Tag: Irons

  • Father’s Day – 5 Last Minute Gifts

    Father’s Day – 5 Last Minute Gifts

    Father’s Day 2023 is a week away, and if you haven’t already found a golf gift for dad, here are five suggestions for that perfect gift! From gadgets to golf clubs to an amazing golf getaway, there’s something here that’ll he’ll love.

    Bushnell Wingman View

    Bushnell’s updated Wingman Bluetooth speaker now includes an LCD screen to quickly get GPS yardages for over 30,000 courses, built right in to the speaker. It still sounds great and has enough battery to last for 36 holes, and can even help charge other devices in a pinch.

    Pinehurst Resort

    It may be a bit too late for a Father’s Day weekend golf trip, but there’s never a bad time to book the popular Donald Ross package at Pinehurst Resort. There’s no better time than this summer to play the host venue of the 2024 US Open! With 9 golf courses and a tenth opening next summer, along with the Cradle short course and world-class dining and accommodations, there’s no wonder why they call Pinehurst “the cradle of American golf.”

    Zoom Broom Golf Breeze

    Unless you are on a links course, it’s likely there will be trees on the course where you are playing. Trees have leaves, and leaves fall on the course. Especially in autumn, it can be frustrating to clear the line of your putt of debris, but Zoom Broom has a fix – The Golf Breeze blower. Designed to be light weight and fit in your golf bag, this surprisingly powerful blower will easily clear a path from leaves, pine needles, loose sand and other debris that may find its way into your line.

    Golf Forever

    Your dad probably wants to get back in shape, he just hasn’t told you yet. Why not give him a gentle nudge by getting him the Golf Forever swing trainer and fitness package subscription? For Father’s Day you’ll even save $100 on the package. It seems to be working for Scottie Scheffler – He shot to world #1 shortly after becoming a brand ambassador. Like your dad, I’m going to get in better shape using Golf Forever’s program. I’ll start any day now…

    Takomo Golf Irons

    If you haven’t heard of them before, Takomo Golf is a direct-to-consumer brand that makes irons and wedges. Really, really good irons and wedges. I have a set of the 301MB forged blades and I’m head over heels in love. After only 3 or 4 swings on the range, they went right in my bag and are there to stay. I challenge anyone to find a new set of Japanese forged irons with KBS shafts for less than $700, yet that is exactly what Takomo is doing. But it’s not just about forged blades – Takomo has a set of iron for every dad and every handicap. Give them a look. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

  • First Look: Honma T//World 757 Collection

    First Look: Honma T//World 757 Collection

    Honma has been one of our favorite brands for a while now. What’s not to like abut premium forged Japanese steel? While they aren’t the most well known brand in the USA, they are a market leader in Asia, and have been in the golf business for over 60 years. Honma’s Tour World (TW) collection are designed for Honma’s tour staff, low to mid handicap players and people that prefer a more traditional look and feel. The new TW 757 collection continues their legacy of amazing looking and performing clubs, and I can’t wait to get my hands on them and try them out. Without further delay, let’s let Honma’s marketing team fill you in on the new stuff with the press release below:

    Honma Golf Announces New T//World TW757 Collection

    Created in Honma’s renowned Sakata, Japan Design Studio, and paired with the hand-rolled VIZARD graphite shafts, the artfully designed TW757 line is set to make its way into the bags of Tour Professionals and aspiring players around the globe. 

    “We are extremely excited to get the long-awaited T//World 757 line in the hands of golfers across North America,” says COO of Honma North America, Janeann Lanning. “It’s a handsome product line loaded with performance-improving characteristics. The use of carbon in these two new driver models helps produce exceptional speed that’s going to catch a lot of people’s attention. And the three new iron models — built for mid to low handicappers — perform brilliantly in their respective categories.” 

    To learn more, visit https://us.honmagolf.com/collections/tworld.

    DRIVERS

    GOLF’S FIRST CARBON SLOT: The TW757 Driver features a new, patent-pending “Carbon Slot” to activate and optimize the performance of the lower half of the face at impact. By using a thinner layer of titanium, which is supported by a lighter and more responsive carbon insert, TW757 Drivers deliver higher launch conditions and lower spin to maximize distance, while yielding the highest initial ball speed in Honma Golf’s history.

    Ti-CARBON FAST FRAME

    Coupled with the Carbon Slot, the TW757’s Carbon Crown further increases discretionary weight savings, enabling low-deep CG placement in tandem with a Keel Sole design first used in the Honma GS line, and now enhanced in the new TW757’s high MOI 6-4 Titanium body.

    Honma engineers also added two thick and long crown ribs to maintain rigidity around the clubface in conjunction with Honma’s unique, variable thickness, vertical groove clubface to transfer energy more efficiently at impact to maximize ball-speed. As an added benefit, the carbon elements of the TW757 also help to optimize the sound and feel preferred by better players around the world, a hallmark of Honma T//World products.

    TWO DRIVERS FOR OPTIMAL BALL FLIGHT – D and S

    The TW757 line is a custom fit dream, offering two distinctly different drivers, each specifically designed to cover a wide array of ball flight preferences. Both drivers come in 9° and 10.5° and are adjustable for loft (+/- 1°) and face-angle (+/- 1.5°) via Honma’s P-SAT Sleeve and torque wrench.

    The modern 460CC D Driver has two weight-ports in the sole, one each in the back-heel and front-toe for “Directional Control.” Placing the 9gr. weight in the back-heel will create a higher launching draw-bias, and for players looking for a flatter and more fade-biased ball-flight, simply move the heavier 9gr. weight into the front-toe weight port.

