As a golfer, your bag is more than just a collection of clubs—it’s your toolkit, your strategy, and your lifeline on the course. Each club serves a unique purpose, and understanding how to use them effectively is key to improving your game. Here’s a look at what’s in my bag, how I use each club, and the different swings I rely on to tackle various situations on the course.
What’s in Your Bag?
By Will Roy Mangum Jr
Driver
+/- 280 yards
The driver is the powerhouse of my bag. It’s the club I rely on to set the tone for the hole, delivering long shots off the tee to the fairway. With a full swing, I aim for maximum distance and accuracy. The driver is all about power, but it’s also important to maintain control to avoid slicing or hooking the ball.
5 Wood
+/- 220-230 yards
My 5 wood is a versatile club that I use for longer fairway shots. It’s perfect for covering ground while maintaining precision. I use a smooth, sweeping swing with this club to ensure clean contact and a consistent ball flight. It’s also a great option for bump-and-run shots when I need to keep the ball low and rolling toward the target.
4 Hybrid
+/- 200 yards
The 4 hybrid is my go-to for tricky lies or when I need a reliable shot from the rough. It’s a great blend of power and precision, combining the best features of irons and woods. I use a controlled swing with this club, focusing on clean contact to get the ball airborne. For bump-and-run shots, I use a shorter, punchy swing to keep the ball low and rolling.
Irons
Precision and Control
5 Iron: +/- 200 yards
6 Iron: +/- 190 yards
7 Iron: 190 yards or less
8 Iron: 150-180 yards
9 Iron: 126-150 yards
My irons are the backbone of my game, offering precision and control for approach shots. With a full swing, I focus on a smooth tempo to hit the ball cleanly and accurately.
For bump-and-run shots, I use a shorter, more compact swing to keep the ball low and let it roll toward the target. The lower irons (5 and 6) are great for longer approach shots, while the higher irons (7, 8, and 9) are ideal for shorter distances and controlled landings.
Pitching Wedge (PW)
Full shots up to 130 yards
The pitching wedge is my go-to for shorter approach shots and pitches around the green. With a full swing, I can hit high, accurate shots that land softly on the green. For bump-and-run shots, I use a more compact swing to keep the ball low and rolling, especially when I need to navigate slopes or avoid hazards.
Sand Wedge (SW)
Full shots up to 100 yards
The sand wedge is my problem-solver. From greenside bunkers to delicate chips, it’s the club I trust to get me out of trouble and back into scoring position. For bunker shots, I use an open stance and a steep swing to pop the ball out with plenty of loft. For bump-and-run shots, I close the clubface slightly and use a shorter swing to keep the ball low and controlled.
50° Wedge
Precision for Mid-Range Chips
My 50° wedge is perfect for mid-range chips and approach shots that require a little more loft than the pitching wedge but less than the sand wedge. With a full swing, I can hit controlled shots that land softly and roll out. For bump-and-run shots, I use a shorter swing and focus on clean contact to keep the ball rolling smoothly toward the target.
72° Wedge
Extreme Loft for Tough Situations
The 72° wedge is my ultimate tool for high-loft shots. Whether I need to clear a steep bunker lip or hit a delicate flop shot, this club gives me the height and spin I need to land the ball softly and stop it quickly. For flop shots, I open the clubface completely and use a steep, wristy swing to maximize loft. This club is not ideal for bump-and-run shots, as it’s designed for high, soft landings rather than rolling.
LAB Putter
Precision on the Green
The LAB (Lie Angle Balance) putter is the cornerstone of my short game. Its unique design helps me achieve a consistent stroke by eliminating torque and keeping the putter face square throughout the swing. I use a smooth, pendulum-like motion to ensure accuracy and control on the green. Whether it’s a short tap-in or a long, breaking putt, the LAB putter gives me the confidence to sink the ball with precision.
The Key to Success
Knowing Your Bag
Having the right clubs is only half the battle. The real secret lies in knowing your equipment inside and out. Understanding the distances, shot shapes, and versatility of each club allows me to make confident decisions on the course. My caddie plays a huge role in this process, helping me assess the conditions, strategize, and select the perfect club for every shot.
Final Thoughts
Your golf bag is an extension of your game. It’s not just about the clubs you carry—it’s about how well you know them and how you use them. Take the time to familiarize yourself with your equipment, practice with purpose, and trust your instincts. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, knowing what’s in your bag can be the difference between a good round and a great one.
So, what’s in your bag?