Blades in golf refer to a type of golf club head with an offset, square top that gives better ball flight through the air. They have a thinner face than other irons for increased ball speed and are typically used for driving and long-range shots where accuracy is less important than distance. Blades are preferred by lower handicap golfers who can consistently hit the center of the clubface, as they provide accuracy and control. Classic blades and muscle backs are two of the most popular blade types in professional golf. Classic blades are thin with a flexible steel face to give maximum ball speed, while muscle backs have a thicker top line and more offset, making them easier to hit from the center of the face. Blades are considered harder to hit than cavity back irons because they have less forgiveness and distance but offer better feel and control. Cavity back irons, on the other hand, feature a drilled-out "cavity" behind the clubface, allowing engineers to increase perimeter weighting and provide more forgiveness on off-center strikes. They have a more oversized sole and top line to inspire confidence in higher handicap players, average golfers, or the aspiring beginner golfer. Blades are typically for elite golfers, while cavity back irons are for average golfers or beginners. PGA Tour players opt for having as much control as they want from forged blades rather than the increased forgiveness game improvement clubs provide.