What? distances
 

Can anyone help explain this to me?

I am able to hit a pw about 120-125 and a 5 iron about 190 but a driver only goes about 235. What is the deal with that? I hit wedges very long compared to a lot of people but the longer club distances get closer and closer together. I'm pretty accurate with all of them including the driver but the differences in distances isn't right somehow.

Does anybody have any idea if there is a reason for this mechanically?

Could be a number of things. What trajectory do you have with the driver/longer clubs? Ball flight?

I'd guess ball too far back, hands too far ahead and perhaps a very steep swing.

very good guess on those two. I have a good ball flight at the hot trajectory but it doesn't travel that far.

Sounds like you need a driver fitting...also what is the loft of your PW and 5 iron?

It sounds me to like too much spin and thus a ballooning ball flight which kills all kinds of distance.

Yes it sounds like you need to go get fitted but someone who can do both a swing and clubfitting job together.

How often people turn up here for a new club and they get a lesson and saved a heap on not having to buy a new club (until next month)

Fitting could be an issue, but more than likely the driver distance is really about right and the others are an issue of too much delofting/too steep.

That said, you can and likely will, increase your distances with all clubs if you can get to a proper angle of attack (not as steep). Best to go back to chip, pitch, punch and double check your alignments and especially ball position. Listen for the 'click' of pure contact. Feel like you swing 'in slow motion' and that the club feels very HEAVY.