Golf club head with low hosel bore

Abstract

Described herein is an iron-type golf club head with a shortened hosel and lengthened hosel bore that allows for a range of post-manufacture loft and lie adjustability while maintaining or reducing visible surface deformation and durability loss, and also creates discretionary mass that can be strategically placed for performance advantages.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to golf clubs, and more particularly to golf club heads having a reduced hosel bore. [Background technology]

[0002] Golfers often customize a club or set of clubs to best suit their personal swing style, height, or a combination of physical factors. Club customization typically includes adjusting the loft and lie angle to ensure the player's club face is properly aligned at address. Typically, a golf club head is ordered in advance with the player's custom adjustment specifications, and the club is manufactured to those specifications. This can cause long delays in delivering the club to the player and limits the player's ability to adjust the club head specifications after receiving it. Increasingly, the industry is exploring ways to allow the face angle to bend during the post-fabrication assembly process. However, the more the face is bent, the more likely the club is to experience distortion of the material surface at the bent area, which can create unsightly marks and negatively affect the durability of finishes such as chrome.

[0003] During manufacturing, the face of a golf club is typically oriented relative to the hosel to obtain an initial loft and lie angle. The golf club may be further manipulated, for example, by bending after manufacturing, to obtain a final loft and lie angle. If the hosel is further bent, the club may develop cosmetic defects such as stress marks and / or structural failure. For example, conventional club heads are typically limited to a post-manufacturing bend of approximately ±2 degrees before stress marks develop or structural failure occurs. Thus, there is a need in the art for a golf club head that can withstand post-manufacturing bending without substantial stress marks or failure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0004] The patent or application file contains at least one color drawing. Copies of any color drawing(s) in the patent or published patent application file will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

[0005] [Figure 1A] 1 is a front perspective view of an example embodiment of a golf club head according to the present disclosure;

[0006] [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a front view of the golf club head of FIG. 1A.

[0007] [Figure 2] FIG. 1B is a top view of the golf club head of FIG. 1A.

[0008] [Figure 3] FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of the golf club head of FIG. 1A.

[0009] [Figure 4] Toe view of the golf club of Figure 1A.

[0010] [Figure 5A] 5A is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 1A taken along line 5A-5A of FIG. 2;

[0011] [Figure 5B] 2 is a diagram illustrating stress concentrations in a first section of the golf club of FIG. 1 under a first set of conditions;

[0012] [Figure 5C] 2 is a diagram illustrating stress concentrations in a second section of the golf club of FIG. 1 under a first set of conditions;

[0013] [Figure 5D] 2 is a diagram illustrating stress concentrations in the third section of the golf club of FIG. 1 under a first set of conditions;

[0014] [Figure 6A] 5B is a cross-sectional view of a prior art golf club head taken along the same line as shown in FIG. 5A.

[0015] [Figure 6B] 6B illustrates stress concentrations in a first section of the golf club of FIG. 6A under a first set of conditions.

[0016] [Figure 6C] 6B illustrates stress concentrations in the second section of the golf club of FIG. 6A under a first set of conditions.

[0017] [Figure 6D] FIG. 6B illustrates stress concentrations in the third section of the golf club of FIG. 6A under a first set of conditions.

[0018] [Figure 7] 5A is a front cross-sectional view of a standard golf club head taken along line 5A-5A of FIG. 2.

[0019] [Figure 8] 5A is a front cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 1A taken along line 5A-5A of FIG. 2;

[0020] [Figure 9] 5A is a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a golf club head taken along line 5A-5A of FIG. 2.

[0021] [Figure 10] 1B is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 1A taken along line 10-10 of FIG.

[0022] [Figure 11] 1B is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 1A taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 1B.

[0023] [Figure 12] 1B is a cross-sectional view of the golf club head of FIG. 1A taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 1B.

[0024] [Figure 13] 1 is a perspective, low-opacity view of a prior art golf club, the opacity reduced to show internal features.

[0025] [Figure 14] 10 is a low-opacity perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a golf club head according to the present disclosure.

[0026] [Figure 15] 10 is a low-opacity perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a golf club head according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] definition The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," "fifth," etc. in this specification and claims are used to distinguish between similar elements, if any, and are not necessarily used to describe a particular sequence or chronological order. It is to be understood that terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, such as when the embodiments described herein are capable of operating in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms "include" and "have," and variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus consisting of a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements and may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

[0028] The terms "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "upper," and "lower" used herein are for purposes of description and not necessarily to describe permanent relative positions. It is understood that terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, such that embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and / or articles of manufacture described herein are operable, for example, in orientations other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

[0029] As used herein, the terms "couple," "coupled," "couples," and "coupling" refer to the joining of two or more elements, mechanically or otherwise. The coupling (whether mechanical or not) may be for any duration, for example, permanent, semi-permanent, or momentary.

[0030] As used herein, the term "striking face" or "striking surface" refers to the front of the club head that is configured to strike a golf ball. The term "striking face" can be used interchangeably with the term "face."

[0031] As used herein, the term "hosel" refers to the heel-side member of a club head configured to connect the club body and the club shaft.

[0032] As used herein, the term "geometric center" or "geometric center" of a striking face can refer to the geometric center of the striking face's perimeter and the midpoint of the striking face's face height. In the same or other examples, the geometric center can also be centered with respect to an engineered impact zone, which may be defined by an area of ​​grooves on the striking face. Alternatively, the geometric center of a striking face can be located according to the definition of a golf governing body, such as the United States Golf Association (USGA).

[0033] As used herein, the term "ground plane" may refer to a reference plane associated with the surface on which a golf ball rests. The ground plane may be the horizontal plane that contacts the sole at address.

[0034] As used herein, the term "lie angle" may refer to the angle between the hosel axis extending through the hosel and the ground plane. The lie angle is measured from a front view.

[0035] As used herein, the terms "loft" or "loft angle" may refer to the angle measured between the loft plane and the XY plane (defined below).

[0036] The "XYZ" coordinate system of the golf club head used herein is based on the geometric center of the striking face. Dimensions of the golf club head described herein may be measured based on the coordinate system as defined below. The geometric center of the striking face defines a coordinate system with an origin located at the geometric center of the striking face. The coordinate system defines an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis. The X-axis extends through the geometric center of the striking face in a heel-to-toe direction for a fairway-type club head. The Y-axis extends through the geometric center of the striking face in a direction from the top rail to the sole of the golf club head. The Y-axis is perpendicular to the X-axis. The Z-axis extends through the geometric center of the striking face in a front-to-back direction for the golf club head. The Z-axis is perpendicular to both the X-axis and the Y-axis.

[0037] As used herein, the term or phrase "center of gravity location" or "CG location" refers to the location of the center of gravity (CG) of a club head relative to an XYZ coordinate system, where the CG location is characterized by location along the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. The term "CGx" can refer to the CG location along the X-axis, measured from the origin. The term "CGy" can refer to the CG location along the Y-axis, measured from the origin. The term "CGz" can refer to the CG location along the Z-axis, measured from the origin.

[0038] As used herein, the term or phrase "moment of inertia" (hereinafter "MOI") is a value derived using the center of gravity (CG) location. MOI can be calculated assuming the club head includes a body and hosel structure. xx " or "I xx The term "MOI" can refer to the MOI measured along the X' axis. yy " or "I yy The term "MOI" can refer to the MOI measured on the Y' axis. zz " or "I zz The term "MOI" can refer to the MOI measured along the Z' axis. xx , MOI yy , and MOI zz determines how forgiving the club head is to off-center impacts with the golf ball.

[0039] Other features and aspects will become apparent by consideration of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. Before any embodiment of the present disclosure is described in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details or to the construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. It is to be understood that the description of particular embodiments is not intended to limit the disclosure from covering all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0040] For ease of discussion and understanding, and for purposes of illustration only, the following detailed description will illustrate golf club head 100 (or an iron-type club head). It should be understood that irons are provided for illustrative purposes, and that one or more of the attributes disclosed herein are not limited to irons. The attributes may be used with any desired golf club, including irons, wedges, putters, or other golf clubs where a static face angle, hosel tilt, center of gravity (CG), or other attributes are desired to provide a player with improved performance and aesthetics. For example, club head 100 may include, but is not limited to, a 1 iron, 2 iron, 3 iron, 4 iron, 5 iron, 6 iron, 7 iron, 8 iron, 9 iron, pitching wedge, gap wedge, utility wedge, sand wedge, lob wedge, and / or putter. Additionally, the golf club head 100 may have a loft ranging from about 3 degrees to about 65 degrees (3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.5, 13, 13.5, 14, 14.5, 15, 15.5, 16, 16.5 , 17, 17.5, 18, 18.5, 19, 19.5, 20, 20.5, 21, 21.5, 22, 22.5, 23, 23.5, 24, 24.5, 25, 25.5, 26, 26.5, 27, 27.5, 28, 28.5, 29, 29.5, 30, 30.5, 31, 31.5, 32, 32.5, 33, 33.5, 34, 34.5, 35, 36, 37.5, 37, 38.5, 38, 39.5, 39, 40.5, 40, 41.5, 41, 42.5, 42, 43.5, 43, 44.5, 44, 45.5, 45, 46, 47.5, 46, 48.5, 47, 48.5, 48, 49.5, 49, 50.5, 51, 52.5, 52, 53.5, 53, 54.5, 54, 55.5, 55, 56, 57.5, 57, 58.5, 58, 59.5, 59, 60.5, 60, 61.5, 61, 62.5, 62, 63.5, 63, 64.5, 64, 65.5, 65, 66.5, 67.5, 68.5, 69.5, 70.5, 71.5, 72.5, 4, 34.5, 35, 35.5, 36, 36.5, 37, 37.5, 38, 38.5, 39, 39.5, 40, 40.5, 41, 41.5, 42, 42.5, 43, 43.5, 44, 44.5, 45, 45.5, 46, 46.5, 47, 47.5, 48, 48.5, 49, 49.5, 50, 50.5, 51 , 51.5, 52, 52.5, 53, 53.5, 54, 54.5, 55, 55.5, 56, 56.5, 57, 57.5, 58, 58.5, 59, 59.5, 60, 60.5, 61, 61.5, 62, 62.5, 63, 63.5, 64, 64.5, and / or 65 degrees.

