Many golfers, including some of the well known PGA golfers, have come to realize the advantages of using hybrid irons, compared to the regular longer irons. Slowly but surely the hybrid iron is becoming a standard item to be found in any golfer's bag.
In contrast to the normal longer irons, hybrid irons are quite a bit easier to hit. It was designed to have a center of gravity somewhat backwards from where it would be in a regular iron. This produces a better launch trajectory, and some more distance.
Besides the center of gravity being further back, hybrid irons also come standard with slightly longer shafts. This makes for a "bigger" swing, and using the extra leverage to improve impact, and drive the ball further.
The versatility of hybrid irons, as opposed to normal irons, presents more shot choices. Depending on the scenario, you could use it for long approach shots, or playing from fairway bunkers, and even (should you land in a situation where accurate play is needed) use it to tee off.
There is one factor that you must keep in mind, though. Due to the extra distance afforded by the hybrid iron, you will probably end up with what you could call a "distance gap". Depending on the composition of the set, and the capabilities of each iron, you will lack the club for a particular distance range. You will have to carry an extra iron somewhere in the kit, or you could switch to using a set compiled from hybrids. The latter should have a positive impact on your game - not just certain shots.
The alternative would be to manage your set course by course. Depending on the course and the challenges it may present, you could leave certain clubs to allow space for those you feel you would need. For a shorter course, for instance, you might want to drop your five iron, and take an extra wedge. For a longer course, it would be the other way around.
Thanks to technological advances, hybrid irons have gained a fair advantage over regular irons. Originally these clubs were designed to assist the "average" golfer, but as time passes, more and more professional hybrid irons are released. This has resulted in growing popularity amongst the more experienced golfers, including the hardened PGA professionals, who are seen (regularly) carrying hybrids on the field. There is a definite swing in popularity towards hybrids.
