There was a time, up until yesterday, to be precise, when I carried four wedges: PW, GW, SW, and LW. I got into the Dave Pelz method of pitching, which uses four wedges and three swings, and used them all for chipping, too.
I must say I did very well with that approach. But no more.
For the past few rounds I tried pitching with my PW, 9-, and 8-irons. I found that method to be every bit as accurate distance-wise as with the wedges, and easier to get a good shot out of, mainly because you can hit the the shot with a shorter, and thus more controlled, swing. I was very happy with the result each time.
And doesn’t the shape of those clubheads, at least with the blades I play, say, “Pitch with me?”
So out of the bag went the GW and LW. I hardly ever used those clubs anyway.
Next time you go to the range, try pitching with the three clubs I mentioned and see what you think.
Was thinking of buying the set of Lazrus wedges but you just talked me out of it.
Thank you
I looked at your blog this morning for the first time in a while and came upon this post on pitching with lower lofted 8i, 9i and E wedge, rather than Gap, Sand and Lob. This is something which I am considering adding to my short game, although for me, equivalent lofts would be 9i, W, and UW (I play Ping G730s). I like this idea because as you note, a shorter swing is more controlled and (hopefully for me, a 20-capper) more accurate.
I am planning to try this approach this week and also make it part of my normal practice routine.
How much does the additional rollout affect where you land the ball? Are there any other issues which I should consider
Bob,
Roll-out is an issue, but unless the greens are quite firm it won’t be that much of one. When the pin in in front, open up your PW a bit to get the ball up and spinning so it stops quickly. Be sure to practice that shot before you try it on the course. For recreational golfers, though, getting the ball on the green so our next shot is a putt is the important thing. The lesser-lofted clubs make that easier to do.
Bob – Thanks for the quick reply! The weather for the coming week is not great, so I’m planning to try this approach on Trackman Range at my local Golf Galaxy.