[Yoda]

I try to stay away from vertical hinging for the most part - I do like to practice it on pitch shots as I go through the three hinge actions. There's really not much you can do with a vertical hinge that you can't do with an angled hinge. What full shots would benefit from the introduction of a vertical hinge instead of an angled hinge?

For the short shots, the shaft/ground angle gets steeper as the lie angle of the club increases. This alone will play around with the closing and layback properties of the angled hinge. It will become more "layback" and less "closing." When putting, an angled hinge is very close to a vertical hinge, and completely without the deliberate muscular manipulation that always accompanies vertical hinging.

Absolutely right on all counts, Matt. As I've written in the past, Homer Kelley was no fan of Vertical Hinging (because of its required 'out of Pattern' mechanical manipulation). However, when executing true Cut and Lob Shots -- in or out of rough and sand -- it is a necessity. By definition (2-C-2/3).

So, when you need a Layback Only motion of the Clubface, Vertical Hinge. In the Address Routine, diligently program its motion, Rhythm and proper execution. Otherwise...

Avoid it.

Remember: Vertical Hinging is controlled Steering (3-F-7-A), deliberate and for a purpose.