Actually, if the stranger is an experienced golfer it's a perfectly reasonable question to ask(provided you are not in a tournament situation). But, then again, anyone who spends enough time playing golf can tell what a club is with just a glance, based on how it looks when set up. Back to the point, with experience, a total stranger can get a good feel for your distances very quickly. Generally, within 5 or 6 holes someone who plays a lot can figure out exactly how much longer or shorter someone hits the ball in relation to themselves. So yes, it help them assess the situation a great deal, provided they are reasonably skilled. However, you are under no obligation to answer his question and it is generally advisable not to in a non-casual situation. Telling someone what club you hit can be considered giving advice which results in a
2 stroke penalty in
stroke play and
loss of hole in
match play.
The distances you gave would be fairly accurate for a player who has been around the game for a while but is not especially skilled. Distance depends on a variety of factors such as swing efficiency, strength, club-head speed and weight among other things.
I know new golfers whose distances are well above those and well below those provided. As you improve you will find that not only are your distances longer, but there is a much wider range for each club.
For example: here are my distances(I average ~+3 for 18 holes(course rating: 73.9, slope: 139)):
- Driver: 280-325 yards
- 3-wood: 245-275 yards
- 2-iron: 225-255 yards
- 3-iron: 205-235 yards
- 4-iron: 190-215 yards
- 5-iron: 180-205 yards
- 6-iron: 170-190 yards
- 7-iron: 155-175 yards
- 8-iron: 140-160 yards
- 9-iron: 125-150 yards
- P-wedge: 115-135 yards
- Gap wedge: 75-125 yards
- Lob wedge: 60-95 yards
As you can see, there is quite a bit of overlapping in these distances. There will not be as much over-lap in a beginning golfers distances.
Once a beginning golfer obtains a solid swing(before that point you will need many lessons or there isn't a point in trying) he will then be fighting to correct errors in the swing causing slices, hooks and shanks. All of these will cause the ball flight to be very inconsistent. Given the differences in swings, experience, size and strength, it is impossible to create a general guide as to how far you will hit the ball and where it will go. If you have questions on the matter, contact your local PGA pro. S/he will be able to help you in the matter and give you lessons.