    The traditional pear-shaped 450CC S Driver also has two weight-ports strategically located in the front and back of the sole for “Spin and Stability.” Placing the heavier 9gr. weight to the rear of the head creates higher launch conditions and increased MOI, while moving the heavier weight forward, the additional mass behind the sweet-spot creates a flatter trajectory with lower spin for hot ball-flight.

    Both D and S models come standard with 9gr. and 3gr. weights, however weights are also available in 6gr., 12gr. and 15gr.

    P-SAT (Precision Spine Alignment Technology) Sleeve and Non-Rotational Hosel System

    Proprietary to Honma, the P-SAT sleeve and hosel system allows Honma VIZARD shafts to keep the shaft’s spine, as well as shaft graphics and grip markings consistently aligned, while not sacrificing the ability to adjust the TW757 driver for both loft and face-angle to optimize ball-flight.

    All graphite shafts naturally have a slightly harder side or “spine,” which is created during the manufacturing process; hence all shafts are not always created or perform equal.

    As a result, all Vizard shafts are factory tested during the quality control process so that the spine can be isolated and correspondingly marked in the 6 o’clock position, which helps to mitigate downward shaft deflection through impact, leading to more consistent strike patterns.

    Retail pricing for Honma’s new TW757 D and S drivers starts at $719 and varies based on customizations and shaft selection.

    Honma TW 757 woods

    FAIRWAYS AND HYBRIDS

    Classically styled with a player approved compact footprint, the TW757 fairway woods and hybrids provide everything the player demands, and nothing they don’t.

    All models feature a sole slot for higher launch and added speed and are built with an SUS630 stainless steel body paired with a 455-carpenter steel face. These premium materials also support a new Vertical Slot Face Insert to more effectively manage both centered and mishit shots alike.

    In the lower lofted models, the TW757 3-Wood features a carbon crown to save weight and to generate higher launch conditions. While a cup face insert design in the 3-Wood and #3 Utility also helps increase initial ball speed to help players get home in two. 

    Playable from a variety of lies, the TW757 Fairway Woods and Hybrids/Utilities are designed with progressive internal sole weighting to generate consistently long carry distances. As an added benefit, the Fairway Woods feature an adjustable sole weight to fine-tune swing weight.

    Retail pricing for Honma’s new TW757 Fairways starts at $415 and varies based on customizations and shaft selection. TW757 Hybrids retail for $350 with custom shaft options available for a slight upcharge.

    Honma TW757 Irons

    IRONS: Three models of the tour driven TW757 irons meet the needs of the best players.

    P Irons 

    The multi-material TW757P Player’s Distance irons are designed for players in pursuit of consistent distance and added control, while still demanding the look and feel of a traditional iron only Honma’s experienced Takumi (Master Craftsmen) can deliver.

    Inlaid 12gr. Tungsten sole weights along with an undercut pocket cavity creates a low-and-deep CG in a relatively compact iron, which generates high trajectory in conjunction with a modern spec loft package.

    The steel body also houses a 6gr. toe-weight to precisely center the sweet-spot, and a 2.2mm thin L-cup face insert generates consistently fast ball speed across the face for the better player looking for added distance with a measure of forgiveness. Honma’s new P irons retail for $1,272 (5–PW) in NS950 NEO steel shafts and $1,392 with Vizard TW757 graphite shafts.

    Vx Irons 

    Forged from the softest premium S20C carbon steel, the TW757Vx Iron is a true players iron. The beautiful, tour-approved address profile in the one-piece cavity back forging features a 7gr. tungsten weight in the toe. The tungsten toe-weight serves to pull the CG towards the dead-center of the face (#4–#8 iron) for consistency throughout the bag. Optimal heel and toe weighting inside the cavity reduces energy loss on off-center hits, and generates high launch windows, with optimal spin and exquisite feel Honma T//World irons are known for. Honma’s new Vx irons retail for $1,272 (5–PW) in TW757 Modus Tour 105 steel shafts and $1,500 with Vizard TW757 IB-WF composite-material shafts.

    B Irons 

    The TW757B is Honma’s advanced next-gen muscle back blade design. Featuring a thin top-line in a traditional-shaped blade, ideal CG placement is achieved by inserting a 7gr. Tungsten weight and resin insert into a strategically placed port in the toe (#3–#7 iron). With additional material removed to lighten the heel to further optimize CG placement, the TW757B iron presents an ideal balance of performance and feel to let the best players in the world dictate their preferred trajectory and distance control. Honma Takumi have crafted the TW757 blades from the softest 8620 carbon steel for the ultimate in player feedback with tighter tolerances than any previous muscle back blades in the company’s history.

    Honma’s new TW757 B irons retail for $1,272 with TW757 Dynamic Gold Steel shafts.

    VIZARD SHAFTS, MADE IN JAPAN, SAKATA

    The exclusive VIZARD for 757 50 Shaft was holistically designed to synergize the TW757 Driver and Fairway Woods from grip to tip. The strong mid-section in conjunction with a sub 5.0° torque value stabilizes club delivery and maximizes energy transfer at impact, while a softer tip provides for high launch and optimal spin. This versatile shaft has a smooth feel and is playable for a wide variety of players looking for a premium ultra-lightweight shaft. As with all VIZARD shafts, this proprietary shaft is spine aligned at 6 o’clock for added stability and Made in Japan.

    To complement the standard VIZARD for 757 50 Shaft, Honma produces some of the very best shafts in the world for players looking to take their game to the next level through Sakata’s world-renowned Custom Department. Produced in-house in Honma’s Sakata factory to the industry’s tightest tolerances, the VIZARD MA, MP, FZ and Platinum hold their own on professional tours around the world.