[0041] The term "iron," as used herein, can refer, in some embodiments, to an iron-type golf club head having a loft angle that is less than about 50 degrees, less than about 49 degrees, less than about 48 degrees, less than about 47 degrees, less than about 46 degrees, less than about 45 degrees, less than about 44 degrees, less than about 43 degrees, less than about 42 degrees, less than about 41 degrees, or less than about 40 degrees. Furthermore, in many embodiments, the loft angle of the club head is greater than about 16 degrees, greater than about 17 degrees, greater than about 18 degrees, greater than about 19 degrees, greater than about 20 degrees, greater than about 21 degrees, greater than about 22 degrees, greater than about 23 degrees, greater than about 24 degrees, or greater than about 25 degrees.

[0042] In many embodiments, the golf club head may be an "iron-type" club head. As used herein, iron-type club head includes a subset of iron-type club heads, such as, but not limited to, high-lofted wedges configured for short game shots and low-lofted irons, also known as "crossovers," configured for driving long-distance shots.

[0043] In many embodiments, the loft angle of the iron-type or wedge-type golf club head is less than about 50 degrees, less than about 49 degrees, less than about 48 degrees, less than about 47 degrees, less than about 46 degrees, less than about 45 degrees, less than about 44 degrees, less than about 43 degrees, less than about 42 degrees, less than about 41 degrees, or less than about 40 degrees. Additionally, in many embodiments, the loft angle of the golf club head is greater than about 16 degrees, greater than about 17 degrees, greater than about 18 degrees, greater than about 19 degrees, greater than about 20 degrees, greater than about 21 degrees, greater than about 22 degrees, greater than about 23 degrees, greater than about 24 degrees, or greater than about 25 degrees.

[0044] In many embodiments, the iron- or wedge-type golf club head can have a total volume between 1.9 and 2.7 cubic inches. In some embodiments, the total volume of the golf club head can be between 1.9 and 2.4 cubic inches, between 2.0 and 2.5 cubic inches, between 2.1 and 2.6 cubic inches, between 2.2 and 2.7 cubic inches, between 2.3 and 2.7 cubic inches, or between 2.4 and 2.7 cubic inches. In other embodiments, the total volume of the golf club head 100 can be 1.9 cubic inches, 2.0 cubic inches, 2.1 cubic inches, 2.2 cubic inches, 2.3 cubic inches, 2.4 cubic inches, 2.5 cubic inches, 2.6 cubic inches, or 2.7 cubic inches.

[0045] In many embodiments, the golf club head can have a total mass between 200 grams and 300 grams. In some embodiments, the golf club head can have a total mass between 200 grams and 210 grams, between 210 grams and 220 grams, between 220 grams and 230 grams, between 230 grams and 240 grams, between 240 grams and 250 grams, between 250 grams and 260 grams, between 255 grams and 260 grams, between 260 grams and 270 grams, between 265 grams and 275 grams, between 270 grams and 280 grams, between 275 grams and 280 grams, or between 250 grams and 270 grams. In other embodiments, the total mass can be 200 grams, 205 grams, 210 grams, 220 grams, 225 grams, 230 grams, 235 grams, 240 grams, 245 grams, 250 grams, 255 grams, 260 grams, 265 grams, 270 grams, 275 grams, 280 grams, 285 grams, 290 grams, 295 grams, or 300 grams.

[0046] Detailed explanation The golf club heads described herein allow for a wide range of loft and lie adjustability after manufacture while maintaining or reducing surface deformation and durability loss, and also create discretionary mass that can be strategically positioned for performance advantages. In some embodiments, an iron-type golf club head includes a top rail opposite the sole, a toe end opposite the heel end, a face opposite the butt end, and a hosel. The hosel includes a hosel bore. The hosel bore is defined within the hosel and extends the entire length of the hosel and into the club body. The hosel and extended hosel bore described below allow for a high degree of adjustability of the loft and lie angles of the golf club head after manufacture, within ±4°. Furthermore, this design distributes stress over a larger surface area, reducing stress concentrations at the most flex points. Improved bending ability reduces the risk of failure and mitigates the occurrence of undesirable stress marks.

[0047] 1-15, a golf club head 100 includes a club body 104 having a toe 108 (or toe end 108) opposite a heel 112 (or heel end 112). The club body 104 also includes a crown 114 (or top rail 114) opposite a sole 115 (or bottom 115). A front portion 116 (or front side 116) of the club body 104 carries a face plate 120 (or striking plate 120 or club face 120 or striking face 120) that defines a striking surface 122. The face plate 120 is opposite a rear portion 118 (or back portion 118 or rear side 118 or back side 118). The face plate 120 may also include a plurality of grooves 125.

[0048] 3, the club body 104 also defines an upper portion 126 and a lower portion 128. A ledge 130 is located at the rear portion 118 and extends generally from the toe 108 to the heel 112. The upper portion 126 is bounded by the peak 114 and the ledge 130. The lower portion 128 is bounded by the sole 115 and the ledge 130.

[0049] 1B, 2, and 4, the striking face 122 of the golf club head 100 includes a geometric center 210. The geometric center 210 may be located at the geometric center point of the striking face perimeter and at the midpoint of the height of the striking face 122. In some embodiments, the geometric center 210 may be centered relative to an engineered impact zone. The engineered impact zone may be defined by the area of ​​the grooves 125 on the striking face 122. Alternatively, the geometric center 210 may be located according to a definition established by a golf governing body, such as the United States Golf Association (USGA).

[0050] I. Hosel and hosel bore As described above with reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 5A, the golf club head 100 also includes a hosel 110 disposed at the heel 112 for connecting the golf club head 100 to a shaft (not shown). The hosel 110 defines a hosel axis 135 (FIGS. 1B, 5A, 9) extending through the center of the hosel 110. The hosel 110 extends from the club head body 104 between a first end 142 (or proximal end 142) and a second end 144 (or distal end 144 relative to the golf club head). The proximal end 142 of the hosel 110 is defined by a transition plane 145 where the outer surface of the hosel 110 transitions to the club body 104 (e.g., the heel 112), as shown in FIG. 5A. The transition plane 145 is perpendicular to the hosel axis 135.

[0051] The hosel 110 includes a hosel bore 150. The hosel bore 150 extends along a hosel axis 135 and is configured to receive a golf club shaft carrying a grip. As shown, the hosel bore 150 defines a hosel bore first end 152 (or hosel bore proximal end 152) disposed within the club body 104 (specifically, the heel 112) and a hosel bore second end 154 (or hosel bore distal end 154) disposed at the distal end 144 of the hosel 110. The hosel bore distal end 154 is an open end, and the hosel bore proximal end 152 is a closed end. The hosel bore proximal end 152 defines a lower boundary of the hosel 150 within the club head body 104 at a hosel bore tip 155. Hosel bore proximal end 152 may be configured to receive a tip weight 156, which may be positioned between hosel 110 and the golf club shaft. As noted above, and in contrast to typical golf club heads, hosel bore 150 in the club heads described herein extends beyond proximal end 142 of hosel 110 into club body 104. Specifically, hosel bore 150 extends beyond hosel 110 (the end of which may be identified by transition plane 145 shown in FIG. 5A ) to the heel side of the club head body.

[0052] 1. Extension of the hosel bore into the club body Hosel bore 150 extends the entire length of hosel 110 and into club head body 104 so that bending of hosel bore 110 occurs over a larger surface area extending further into club head body 104. Thus, hosel bore 150 has a length that is greater than the length of hosel 110. Referring to FIG. 5A , hosel 110 defines a hosel length L1 measured from distal end 144 (or hosel second end 144) along hosel axis 135 to transition plane 145. In some embodiments, hosel length L1 falls within a range between 0.75 inches and 2.25 inches. In some embodiments, hosel length L1 falls within a range between 1.0 inch and 1.75 inches. In some embodiments, the hosel length L1 can range between 0.75 inches and 1.0 inches, between 1.0 inches and 1.25 inches, between 1.25 inches and 1.50 inches, between 1.50 inches and 1.75 inches, between 1.75 inches and 2.0 inches, or between 2.0 inches and 2.25 inches.

[0053] Hosel bore 150 defines a hosel bore length L2 measured along hosel axis 135 from hosel bore proximal end 152 (or hosel bore first end 152) to hosel bore distal end 154 (or hosel bore second end 154) aligned with hosel distal end 144. In some embodiments, hosel bore length L2 falls within the range of between 1.0 inches and 2.5 inches. In some embodiments, hosel bore length L2 falls within the range of between 1.3 inches and 2.2 inches. In some embodiments, the hosel bore length L2 can be in the range between 1.0 and 1.1 inches, between 1.1 and 1.2 inches, between 1.2 and 1.3 inches, between 1.3 and 1.4 inches, between 1.4 and 1.5 inches, between 1.5 and 1.6 inches, between 1.6 and 1.7 inches, 1.7 and 1.8 inches, 1.8 and 1.9 inches, 1.9 and 2.0 inches, 2.0 and 2.1 inches, 2.1 and 2.2 inches, 2.2 and 2.3 inches, 2.3 and 2.4 inches, or between 2.4 and 2.5 inches.

