Golfers use a lot of slang and specific terminology that can be confusing if you’re new to the game or haven’t heard those words before. One phrase that gets tossed around is “3 finger, 9 iron,” but what does it mean?
Three-finger 9 iron is a particular grip that many golfers use when using their 9 iron club. Instead of using all the fingers on their hand to hold the club, they remove their pinky finger so only three fingers hold it.
In this article, I’ll explain the 3-finger 9-iron grip in full detail and discuss the benefits of holding a 9-iron club in this way. Let’s get started!
Why Use a 3-Finger Grip on a 9-Iron?
Many golfers, especially when using the 9 iron, have a lot of tension in their hands when they swing because they’re trying to exert too much control over the club head and grip the club too tightly. Therefore, many golf professionals and swing coaches recommend using a 3 finger grip, which releases grip pressure and tension and allows for a more relaxed, controlled, and successful swing.
Overly tight and strong grips often lead to inconsistent and off-target shots, so the 3 finger grip method might be the best way for golfers to improve their overall scores. Nine iron clubs are often used for shorts under 130 yards (119 m), so the swing doesn’t have to be that strong.
Accuracy is more important, which calls for a more relaxed stance, grip, and swing.
If you think you need more power in your shot, instead of gripping the 9 iron more tightly and swinging the club harder and faster, I recommend switching to a different club, such as the 8 iron.
The average distance for 9 iron clubs is 120 yards (110 m) for men and 100 yards (91 m) for women, so if you need to go further than that, switch your club instead of your grip.
In addition to using the 3-finger grip, you can improve your swing with the 9 iron by establishing a good pivot and relaxing your hips to naturally follow through with a backswing. You’ll need to transfer the weight to the opposite side during the backswing.
You should also take a moment to ensure your stance is correct. Because the 9 iron is a shorter club, you usually don’t need as strong a base as when using other clubs, nor do you need a stronger grip.
I recommend having your feet slightly narrower than your shoulders.
Conclusion
The phrase “3 finger 9 iron” refers to a particular way to hold a 9 iron cub in golf. With this grip, golfers lift their pinky fingers to release grip pressure and tension instead of wrapping all their fingers around the club. This grip allows golfers to soften and relax their swing, which leads to more accuracy and consistency.
The grip and adjusting your stance and backswing is the best way to swing a 9-iron club successfully.