Control Experiment: Test New Irons For Accuracy
Given the variety of designs, an iron model’s distance is relative. The range of lofts on most 7-irons, for example, stretches from 26 to 34 degrees. So one brand’s 7-iron might be equivalent to another brand’s 5-iron. Our advice: ask a qualified clubfitter to show you the dispersion on five to 10 shots with each iron you’re considering purchasing. Your left and right misses might vary slightly from swing to swing, but the ideal iron offers sufficient length and the tightest dispersion from shortest hit to longest hit. Here are six new models to consider.
Mizuno
MP-18
Mizuno has updated the feel of this classic forged iron through a special process that compresses
the grain structure of the carbon steel in the hitting area.
Callaway
X-Forged
Based on the company’s 2013 forged cavity-back made popular on tour, this upgraded version has a different centre of gravity for each club to produce ideal launch and spin. New grooves add more control, too.
Tour Edge
Exotics CBX Blade
This throwback forged blade design adds some modern punch with stronger lofts in the middle irons. Precision-milled grooves improve spin on shots from the rough.
Cobra
King F8
The irons in this set are designed differently depending on the need: hollow long irons for distance, fuller-grooved short irons for spin and blade-like wedges for versatility. A one-length set is available, too.
xxio
X
Built with the distance-hungry in mind, these lightweight irons help you stay balanced during your swing. Titanium faces provide extra spring, and tungsten in the sole produces a higher ball flight.
Titleist
718 AP2
There’s a lighter, more flexible steel in the face on the long and middle irons and mounds of heavy tungsten in the heel and toe for better distance on mis-hits. One-piece forgings finish out the short irons for feel and control.
