Cathy:  I currently play Titleist AP1 710 5-pw w/ 105t stiff; lie is +.5* up across the set.  Lofts:  7i .5* weak, 6i 1.0* weak and 5i 1.0* weak...this brings the offset down to what I prefer and brings up the trajectory of the 6i and 5i.  I have added a little lead tape to bring the sw up to D2...(all clubs are exactly D0 without lead tape and with standard titleist grip.  The shaft feels great and the set works well for me (trajectories and distance) but the length is slightly shorter than ideal...the set measures slightly longer than standard by about 1/4"...  Perfect fit would be + 1/2" over standard length.  The set has a 4i but I do not play it as the 5i is just about as long and more consistent...I'm 63 and hit the 5i (175 total)...7i carries about 145-150 and hops and stops.  The 8 and 9 are my favorite clubs in the set...the pw feels a little short and not as consistent as the 9i   Since I do not hit the 4i, my fitter suggested soft stepping the set and then trimming 1/4" off the 5i-9i.  Heavier sw is not an issue as I can always remove lead tape to achieve D2.  Is here any downside to soft stepping 1x and trimming 1/4"?  At 63 I'm not getting any younger and I don't anticipate a swing change...I'm 6'1" and set-up with my hands a little higher than typical...I tend to pick my irons and take a divot with wedges...typical flight is straight and medium-high...I like the 105t stiff today and feel like soft stepping will extend my playing window with them as I get older...and I can pick up a second set used in very good condition at a very reasonable cost as I am left handed.

Question:  Any downside to soft stepping as described?  Anything I should consider?

Thanks.  - Eric