[0054] According to the present disclosure, hosel length L1 is less than hosel bore length L2, such that hosel bore 150 extends beyond hosel 110 into club body 104. Extending hosel bore 150 into club body 104 a distance defined by the difference between L2 and L1 removes material and mass from heel 112, thereby increasing discretionary mass and facilitating post-manufacturing bending of club head 100 by allowing bending over a larger surface area. In many embodiments, hosel bore length L2 is at least 100% of hosel length L1. In some embodiments, hosel bore length L2 may be approximately 100% to 160% of hosel length L1. For example, the hosel bore length L2 can be approximately 100% to 110%, 110% to 120%, 120% to 130%, 130% to 140%, 140% to 150%, or 150% to 160% of the hosel length L1. In some embodiments, the hosel bore length L2 is at least 100%, at least 110%, at least 120%, at least 130%, at least 140%, or at least 150% of the hosel length L1.

[0055] The position and configuration of the hosel 110 and hosel bore 150 contrast with conventional iron-type golf club heads of the prior art, one of which is shown in FIG. 6A . First, the hosel length L1 is approximately 0.300 inches shorter than the hosel length L1 of a conventional iron-type golf club head. Furthermore, this shorter hosel length L1, along with the tapered first zone 186 that receives the tip weight 156, reduces the overall mass of the golf club head 100 by approximately 6 grams. These differences result in a lower CG 240. That is, as described above, the CG 240 along the y-axis 204 is approximately 0.040 inches lower than a conventional iron-type golf club head.

[0056] 2.Hosel bore internal geometry The geometry of the club head 100 may influence the shape of the hosel bore 150. More specifically, the heel-toe transition 132 of the club head 100 may have an arcuate shape. As the hosel bore 150 extends further into the club head 100, the hosel axis 135 and the heel-toe transition 132 converge, reducing the amount of club head material therebetween and creating a stress concentration area. To maintain structural integrity, the hosel bore proximal end 152 may be shaped to maintain a sufficient amount of club head material between the hosel bore 150 and the heel-toe transition 132. In some embodiments, the hosel bore 150 includes a hosel bore tip 155 that is generally tapered toward the bore proximal end 152. For example, as best shown in FIG. 9 , the hosel bore tip 155 has a conical shape with a larger diameter at the bore distal end 154 and a smaller diameter at the bore proximal end 152, configured to maintain structural integrity at the heel-toe transition 132. Specifically, due to the club head's geometry, in which the heel end under the hosel curves toward the body, space for the hosel bore 150 in that region is limited, constraining the bore to be narrower. The tapered hosel bore tip 155 allows for a longer hosel bore 150, whose thinner walls allow bending to occur further inside the club head body, and therefore over a larger surface area. The tapered hosel bore tip 155 also removes additional mass from the heel of the club head 100, thereby further increasing discretionary mass.

[0057] The hosel bore 150 may define a plurality of inner walls 158 characterized by their position relative to the club body 104. For example, the inner walls 158 may be characterized by their proximity to the toe 108 or heel 112 as a toe-side inner wall 198 and a heel-side inner wall 194, respectively. In many embodiments, the toe-side inner wall 198 and the heel-side inner wall 194 may be continuously formed and radiused.

[0058] The toe side inner wall 198 can define an angle 196 with respect to the hosel axis 135. The heel side inner wall 194 can define an angle 192 with respect to the hosel axis 135. The angled configuration of the inner wall 158 creates a tapered effect of the hosel bore first end 152. The toe side inner wall angle 196 can fall within a range of 2.5° to 20°. In some embodiments, the toe side inner wall angle 196 can fall within a range of 2.5° to 5.0°, 5.0° to 7.5°, 7.5° to 10.0°, 10.0° to 12.5°, 12.5° to 15°, 15° to 17.5°, or 17.5° to 20°. The heel side inner wall angle 192 can also fall within a range between 2.5° and 20°. In some embodiments, the heel side inner wall angle 192 can fall within the ranges of 2.5° to 5.0°, 5.0° to 7.5°, 7.5° to 10.0°, 10.0° to 12.5°, 12.5° to 15°, 15° to 17.5°, or 17.5° to 20°.

[0059] In many embodiments, the toe inner wall angle 196 and the heel inner wall angle 192 are the same. In alternative embodiments, the toe inner wall angle 196 and the heel inner wall angle 192 are different. In particular, the heel inner wall angle 192 can be greater than the toe inner wall angle 196. The different angled inner walls create an asymmetrical shape. In all embodiments, the toe inner wall angle 196 and the heel inner wall angle 192 will likely change and become asymmetrical as a result of bending the hosel. Therefore, the toe inner wall angle 196 and the heel inner wall angle 192 refer only to these angles after manufacture and before bending.

[0060] 3. Other Considerations Regarding Hosel Bore Extension Extending the hosel bore 150 into the club head body 104 increases discretionary mass that can be used elsewhere in the club head 100 to move the center of gravity 240 (or CG 240) of the club head 100 to a desired location. With reference to FIGS. 1B, 2, and 4, the location of the center of gravity 240 can be defined relative to a coordinate system that establishes an x-axis 202, a y-axis 204, and a z-axis 206. A geometric center 210 defines the origin of the coordinate system that includes axes 202, 204, and 206. The x-axis 202 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 2) extends through the club head geometric center 210 from the toe 108 to the heel 112. The x-axis 202 is positive toward the toe 108. The y-axis 204 (shown in FIGS. 1B and 4) extends through the club head geometric center 210 from the crown 114 to the sole 115. The y-axis 204 is positive toward the crown 114. The y-axis 204 is perpendicular to the x-axis 202 when viewed from the front (or face plate 120). The y-axis 204 is oriented at an oblique angle relative to the hosel axis 135. The z-axis 206 (shown in FIGS. 2 and 4) extends through the geometric center 210 from the face plate 120 to the rear end 118 of the golf club head 100. The z-axis 206 is positive toward the face plate 120. The z-axis 206 is perpendicular to the x-axis 202 and the y-axis 204.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, the location of the center of gravity 240 can be measured from the geometric center 210. The center of gravity 240 can be measured along the x-axis 202 relative to the geometric center 210 and represented by CGx. The center of gravity 240 can also be measured along the y-axis 204 relative to the geometric center 210 and represented by CGy. The center of gravity 240 can be measured along the z-axis 206 relative to the geometric center 210 and represented by CGz. Moving the center of gravity 240 toward the toe 108 or heel 112 can be achieved by increasing or decreasing the distance along the x-axis 202. Lowering the center of gravity 240 can be achieved by decreasing the distance along the y-axis 204. Moving the center of gravity 240 rearward can be achieved by increasing the distance along the z-axis 206. In other example embodiments, the location of the center of gravity 240 can be measured from the leading edge 254 of the golf club head 100 (or from the most forward position of the golf club head 100).

[0062] In some embodiments, the center of gravity 240 may be approximately aligned with the geometric center 210 along the x-axis 202 (i.e., CGx is approximately zero). In other embodiments, the CGx may be located between about −0.10 inches and about 0.10 inches from the geometric center 210, measured along the x-axis 202. The iron golf club head 100 also has a CGy between about 0.10 inches and about 0.75 inches from the geometric center 210, measured along the y-axis 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the CGy is between the geometric center 210 and the sole 115. As a result of the location and configuration of the hosel 110, the center of gravity 240 is 0.020 inches to 0.060 inches lower than a conventional iron-type golf club head (shown in FIG. 9A ). In one example, the CG may be approximately 0.040 inches lower than a conventional iron-type golf club head.

[0063] The hosel bore is further characterized by a total bore volume. The total bore volume can be categorized into an upper bore volume and a lower bore volume with respect to other elements of the club head. For example, the bore volume can be categorized by the upper bore volume above the hosel outer transition plane 145 and the lower bore volume below the hosel outer transition plane 145. In some embodiments, the upper bore volume above the hosel outer transition plane 145 is 60 to 95% of the total bore volume, and the lower bore volume below the hosel outer transition plane 145 is 5 to 40% of the total bore volume. For example, the upper bore volume above the hosel outer transition plane 145 is 60 to 65%, 65 to 70%, 70 to 75%, 75 to 80%, 80 to 85%, 85 to 90%, or 90 to 95% of the total bore volume. The lower bore volume below the hosel outer transition plane 145 can be 5 to 10%, 10 to 15%, 15 to 20%, 20 to 25%, 25 to 30%, 30 to 35%, or 35 to 40% of the total bore volume. In one example, the upper bore volume above the hosel outer transition plane 145 is 90% of the total bore volume and the lower bore volume below the hosel outer transition plane 145 is 10% of the total bore volume.

[0064] The hosel bore 150 may be formed across the club head 100 and measured relative to multiple axes parallel to the ground plane 160, as shown in Figures 7 and 8. It is beneficial for the hosel bore 150 to extend into the club body 104 below a particular reference plane to reduce overall club mass, create discretionary mass for performance benefits, and enable the hosel 110 to withstand bending of up to ±6° without substantial surface deformation or wrinkling. In some examples, the hosel 110 can withstand bending of up to ±2°, ±3°, ±4°, ±5°, or ±6°.

