Long irons are tougher to hit than short irons but that doesn’t mean you should avoid them. If you’re struggling to transition from a short iron to a long iron or vice versa, a few simple setup and swing tweaks can make a big difference. Let’s break down what you need to know about long irons and short irons and what adjustments you can make to hit both with more confidence.
Why long irons feel harder to hit
The longer irons have longer shafts and less loft. The lower loft and extra length magnify mishits and require more clubhead speed for the perfect launch. Short irons are more forgiving in terms of launch but you’ll need to learn to control distance and hit precise shots.
With longer irons, aiming for the middle of the green is a smart strategy. Short irons allow you to get more aggressive and go at the pin when the situation is right.
Small differences in setup
When switching from long irons to short irons, remember to make the adjustments subtle. You are not building an entirely different swing just to hit a short iron shot. These setup differences are subtle but they matter.
| Setup Element | Long Irons (4–6) | Short Irons (7–9) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight at Setup | 50/50 balanced to support a full turn | Slightly lead-side heavy: 55–65% on front foot |
| Stance Width | Slightly wider than shoulder width for added stability | Slightly narrower than shoulder width for control and balance |
| Ball Position | About 1 ball forward of center | Some golfers keep the ball position constant and move trail foot |
| Posture | Stand taller; small tilt away from target is fine | More bend from hips; feel “on top of the ball” |
Swing differences
Like the setup differences between long and short irons, the swing differences are also subtle. For me, it’s more of a “feel” or a swing thought than being overly focused on swing mechanics.