    VIZARD MA is designed for High Trajectory and Mid Spin. Well suited for players who prefer a firmer handle or tend to have a descending attack angle or struggle to release the golf club, the VIZARD MA features Ni-Ti alloy for shape retention in the tip-section to allow for higher launch and easy release while still maintaining ample control. Offered in 40-, 50-, 60-, and 70-gram weight classes.

    VIZARD MP is built for the player with a neutral delivery looking for a shaft offering High Launch and Low Spin in a smooth feeling shaft. This shaft’s slight draw bias is achieved by extensive layering of ultra-high strength TORAYCA® T1100G materials to provide stability and feel in this popular custom shaft. Offered in 40-, 50-, 60-, and 70-gram weight classes.

    VIZARD FZ was born to accommodate the strongest swings on tour and is now available to players around the world. The rigid tip-section of the FZ shaft is created by layering the high-strength and elastic TORAYCA M40X carbon fiber material in the tip area. This shaft creates a mid-launch condition and very low spin. Offered in 50-, 60-, and 70-gram weight classes.

    VIZARD PT (Platinum) is an exciting new concept in ultra-premium custom shafts that helps players maximize clubhead speed. This shaft contains ultra-elastic carbon TORAYCAM40X in the bias layer for added tip reinforcement, and the ultra-high strength and elastic TORAYCAT1100G in all layers. This unique shaft features a stiff tip and butt section with very low torque, paired with an active mid-section to help increase swing speed. Offered in 40-, 50-, and 60-gr. weight classes in a single uniflex profile targeted at players with current clubhead speeds of 82–116 mph.

    About Honma Golf

    Honma is a prestigious and iconic golf brand. Founded in 1959, the Company utilizes the latest innovative technologies and traditional Japanese craftsmanship to provide golfers across the globe with premium, high-tech, and top-performing golf clubs with state-of-the-art heads and proprietary shafts built by master artisans to perform together holistically. Renowned for creating the world’s highest quality and most beautiful clubs, Honma offers equipment (including balls, apparel, and accessories) to fit all golfers, with the families aligned to suit the preferences and abilities of various segments of golfers: the world-renowned “Ultra-Premium” BERES luxury line and the Tour-validated “Premium Performance” T//World TW757 and game improvement GS lines. The premium club manufacturer and lifestyle brand was founded inside a small Yokohama workshop six decades ago and now holistically designs all products in Sakata, Japan. Honma operates as the only company that handles every step from design to final production in-house to create the highest-quality golf products on the market today. Honma’s products are sold in approximately 50 countries worldwide, primarily in Asia and across North America, Europe, and other regions. To learn more, visit https://us.honmagolf.com

  • First Look: Wilson Launch Pad Irons

    First Look: Wilson Launch Pad Irons

    When I think about Wilson Golf, I think about tradition and history. Wilson clubs have been in the bags of major champions, hall of famers, tour players, elite amateurs and recreational players since 1914! One of my first iron sets were Wilson Staff blade irons, and that’s what I picture when I hear the name Wilson.

    But forged blades aren’t all Wilson Golf is about these days. They have a wide selection of clubs for every golfer and taste. Perhaps Wilson’s most unique irons for 2020 are the Launch Pad irons. Designed for players with slower swings that want help getting the ball in the air, they combine modern technology and materials with elements of a clean, classic look that inspires confidence for the player that wields them.

    Wilson describes the Launch Pad irons this way: “The Launch Pad collection is designed to inspire confidence in the mind of the high handicap golfer, whether new to the game or looking to improve. Incorporating ground-breaking technological advancements that are visually subtle, the Launch Pad family is designed to elevate shots, while providing greater distance and ensuring more consistent contact. These features deliver the best possible performance and shot-making for the super game-improvement player.”

    My Take

    I may be out of line with many of the traditionalists out there and even with Wilson’s marketing department, but I don’t think these irons are limited to use by high handicap golfers. The features that most “super game improvement” irons have are certainly present here also, with the fat sole, low center of gravity and light weight shafts. However, if properly fitted I think these irons would be great for older players with swings that are slowing down, or even a mid handicap golfer that wants a higher ball flight and more carry.

    Don’t get me wrong, you aren’t going to have much success trying to shape shots both ways or vary the trajectory of your shots with these irons. They are designed to hit the ball high and straight. But not every player wants to shape shots, they just want to hit it straight, or straighter. As fun as it was hitting the PW 150 yards or the 7 iron 190 yards, these irons aren’t for me. Not because I didn’t like the high, straight ball flight, but because I actually prefer shaping shots and changing trajectories with my irons.

    While nobody will be confusing the Launch Pad irons with those sweet Wilson Staff forged blades that I gravitate towards, the engineers at Wilson did an admirable job at designing these clubs with some elements of that classic design. While the sole is wide and top line is chunky, the face still has a clean look with no extra bells and whistles to distract the player. They are easy to align and you won’t want to bury them beneath neoprene iron covers. As far as game improvement irons go, you can’t get a much better looking club.

    From the Wilson Golf press release: “The magic behind these irons lies within the Launch Pad Sole featured throughout the set. This advanced technology is designed to eliminate the “chunk” shot, while simultaneously improving launch. The short irons feature traditional game-improvement sole widths while longer irons feature wider, more forgiving soles, for more consistent ball-striking and greater distance. This progression in sole width allows players to put the long irons back in their bags.

    Wilson Launch Pad irons feature a hollow construction with thin face for maximum ball speed and more distance.

    In addition, the smooth bounce angle keeps the leading edge up and decreases turf interaction by floating above the ground. The Launch Pad Irons feature a hollow-body construction, supporting an extremely thin face for explosive ball speed and increased distance.”