[0065] The upper bore volume and the lower bore volume can be quantified by reference to several axes. A first axis 165 (hereinafter referred to as the “top hosel axis” 165) is formed across the top of the hosel 110 and parallel to the ground plane 160 when the club is in the address position. A hosel height 166 can be defined as the distance from the ground plane 160 to the top hosel axis 165. In some embodiments, the hosel height 166 falls within a range between 1.5 inches and 2.75 inches. In many embodiments, the hosel height 166 can fall within a range between 1.75 inches and 2.25 inches. For example, the hosel height 166 can range between 1.75 inches and 1.85 inches, between 1.85 inches and 1.95 inches, between 1.95 inches and 2.05 inches, between 2.05 inches and 2.15 inches, or between 2.15 inches and 2.25 inches, inclusive. The hosel height 166 can be about 5% to about 25% less than the hosel heights of prior art clubs. In some embodiments, the hosel height 166 is 5 to 10%, 10 to 15%, 15 to 20%, or 20 to 25% less than the hosel heights of prior art clubs. In one exemplary club head embodiment, the hosel height 166 can be 8.6% less than the hosel heights of prior art club heads. In another exemplary club head embodiment, the hosel height 166 can be 8.8% less than the hosel heights of prior art club heads.

[0066] A second axis 170 (hereinafter referred to as the “hosel body axis” 170) is formed parallel to the ground plane 160 and transverse to the location where the hosel 110 and the club body 104 meet. The hosel bore volume can be further characterized by the percentage of the total volume that resides above or below the hosel body axis 170. In particular, a lower portion 172 of the hosel bore volume can be located below the hosel body axis 170. In some embodiments, the lower portion 172 of the hosel bore volume below the hosel body axis 170 can fall within a range of between 5% and 40% of the hosel bore volume. In many embodiments, the lower portion 172 of the hosel bore volume below the hosel body axis 170 can fall within a range of between 5% and 30% of the hosel bore volume. In some embodiments, the lower portion 172 of the hosel bore volume below the hosel body axis 170 is between 5% and 10%, between 10% and 15%, between 15% and 20%, or between 20% and 25% of the hosel bore volume.

[0067] The hosel body ratio can be defined as the ratio between the upper portion of the hosel bore volume above the hosel body axis 170 and the lower portion 172 of the hosel bore volume below the hosel body axis 170. In some embodiments, the hosel body ratio H1:H2 is between about 1.5:0.025 and 1.5:0.250. In some embodiments, the hosel body ratio H1:H2 can be 1.5:0.025 to 1.5:0.050, 1.5:0.050 to 1.5:0.075, 1.5:0.075 to 1.5:0.100, 1.5:0.100 and 1.5:0.125, 1.5:0.125 and 1.5:0.150, 1.5:0.150 and 1.5:0.175, 1.5:0.175 and 1.5:0.200, 1.5:0.200 and 1.5:0.225, or 1.5:0.225 and 1.5:0.250.

[0068] A third axis 175 (hereinafter referred to as the “midline axis” 175) is formed across the geometric center of the club body 104 and parallel to the ground contact surface 160. A lower portion 176 of the hosel bore volume can be located below the midline axis 175. In some embodiments, the lower portion 176 of the hosel bore volume below the midline axis 175 can fall within a range between 1% and 20% of the hosel bore volume. In many embodiments, the lower portion 176 of the hosel bore volume below the midline axis 175 can fall within a range between 1% and 15% of the hosel bore volume. In some embodiments, the lower portion 176 of the hosel bore volume below the midline axis 175 is 1% to 5%, 5% to 10%, or 10% to 15% of the hosel bore volume.

[0069] The extension of hosel bore 150 into club body 104 lowers CG 240, reducing club head mass and creating discretionary weight, enabling designs that incorporate a shortened hosel 110 to further reduce mass. Additionally, locating hosel bore 150 low within club body 104 ensures that the bend point of hosel 110 occurs where the wall thickness can withstand the increased stress, allowing the bend to occur over a larger surface area and reducing the occurrence of high concentrated stresses. Therefore, the low location of hosel bore 150 allows club head 100 to bend to a relatively high angle during loft and lie adjustment without forming visible stress marks or surface deformations.

[0070] A fourth axis 180 (hereinafter referred to as the "bottom hosel axis" 180) is formed across the bottom edge of the hosel bore 150 and parallel to the ground plane 160 when the club head 100 is in the address position. A hosel bore height 182 can be defined as the distance from the ground plane 160 to the bottom hosel axis 180. In some embodiments, the hosel bore height 182 falls within a range between 0.25 inches and 1.0 inches. In many embodiments, the hosel bore height 182 falls within a range between 0.25 inches and 0.75 inches. In some embodiments, the hosel bore height 182 falls within a range between 0.25 inches and 0.35 inches, between 0.35 inches and 0.45 inches, between 0.45 inches and 0.55 inches, between 0.55 inches and 0.65 inches, or between 0.65 inches and 0.75 inches. The hosel bore height 182 can be about 40% to about 80% less than the hosel bore of prior art clubs. In some embodiments, the hosel bore height 182 is 40 to 50%, 50 to 60%, 60 to 70%, or 70 to 80% less than the hosel bore height of prior art clubs. In one example, the hosel bore height 182 can be 57.1% less than the hosel bore height of prior art club heads. In another example, the hosel bore height 182 can be 65.1% less than the hosel bore height of prior art club heads.

[0071] The hosel bore ratio can be defined as the ratio of the hosel height 166 to the hosel bore height 182. In some embodiments, the hosel bore ratio is between 1.2:1.1 and 1.9:1.0. In many embodiments, the hosel bore ratio is between 1.25:1.15 and 1.75:1.1. The hosel bore 150 is longer than the hosel 110 and extends further into the club body 104. This hosel bore configuration removes mass from the upper portion 126 of the club body 104, lowering the overall CG 240 and creating more applied discretionary mass for weight benefits. The extended hosel bore 150 allows bending to occur further inward in the club head body, increasing stress distribution over a larger surface area. Extending the hosel bore 150 further down into the club body 104 results in thinner walls at the hosel-body connection point and the heel 112, allowing the hosel 110 to bend without developing high stress marks. The lowered bore design reduces or completely avoids the development of visible stress marks while maintaining the ability to adjust loft and lie after manufacture, creating discretionary mass for clubhead performance benefits.

[0072] 4.Hosel configuration The thickness of the hosel wall affects the ability of the hosel to undergo bending after manufacturing and withstand the associated stresses. With reference to Figures 5A and 9-12, hosel bore 150 defines hosel bore wall 158. Different regions of hosel bore wall 158 arranged sequentially along length L2 have associated thicknesses T1, T2, T3 measured from the inner surface of hosel bore 150 to the outer surface and / or heel 112 of hosel 110. The thickness of hosel bore wall 158 generally decreases from proximal end 152 of hosel bore 150 to distal end 154 of hosel bore 150. That is, hosel bore wall 158 at proximal end 152 has a first thickness T1 that is a maximum thickness, hosel bore wall 158 at distal end 154 has a second thickness T2 that is a minimum thickness, and hosel bore wall 158 between proximal end 158 and distal end 154 has a third thickness T3 that is less than first thickness T1 but greater than second thickness T2. In other words, hosel bore wall 158 has first zone 186, second zone 188, and third zone 190.

[0073] In Figure 5A, the different zones 186, 188, 190 are indicated using dashed lines. These zones are merely exemplary and may be separated in other ways. The first zone 186 is configured to at least partially receive the tip weight 156. In the illustrated embodiment, the tip weight 156 is disposed entirely within the first zone 186. In some embodiments, the tip weight 156 may be disposed in both the first zone 186 and the third zone 190. The first zone 186 has a first wall thickness T1, the second zone 188 has a second wall thickness T2, and the third zone 190 has a third wall thickness T3.

[0074] The thickness T1 of the hosel bore wall 158 is not uniform in the first zone 186 for two reasons. First, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the hosel bore wall 158 can be tapered relative to the hosel axis 135, and second, a portion of the hosel bore wall 158 is comprised of the heel 112, which has a curved profile, and another portion of the hosel bore wall 158 is closer to the top rail 114 and requires additional material for structural stability. The first wall thickness T1 is thicker at the top of the hosel bore wall 158 than at the remainder of the hosel bore wall 158.

[0075] 10 , to relate thicknesses T1, T2, and T3 of hosel 110, hosel bore 150 and hosel bore wall 158 can be compared to an analog clock with an x-axis 222 extending between 12 and 6 o'clock and a z-axis 220 extending between 3 and 9 o'clock. As shown, x-axis 222 of the clock is parallel to and offset from x-axis 202, which extends through geometric center 210 of golf club 100. In the illustrated embodiment, in first zone 186, thickness T1 of hosel bore wall 158 is greatest between the 12 and 3 o'clock directions because this is where club body 104 defines hosel bore wall 158. Additionally, although not shown in Figures 10-12, thickness T1 of hosel bore wall 158 may generally decrease in a direction from a location between first zone 186 and third zone 190 toward first end 152 of hosel bore 150 and club body 104 in the region between 4 o'clock and 7 o'clock, since that is generally where the outer surface transitioning from hosel 110 to heel 112 is located. As shown in Figures 11 and 12, thicknesses T2 and T3 are generally uniform in a clockwise direction, with thickness T2 being less than thickness T3.

[0076] By maintaining consistent wall thicknesses T2, T3 in the second zone 188 and the third zone 190 and locating the proximal end 152 of the hosel bore 150 within the club body 104, stresses are distributed more evenly along the hosel length L1, resulting in less localized stress and better bending results.

[0077] As an additional guide in describing the innovations herein, x-axis 202 and z-axis 206 are positioned to correspond to the numbers on an analog clock in Figures 10-12. Z-axis 206 extends between 12 o'clock ("12" through faceplate 120) and 6 o'clock ("6" through back end 118), and x-axis 202, as also discussed above, extends between 3 o'clock ("3" through toe end 108) and 9 o'clock ("9" through heel end 112).

