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Rules of Golf Review: To take relief for a chip shot, I measured the club-length with my driver. Was I supposed to use a wedge?
TL;DR
The Rules of Golf specify that players must measure a club-length using a standard club, not necessarily the one intended for the next shot. Misconceptions about using different clubs for measuring relief areas are clarified.
Key points
- Players must measure club-length using a standard club.
- Misconceptions exist about using the next shot club for measurement.
- Using a long putter for measurement is not permitted.
- Incorrect measurements can lead to penalties.
- The Rules of Golf leave little room for interpretation.
Whether it's measuring the teeing area or determining the size of a relief area when you have to drop or place a ball while applying a rule, you might think you have some latitude in terms of what club you use to measure. The Rules of Golf, however, is very specific about what you should do when it's time to measure a club-length.
That shouldn't surprise you. The book tries to leave very little to interpret when you're on the course applying a rule.
A common belief among recreational players is that when measuring the area for a dropâsuch as when your ball is on a cart path or in some unplayable situationâyou must use the club you intend to use for your next shot. Less common, golfers sometimes think a long putter can be used to measure. Imagine the size of the drop area if Bernhard Langer tried to use his 48-inch broomstick putter to measure.
Neither belief is true.
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Q&A
What club should I use to measure a club-length in golf?
You should use a standard club, as specified by the Rules of Golf, rather than the club intended for your next shot.
Can I use a long putter to measure a relief area in golf?
No, using a long putter to measure a relief area is not allowed according to the Rules of Golf.
What happens if I measure a drop area incorrectly in golf?
Measuring a drop area incorrectly can lead to penalties, as the Rules of Golf are strict about how to apply them.
Are there any exceptions to the club-length measurement rule in golf?
No, the Rules of Golf do not provide exceptions; players must adhere to the specified measurement guidelines.