    Technical Details

     The Launch Pad Irons will be offered in 4-PW sets (with GW and SW also available) with a KBS Tour 80 steel shaft or UST-Mamiya Recoil 460 graphite shaft, with both options featuring the traditional Wilson Staff 2 Crossline Mid grip. For more info, go to wilson.com

    The steel shaft options will be sold at $699.99 while the graphite set will start at $799.99. This price point puts them solidly in the mid-range considering most forged cavity back sets sell for closer to $999 these days.

    The Bottom Line

    Wilson’s Launch Pad irons are marketed as super game improvement clubs that help players get the ball airborne while preventing the dreaded fat shots from the fairway, but I think if these are custom ordered with heavier shafts that they could be a nice option for mid handicap players that are looking for more distance, height and/or forgiveness. They look good, perform well and won’t break the bank. If you get a chance to demo these irons, you won’t regret it.

  • Sneak Peak – Wilson Tour V6 Raw Irons

    Sneak Peak – Wilson Tour V6 Raw Irons

    Wilson Golf is introducing a new limited edition set of Tour V6 irons in a raw finish. These are forged from soft 8620 carbon steel and will rust over time, giving them each a unique patina that reduces glare and gives them an old school look. 8620 steel is also very soft and transmits a fantastic feel on solid hits. I have an old set of Cleveland irons and Hopkins wedges with the same finish and it’s very cool. Some company’s wedges are finished like this (especially on tour), so why not a whole set of irons too?

    FG TOUR V6 RAW 3 Club Progression

    Wilson staff professional Troy Merritt will put the new Wilson Tour V6 Raw irons into play this week at the Travellers Championship at TPC River Highlands. The V6 Raw long and middle irons have a copper-colored badge and tungsten insert to lower the center of gravity for slightly higher launch. The 8 iron down are solid 8620. This limited run set is available with up to 30 different shaft options and will run you about $1100 for eight irons They are available at select Wilson dealers and online at Wilson.com.

  • Father’s Day Gift Guide – Summer 2018

    Father’s Day Gift Guide – Summer 2018

    It’s June, and the commercials are already playing on TV for Father’s Day. If you haven’t gotten your golf-nut dad anything yet fear not, because we’ve got some great ideas for every budget. Let’s get right to the list. Here are nine gift suggestions for all you last-minute shoppers!

    Golf Clubs

    2018_C300_Cavity_Iron_HeroWilson C300 Irons – The new C300 and C300 Forged irons feature Wilson’s Power Hole technology – Urethane-filled holes positioned around the face to allow the face to flex and expand the sweet spot. The C300 Forged irons offer the same greater ball speeds for better players that prefer a more traditional shape and feel. Wilson C300 Irons: $799.99 at Amazon.com

    Cobra KING F8 Driver – The KING F8 driver is packed with tech. A precision CNC milled face for maximum ball speed, 360 Aero technology for speed combined with adjustable weights and hosel for a precise fit make this driver a great option for almost everybody. Add in Cobra Connect powered by Arccos Golf and you’ve got the most technologically advanced driver on the market. Better players will gravitate to the KING F8+ driver with less draw bias and heavier swing weights. Cobra KING F8 Driver: $358.87 on Amazon.com

    Pyramid Putters – With a milled face and grooves angled to help steer mishit putts back online, the Pyramid putter can help you make more putts. It also has a pyramid-shaped alignment feature on the top and a proprietary taperless grip for lighter grip pressure. I love the soft feel and positive roll off the face of the Pyramid Putter. The matte black finish reduces glare and it’s cheaper than many competing brands. $279.95 Available direct online at Pyramidputters.com

    Accessories

    UA TUNED™ Golf AssistGlove Ride – When the weather is hot and sweaty, one of the biggest challenges is to keep your golf glove fresh & dry. Glove Ride’s Glove Caddie helps by giving you a place to attach multiple gloves and help them dry up and stay in shape. It attaches to your golf bag with a solid metal clip and has a strong velcro strip to attach multiple gloves while they air-dry. There’s also a poker chip ball marker that can be customized for special events or golf courses. Available online at Gloveride.com for $19.95

    Golf Pride Align Grips – Up to 80% of PGA Tour pros use Golf Pride grips. That’s not likely to change any time soon now that they’ve introduced new grips with ALIGN Technology. A raised red ridge on the bottom of the grip provides consistent hand placement and club face awareness. The ridge is made of 50% firmer material than the surrounding grip to amplify the feel. ALIGN technology is available on three popular grips: The MCC, MCC Plus4, and the new Tour Velvet. Go to golfpride.com for more information.

    Under Armor Eyewear – Under Armor has come a long way in a few short years. As a leading sportswear company, they’ve cut into the market share of giants like Nike and adidas by offering high-quality products at a reasonable price. One department where they’ve excelled is in eyewear. For golf, they’ve developed UA Tuned Propel sunglasses that provide contrast enhancement which helps you to read the course more precisely & track the ball easier. Even better, they’re priced at only $74.99 at underarmor.com

    Tech & Gadgets

    Bushnell HybridBushnell Hybrid – For years people have been asking for a laser rangefinder combined with GPS. I’ve always wanted a device that combined both technologies, but as it turns out, it’s not that easy to make. Good news – Bushnell has finally gotten it right with the new Bushnell Hybrid. The Bushnell Hybrid gives you this information by displaying the lasered distances to the pin and GPS provided front and back yardage readings within the LCD. You can also get GPS yardages for front, center and back on the outside of the device in case you have a blind shot and cannot see the pin. Available for $399 at Amazon.com

    Swing Caddie SC200 – Launch monitors are all the rage these days on the professional tours, but not many people can afford the same models the pros use since in most cases they cost over $10,000. However, there are a number of devices that can give weekend amateurs much of the same information at a fraction of the cost. One of these devices is the Swing Caddie SC200 from Voice Caddie. The SC200 is about the same size as a large cell phone, making it very portable. The Doppler radar displays information like carry yardage, swing speed, ball speed, loft angle and smash factor. Best of all, it only costs about $350 on Amazon.

