The Resurgence of the 1-Iron: Chris Gotterup’s Unlikely Driver for Success

In a stunning display at the recent Genesis Scottish Open, Chris Gotterup showcased not just his exceptional skills but also a striking club that caught the attention of golf enthusiasts: the TaylorMade RSi TP UDI 16˚ 1-iron. While the 1-iron has long been considered a relic of the past, Gotterup’s performance serves as a testimony to its relevance in today’s golf landscape.

The significance of this club lies not merely in its rarity but also in its functionality. Equipped with the same KBS C-Taper 130 X iron shaft that he uses throughout his iron set, this 10-year-old driving iron managed to clinch victory on the PGA Tour—an impressive feat for a club often deemed extinct. As the PGA Tour heads to links-style courses like that in Scotland, players are increasingly opting for utility and driving irons to maintain control and precision.

What Exactly is a Modern 1-Iron?

At 28 years old, I have witnessed the evolution of golf clubs, but rarely have I encountered a true 1-iron in competitive play. Historically, a 1-iron, such as the Ben Hogan Apex model my father used in the 70s, boasted 18 degrees of loft. Yet, due to advancements in technology, this standard has evolved. Today, an 18-degree loft is generally recognized as a 2-iron. Brands like Cobra and TaylorMade are now manufacturing 2-irons that come in lofts lower than 18 degrees, which contributes to the confusion.

Interestingly, only a handful of manufacturers, such as Titleist and Mizuno, still produce 1-irons for retail. The Titleist U505 utility iron offers a 16-degree option, while TaylorMade recently released its 17-degree P-UDI, marketed as a “Bomber” 1-iron. This indicates a shift in the golf industry toward reviving the long-absent 1-iron for golfers looking for versatility and precision.

The Transformation of 1-Irons Over Time

Wielding a 1-iron was once akin to handling a "butter knife," as legends like Hogan and Nicklaus found success with their blades. Unlike today’s complex designs, those classic 1-irons were simple forged blades without modern technology. Today’s versions are hybrids, featuring hollow bodies and an array of technological advancements that elevate their performance. Clubs such as the new Titleist U505 utilize tungsten weights and ultra-wide soles for improved accuracy and ease of use.

Today’s 1-irons can also be equipped with lighter graphite shafts designed to enhance speed and launch angles. The technical advancements in their construction significantly differentiate these clubs from their ancestors, making them variously suited for different playing conditions.

The Game-Changing Benefits of a 1-Iron

Given the alternatives such as hybrids and fairway woods, one might wonder why a 1-iron still finds its place in modern golf. In the United States—which frequently features soft greens—this club may seem superfluous. However, in British golf, where firm footing and uneven ground prevail, the strategic advantage of using a low-lofted club becomes crystal clear.

On average, Tour players using a 1-iron achieve a launch angle of 6-8 degrees, 157-165 mph ball speeds, and 3000-3500 RPM of spin. These metrics make the 1-iron comparable to longer fairway woods but provide a much lower trajectory that’s suited for firmer grounds. As a result, this club can be a significant asset for tour players navigating Scotland’s unique playing conditions.

Chris Gotterup: Mastering the 1-Iron

Chris Gotterup’s affinity for his 1-iron is likely a blend of nostalgia and practicality. His RSi TP UDI was first released in 2015, equipped with the same 16-degree loft. Unlike contemporary models featuring speed-enhancing technologies like SpeedFoam, Gotterup’s trusty club is a nod to a simpler age of golf that has its own charm. Following his unexpected victory, he humorously commented on the club’s origins, reflecting a lifelong attachment to it.

Despite its age, Gotterup could still rely on this club’s performance, hitting only a few shots with it during the tournament yet attributing a critical role to it in his successful strategy.

Who Else is Using 1-Irons on the PGA Tour?

Gotterup isn’t alone in the 1-iron revival. Phil Mickelson was the last player to win on the PGA Tour with a 1-iron in his bag at the 2021 PGA Championship, although he had to swap it out due to an equipment malfunction. Notably, Byeong Hun An has been an ardent user of the Titleist U505 1-iron, swearing by its low loft and consistent performance off the tee.

With players like Collin Morikawa and Danny Walker testing modern iterations of the 1-iron, it’s evident that the club is far from outdated. Though fewer players are choosing to game this challenging club, its existence in the bags of professional golfers indicates a niche but dedicated following.

Sporting a Low Loft: Weathering the Elements

The appeal of the 1-iron extends beyond player preference; it also offers practical advantages when faced with adverse weather conditions. The lower launch and reduced spin characteristics of the 1-iron make it less susceptible to wind interference, especially in coastal links courses like those in Scotland. This gives players an edge during challenging weather, making the seal of approval among Tour players more understandable.

A Look into the Future: Is the 1-Iron Making a Comeback?

Despite its rarity, the 1-iron is experiencing a renaissance, albeit a subtle one. With various brands creating modern iterations of this classic club, golf fans may soon find themselves witnessing more Tour players using 1-irons once again. Clubs like the Titleist U505 and TaylorMade’s P-UDI are witnessing renewed interest as players experiment with their advantages.

Is the 1-iron destined for a glorious comeback? While this all comes down to individual player preferences, the integration of technology in modern 1-irons could blur the lines, creating an exciting blend of heritage and innovation.

Conclusion: The Legacy of the 1-Iron

The journey of the 1-iron is one of evolution. From its prestigious history with legends like Hogan and Nicklaus to Chris Gotterup’s recent victory, this club has proven that it still holds value. As players continue to recognize the strategic benefits of low-lofted clubs, the 1-iron’s place in golf remains relevant. Whether it’s for tackling windy conditions or for making precise shots in challenging terrain, this club deserves its recognition as an essential piece of golf equipment. The resurgence of the 1-iron is a fantastic story of how tradition and modernity can coexist, offering players a powerful tool for success on the greens.