Irons · Tip
Take the Fear Out of Long Irons
Part of our irons programs for topped or thin, weak contact, uneven lies. Build a program with it
The first mistake with long irons is trying to lift the ball. Solid contact is always the job. When you're between clubs, take the longer one. Most amateurs come up short anyway. A smooth long iron beats a hard-hit shorter club. Expect a small divot after the ball. And aim so that your usual miss stays out of trouble.
Step by step
- Focus on contact, not height.
- Take the longer club when in doubt.
- Make a smooth, controlled swing.
- Take a small divot after the ball.
- Aim so your miss is safe.
Why it works
Long irons have low loft, so the club already launches the ball. When you try to lift it, your chest and head rise, the low point moves back, and the club hits the ball thin. A smooth swing keeps your posture and low point steady, so the club strikes the ball first and then the turf. Taking the longer club when in doubt means you can swing within yourself instead of forcing extra distance.
Common mistakes
- You try to scoop the ball into the air with your hands.Keep your chest over the ball through impact and let the loft of the club do the work.
- You swing hard to make up distance with a club that is too short.Take the longer club and swing smoothly at a pace you can repeat.
- You aim at the flag with no regard for your usual miss.Pick a target line that leaves your normal miss in safe ground, even if it is away from the flag.
How you'll know it's working
- The ball starts low to medium and climbs on its own without you helping it.
- You see a small divot that starts just after where the ball was.
- Strikes feel solid and the ball stops going thin and skidding low.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Practice with the ball on a slightly raised tee or a good lie, and use a 5-wood or hybrid-length swing thought at half effort.
Harder: Hit long irons from a tight fairway lie or an uneven stance while still holding a smooth tempo and a safe target line.
Common questions
Why do I hit my long irons thin?
Most often you are trying to lift the ball, so your upper body rises and the club bottoms out before the ball. Keep your posture steady and focus on hitting the ball first, then the turf.
Should I take more club with a long iron?
Yes, when you are between clubs, take the longer one. Most amateurs come up short, and a smooth swing with more club beats a hard swing with less.