    Garmin Approach S60 – Garmin is best known for its navigation devices for cars, but they have quietly been making top quality GPS distance measuring devices for a while now. One of these awesome devices is a watch called the Garmin Approach S60. Much more than just a golf GPS watch, the Approach S60 is a full-fledged smartwatch that pairs to your phone via Bluetooth and displays notifications for incoming calls, texts, emails and other alerts. It comes preloaded with more than 41,000 golf courses around the world and using the Garmin Connect app on your phone you can update the course list and get updates for the watch. The full-color display is easy to read in bright sunlight and the battery lasts up to 10 hours in golf mode. Available now on Amazon for $345.59

  • Callaway’s Sexy New Rogue Pro Black Irons

    Callaway’s Sexy New Rogue Pro Black Irons

    If Johnny Cash was still with us and played golf, this would have been his set of irons. Callaway just announced their new Rogue Pro Black irons, and we’re in love. These sexy clubs are finished in black, with black limited edition True Temper XP105 shafts and black Lamkin Z5 grips. Even the Callaway medallion in the cavity is black.

    All the features you’ll see in the regular Rogue Pro irons are in these, including the 360 Face Cup + VFT for more ball speed, MIM’D Internal Standing Wave for optimal flight and control, and great feel with Urethane Microspheres, all in a players iron package. These irons are designed to appeal to better players with a compact head, thin topline, thin sole, shallow cavity and minimal offset. These design features increase workability, trajectory control and impact feedback. The lofts are slightly weaker than Rogue Standard for better gapping and distance control.

    The Callaway Rogue Pro Black irons will go on sale June 8, 2018 and are custom order only at www.callawaygolf.com. Sets will be available in two configurations: 5-PW and 4-PW. Suggested retail price will be $825 and $1099, respectively. If you like black and want a playable iron for low handicappers, you won’t want to miss these.

    OK, no more talk. Here are the pictures!

    Callaway Rogue Pro Black Irons

     

     

     

     

     

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  • PING Introduces New Products For Spring 2018

    PING Introduces New Products For Spring 2018

    The Engineering and R&D teams at Ping have been busy in the last year. Following the release of the awesome new G400 driver and fairways, Ping just introduced the G400 Max driver along with G700 irons, Glide 2.0 Stealth wedges and Ping Vault 2.0 putters. All the new stuff is available for pre-order right now (Jan 15,2018). First, let’s look at the photos, and we’ll go into more detail after.

    PING G400 Max Driver

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    PING Glide 2.0 Stealth Wedges

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    PING G700 Irons

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    PING Vault 2.0 Putters

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    Technical Details

    Now for the important stuff – The specs and pricing! Below I’ve removed some of PING’s PR talk from their recent press releases and kept just the details that people want to see.

    G400 Max Driver

    In the G400 Max driver, PING achieved its all-time high MOI measurements by optimizing the crown and face design in the larger-profile, multi-material head. The forgiveness gains are attributable to the 460cc head and nearly four times the discretionary weight created by Dragonfly crown technology and the thin, forged face. Its high-density tungsten back weight wraps around the back of the sole to help bring the combined MOI (heel/toe and high/low) over 9,900 gram cm2. Its CG position is lower and farther back than any current driver on the market to make it the most forgiving driver in golf – surpassing the current G400 driver.

     

    G400 Max Driver Technology and Specifications:

    Multi-material construction: Cast Ti 8-1-1 body, forged T9S+ face, high-density tungsten back weight, lightweight aluminum/thermoplastic adjustable hosel

    Loft options: 9⁰ & 10.5⁰

    Head weight: Std. (206g)

    Head volume: 460 cc

    Std. length: 45 3/4″ (Alta CB); 45 1/4″ (PING Tour and aftermarkets)

    Loft adjustability: Up to +-1⁰

    Stock grip: Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 in six sizes (Blue -1/16″, Red -1/32″, Aqua -1/64″, White Std., Gold +1/32″, Orange +1/16″)

    U.S. MSRP: $435

    Shaft options: PING Alta CB (counter-balanced) 55 (SR, R, S, X), PING Tour 65, 75 (MSRP: $35 upcharge) (R, S, X), Alta Distanza 40 (MSRP: $35 upcharge)

    Aftermarket shaft options (MSRP: $75 upcharge): Mitsubishi Kuro Kage Silver Dual-Core TiNi 60 (R, S, X), Project X HZRDUS Yellow 75 (5.5, 6.0, 6.5), Aldila X-Torsion Copper (50R, 60S)

    Glide 2.0 Stealth Wedges

    The Glide 2.0 Stealth wedges’ 8620 carbon steel head and precision-milled grooves deliver a softer feel and higher-spinning shots for greater control. The tour-inspired Stealth finish, which yields less glare and makes the head appear smaller, is applied using a QPQ (Quench Polish Quench) process for added durability. This wedge fits the game and the eye of players for whom performance and appearance go hand in hand.

    A patented precision wheel-cut half groove near the lead edge on the 56⁰, 58⁰ and 60⁰ improves engagement with the ball (specifically low on the face) to significantly increase spin and control from all conditions. The wheel-cut milling process was developed by PING’s engineering and manufacturing teams to enable grooves with a sharper edge radius, which increases interaction with the cover of the ball at impact, creating more friction for improved spin and trajectory control. The grooves in the lower-lofted wedges (46°, 50° & 52°) are milled with a 20° sidewall and a .005″ edge radius for optimal full-shot performance. The higher-lofted versions (54°, 56°, 58° & 60°) are milled to a .004″ edge radius and a 28° sidewall to impart more spin, especially around the greens.

