The Callaway 1996 Big Bertha Iron Set made a splash when it was first released. These spectacular irons were renowned for their performance. The high quality that made this club set so popular was the result of numerous components, including the RCH 96 shaft. But what were the specs of this shaft?
The RCH 96 shaft was a golf club shaft that was manufactured in Light, Regular, and Firm flex options. It weighed between 70 and 74 grams (2.46 and 2.61 ounces). The shaft had a consistent .600” (15.24mm) butt diameter but was offered with a .355” (9.02mm) or .370” (9.4mm) tip.
In this article, I’ll provide a thorough examination of this spectacular shaft and give you all of the information you need to know about the RCH 96. I’ll also offer some helpful advice on what kind of players might benefit from using the Callaway RCH 96 shaft.
Callaway RCH 96: Shaft Overview
| Flex | Weight | Tip Dia. | Butt Dia. | Best For |
| Light | 70g (2.46oz) | .370” (9.4mm) | .600” (15.24mm) | Senior golfers with a swing speed between 65 and 75 mph (105 and 121 kph) |
| Regular | 72g (2.53oz) | .335” (9.02mm) or .370” (9.4mm) | .600” (15.24mm) | Average golfers with a swing speed between 75 and 83 mph (121 and 134 kph) |
| Firm | 74g (2.61oz) | .335” (9.02mm) or .370” (9.4mm) | .600” (15.24mm) | Skilled golfers with a swing speed between 84 and 91 mph (135 and 146 kph) |
Callaway RCH 96: Flex
The Callaway RCH 96 was manufactured in three flex options, including Light, Regular, and Firm. While flex is an important factor in determining the best shaft to use, it’s important to note that these older shafts are considered to skew a bit ‘softer’ than their modern equivalents by some golfers.
It’s recommended that players with a swing speed between 84 and 91 mph use the Firm RCH 96 shaft. The Regular RCH 96 shaft is likely well-suited to players with a swing speed between 75 and 83 mph, while the Light RCH 96 shaft is great for players with a swing speed between 65 and 75 mph.
Callaway RCH 96: Weight
Depending on what flex option you choose, the Callaway RCH 96 can weigh 70g, 72g, or 74g. This is an extremely average weight for a golf iron shaft, as other shafts can weigh as little as 35g and as high as 130g.
Golfers with a slower swing speed should choose the Light Callaway RCH 96 because the reduced shaft weight will improve the force of their swing. Golfers with a higher swing speed should choose the Firm Callaway RCH 96 because the increased shaft weight will stabilize their swing.
Callaway RCH 96: Tip Diameter
The Callaway RCH 96 was manufactured with two different tip diameters: .370” and .335”. The Light Callaway RCH 96 was only available with a .335” tip diameter. You should purchase a shaft with a .335” tip for woods and a .370” tip for irons.
Callaway RCH 96: Butt Diameter
All of the Callaway RCH 96 shafts have a .600” butt diameter. This specification is important to consider when you’re shopping for a compatible golf grip. Luckily, .600” is the most common butt diameter — so you won’t have any trouble finding a good grip for your RCH 96 shaft.
Final Thoughts
While several decades have passed since the release of the Callaway Big Bertha 1996 Irons Set and its accompanying RCH 96 shafts, it’s safe to say that these quality shafts made a mark on golfers. Whether you intend to recreate Big Bertha Steelhead Woods or just want to complete your set of irons, there’s no doubt you will enjoy the performance of the RCH 96 if you decide to use it for a game.