But you can pull on an Axe Handle, can't you? I always wonder why this never gets mentioned.
The Axe Handle versus Rope Handle analogy is useful in differentiating Radial Acceleration (Hitting) from Longitudinal Acceleration (Swinging) and the respective techniques employed (Push or Pull).
You can, of course, Pull on an Axe Handle, but it still will function as "a piece of string." A stiff piece of string to be sure, but a piece of string nonetheless. And the Swinger will benefit from using a stiff piece of string.
Homer Kelley felt very strongly that all golfers -- not just 'good golfers' -- would benefit from Clubs with a stiff shaft flex. In our Authorized Insructor Masters Class of January 1982, he stated this conclusion in no uncertain terms:
"It would be best if they all came with axe handles."