    The patented design is offered in four sole grinds (SS, WS, ES and TS) to ensure Glide 2.0 Stealth wedges can be fit to a golfer’s divot depth or attack angle and most common turf conditions.

    SS GRIND  (46°/12°, 50°/12°, 52°/12°, 54°/12°, 56°/12°, 58°/10°, 60/10°)

    An all-purpose mid-bounce sole with heel and trail edge relief to create versatility on touch shots around the green. Ideal for moderate attack angles and divots. Fits most golfers.

    WS GRIND (54°/14°, 56°/14°, 58°/14°, 60/14°)

    Full-sole design that provides turf security for players with a steep angle of attack. The reduced camber and added width prevent digging.

    TS GRIND (58°/6°, 60°/6°)

    A PING WRX-inspired design based on the Tour-proven half-moon grind. The TS grind facilitates shot making and precision from even the most difficult lies. The heel relief allows shots to be executed with an open face to difficult pins or from firm lies without fear of the lead edge sitting too high.

    ES GRIND (54°/8°, 56°/8°, 58°/8°, 60°/8°)

    Eye 2-inspired sole design provides the ultimate in bunker performance, resulting from the classic dish profile and the tapered hosel. A refined lead edge upgrades all-around performance with the iconic ES grind.

    Glide 2.0 Stealth Wedges Technology and Specifications:

    Std. grip: Golf Pride Tour Velvet in six sizes (Blue -1/16″, Red -1/32″, Aqua -1/64″, White Std., Gold +1/32″, Orange +1/16″)

    Shaft options: Stock steel shaft — PING AWT 2.0 Wedge; Stock graphite shaft — PING CFS 65/70/80 (Soft R, R, S)

    Aftermarket steel shaft options (no upcharge): True Temper Dynamic Gold (S300, X100), Dynamic Gold 105 (R300, S300), Dynamic Gold 120 (S300, X100) Project X LZ (5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5), True Temper XP95 (R, S,), Nippon NS Pro Modus 105 (S, X), KBS Tour (R, S, X)

    U.S. MSRP: $150 per club w/steel shaft; $175 per club w/graphite shaft

    G700 Irons

    In the G700 iron, PING engineers put a high priority on creating an iron that offers power and forgiveness by leveraging the advantages of a hollow-body design and a thin, maraging steel face, creating PING’s longest, highest-flying iron to date.

    The hollow-body construction of the 17-4 stainless steel head allows for an internal geometry design that positions weight away from the face, creating a frame for metal-wood-like flexing and high COR to greatly increase ball speed and produce launch results that will amaze golfers.

    Maraging steel, which is also used in the G400 fairway woods, hybrids and crossovers, is one of the strongest alloys in the world and is commonly employed in the aerospace industry, where strength and flexibility are necessities. Those properties make it an ideal face material to deliver more flexing for faster ball speeds that launch shots farther and higher.

    G700 Iron Technology and Specifications:

    Multi-material construction: Hollow-body 17-4 stainless steel head, C300 Maraging Steel face, HydroPearl finish

    Available 4-9, PW, UW, SW in 10 color codes (lie angle). Black is standard.

    Std. grip: Golf Pride Tour Velvet in six sizes (Blue -1/16″, Red -1/32″, Aqua -1/64″, White Std., Gold +1/32″, Orange +1/16″)

    Shaft options: Stock steel shaft — PING AWT 2.0 (R, S, X); Stock graphite shafts — Alta CB (counter-balanced) powered by AWT, UST Recoil 760 ES SMACWRAP (A), UST Recoil 780 ES SMACWRAP (R, S)

    Aftermarket steel shaft options (no upcharge): True Temper Dynamic Gold (S300, X100), Dynamic Gold 105 (R300, S300), Dynamic Gold 120 (S300, X100) Project X LZ (5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5), True Temper XP95 (R, S,), Nippon NS Pro Modus 105 (S, X), KBS Tour (R, S, X)

    U.S. MSRP: $160 per iron w/steel shaft; $175 per iron w/graphite shaft

    PING Vault 2.0 Putters

    The next generation of PING’s 100%-milled putters are crafted and engineered to provide tour-caliber touch and performance through proven innovations like precision-milled, patented True Roll Technology (TR), plus a new custom-weighting system. The new system offers sole weight options in steel (standard weight head), tungsten (15 gms heavier than standard) and aluminum (15 gms lighter than standard) to match a golfer’s feel and balance preferences.

    Precision-milled TR technology ensures full-face forgiveness for consistent speed off the face. The individually milled face pattern varies in depth and pitch across the face, which speeds up off-center impacts, improving consistency and ultimately leading to fewer three-putts.

    Golfers can choose from three premium finishes (Stealth, Platinum or Copper) in five models precision-milled from 303 stainless steel, including the new Dale Anser, which is inspired by one of the original Anser putter molds created by Allan Dale Solheim and detailed by his father, Karsten Solheim. The award-winning Ketsch mallet (Stealth or Slate finish) combines a fully-machined 6061 aerospace-grade aluminum body with a stainless steel sole plate for an extremely high MOI and offers exceptional alignment features. All the models are fit for stroke and designed with varying alignment aids to fit a golfer’s preferred look and alignment style.  As part of the custom building process that ensures optimal balance, putters between 34″ and 36″ in length are built with steel sole weights; models 34″ and shorter feature tungsten weighting; putters built 36″ and longer use aluminum weights.