[0078] The first wall thickness T1 may range from about 0.05 inches to about 0.50 inches. The second wall thickness T2 may range from about 0.03 inches to about 0.3 inches. The third wall thickness T3 may range from about 0.02 inches to about 0.25 inches. The bore wall thicknesses T1, T2, T3 of each zone 186, 188, 190 may correspond to the type of material of the club body 104.

[0079] The thicknesses T1, T2, and T3 of the hosel bore wall 158 in the different zones 186, 188, and 190 are shown in more detail in Figures 5A and 9 to 12. First, as shown in Figure 5A, the thickness T1 of the hosel bore wall 158 in the first zone 186 on the heel side 112 corresponds to the outer surface that transitions from the hosel 110 to the heel 112. Therefore, as the outer surface on the heel side transitions from the hosel 110 to the heel 112, the thickness T1 of the hosel bore wall 158 in the first zone 186 narrows. In other words, the thickness T1 of the hosel bore wall 158 is lowest on the heel side 112 at a position between the first zone 186 and the third zone 190, and is smallest at the first end 152 of the hosel bore 150. Additionally, on the heel side 112, the thickness T1 of the hosel bore wall 158 narrows in a direction from a location between the first zone 186 and the third zone 190 toward the first end 152 of the hosel bore 150. Additionally, as shown, the hosel bore wall 158 in the first zone 186 is tapered relative to the hosel axis 135 in some embodiments. The angle 192 of taper between the bore wall 158 and the hosel axis 135 may be in the range of approximately 2.5° to 5.0°, 5.0° to 7.5°, 7.5° to 10.0°, 10.0° to 12.5°, 12.5° to 15°, 15° to 17.5°, or 17.5° to 20°.

[0080] 10-12 , the several different interior zones 186, 188, 190 of the hosel bore 150 define respective first dimensions 224, 226, 228 (e.g., diameters 224, 226, 228), and the outer surfaces of the hosel 110 and heel 112 define a second dimension 230. The first diameters 224, 226, 228 of the hosel bore 150 generally decrease from the proximal end 152 of the hosel bore 150 toward the distal end of the hosel bore 150. That is, at proximal end 152, hosel bore 150 has a first bore diameter 224 that is its largest diameter, at distal end 154, hosel bore 150 has a second bore diameter 226 that is its smallest diameter, and between distal end 154 and proximal end 152, hosel bore 150 has a third bore diameter 228 that is smaller than first bore diameter 224 and larger than second bore diameter 226. Correspondingly, first bore diameter 224 of first zone 186 generally increases in a direction from hosel bore proximal end 152 toward hosel bore second end 154. While second dimension 230 is generally constant in second zone 188 and third zone 190 (and in the clockwise direction defined by axes 242, 244), because first zone 186 has an elliptical, oblong shape (as a result of the varying thicknesses described above relative to the clock defined by axes 242, 244), second dimension 230 is not constant in first zone 186. In other words, first zone 186 has first bore diameter 224 and variable second dimension 230, second zone 188 has second bore diameter 226 and constant second dimension 230, and third zone 190 has third bore diameter 228 and constant second dimension 230, which is the same as the constant dimension 230 of second zone 188.

[0081] The first bore diameter 224 may range from about 0.05 inches to about 0.50 inches. The second bore diameter 226 may range from about 0.25 inches to about 0.75 inches. The third bore diameter 228 may range from about 0.10 inches to about 0.60 inches. The second dimension 230 may range from about 0.50 inches to about 1.0 inch in the first zone 186, and the second dimension 230 may range from about 0.25 inches to about 0.85 inches in the second zone 188 and the third zone 190. Thus, the first bore diameter 224 may be about 5% to about 50% of the maximum second dimension 230 of the first zone 186 and about 20% to about 90% of the minimum second dimension 230 of the first zone 186. The second bore diameter 226 may be about 25% to about 90% of the second dimension 230. The third bore diameter 228 may be from about 25% to about 90% of the second dimension 230. The bore diameters 224, 226, 228 and the second dimension 230 are determined, at least in part, by the type of material the club body 104 is made from.

[0082] As shown in Figures 10-12, in the illustrated embodiment, both the hosel 110 and the hosel bore 150 have circular cross-sections. That is, the second and third zones 188, 190, and the hosel bore 150 have circular cross-sections. In other embodiments, the hosel 110 may have a differently shaped cross-section, and thus the first and second zones 186, 188 may have differently shaped cross-sections. For example, the hosel 150 (and its second and third zones 188, 190) may have an oval or elliptical cross-section. This change would alter the relative bore wall thicknesses T1, T2, and T3 and the second dimension 230 of the second and third zones 188, 190.

[0083] In alternative embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the hosel bore may be formed contiguous with an enclosed cavity within the club head body. As shown in the embodiment of Figure 14, the cavity may extend partially into the club head and be formed as part of a cavity-back or muscle-back iron-type club head, or may be used in a wedge, crossover, or putter. As shown in the embodiment of Figure 15, the cavity may extend entirely through the club head body, forming a hollow-body iron-type club head. In these embodiments, the hosel bore may be open to the cavity so that the hosel bore and cavity together form a single void. In other embodiments, the hosel bore and cavity may be defined by a partial or complete wall.

[0084] The partial cavity of the club head shown in Figure 14 extends to coincide with the heel-most edge of the striking face in the illustrated embodiment. In other embodiments, the partial cavity can extend to a point on the heel or toe side of the striking face edge. The shape and size of the cavity can be configured to optimally distribute stresses during hosel bending and impact with the golf ball.

[0085] The thickness of the walls surrounding both the hosel bore and the enclosed cavity are shown as being consistent throughout, however, in other embodiments, the walls may have varying thicknesses, including tapered or thickened regions, to provide necessary structural strength and rigidity, improve manufacturability, or facilitate bending only in desired areas.

[0086] In some embodiments, face plate 120 can comprise a first material having a first density. Club body 104 can comprise a second material having a second density. In the illustrated embodiment, face plate 120 can be the same material (and therefore the same density) as club body 104.

[0087] The club body 104 may comprise a material such as steel, a steel alloy, or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the body 104 may comprise a material with a different density across the face plate 120. The density of the body 104 material may range between 7.70 and 8.10 grams per cubic centimeter (hereinafter "g / cc"). In some embodiments, the density of the body material may be 7.70 g / cc, 7.75 g / cc, 7.80 g / cc, 7.85 g / cc, 7.90 g / cc, 7.95 g / cc, 8.05 g / cc, or 8.10 g / cc.

[0088] The material of the club body 100 can have a hardness measured on the Rockwell Hardness Scale (HRC). In many embodiments, the hardness of a material is related to the wall thickness T1, T2, and T3 of the hosel 110 and the diameters 224, 226, and 228. A club head made of a material with a lower hardness will require a thicker region to reduce the occurrence of stress bending. To maintain the same level of force required to bend the hosel, a golf club head made of a harder material will require a thinner hosel wall than a golf club head made of a less hard material, because harder materials require more force to cause deformation. Varying the wall thickness as needed based on material properties is preferable to ensure a uniform assembly process by requiring a nearly constant amount of force to bend the hosel. Example V below further illustrates the relationship between material hardness and hosel wall thickness.

[0089] In addition to the relative position of the hosel bore 150, other features of the golf club head 100 determine the moment of inertia I xx , I yy and CG240. The materials forming the club body 104, face plate 120, toe weight 157, and tip weight 156 can affect the mass distribution of the golf club head 100. As a result, the moment of inertia I of the golf club head 100 xx , Iyy and center of gravity CG 240 are also affected by the density of the material. Additionally, the material provides the necessary strength and flexibility for golf club head 100. Golf club head 100 may comprise one or more, two or more, three or more, or four or more materials. In some embodiments, the materials may be a first density, a second density, a third density, a fourth density, a fifth density, or a sixth density.

[0090] Additionally, because a portion of the hosel bore 150 extends into the body 104 (or heel 112), the tip weight 156 can be partially or completely within the club body 104 when only a portion of the tip weight 156 is within the club body 104, and the remainder of the tip weight 156 can be within the hosel 110. The weight of the tip weight 156 can be between 0 grams and 18 grams. In some embodiments, the weight of the tip weight 156 can be 0 grams (embodiments without a tip weight), 1 gram, 2 grams, 3 grams, 4 grams, 5 grams, 6 grams, 7 grams, 8 grams, 9 grams, 10 grams, 11 grams, 12 grams, 13 grams, 14 grams, 15 grams, 16 grams, 17 grams, or 18 grams. In some embodiments, the weight of the tip weight 156 ranges between 0 grams and 9 grams. The tip weight 156 can comprise a material that is different from the material of the club body 104. Tip weight 156 may be formed from the same or a different material as toe weight 157, and thus comprises a high density material such as tungsten or any other suitable metal or metal alloy material.

[0091] In some embodiments, the density of the material of the toe weight 157 and tip weight 156, if present, can range from 1.1 g / cc to 19.6 g / cc. In some embodiments, the density of the material of the tip weight 156 is 1.1 g / cc, 1.5 g / cc, 2.0 g / cc, 2.5 g / cc, 3.0 g / cc, 3.5 g / cc, 4.0 g / cc, 4.5 g / cc, 5.0 g / cc, 5.5 g / cc, 6.0 g / cc, 6.5 g / cc, 7.0 g / cc, 7.5 g / cc, 8.0 g / cc, 8.5 g / cc, 9.0 g / cc, 9.5 g / cc, 10.0 g / cc, 10.5 g / cc, 11.0 g / cc, 11.5 g / cc, 12.0 g / cc, 12.5 g / cc, 13.0 g / cc, 13.5g / cc, 14.0g / cc, 14.5g / cc, 15.0g / cc, 15.5g / cc, 15.8g / cc, 16.0g / cc, 16.2g / cc, 16.4g / cc, 16.6g / cc, 16.8g / cc, 17.0g / cc, 17.2g / cc, 1 It can be 7.4g / cc, 17.6g / cc, 17.8g / cc, 18.0g / cc, 18.2g / cc, 18.4g / cc, 18.6g / cc, 18.8g / cc, 19.0g / cc, 19.2g / cc, 19.4g / cc, or 19.6g / cc.

