I took a 20 year break from the game, so hybrids are new to me. I have been carrying both a 3&4 iron with modern wide sole design and a 21 and 24 degree hybrid. I like my 4 iron better than the 24 hybrid, which feels too light to me. I am indifferent to the 3 and 21, both are equally unpredictable. So I am wondering what does the future of golf look like for hybrids vs. long irons? Also, what does the average golfer need to do to improve his consistency with a 3 iron?

The hybrids seem to becoming really popular on tours. I think I even saw Davis Love with one a few weeks ago.

I think Ben Curtis had one at the 84 Lumber tournament. I only saw him use it once and that was to bump and run on to the green while trying to get it over a drain. So I think they are getting popular on tour, but the weekend hackers and low handicaps are using them too. They certainly should be more forgiving than the long irons.

It's all about what you feel good with and what you hit best. If like a heavier feeling club, maybe try a steel shaft and another hybrid. Of course if you are like Charles Howell at the 84 Lumber tournament who was on the green in 2 on a par 5 with an amazing second, who needs a hybrid. He had 232 yds to the flag, over water, the green was tightly surrounded by water on the front and left side. At 232 he pulls out a 4 iron!!! And he sticks it on the green. Screw a hybrid if you can do that.