    Four proprietary PING Pistol tapered grips provide golfers with variances in shape and feel. The PP60 is a midsize, lightweight design with a foam under-listing and dominant flats for face awareness. The PP61 has an exaggerated pistol to fit the contour of the golfer’s hands, and a rubber under-listing for a softer response. The PP62 is a lightweight, oversized grip with a rounded profile. The CB60 is standard on custom counter-balanced putters in the line.

    PING Vault 2.0 Putter Technology and Specifications:

    Dale Anser (Blade)

    • 350g, fully machined 303 stainless steel

    • Available in Copper, Platinum or Stealth finish

    • Slight Arc

    • 35″ std. length, 3º std. loft, lie angle adjustable +-4º

    – U.S. MSRP: $325.00

    Voss (Blade)

    • 350g, fully machined 303 stainless steel

    • Available in Stealth finish (Copper or Platinum available special order)

    • Slight Arc

    • 35″ std. length, 3º std. loft, lie angle adjustable +-4º

    – U.S. MSRP: $325.00

    B60 (Blade)

    • 355g, fully machined 303 stainless steel

    • Available in Stealth or Copper finish (Platinum available special order)

    • Slight Arc

    • 35″ std. length, 3º std. loft, lie angle adjustable +-4º

    – U.S. MSRP: $325.00

    ZB (Blade)

    • 350g, fully machined 303 stainless steel

    • Available in Platinum (Copper or Stealth available special order)

    • Slight Arc

    • 35″ std. length, 3º std. loft, lie angle adjustable +-4º

    – U.S. MSRP: $325.00

    Piper (Mid-Mallet)

    • 360g, fully machined 303 stainless steel

    • Available in Stealth finish (Copper or Platinum available special order)

    • Slight Arc or Straight

    • 35″ std. length, 3º std. loft, lie angle adjustable +-2º

    – U.S. MSRP: $325.00

    Ketsch (Mallet)

    • 365g, fully machined 6061 aluminum head, stainless steel sole plate

    • Available in Stealth finish (Slate finish available special order)

    • Slight Arc or Straight

    • 35″ std. length, 3º std. loft, lie angle adjustable +-2º

    – U.S. MSRP: $325.00

  • Ping Introduces New Clubs

    PING GMax cavityPing Golf is one of those companies that takes their sweet time to launch new products, usually on a two year development cycle. Ping also benefits from one of the most loyal customer bases in the industry, and for good reason. They make quality golf clubs that perform well, and they take care of their customers. People that buy Ping golf clubs tend to stick with them for the long haul. I know a few people that still hit their Eye2 and ISI irons.

    Ping has been on a roll for about a year, since introducing the G30 line of drivers, fairways and hybrids in July 2014. The G30 driver continues to be the best selling driver in golf, and their market share is impressive. In June 2015, 62% more G30 drivers were sold than the next closest driver model, and for the entire year (since January), they’ve sold 44% more drivers than any other. I’ve stated on several occasions that I think the Ping G30 driver is the best I’ve hit in over a decade.

    This summer, Ping is riding the momentum of the fantastic G30 line and introducing some new irons, wedges and putters. There are two new iron sets, called GMax and the “i” irons, a new Glide ES (Eye Sole) and two new putters in the Cadence TR line.

    GMax Irons

    [slideshow_deploy id=’5284′]

    The new GMax iron introduces COR-Eye Technology, a revolutionary design that increases flexing across the entire face for faster ball speeds that produce unprecedented distance and forgiveness. The irons are squarely aimed at mid-to-high handicap golfers that want more distance and help getting the ball airborne. These clubs will fall in the “max game improvement” category.

    – Available 4-9, PW, UW, SW
    – Stock steel shaft: PING CFS Distance (Soft R, R, S, X)
    – Stock graphite shaft: PING CFS Graphite (65 Soft R, 70 R, 80 S)
    – After-market stock shaft options (no upcharge): Dynamic Gold S300, X100; Project X 5.0, 6.0; XP 95 (R, S), N.S. Pro Modus3 105 (S, X)
    – U.S. MSRP: $121.25 per club w/steel shaft; $ 136.25 per club w/graphite shaft

    i Irons

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    The new i iron, PING’s first model to utilize 431 stainless steel, is a softer players-style head that offers some workability and ball-flight control with forgiveness to help low-to-mid handicap golfers. The Ping i irons will be replacing the i25 irons in their lineup. Both new models are available with the stock Ping CFS Distance shaft, but you can also choose one of four popular after-market shafts with no upcharge.

    – Available 3-9, PW, UW
    – Stock steel shaft: PING CFS Distance (Soft R, R, S, X)
    – Stock graphite shaft: PING CFS Graphite (65 Soft R, 70 R, 80 S)
    – After-market stock shaft options (no upcharge): Dynamic Gold S300, X100; Project X 5.0, 6.0; XP 95 (R, S), N.S. Pro Modus3 105 (S, X)
    – U.S. MSRP: $135 per club w/steel shaft; $150 per club w/graphite shaft

    Glide ES Wedges

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    The new wedge is the Glide ES (eye sole) that combines technology of the original Eye2 sand wedge with the new Glide wedge design to add even more options to the Glide wedge line that already offers the Glide standard sole (SS), thin sole (TS), and wide sole (WS), creating 16 loft and sole combinations to suit a player’s style and adapt to the most common turf conditions.