[0092] With specific reference to FIG. 4 , a vertical plane 250 is illustrated to indicate the inclination of the hosel relative to the club head body. The vertical plane 250 is an imaginary plane that is generally perpendicular to the ground, corresponding to the club body 104 being in the address position. The vertical plane 250 is tangent to the leading edge 254 (or front-most edge 254) of the golf club head 100 and perpendicular to the ground contact surface 160. The hosel axis 135 is oriented at an angle relative to the vertical plane 250. In other words, the hosel axis 135 is oriented obliquely relative to the vertical plane 250. The hosel axis 135 and the vertical plane 250 define a first angle 260. The first angle 260 represents the inclination of the hosel. In the illustrated embodiment, the hosel inclination (or first angle 260) is between about 0.25 degrees and about 20 degrees, and more specifically, is at least about 5.0 degrees. The hosel tilt is oriented such that the hosel axis 135 extends away from a vertical plane 250. The hosel axis 135 is configured to intersect the vertical plane 250 at an imaginary location below the ground surface. This hosel tilt relative to the vertical plane 250, or a negative hosel tilt, allows the player to position their hands behind the ball (or toward the player's trailing foot or back foot) at address. It should be understood that at address, the club body 104 is in contact with the ground. More specifically, the sole 115 (or a portion of the sole 115) is in contact with the ground.

[0093] 7 , the golf club head 100 includes an impact force line 270. The impact force line 270 may be a line of force that extends through the center of a golf ball struck by the striking surface 122 of the face plate 120. The impact force line 270 may be oriented perpendicular to the face plate 120, and more specifically, perpendicular to the striking surface 122. In some embodiments, the impact force line 270 may extend through the geometric center 210 of the striking surface 122.

[0094] As described above, bending the hosel 110 relative to the club body 104 (such as via hammering) adjusts the loft and lie angles. The location and configuration of the hosel 110 and hosel bore 150 distributes the stresses of the bending process over a longer length of the hosel 110 while also reducing stress on other areas of the club body 104. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 5A , the hosel bore proximal end 152 defines the lowest point of the hosel bore 150 on the hosel 110. During the bending process, stresses are concentrated at the corners of the hosel bore proximal end 152. By lowering the location where the hosel bore proximal end 152 occurs within the hosel 110, the stresses are distributed over a wider wall, thereby reducing the maximum stress at any given location. However, the club head 100 maintains the ability to adjust loft and lie by up to ±4 degrees.

[0095] III. Examples Example I - Comparison of Mass Properties Between a First Embodiment of a Club Head Described Herein and a Control Club Head Example I provides a comparison between two embodiments of conventional iron-type golf club heads having typical hosel bore geometries, one with an external notch and the other without a notch, and one embodiment of a club head having a hosel bore geometry described herein but without an external notch. More specifically, Example 1 discusses the differences in CG and MOI between the two conventional club heads and one embodiment of a club head having the low hosel geometry described above, as shown in Table 1.

[0096] Two conventional iron-type golf club heads (hereinafter referred to as "control club head 1" and "control club head 2") with a typical hosel geometry and hosel notch are described herein, as shown in FIG. 6A. Also described herein are exemplary embodiments with a notch-less iron-type golf club head with a low hosel bore geometry and tapered walls, as described above. Control club head 1 has the same external structure as exemplary club head 1.

[0097] Control club head 1 and exemplary club head 1 have similar body structures, volumes, and loft angles. A direct comparison highlighting the differences in hosel dimensions, CG, MOI, and club head mass can be seen in Table 1 below. Table I - Club Head Dimensions for Control Heads 1 and 2 vs. Exemplary Club Heads [Table 1]

[0098] As shown in Table 1, the club head body of exemplary club head 1 is very similar to the bodies of control club head 1 and control club head 2. The distance between the ground plane and the point where the outer hosel meets the top rail is the same for exemplary club head 1 and control club head 1, and similar for control club head 2. Furthermore, the distance between the ground plane and the midline axis is the same for exemplary club head 1 and control club head 1, and similar for control club head 2. Furthermore, the hosel wall thickness in both the upper and middle regions of the hosel is the same for exemplary club head 1 and control club head 1, and similar for control club head 2.

[0099] Table I shows that exemplary club head 1 has a hosel bore volume that is 10.5% larger than control club head 1 and 40.7% larger than control club head 2. While the entire hosel bore volume of control club head 1 and control club head 2 is located above the midline axis, only 90% of the hosel bore volume of exemplary club head 1 is located above the midline axis, with excess volume extending below the midline axis and further into the club head.

[0100] Although the hosel bore volume of example club head 1 is larger than both control club head 1 and control club head 2, the external hosel height from the ground plane of example club head 1 is substantially lower than that of control club head 1 and control club head 2. Specifically, the external hosel height of example club head 1 is 8.6% lower than that of control club head 1 and 8.8% lower than that of control club head 2.

[0101] The distance between the ground plane and the bottom of the hosel bore is much lower in exemplary club head 1 compared to control club head 1 and control club head 2. Specifically, the height of the lower edge of the hosel bore from the ground plane in exemplary club head 1 is 57.1% lower than in control club head 1 and 65.1% lower than in control club head 2. This comparison highlights the extent to which the hosel bore in exemplary club head 1 extends. Specifically, the outer hosel in exemplary club head 1 is only 8.6% to 8.8% lower than in control club head 1 and control club head 2, but the inner hosel bore extends much lower, with its lower edge being 57.1% to 65.1% lower than in control club head 1 and control club head 2.

[0102] The extended hosel bore of Exemplary Club Head 1 resulted in less material being placed on the heel side of the club head, leaving more discretionary mass to strategically place elsewhere within the club head. As shown in Table 1, Exemplary Club Head 1 had the same club head mass as Control Club Head 1 and 5 grams less than Control Club Head 2. This reduction in mass, which was placed on the heel side of the club head and relocated elsewhere, shifted the CG both to the toe and downward. Exemplary Club Head 1 exhibited a downward CG shift of 0.038 inches compared to Control Club Head 1 and 0.052 inches compared to Control Club Head 2. Exemplary Club Head 1 exhibited a toe-ward CG shift of 0.107 inches compared to Control Club Head 1 and a toe-ward CG shift of 0.023 inches compared to Control Club Head 2.

[0103] Applicant further noted that the MOI of Exemplary Club Head 1 remained in a range comparable to that of both Control Club Head 1 and Control Club Head 2. Specifically, Exemplary Club Head 1 exhibited a decrease in MOI in all three directions (x, y, and z) compared to Control Club Head 1, and an increase in MOI in all three directions (x, y, and z) compared to Control Club Head 2. The decrease in MOI relative to Control Club Head 1 is the result of removing mass from the far heel side of the club head. While a higher MOI is generally desirable, it has been found that a player's performance can benefit more from a downward shift in CG than from an increase in MOI. Specifically, testing has shown that performance characteristics, including stat area and accuracy, can be maintained or improved by a shift in CG, even when the MOI is reduced. Therefore, moving the CG downward while maintaining the MOI provides an overall performance benefit.

[0104] Example II - Comparison of Material Deformation Due to Bending Between an Embodiment of a Club Head Described Herein and a Control Club Head Example II provides a comparison showing the effect of a shortened or lengthened hosel bore on bending capacity and the occurrence of highly visible surface deformation resulting from stress. Specifically, Example II compares an embodiment of a club head described herein with an extended hosel bore and no external notch to an embodiment of a conventional iron-type golf club head with a typical hosel bore geometry and an external notch.

[0105] The standard club (hereinafter referred to as the "control club head") included a body having a heel, a toe, an upper portion, and a lower portion, a hosel, a hosel bore configured to connect the golf club head to a shaft, and a notch located below the hosel on the heel side of the body. The exemplary club (hereinafter referred to as the "exemplary club head") included a bore extending below the body and a shortened hosel relative to the standard club. The exemplary club head also did not have any notches or cutout features on or around the heel. All elements, dimensions, and features were the same across both club heads.

[0106] When a clubhead's hosel is forcibly bent after manufacture, the applied force can cause visible marks at the bend due to material deformation. The amount of material surface deformation was analyzed and recorded between the exemplary club and the standard club using a qualitative feedback scale. Multiple clubs were forcibly bent at the hosel to degrees between 2° and 4° from a neutral starting position. If the clubhead was not bent to the desired degree without visible surface deformation (i.e., stress marks), the clubhead was scored as "-." If the clubhead was bent to the desired degree without significant surface deformation, the clubhead was scored as "+." Both the exemplary clubhead and the standard clubhead were measured using this method for upright and flat lie adjustments, and open and closed loft adjustments. Table II below details the attempted bend degrees and the resulting surface deformation ratings. Table II - Degree of bending and resulting boundary ratings for standard club heads versus exemplary club heads [Table 2]

[0107] Visible deformation marks or discoloration as a result of the forced bending were measured according to the scale described above. Because the bending of the lie angle of the manufactured club heads can be inaccurate, slight variations in the degree of bending are due to human error in the bending process and are generally negligible. As shown in Table II, the exemplary club heads were able to bend to the same extent as the control club heads. However, three out of four control club heads were visibly deformed as a result of bending. The exemplary club heads remained visibly unaffected by the applied force and maintained the ability to bend to the desired extent.

