Most beginners should start with a 9-Iron or 5-Wood from 100 yards, then adjust for their own carry.
A calm starting point: 9-Iron for a typical beginner man, or 5-Wood for a typical beginner woman.
Open the 100-yard guideTypical club by player type
| Player | Starting club |
|---|---|
| Beginner man | 9-Iron |
| Beginner woman | 5-Wood |
| Junior | 5-Wood |
| Senior | 8-Iron |
Derived from the estimated beginner carry ranges in GolfReady’s clubs data, sourced there to Golf Digest and Shot Scope. Junior uses the lower-speed range as a proxy; senior uses the midpoint of the two beginner ranges. Your own carry wins.
When 100 yards plays longer
- Uphill: Take one more club for a noticeable climb.
- Headwind: Take one more club and keep the swing smooth.
- Cold: Expect less carry and favor the longer club.
Common mistake at 100 yards
At 100 yards, the common mistake is aiming at a tucked flag when the middle of the green is the calmer target. Pick the club for your normal carry, aim at the safe part of the green, and accept a comfortable next shot.
Common questions
What club should I hit from 100 yards?
Most beginners should start with a 9-Iron or 5-Wood from 100 yards, then adjust for their own carry.
Does a 100-yard shot play longer uphill?
Yes. Take one more club for a noticeable uphill shot and make your normal balanced swing.
See the full beginner club distance chart.