Introduction
My name is Kelly Leonard and in 2005 I started KL Hickory golf. I build handcrafted long nose clubs from the feathery and gutty eras. Over the last 6 or so years, I have also been building transitional clubs.
Using a minimal power tools, I estimate 85% of each club built is by manual hand tools. Often I think of the old club makers and what they would have used if they had it available. Most of the power equipment work is early in the build and is used simply to save time. The majority of hours are spent at the vise with a file, rasp, scraper, spokeshave and sandpaper. For many details, my left hand becomes the vice, while my right hand yields a file.
All the material used in my clubs is period correct. Some might say hard maple wasn't a wood used for heads back then and they are probably correct. Finding good head wood isn't easy. Depending on the area you live in, it can be extremely difficult. Since 2005, I have used many woods including a couple period correct types. One proved to be too soft while another became nearly impossible to buy in the appropriate thickness. Maple has been a very good head wood. Within the last year I added purple heart to my workshop. In the future I will likely try another species. Just like the art of club making, there's always something new to be learned.
My site does not resemble your usual retail site. Since there is a wide range of long nose players, I work with each client individually. I ask a few questions which makes it possible to properly fit them with a club. I have many clubs in stock and am always making more. If I don't have what fits you, I will build it.
Like I said, this site doesn't resemble a "click and buy" site. I rely on my "Contact page" to let clients get in touch. Once I receive the email, your questions will be answered and the club fitting on its way. Just click on CONTACT and it will take you to the right place.
Pricing available upon request.
I hope you enjoy your visit and I look forward to helping you with anything hickory.
Kelly Leonard.
Using a minimal power tools, I estimate 85% of each club built is by manual hand tools. Often I think of the old club makers and what they would have used if they had it available. Most of the power equipment work is early in the build and is used simply to save time. The majority of hours are spent at the vise with a file, rasp, scraper, spokeshave and sandpaper. For many details, my left hand becomes the vice, while my right hand yields a file.
All the material used in my clubs is period correct. Some might say hard maple wasn't a wood used for heads back then and they are probably correct. Finding good head wood isn't easy. Depending on the area you live in, it can be extremely difficult. Since 2005, I have used many woods including a couple period correct types. One proved to be too soft while another became nearly impossible to buy in the appropriate thickness. Maple has been a very good head wood. Within the last year I added purple heart to my workshop. In the future I will likely try another species. Just like the art of club making, there's always something new to be learned.
My site does not resemble your usual retail site. Since there is a wide range of long nose players, I work with each client individually. I ask a few questions which makes it possible to properly fit them with a club. I have many clubs in stock and am always making more. If I don't have what fits you, I will build it.
Like I said, this site doesn't resemble a "click and buy" site. I rely on my "Contact page" to let clients get in touch. Once I receive the email, your questions will be answered and the club fitting on its way. Just click on CONTACT and it will take you to the right place.
Pricing available upon request.
I hope you enjoy your visit and I look forward to helping you with anything hickory.
Kelly Leonard.