[0108] Example III - Comparison of FEA response to forces applied to the hosel This example provides a qualitative comparison showing the effect of a shortened, or lengthened, hosel bore on stress concentration. Specifically, Example III provides a comparison of stress distribution based on surface area between an embodiment of a club head described herein with a shortened hosel bore and no external notch and an embodiment of a conventional iron-type golf club head with a typical hosel bore geometry and an external notch.

[0109] The stress values ​​at the bending region of the standard golf club head were compared with the stress values ​​of the exemplary golf club head. The standard golf club head (hereinafter referred to as the "control club head") had a crown, sole, face, rear, hosel, and hosel bore. The exemplary golf club head (hereinafter referred to as the "exemplary club head") had similar features, including a shorter hosel and a lowered hosel bore compared to the standard club. With the exception of the hosel, hosel bore, and notch, all dimensions and features of the golf club head were the same throughout the golf club body. An analysis of each club head's response to a constant applied bending force is shown in Figures 5B-5D (exemplary club head) and Figures 6B-6D (control club head). The stress plotted along the hosel indicates the occurrence of bending relative to the applied force. In the referenced figures, high stress is indicated by red, and low stress is indicated by dark blue. Colors ranging from red to dark blue, such as orange, yellow, green, and light blue, indicate decreasing amounts of stress in that order. The stress scales in Figures 5B-5D and Figures 6B-6D are the same for both models. That is, the stress values ​​in the red area shown in Figure 5B are the same as the stress values ​​in the red area shown in Figure 6B. The colors in these figures indicate the distribution of stress through the hosel in both club heads analyzed at equivalent values.

[0110] It is beneficial for stress to be distributed through the hosel rather than concentrated in a specific area. Areas of higher stress than surrounding areas often result in visible material surface deformation in the hosel. A club head with high stress through the hosel but without significant concentrated areas will typically bend without developing such stress marks. This is desirable because visible surface deformation is not only unsightly but can also compromise the structural integrity of the hosel in that area.

[0111] As shown in Figures 5B through 5D, the exemplary club head with a short hosel bore exhibited similar maximum stresses (shown in red) throughout the hosel as the control club head lacking a short hosel bore. Additionally, as shown in Figures 5B through 5D, the exemplary club head exhibited stresses throughout the hosel that lacked relatively isolated high-stress areas compared to the control club head. The control club head, as depicted in Figures 6B through 6D, exhibited a concentrated area of ​​stress throughout the bottom end of the hosel. This concentrated area of ​​stress indicates that the control club head would likely deform along that region if the modeled forces were physically applied to the control club head, such as bending after manufacturing.

[0112] As previously mentioned, the exemplary club head with a shorter hosel bore did not exhibit isolated areas of high stress. While the maximum stress experienced by both clubs was approximately the same, the exemplary club head exhibited a greater distribution of stress through the hosel than the control club head. The exemplary club head distributes stress over a wider area, thereby reducing the likelihood of failure or visible stress marks.

[0113] The exemplary club head featured a shorter hosel bore and a shorter hosel compared to the standard club head. All other components of the club were the same throughout. The exemplary club head exhibited distributed stress at the hosel, while the standard club head exhibited concentrated stress lines at the lower portion of the hosel. In conclusion, the shorter hosel and shorter hosel bore reduced the stress concentration at the lower portion of the hosel, better distributing stress throughout the hosel. This indicates that the exemplary club head can bend without a high level of material surface deformation when compared to the control club head lacking the shorter hosel and shorter hosel bore.

[0114] Example IV - Comparison of Stress Distribution Between Two Embodiments of a Club Head Described Herein and a Control Club Head Example IV provides a qualitative comparison showing the effect of a shortened or deepened hosel bore on stress concentration. Specifically, Example IV provides a comparison of stress distribution based on surface area between two embodiments of a club head described herein, each with a shortened hosel bore and lacking an external notch, and one embodiment of a conventional iron-type golf club head with a typical hosel bore geometry, also lacking an external notch.

[0115] Exemplary club head 1 has a deeper hosel bore that extends further into the club head than the control club head. The hosel bore of exemplary club head 1 terminates along a plane aligned with the heel-most edge of the striking face. Exemplary club head 2 has a deeper hosel bore that extends further into the club head than the hosel bores of the control club head and exemplary club head 1. The hosel bore of exemplary club head 2 continues into the club head such that the entire club head is hollowed out and defines a continuous single void that includes both the body cavity and the hosel bore. The hosel bore walls of the control club head, exemplary club head 1, and exemplary club head 2 have the same constant thickness in all three club heads.

[0116] An analysis of each club head's response to a constant applied bending force is shown in FIG. 13 (control club head), FIG. 14 (exemplary club head 1), and FIG. 15 (exemplary club head 2). The illustrated stress along the hosel indicates the occurrence of bending in response to the applied force. Referring to FIGS. 13 through 15, the control club head experiences more stress per surface area than each of exemplary club head 1 and exemplary club head 2. In other words, exemplary club head 1 and exemplary club head 2 experience less concentrated and more distributed stress than the control club head 1 when the same amount of force is applied. Increasing the surface area of ​​the bore increases the area where bending can occur. Therefore, when force is applied to bend the hosel, the hosel bends across the entire allowable surface area. As a result, increasing the bore depth of the hosel increases the stress distribution area. Increasing the stress distribution area reduces stress concentrations, thereby reducing the risk of failure and visible stress marks.

[0117] Example V - Hosel Wall Thickness vs. Material Hardness Example V provides a comparison between examples of club heads described herein that include different combinations of material hardness and hosel wall thickness, as described in detail below. More specifically, Example V discusses the effect of the interaction of material hardness and wall thickness on the force required to bend the hosel.

[0118] A first exemplary club head (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 1-8620") has a hosel wall thickness of approximately 0.066 inches in the upper region, approximately 0.077 inches in the middle region, and 0.075-0.276 inches in the lower region. Exemplary club head 1-8620 is made of an 8620 steel alloy having a yield strength of 52 ksi and a hardness of 85 HRB. A second exemplary club head (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 2-8620") has a hosel wall thickness of approximately 0.066 inches in the upper region, approximately 0.077 inches in the middle region, and a range of 0.078 to 0.279 inches in the lower region. Exemplary club head 2-8620 is made of an 8620 steel alloy having a yield strength of 52 ksi and a hardness of 85 HRB. A third exemplary club head (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 3-8620") has a hosel wall thickness of approximately 0.066 inches in the upper region, approximately 0.077 inches in the middle region, and a range of 0.081 to 0.282 inches in the lower region. Exemplary club head 3-8620 is made of 8620 steel alloy, which has a yield strength of 52 ksi and a hardness of 85 HRB.

[0119] A fourth exemplary club head (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 1-431") has a hosel wall thickness of approximately 0.066 inches in the upper region, approximately 0.077 inches in the middle region, and a range of 0.075 to 0.276 inches in the lower region. Exemplary club head 1-431 is made of 431 stainless steel material having a yield strength of 80 ksi and a hardness of 24 HRC. A fifth exemplary club head (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 2-431") has a hosel wall thickness of approximately 0.066 inches in the upper region, approximately 0.077 inches in the middle region, and a range of 0.078 to 0.279 inches in the lower region. Exemplary club head 2-431 is made of 431 stainless steel material having a yield strength of 80 ksi and a hardness of 24 HRC. A sixth exemplary club head (hereinafter "exemplary club head 3-431") has a hosel wall thickness of approximately 0.066 inches in the upper region, approximately 0.077 inches in the middle region, and a thickness ranging from 0.081 to 0.282 inches in the lower region. Exemplary club head 3-431 is made from 431 stainless steel material with a yield strength of 80 ksi and a hardness of 24 HRC.

[0120] A seventh exemplary club head (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 1-17-4") has a hosel wall thickness that is approximately 0.066 inches thick in the upper region, approximately 0.077 inches thick in the middle region, and in the range of 0.075 to 0.276 inches thick in the lower region. Exemplary club head 1-17-4 is made of 17-4 stainless steel material having a yield strength of 115 ksi and a hardness of 32 HRC. An eighth exemplary club head (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 2-17-4") has a hosel wall thickness that is approximately 0.066 inches thick in the upper region, approximately 0.077 inches thick in the middle region, and in the range of 0.078 to 0.279 inches thick in the lower region. Exemplary club head 2-17-4 is made of 17-4 stainless steel material having a yield strength of 115 ksi and a hardness of 32 HRC. A ninth exemplary club head (hereinafter referred to as "exemplary club head 3-17-4") has a hosel wall thickness of approximately 0.066 inches in the upper region, approximately 0.077 inches in the middle region, and a thickness ranging from 0.081 to 0.282 inches in the lower region. Exemplary club head 3-17-4 is made of 17-4 stainless steel material having a yield strength of 115 ksi and a hardness of 32 HRC.

[0121] The exemplary club heads described above have the same body structure and dimensions, including volume and hosel bore depth and shape. The exemplary club heads described above differ only in the material and hosel wall thickness of the lower region. Differences in the density of the various materials result in corresponding differences in mass. Differences in hosel wall thickness result in small incremental changes in mass.

[0122] The results showed that increasing the hardness reduced the amount of stress experienced during hosel bending, and further showed that increasing the hosel wall thickness reduced the amount of stress experienced during hosel bending. Generally, increasing the hardness of the material results in greater stress concentrations, but a lower maximum stress, resulting in less bending when the force is held constant.

