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Originally Posted by Toolish
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Some players on LPGA have 46" drivers for distance...as do long drivers...
They used to be shorter, but with graphite shafts and lighter heads they became longer to allow the swingweight to be ok, and to increase distance.
There is a trade off for accuracy though.
Pretty sure the rule book stioulates a maximum length, not sure what it is though.
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I believe the maximum length of a driver is currently 48". Shorter clubs, in theory, provide greater control and accuracy at the possible cost of distance. Lightweight graphite shafts allowed drivers to get longer while maintaining the same or less overall weight, which is much more important than the swingweight. The swingweight tends to be more of a feel thing and can be adjusted quite a bit without dramatically changing the overall weight of a club (IMHO - YMMV).
What most folks try to do is maximize both distance and accuracy by optimizing loft, length, and spin. For most folks, the length comes in around 44" - 45". There are some who can still be accurate with 46", 47", or even 48" drivers. They also are able to swing these clubs well enough to take advantage of the extra length to provide more clubhead speed. Some hit drivers greater than 44" a long ways all over the place. Some can hit longer drivers straight, but begin losing distance past a certain length (they are strength limited in some way). It all depends upon the skill and swing tendencies of the individual.
That is why really good clubfitting experts are so invaluable. They can chart a path through the tangled morass of options available today and provide an optimal solution for every golfer.