Slightly bent iron - how does it affect the ball?

[dufferman]

I recently put some new grips on my irons, starting with my 4 iron. I hadn't ever done it before, but read enough online and even spoke to the company who sold me the grips & tape to get the low-down.

I clamped the 4 iron in a clamp, and successfully put the grip on. Or so I thought. Turns out I have put a kink in the shaft near the bottom.

I know, I'm a fool. Live and learn, eh?

I managed to not mess up all the other irons, just the 4 iron. I used it on only one shot on the weekend, which took a rather sharp right hand turn not long after leaving the club face.

The kink really is tiny, it's not really noticeable on set up. But is it enough to really mess up the ball flight?

Lucky I've spied another one on flea-bay I'll be bidding on...

 

[Vice]

Sounds like the perfect opportunity to replace your 4 iron with a nice hybrid/rescue club

 

[Ethan]

It probably doesn't affect the shot very much at all, but if it is visibly bent, the club is non-conforming and you can't use it in competition.

 

[Region3]

I clamped the 4 iron in a clamp, and successfully put the grip on. Or so I thought. Turns out I have put a kink in the shaft near the bottom.

You didn't by any chance have the club clamped to a bench that wasn't fixed, then when you pushed the grip on the bench moved until the clubhead was pressing against the wall?

I know someone else that did that!

 

[dufferman]

I have a 4 hybrid already, but it's a bit of a love hate relationship at the moment so I like having a second option!

I never knew it was against the rules to have a bent club...!

You didn't by any chance have the club clamped to a bench that wasn't fixed, then when you pushed the grip on the bench moved until the clubhead was pressing against the wall?

I know someone else that did that!

Lol, no it was me not putting enough solvent on the club and having to push the grips on a little too hard...

 

[TheClaw]

Could you counteract any negative effects by using a slightly bent swing?