[0123] Furthermore, the results show that by varying the hosel wall thickness, similar force inputs may be required to achieve the same degree of hosel bending across multiple materials. In other words, as the hardness and yield strength of the material increases, the hosel wall thickness must decrease to maintain the same level of force input required to bend the hosel. This improves the assembly process by providing assemblers with consistent force expectations, and therefore a consistent feel, when adjusting loft and lie after the club head is manufactured.

[0124] The replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes a reconstruction, not a repair. Furthermore, advantages, other significant aspects, and solutions to problems have been described with respect to particular embodiments. However, the advantages, significant aspects, solutions to problems, and any elements that may give rise to or make more pronounced any advantage, significant aspect, or solution are not to be construed as key, essential, or critical features or elements of any or all of the claims unless such advantage, significant aspect, solution, or element is expressly recited in such claim.

[0125] Because the Rules of Golf may change from time to time (e.g., new Rules may be adopted, and old Rules may be repealed or amended, by golf standards organizations and / or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA) or the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (R&A)), golf equipment related to the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may conform or non-conform to the Rules of Golf at any particular time. Accordingly, golf equipment related to the devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and / or sold as conforming or non-conforming golf equipment. The devices, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this respect.

[0126] Although the above examples may be described in connection with iron-type golf clubs, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be applied to other types of golf clubs, such as driver wood-type golf clubs, fairway wood-type golf clubs, hybrid-type golf clubs, iron-type golf clubs, wedge-type golf clubs, or putter-type golf clubs. Alternatively, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be applied to other types of sports equipment, such as hockey sticks, tennis rackets, fishing rods, ski poles, etc.

[0127] Furthermore, the embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of equivalents if the embodiment and / or limitation (1) is not explicitly claimed in the claims, and (2) is an equivalent or potentially equivalent element and / or limitation in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents.

[0128] Various features and advantages of the disclosure are set forth in the following clauses and claims.

[0129] Clause 1: A golf club head comprising: a club body having a top opposite a sole and a toe opposite a heel; a hosel coupled to the club body and having a first end proximate the heel and a second end opposite the first end; and a hosel bore defined at least in part by the hosel and at least in part by the club body, wherein the hosel bore defines a hosel bore volume, a midline axis is defined that is parallel to the ground contact surface and passes through a geometric center of the club body, an upper portion of the hosel bore is located above the midline axis, a lower portion of the hosel bore is located below the midline axis, and at least 8% of the hosel bore volume is located below the midline axis.

[0130] Clause 2: The golf club head of clause 1, wherein at least 10% of the hosel bore volume is located below the midline axis.

[0131] Clause 3: The golf club head of clause 1, wherein the club body further comprises a striking surface of the club face, a geometric center, and a center of gravity, the geometric center being located at the geometric center point of the club body and the midpoint of the height of the striking surface, and the center of gravity being located along a y-axis extending between the top and the sole.

[0132] Clause 4: The golf club head of clause 3, wherein the center of gravity along the y-axis is located from about 0.10 inches to about 0.75 inches from the geometric center.

[0133] Clause 5: The golf club head of clause 1, wherein a hosel length defined between the first end of the hosel and the second end of the hosel is within the range of 1.0 to 1.75 inches.

[0134] Clause 6: The golf club head of clause 1, wherein a hosel bore length defined between a hosel bore first end within the club body and a hosel bore second end at the second end of the hosel is within the range of 1.0 to 2.2 inches.

[0135] Clause 7: The golf club head of clause 1, wherein a ratio of a hosel bore volume above the midline axis to a hosel bore volume below the midline axis is between about 1.5:0.025 and 1.5:0.25.

[0136] Clause 8: The golf club head of clause 1, wherein a wall thickness of the hosel decreases from the first end of the hosel toward the second end of the hosel.

[0137] Clause 9: The golf club head described in Clause 1, wherein the hosel has a first zone located adjacent to the first end having a first wall thickness and a second zone located adjacent to the second end having a second wall thickness smaller than the first wall thickness.

[0138] Clause 10: The golf club head of Clause 9, wherein the hosel has a third zone located between the first zone and the second zone, the third zone including a third wall thickness that is less than the first wall thickness and greater than the second wall thickness.

[0139] Clause 11: The golf club head of Clause 9, wherein the first wall thickness tapers outward in a direction from the first end toward the second end.

[0140] Clause 12: A golf club head comprising: a club body having a top end opposite a sole end, a toe end opposite a heel end, and a club face opposite a back end; a hosel having a first end connected to the club body, a second end opposite the first end, and a hosel length defined between the first end and the second end; and a hosel bore defined partially in the hosel and partially in the club body, the hosel bore length being longer than the hosel length.

[0141] Clause 13: The golf club head of clause 12, further comprising a striking surface, a geometric center, and a center of gravity of the club face, the geometric center being located at the geometric center point of the club body and the midpoint of the height of the striking surface, and the center of gravity being located along a y-axis extending between the top and the sole.

[0142] Clause 14: The golf club head of clause 13, wherein the center of gravity along the y-axis is located from about 0.10 inches to about 0.75 inches from the geometric center.

[0143] Clause 15: The golf club head of clause 12, wherein a hosel length defined between the first end of the hosel and the second end of the hosel is within the range of 1.0 to 1.75 inches.

[0144] Clause 16: The golf club head of clause 12, wherein a hosel bore length defined between a hosel bore first end within the club body and a hosel bore second end at the second end of the hosel is within the range of 1.0 to 2.2 inches.

[0145] Clause 17: The golf club head of clause 12, wherein a wall thickness of the hosel decreases from the first end to the second end.

[0146] Clause 18: The golf club head of Clause 16, wherein the hosel has a first zone located adjacent the first end having a first wall thickness and a second zone located adjacent the second end having a second wall thickness less than the first wall thickness.

[0147] Clause 19: The golf club head of Clause 18, wherein the hosel has a third zone located between the first zone and the second zone, the third zone including a third wall thickness that is less than the first wall thickness and greater than the second wall thickness.

[0148] Clause 20: The golf club head of Clause 18, wherein the first wall thickness tapers outwardly in a direction from the first end toward the second end.

Claims

1. A golf club head, a club body having a top opposite to a sole and a toe opposite to a heel; a hosel coupled to the club body and having a first end proximate the heel and a second end opposite the first end; a hosel bore defined at least in part by the hosel and at least in part by the club body; the hosel bore defines a hosel bore volume; a midline axis is defined as being parallel to the ground plane and passing through the geometric center of the club body; an upper portion of the hosel bore located above the midline axis and a lower portion of the hosel bore located below the midline axis; and The golf club head, wherein at least 8% of the hosel bore volume is located below the midline axis.

2. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein at least 10% of the hosel bore volume is located below the midline axis.

3. 2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the club body further comprises a striking surface of a club face, a geometric center, and a center of gravity, the geometric center being located at a geometric center point of the club body and a midpoint of the height of the striking surface, and the center of gravity being located along a y-axis extending between the apex and the sole.

4. The golf club head of claim 3 , wherein the center of gravity along the y-axis is located from about 0.10 inches to about 0.75 inches from the geometric center.

5. 2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein a hosel length defined between the first end of the hosel and the second end of the hosel is comprised within the range of 1.0 to 1.75 inches.

6. 2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein a hosel bore length defined between a hosel bore first end in the club body and a hosel bore second end at the second end of the hosel is comprised within the range of 1.0 to 2.2 inches.

7. 2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the ratio of the hosel bore volume above the midline axis to the hosel bore volume below the midline axis is between about 1.5:0.025 and 1.5:0.

25.

8. The golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the wall thickness of the hosel decreases from the first end of the hosel toward the second end of the hosel.

9. 2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein the hosel has a first zone located adjacent the first end having a first wall thickness and a second zone located adjacent the second end having a second wall thickness less than the first wall thickness.

10. 10. The golf club head of claim 9, wherein the hosel has a third zone located between the first zone and the second zone, the third zone including a third wall thickness that is less than the first wall thickness and greater than the second wall thickness.

11. The golf club head of claim 9 , wherein the first wall thickness tapers outward in a direction from the first end toward the second end.

12. A golf club head, a club body having a top portion opposite the sole, a toe end opposite the heel end, and a club face opposite the back end; a hosel having a first end coupled to the club body, a second end opposite the first end, and a hosel length defined between the first end and the second end; a hosel bore defined partially in the hosel and partially in the club body, the hosel bore length being greater than the hosel length.

13. 13. The golf club head of claim 12, further comprising a striking surface, a geometric center, and a center of gravity of the club face, the geometric center being located at a geometric center point of the club body and at a midpoint of the height of the striking surface, and the center of gravity being located along a y-axis extending between the apex and the sole.

14. The golf club head of claim 13 , wherein the center of gravity along the y-axis is located from about 0.10 inches to about 0.75 inches when measured from the geometric center.

15. The golf club head of claim 12 , wherein the hosel length is within the range of 1.0 to 1.75 inches.

16. 13. The golf club head of claim 12, wherein a hosel bore length defined between a hosel bore first end in the club body and a hosel bore second end at the second end of the hosel is comprised within the range of 1.0 to 2.2 inches.

17. The golf club head of claim 12 , wherein the wall thickness of the hosel decreases from the first end to the second end.

18. 17. The golf club head of claim 16, wherein the hosel has a first zone located adjacent the first end having a first wall thickness and a second zone located adjacent the second end having a second wall thickness less than the first wall thickness.

19. 19. The golf club head of claim 18, wherein the hosel has a third zone located between the first zone and the second zone, the third zone including a third wall thickness that is less than the first wall thickness and greater than the second wall thickness.

20. The golf club head of claim 18 , wherein the first wall thickness tapers outward in a direction from the first end toward the second end.

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