Question for Mandrin

[sideyard]

Mandrin,

Your answer to the previous question reminds me of something that came up at the GTE. There was a short discussion about the new groove rule and sand wedges. I was sort in the background listening but I think the debate was about wether or not the sandpaper like finish on wedges has an effect on the amount of spin generated by the contact with the clubhead. Or is it just the groove depth and shape that is the main factor with generating spin?

Thanks for all the great information you provide!

Matt

[mandrin]

Originally Posted by sideyard

Mandrin,

Your answer to the previous question reminds me of something that came up at the GTE. There was a short discussion about the new groove rule and sand wedges. I was sort in the background listening but I think the debate was about wether or not the sandpaper like finish on wedges has an effect on the amount of spin generated by the contact with the clubhead. Or is it just the groove depth and shape that is the main factor with generating spin?

Thanks for all the great information you provide!

Matt

Matt,

I am not very familiar with these subjects, but can mention the little I know.

If there was no friction than there would be spin at all, hence friction plays an important role.
However, increasing the friction too much can again reduce the spin. Counterintuitive.
There is an optimum friction depending on factors such as clubhead speed, loft etc..
Definitely an area needing extensive experimental research for conclusive answers.

The grooves can be compared to car tire treads.
They are primarily mainly to evacuate water to avoid aquaplaning and seemingly have minor effect on spin for normal dry conditions.
Therefore hitting out of thick grass they do their job but make little difference when hitting under normal condition from the fairway.
Square grooves can evacuate more water than V-shaped grooves being therefore even more efficient hitting from the rough.

[puttmad]

Originally Posted by Matt F.

I wonder if there is a difference between game improvement irons where they move the weight back/down as far as they can with those big flange "thingys" hanging off the back versus a muscle back blade. Hmmmm.

Bought a trial muscleback from Maltby a while back, supposed to be forged etc.........compared to cavities....yuk.....