Choosing when to used between golf chipper vs wedges? In this blog post we will cover all the essential points on the golf chipper vs wedges that you must know.
Introduction to the Golf Chipper Vs Wedges:
When it comes to golf, mastering the short game is where champions are born. Chipping, a finesse-driven aspect of golf, demands precision, imagination, and nerves of steel.
In 1997, Larry J. White introduced the golf chipper, a club that promises to simplify green-side chipping, allowing golfers to use an exaggerated putting stroke for these delicate shots.
But how does it stack up against the trusty wedges? Is it as versatile? And what about its legality? Here, we’ll explore the world of golf chippers vs wedges to help you make the right choice. Let’s dive in.
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What is Golf Chipper?
A chipper is a unique golf club that blends the design features of a wedge and a putter. The club face boasts the loft necessary for chipping, while the lie angle and shaft length mimic those of a putter.
This design makes chip shots more accessible, allowing golfers to have better control and loft. The setup is akin to putting, promoting greater control and consistency around the greens.
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3 Best Chippers / Highly Rated by Golfers:
Here are three top-rated golf chippers that are highly sought after by golfers:
Intech EZ Roll Chipper
Wilson Harmonized Golf Chipper
Cleveland Smart Sole Chipper
What Is a Golf Wedge?
Wedges are an essential part of a golfer’s iron set, and they serve various specialized purposes.
They come with high lofts, shorter shafts, and hefty club heads, designed to help players execute precision shots around the green.
The primary goal when using a wedge is to send the golf ball up into the air, allowing it to land at a steeper angle and stop quickly, ideally with a backspin.
Additionally, the sole of a wedge is modified to enable players to handle shots from diverse conditions like hazards, soft lies, tight lies, sand bunkers, or muddy terrain.
4 Common Types of Golf Wedges:
Golf wedges can be broadly categorized into four common types. Let’s take a closer look at each:
Pitching Wedge (45-48°):
Used for approach shots outside 100 yards and ideal for bump-and-run chip shots due to its lower loft and launch angle.
Gap Wedge (48-54°):
Designed to bridge the gap between pitching and sand wedges, it’s often used for 100-yard shots and low-mid trajectory chip shots.
Sand Wedge (54-58°):
Essential for bunker play and other hazards, these wedges come with high bounce for effective sand interaction and are typically used for shots ranging from 50 to 100 yards.
Lob Wedge (58-62°):
The loftiest club in the bag, perfect for high-arcing, precision shots and those famous flop shots.
| Type of Wedge | Loft Angle (Degrees) | Common Uses |
| Pitching Wedge | Around 44 degrees | Approach shots, controlled distance |
| Sand Wedge | Typically 54-56 | Bunker play, high soft landing shots |
| Gap Wedge | Around 50-52 degrees | Bridging the gap between pitching and sand wedges |
| Lob Wedge | 58 degrees and above | Delicate lofted shots, tight pin locations |
3 Best Golf Wedges:
If you’re in the market for top golf wedges, here are three of our favorites:
TaylorMade Milled Grind 3 Wedge
Titleist Vokey SM9 Wedge
Pinemeadow Golf PGX Wedge
Differences Between golf Chippers vs Wedges:
The decision between a chipper and wedges involves more than appearance. Let’s explore the player-specific differences:
Shaft Length:
A chipper is shorter, with an average length of around 36 inches, providing control similar to a putter.
Lie Angle:
Chipper lie angles are more upright, making setup feel like putting.
Clubhead Weight:
Chipper heads are heavier, ensuring consistent contact without wrist jerking.
Ease of Usage:
Chippers simplify chip shots, resembling putting strokes.
Sole Width:
Chippers feature an extra-wide sole, making chunky shots nearly impossible. This eliminates worries about stance, clubface position, and rotation, boosting confidence for your golf game.
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Can Golf Chipper as Versatile as a Wedge?
In our opinion, no. While golf chippers serve a specific purpose, especially for beginner chippers and those looking for a simplified chipping experience, they can’t match the versatility of wedges.
Wedges shine in various scenarios, from bunkers and hazards to handling obstacles like trees.
Additionally, they excel in close-proximity approach shots that can’t be easily played with irons.
Statistics show that about 65% of golf is played from within 100 yards of the hole, making wedges invaluable.
Are Chipper valid in Golf?
Indeed, chippers are recognized as legal golf clubs by the USGA. However, there are specific conditions to adhere to when using them.
These conditions include using a non-putting grip, having certain length restrictions (a chipper must be the same length as, or shorter than, a 7-iron), and ensuring that the chipper does not feature two striking faces or appendages for alignment.
Do Professionals Use Golf Chippers?
While using chippers is permitted in competitive golf, it’s a rarity to see professional golfers deploying a chipper in match or championship play.
This is because chippers are typically designed with mid or high-handicap golfers in mind. Moreover, they offer less control over spin, which is a significant disadvantage for players who can expertly stop the ball on a dime using spin.
Consequently, for professionals, chippers could hinder their wedge game rather than enhance it.
Who Could Use A Chipper?
Golfers who grapple with green-side chipping, especially those struggling to find consistency, should consider using a chipper.
It can serve as a confidence booster around the greens, helping you shave off strokes from your rounds.
Additionally, senior golfers, who might not possess the flexibility and agility they once had, should consider adding a chipper to their arsenal due to its user-friendly design.
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Final Words on Golf Chipper vs. Wedge:
Chippers undoubtedly stand as a brilliant invention, providing a significant advantage to golfers who may not have a well-rounded game.
Those looking to improve their scrambling and bolster their performance around the greens should contemplate adding a chipper to their bag.
However, while chippers have their place, it’s essential not to overlook the versatility, spin control, and shot-making capabilities of wedges.
With this comparison of golf chipper vs wedges, you’re now better equipped to decide which club suits your game and helps you conquer the greens with confidence.
So, practice those strokes and watch your golf game shine.
