the right swing plane, but it will also give you maximum distance on your shots. So if you want to take your golf game to the next level, don’t underestimate the power of a strong, consistent follow-through.
How To Hit Long Irons High?
Hitting long irons high requires a combination of technique and practice. Start by positioning your feet parallel to the target line, with your back foot slightly further away from the target than your front foot. Use your body weight to shift towards the back foot in this stance, creating a slight incline. This will help increase your club’s loft and create a higher ball flight.
It would help if you also focused on creating a wrist hinge during the backswing. As you draw your arms and club away from the ball, turn your wrists outward to create this hinge. This will allow your club to move up on the backswing, helping you to hit a more powerful and higher shot.
When you reach the top of your backswing, maintain the same wrist and arm position throughout the downswing. This will help keep your club on the same plane and increase accuracy. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to master hitting long irons high in no time.
How To Hit Long Irons Low?
Hitting long irons low requires a different technique than hitting them high. Start by positioning your feet slightly narrower, with both feet facing the target. Make sure your weight is balanced between both feet and focus on keeping your body still as you swing. This will help keep the clubface square and promote a downward strike on the ball.
During your backswing, try to keep your wrists flat or slightly bent. This will help you to narrow out the swing plane and reduce the club’s loft. As you draw your arms away from the ball, focus on maintaining this same wrist position throughout the downswing. When you reach the top of your backswing, keep your wrist and arms in the same position. This will help you to hit a low shot with greater accuracy. With practice, you’ll be able to master hitting long irons low.
The key takeaway is that being able to shape your shots requires understanding how each element of your swing affects the ball’s flight. With practice and patience, you can master hitting long irons in both directions.
How To Hit Long Irons Straights?
Hitting long irons straight requires a combination of technique and practice. Start by positioning your feet slightly narrower, with both feet facing the target. Make sure your weight is balanced between both feet, and focus on keeping your body still as you swing. This will help to promote a consistent club head speed throughout your swing, which is crucial for consistent ball flight.
Keep your wrists flat or slightly bent when you’re in your stance. This will help you narrow the swing plane and increase accuracy with each shot. As you draw your arms away from the ball, focus on maintaining this same wrist position throughout the downswing. When you reach the top of your backswing, keep your wrist and arms in the same position. This will help you create a linear swing path, allowing you to hit long irons with greater accuracy. With practice, you’ll be able to master hitting long irons straight.
The key takeaway is that being able to shape your shots requires understanding how each element of your swing affects the ball’s flight. With a combination of technique and practice, you can master hitting long irons in all directions.
Of course, choosing the right club for each shot is also important. Consider the launch angle and ball speed you’d like to achieve, as well as the lie of the course, before selecting a club. With the right combination of technique and equipment, you’ll be able to shape your shots like a pro.
Practice Tips to Improve Performance With Long Irons
Practice is essential when it comes to mastering long irons. Start by hitting some balls on the range, focusing on maintaining your wrist and arm position throughout the backswing and downswing. Ensure you’re also concentrating on keeping your body still as you swing. This will help promote a consistent club head speed and increase accuracy with each shot.
Once you’re comfortable on the range, it’s time to head out onto the course. Try to play a few rounds with long irons in your bag and focus on maintaining proper technique during each shot. This will help ingrain the right muscle memory and give you confidence when it comes time to hit shots in a competitive setting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hitting Long Irons
When it comes to hitting long irons, a few common mistakes can lead to mis-hits and loss of distance. It’s important to be aware of these errors so you can work on avoiding them in your swing.
One mistake is keeping your body too still during the downswing. This can lead to an overly-steep swing plane, which can cause your hits to fly too high and lose distance. It’s important to keep your body turning through impact to narrow the angle of attack and promote straighter shots.
Another mistake is to use more wrist action during the downswing. This lack of wrist cock can lead to a lack of power and distance. Keep your wrists flat or slightly bent throughout the downswing to maximize your club head speed and hit long irons farther.
Make sure to avoid over-swinging when hitting long irons. This can cause you to lose control of the club and cause the ball to go offline. Make sure to keep your swing smooth and rhythmical to maintain control of the club head throughout the swing.
Troubleshooting Tips for When You’re Struggling With Long Irons
Some troubleshooting tips can help you get back on track if you’re struggling with your long iron play.
First, make sure to check your grip and stance. To hit the ball consistently and accurately, it’s important to maintain a neutral grip and keep your hands away from your body. This will promote an even swing path, allowing you to achieve better results.
If you’re struggling with distance, try stepping closer to the ball or using a lighter shaft. Taking shorter backswings can also increase club head speed and create more power in your shots.
Finally, make sure to work on your tempo and timing. Make sure to pause at the top of your backswing, then accelerate slowly through impact to hit long irons correctly.
Conclusion
Hitting long irons correctly requires a combination of practice and technique and the right equipment. Pay attention to your grip, stance, tempo, and angle of attack to get the most out of each shot.
There are no shortcuts to being a good golfer. You must dedicate yourself to learning the proper techniques and practice, practice, practice! With time and patience, you can master the art of hitting long irons.
FAQs
When Should I Use A Long Iron Instead Of Wood Or A Hybrid Club?
It depends on the situation. Generally, woods and hybrids will be better for shots from the fairway due to their increased forgiveness and loft. At the same time, long irons are better for shots from the rough or when you need more precise accuracy.
How Far Should I Be Able To Hit A Long Iron?
The average distance you should be able to hit a long iron is around 200 yards. However, this can vary based on your swing speed and the club’s specs.
What Can I Do To Hit Long Irons More Consistently?
Make sure to focus on improving your swing mechanics and distance control. Some drills that can help with this are making slow, controlled swings or using a towel to flatten the swing plane. Also, practice with various clubs so you can understand how different specs affect the ball flight.
