Hickory Smoked Golf is a unique form of golf that involves playing with antique wooden-shafted clubs or reproduction wooden shaft clubs. These clubs must have club heads that date from 1935 or earlier. The game is played on regulation golf courses, but the distances are adjusted to accommodate the use of hickory clubs. Unlike modern golf, there is no limit on the number of clubs that can be used.
Why Do People Play Hickory Smoked Golf?
There are several reasons why people choose to play hickory smoked golf. For many, it is a way to reconnect with the history and traditions of the game. Playing with hickory clubs allows golfers to experience golf the way it used to be played. It also provides an opportunity to step away from the constant pressure to buy the latest and greatest golf equipment. Additionally, playing hickory smoked golf can be a fun and unique way to combine other hobbies, such as antiquing or wood working, with the game of golf.
Identifying Hickory Golf Clubs
When trying to identify hickory golf clubs, the first thing to look at is the shaft. Hickory shafts tend to be thicker than steel or modern graphite shafts, and you can often feel the grain of the wood. It's also important to note that over the years, there have been attempts to imitate hickory golf clubs. Some clubs from the 1980s and 1990s may have hickory shafts with steel cores, or steel-shafted clubs coated in a wood-grain pattern. Examining the hosel can provide a clue as to whether a club is truly wood-shafted, as wood shafts tend to taper out to be a bit thicker where the shaft meets the hosel. Plastic ferrules are usually an indication that a club has a metal shaft. It is recommended to consult reputable sites and examine many hickory golf clubs to become familiar with their characteristics.
Getting Started with Hickory Smoked Golf
To get started with hickory smoked golf, it is advisable to have a basic play set consisting of at least four clubs:
- Brassie: Similar to a modern fairway wood
- Mashie: Roughly comparable to a six iron
- Niblick: A lofted club similar to a wedge
- Putter
While there are many other types of hickory golf clubs available, starting with these four clubs is sufficient. It's worth noting that there is no limit on the number of clubs a player can carry during a round of hickory smoked golf. However, most players enjoy the simplicity of the game and typically carry 6-10 clubs. As for golf balls, any soft or low compression modern ball will suffice, although there are also replica antique golf balls available for purchase.
Finding Hickory Clubs
There are several ways to acquire hickory clubs. Many beginners receive their first sets as hand-me-downs from family members or find them in antique shops. A great place to find hickory clubs is at swap meets organized by the Society of Hickory Golfers, where golfers come together to sell, trade, and showcase their equipment. Online vendors also specialize in selling hickory clubs. Alternatively, it is possible to purchase new replica hickory clubs from reputable manufacturers.
Learn More about Hickory Smoked Golf
If you're looking to learn more about hickory smoked golf, joining a hickory play group can be a great way to immerse yourself in the game. There are various regional and national associations that organize events and provide resources for hickory golfers. Some notable associations include the Vermont Hickory Golf Association and the New Hampshire Hickory Golf Association.
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