SM8 Now in Stores: Ask Bob Vokey Q&A (Sweeps Inside)

Bob,

In your professional opinion, what are two things that really set the SM8’s apart from the competition, and make them so much better?

What are the key differences between SM7 and SM8? Should someone skip the opportunity to purchase the SM7 wedges (at a nice price point) and purchase the SM8?

Hi Bob,
For six years I alternated wedges for an entire year between the major brands. In the end Vokey won my personal challenge. One characteristic that is rarely mentioned is the overall weight of the club. Yet this became one of the deciding factors for me because of how it reacted with changing conditions. That “feel” gave me confidence to execute every shot even with my imperfect technique.
How much consideration is given to the weight of the club head in your design? Do you try to always keep the weight the same in each version or can it vary depending on revisions?
Thanks for making such a great club.

What are the primary differences between the SM7 and the SM8 wedges. Should someone pass up the opportunity to purchase the SM7 wedges (at what is now a nice price point) and move forward with a purchase of the SM8 wedges?

Mr. Vokey,
Currently, all my irons, through to the Lob Wedge, are 2 degrees upright. Is there a benefit to have wedges less upright?
Thanks for your time.

Bob,
I'm 70, single handicapper and am ready to buy the SM-8s. I usually carry 3 wedges: Pitching, tweener and sand. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

I carry 4 wedges - 48, 52, 56 & 60. How do I calculate how much bounce is best for each club?

HelloBob,
I am an amateur golfer, which degrees of loft wedges should I have in my bag for overall success?

Newer sets have an option to include a W1/W2 (48/53 degrees). When/at what point should players move to an actual Vokey wedge from the iron set offerings? What would be the reasons to use an actual wedge?

I have a old Vokey 60 degree with 6 degree bounce. It was a flat sole. I love this club but after having it re-grooved several times think I now need a replacement. I have tried several of your 60 degree offering but none have the flat sole. Why don't you make the newer clubs that way? I have found some with less loft.
Thanks,
Tom Philips

On that dreaded 30 yard shot do I want more bounce or less bounce?

Is the 54F grind still the popular on tour and why.

Mr Vokey how does one determine the best bounce for their wedge game. Seems like it’s a struggle to find the right combination. I play in both upstate NY and south Florida. Totally different types of grasses.
Thanks,
Ray Porter

Hello Bob, If I carried 4 wedges in my bag, including my PW, how many degrees do you recommend between the other three? My PW is 44 degrees... THANKS!!!!

Are there any special considerations in selecting the grind for older players with slower swing speeds?

I plan on adding 52/56/60 wedge set to my bag. Do you recommend having different grinds bounces across the three wedges in order to accommodate different playing conditions? Currently have an M grind, 8 bounce 56 degree that I like to play around the green but struggle to hit clean full shots with it. I would assume I need more bounce or a different grind to assist with these shot but I feel that it would decrease the playability I like around the green.

As a 14 handicap, I need a wedge with forgiveness. I have not played Vokey because I do not think you make a wedge that combines accuracy, feel, and forgiveness. Please let me know if you make a wedge that maximizes forgiveness on shots around the green.

Mr. Vokey,

Thanks for all you’ve done for the game. Please tell us how you had the foresight to hire John Habegger as a Vokey fitting specialist. The guy is incredible. You, Aaron, and John have changed my game and I’d like to know how you knew John was the guy fir the job.

Many thanks,
Bryan McCullick
Athens, GA

Mr. Vokey,

Thanks for all you’ve done for the game. Please tell us how you had the foresight to hire John Habegger as a Vokey fitting specialist. The guy is incredible. You, Aaron, and John have changed my game and I’d like to know how you knew John was the guy fir the job.

Many thanks,
Bryan McCullick
Athens, GA

Bob- you may have & im just unaware ... but have you experimented with tungsten or any exotic material in the crafting of your wedges?