    – Available in 56º, 58º, 60º
    – Dyla-wedge grip: ¾-inch longer, grip-down markings at 1 3/8″ intervals, softer tapering profile
    – Stock shafts: CFS Wedge (stiff flex, 118g); TFC 419i (Soft R, R, S)
    – U.S. MSRP: $140 w/steel shaft; $160 w/graphite shaft

    Cadence TR Putters

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    Ping’s market share in the putter segment may have dropped over the years, but that doesn’t mean they don’t make a good putter! They are still one of the best. The popular Cadence TR putter series grows with the addition of the Craz-e-r and Ketsch Mid models. The Craz-e-r, an evolution of the highly successful Craz-E design, is a high-MOI model with a sightline that extends from the top to the back of the putter. The Ketsch Mid, a smaller version of my personal favorite and award-winning Ketsch, provides golfers a fully machined, high-MOI mallet-style head with advanced alignment features. Both models are engineered with True Roll Technology grooves and are available in two weight options.

    – Traditional, 350g; Heavy, 375g
    – Straight, Slight Arc and Strong Arc stroke types
    – Adjustable +/- 2º from std. lie angle
    – U.S. MSRP: $245; Adjustable-length upcharge: $35

  • TaylorMade Introduces RSi Irons

    TaylorMade RSi 1Irons TaylorMade adidas Golf (TMAG) is at it again with a new set of irons called the RSi. TaylorMade fitting specialists found that 76% of all iron shots as mis-hits. We all like to think we’re better ball strikers than that, but it simply isn’t the case. To combat off center hits and their distance robbing effects, the crazy golf minds at TMAG have taken the “speed pockets” technology they’ve used in previous irons and woods (like Rocketballz) to help thin shots and moved the slots to the left and right sides of the face to produce more of a springy effect on mishits and more distance.

    “Face Slot Technology provides greater consistency across the face, giving players improved performance on mis-hits,” said Tomo Bystedt, TaylorMade’s Director of Product Creation for Irons, Putters & Wedges. “No golfer is perfect, not even the best players in the world hit the center of the club every time. So with RSi, we’re giving all golfers a technology that can help their mis-hits perform more like pure strikes.”

    TaylorMade RSi 1IronsThese new Face Slots are in the 3-8 irons and sit just outside the score lines on the face. The slots are cut all the way through the face and the cavity is filled with an epoxy compound. The slots allow the face of the club to flex and generate higher ball speeds for more distance on those mis-hit shots. The RSi irons also retain the speed pocket on the bottom for higher ball speeds on thin shots, so these irons will have a large sweetspot and offer plenty of forgiveness.

    There are three models of RSi irons. Below are TaylorMade’s descriptions of each:

    RSi 1: RSi 1 features TaylorMade’s Advanced Face Design – an engineering feat that incorporates the company’s thinnest face ever, a deep undercut and Inverted Cone Technology (to extend the COR zone) in order to promote greater  ball speed. In addition, a stabilized head structure and multiple dampening systems resulted in improved sound and feel. The new Reax 90 steel shaft from True Temper helps optimize ball flight for max distance and performance.

    TaylorMade RSi 1IronsRSi 2: The most resounding characteristic of the RSi 2 is the Progressive Multi-Material Construction. The 3-5 irons are cast from 450 stainless steel with tungsten weighting to promote a lower CG and slightly higher flight. The mid irons (6-7) are cast of 450 stainless steel, as well. The high-strength material allowed engineers to make the face thinner, undercuts deeper and accommodate slot technology. The short irons (8, 9, PW) incorporate forged faces to promote feel and accuracy; and the wedges are completely forged, giving them the look, feel and workability desired by better players. RSi 2 irons come stock with the all-new KBS Tour 105 shaft.

    RSi TP: The RSi TP irons combine the forged look and feel preferred by better players with Face Slot Technology. An advanced two-piece construction merges a premium 1025 forged carbon steel hosel/face with a 431 stainless steel back using plasma welding in the 3-7 irons. This construction provides the precision and feel of a forged iron with the advanced geometry of cast irons – delivering the best of both worlds. The short irons (8-PW) are classic forged heads with a slight muscle cavity.  RSi TP irons come stock with the Tour-proven KBS Tour Steel Shaft.

    Some of TaylorMade’s tour staff are likely to put the RSi TP irons in play later this year. We will post a review of the clubs as soon as we get our grubby little hands on a set! For more information go to www.mis-hitshappen.com or www.taylormadegolf.com.

  • TaylorMade Introduces Tour Preferred Irons

    TaylorMade Tour Preferred IronsTaylorMade is at it again. More new clubs! This time they are addressing a segment of the market that has been lacking in recent years – low handicap golfers. Large, clunky looking irons aren’t very popular with better players, and while TaylorMade will tell you their staff pros are playing the RocketBladez Tour irons, the clubs they play aren’t like the ones in the store.

    With the new Tour Preferred irons, better players now get to choose from three different iron models. I’m sure they can even be mixed and matched by the custom department for a nice combo set as well. More details to come. Here are the basics on the three new models:

    Tour Preferred CB

    The TaylorMade Tour Preferred CB iron combines a compact and elegant shape with a semi-deep cavity back for stability and forgiveness. TaylorMade says this club is a union of speed, feel, control and forgiveness in a clean design.

    Tour Preferred MC

    The Tour Preferred MC iron marries a thin topline and sole with a shallow muscle-cavity that adds some forgiveness on off center hits while preserving the soft feel of a muscle back iron. The TP MC is an artful balance of feel, power workability and stability, according to TaylorMade.

    Tour Preferred MB

    The Tour Preferred MB irons are simple muscleback blades intended for the purist. These are for the consistent ball striker who wants the ultimate in feel and shot-shaping workability.

    With a purchase of TaylorMade Tour Preferred equipment, consumers have the option to register for Tour Preferred 360. It is a consumer-minded program that will allow those golfers who have made the choice to play Tour Preferred to enjoy certain benefits (good through 12/31/15) that are normally reserved for TaylorMade’s tour players, including but not limited to:

    • