What is an 8 Iron Golf Club? Length, Distance & Loft

What is an 8 Iron Golf Club?

The 8-iron golf club is a versatile club that can be used for a variety of shots. It is typically used for shots that require a higher loft and moderate distance.

Among the numbered irons, the 8-iron has one of the highest amount of loft, which means it will have a higher trajectory than other irons. It also has a shorter shaft length than the other irons, which makes it easier to control.

Most players will hit their 8-iron between 130-150 yards. The distance will vary depending on the player’s strength and swing speed. The 8-iron is also one of the most forgiving clubs, which means it is easier to hit straight shots with it than other clubs.

This is one of the reasons why I like to use an 8-iron. I find that it is easier to control than other clubs and I can still get a good amount of distance with it. It can be used for a variety of shots, from long shots to short approach shots.

When Should you Use an 8 Iron Golf Club?

The 8 Iron is most commonly used for approach shots, as it provides the moderate distance and high loft necessary to get the ball close to the hole. It can also be used for chip shots around the green, as the loft will help the ball stop quickly.

Use the 8 Iron when you need more control over your shot and when you want a higher trajectory. Avoid using it for shots that require more distance, as you will likely not get the desired results.

Bump and Run

The 8 Iron can also be used for a bump-and-run shot. This is a shot that is commonly used around the green, as it allows you to keep the ball low and avoid any obstacles. To hit a bump and run, place the ball back in your stance and use a putting motion to strike the ball. This will keep the ball low and help it roll along the ground.

Approach Shots

I would say that the majority of my shots with an 8-iron are approach shots. This is a shot that is typically played from the fairway, as it requires a higher loft to get the ball over any obstacles and stop quickly on the green.

Longer Bunker Shots

Hitting out of fairway bunkers can be a difficult task, as you need to generate enough power to get the ball out of the sand and also have it stop quickly on the green. The 8-iron is a great club to use for 30 – 50 yard bunker shots, as it will help you get the ball out of the sand and stop quickly on the green.

Greenside Bunker Shots

If you find yourself in a greenside bunker, the 8-iron can also be used to hit a flop shot. This is a high, soft shot that is typically used to get the ball over a lip and stop quickly on the green.

To hit a flop shot, open the clubface and take a big swing. This will help you generate the necessary loft to get the ball over the lip and stop quickly on the green.

Related Article: Golf Clubs for Beginners: What do I need in My Golf Bag

What are Some Pros and Cons of Using an 8-Iron?

I personally like to use an 8-iron, especially when there is a hazard between me and the green and the yardage is longer than what I would normally hit my 9 iron.

Whether it is a tree, water or bunker just in front of the green, the 8-iron provides me with the yardage and accuracy that I need to clear the hazard and still have a chance at making par.

Pros

There are several benefits to using an 8-iron golf club.

First, the higher loft allows for greater control over the ball.

Second, the shorter shaft length makes it easier to control your swing. The majority of amateur players will hit the 8 Iron straight but don’t try to swing it too hard as it will result in a loss of control.

Third, the 8-iron is one of the most forgiving clubs, so even if you miss-hit the ball, it will still go relatively straight.

Lastly, the 8-iron can be used for a variety of shots, from long shots to chip shots around the green.

• Easier to control than other clubs
• Good for a variety of shots
• Forgiving club

Cons

Some drawbacks of using an 8-iron golf club include the fact that it has a shorter distance than other irons and its loft makes it more difficult to hit the ball squarely.

Additionally, the 8-iron is not suited for all types of shots – it is best used for specific situations. If you end up in a thick rough, for example, you will likely not be able to use the 8-iron effectively.

• Shorter distance than other irons
• Loft makes it more difficult to hit the ball squarely
• Can be difficult to hit from the rough

Related Article: What is a 7 Iron Golf Club? Length, Distance & Loft

Length

The 8-iron has a shorter shaft length than the other irons, which makes it easier to control. The average length of an 8-iron golf club is 35.5 – 37 inches. The best way to get the right length for your 8-iron is to get fitted by a professional.

Loft

The 8-iron has a loft of between 37 and 39 degrees. This loft angle is what gives the 8-iron its moderate distance and high trajectory.

Distance

Most Beginner golfers will hit the 8-iron an average of 130-150 yards. The distance will vary depending on the player’s strength and swing speed. Of course, this varies depending on club head speed, shaft length and flex as well as the player’s ability.

The weather and condition of the course will also affect how far the ball will travel. For example, a ball hit on a dry, sunny day will travel further than one hit on a wet, rainy day.

On average, the Tour players will hit their 8-iron 160 – 200 yards. They make it look so easy but it really isn’t. They have years of practice and know their clubs well.

Looking at Women ‘s professional golf, on average they will hit their 8-iron 135 – 155 yards and most amateur female golfers will hit their 8-iron 110-130 yards.

How to Use an 8 Iron Golf Club

Stance

For a standard 8-iron shot, the ball should be positioned in the middle of your stance. The hands should be in front of the ball at the address, just left of center. As per the other irons in your golf bag, your weight should shift slightly towards your left side (for a right-handed golfer).

Swing

Take a smooth, easy swing and try to make contact with the ball in the center of the clubface. A good tip is to focus on swinging the clubhead, not your arms. Your arms should be relaxed and just go along for the ride. Remember, a higher lofted club like the 8-iron is much easier to hit than a lower lofted club, so don’t try to swing too hard.

Related Article: What is a 9 Iron Golf Club? Length, Distance & Loft

Follow Through

As you make contact with the ball, your weight should remain on your left side and shift towards the target. The club should continue swinging up and around your body, finishing above your head.

It is easier to say than to do but try to hit it straight and not hard as that will lead to a loss of control.

Best Iron Set for Beginners and High Handicap Golfers

PING G425 Iron Set

Ping G425 Iron Set is everything that a mid-to-high handicapper could ever want in an iron set. The G425 Irons are designed to deliver distance, forgiveness and feel in a more compact shape, making them the ultimate game-improvement iron set.

The looks of these irons are classic and modern at the same time, which is sure to make them a favorite among golfers of all skill levels. The G425 Irons feature a variable-thickness face for increased ball speed, higher launch and improved spin control around the greens.

They are designed to be easy to hit and offer the ultimate in performance and forgiveness, making them great for golfers of all skill levels.

Pros

• Distance and forgiveness
• Perfect for mid-to-high handicappers
• Great distance and accuracy
• Forgiveness on off-center hits
• Great feel and sound

Cons

• Looks might not be for everyone
• Shorter distance than other irons
• No other cons

Best Iron Set for Mid-Handicap Golfers

Cobra 2022 King Forged Tec Iron Set

The Cobra King Forged Tec irons are an impressive addition to the market, with a sleek and elegant finish that makes them look like they can add a lot of distance to your game.

These clubs have been engineered to provide the perfect blend of forgiveness, accuracy and distance, making them the perfect choice for mid-handicap golfers.

This set is packed with technology that helps to improve accuracy and launch, giving you the confidence to take your game to the next level.

Pros

• Incredible distance
• Sleek and elegant design
• Suitable for low to mid-handicap golfers
• Great feel and sound
• One length option available

Cons

• Not as forgiving as other clubs
• May be too expensive for some

Final Thoughts

Overall, the 8-iron golf club is a versatile and forgiving club that is easy to control. It is best suited for specific shots and can be difficult to hit from the rough. Most beginner golfers will hit the 8-iron an average of 130-150 yards.

The distance will vary depending on the player’s strength and swing speed. The loft of the 8-iron golf club is between 37 and 39 degrees, which gives the club its moderate distance and high trajectory.

The 8 iron is ideal for those bump and run shots just off the green, as well as those high, soft shots that stop quickly on the green. It can also be used for approach shots from the fairway when you need to carry a bunker or other hazard.

So, next time you are on the course and find yourself in a situation where you need to hit a specific shot, reach for your 8-iron and give it a go.