Melinda has faced a problem with her wrist action around the green. She can’t overcome this problem for a long time. Then her coach advised trying a golf chipper.
Basically, the golf chipper hits the ball using a putting stroke and provides closer chip shots. It can be an efficient alternative for those struggling with wrist action problems like Melinda.
But why is it efficient for new golfers? How far can you hit a golf chipper? Well, we do focus on these topics in this article.
How far can you hit a golf chipper?
A golf chipper is good for long shots as well as you can hit the fairway off the green. The length is like as 7 iron roughly but the loft is between 35-60 degrees based on the model and brand.
Usually, you can hit around 30 yards and closer shots by golf chipper. Chipper has a short swing and roll like a put. Also, it helps to minimize the spin.
Some lower loft clubs like short irons, gap wedges, and even pitching are used as chippers. Among wedges, gap and sand are best for chipping.
The average distance of lower lofted wedges are depicted below-
| Iron club | Men ( avg.) | Women (avg.) | PGA Tour Avg. |
| Lob wedge | 75 yards | 60 yards | 100 yards |
| Sand wedge | 90 yards | 70 yards | 115 yards |
| Gap wedge | 100 yards | 80 yards | 130 yards |
| Pitching wedge | 110 yards | 90 yards | 140 yards |
Is a chipper legal in golf?
This question has been asked frequently by people. And the answer is chipper is legal in golf. But there are some conditions.
You can use a golf chipper during golf tournaments. Also make sure it is fitted by a regular grip, not with a putter grip.
Single-sided chippers are allowed in tournaments but two-sided is not. Two-way golf chipper provides unfair advantages to both left-handed and right-handed players. Also, a chipper is considered iron, not a putter. According to the United States Golf Association, “Except putter, you can use only one striking face”. So that, If you want to use the two-way chipper club, it will violate the rule.
Again, if you add a chipper in your gold club bag, that exceeds the limit of carrying the golf clubs. The limit is 14-club pieces, then you have to remove one of your golf clubs before the round. Otherwise, it will be regarded as illegal.
Why should you use a golf chipper?
After having 14 clubs, why do you use an additional golf chipper? Well, the chipper club will provide a lot of benefits during playing such as-
Easier to hit
The design and weight of the golf chipper make it incredibly easier to hit. Also, increase the consistency during tournaments.
In addition, you don’t have to pay attention to the adjustment of this club. That will keep you tension-free as well as helps to increase your confidence.
Extra wide sole
The chipper club is designed with an extra wider sole and leading edges which are easily adjustable. This property will really be helpful for beginners.
Additional weight on the toe
The golf chipper features additional weight on the toe. Which helps to keep the face straight towards the swing. Also, prevent it from opening or closing during playing. And able to save your shots.
Short shaft length
The length of the average chipper club is 36 inches, which is less than mid-irons lengths. A shorter-length shaft is easier to set up and hit. Also helpful for distance control.
Heavier clubhead
The golf chipper has a heavy clubhead, which will be beneficial to minimize hand and wrist motion. Most beginners have faced this problem of the overacting wrist on short shots and make thin or fat shots.
As the club head of the chipper club is much heavier, it helps to keep minimal wrist and grip movements.
Upright lie angle
The upright angle of the golf chipper is between 68 to 70 degrees. That is more than a normal wedge or mid-iron. A more upright angle provides the facility to stand closer to a golf ball.
In addition, it makes a straight back as well as able to create straight through motion with the face.
Who should use the chipper club?
Golf chipper is not for all types of players. Clipper clubs are useful for those who like to play with short irons or even mid irons. Pro players are not very fond of using the chipper club. They are beneficial for beginner and junior golfers.
Beginner Golfer
Initially, beginner golfers need to learn about shots and adjustments. Also, they have to know about the putting, short game, full swing, etc. All of these make them confused at a time.
If you are just starting and can’t enjoy golf, the chipper club is the best option for you. After practicing, you will learn how to pitch, lowering your handicap, and other techniques to improve your performance.
Junior golfer
Besides beginners, junior golfers get benefits using the chipper club. Golf chippers are easy to hit and consistent so that it will increase the confidence among young golfers. Also helps to cope up rapidly with proper playing techniques.
Higher handicappers
For higher handicappers, a golf chipper is a good alternative to improve their performance. Also, those who haven’t the time or motivation to improve chipping can use the chipper club.
But for lower handicappers, the chipper club is not suitable. Rather there is a chance of making a mess with playing technique and rhythms. If you are already shooting around the 70s or 80s, you don’t and shouldn’t use the chipper club.
Final Verdict
As a beginner, you can start with a golf chipper, it will help to increase your overall confidence. The distance is also pretty good enough for new players.
In addition, by playing some specific shots, you can find out your weakness and strong points of playing.
Though golf chippers are easy to hit and handle, there is no shortcut for making efficient results. You have to learn all the techniques and shots to be the best one.
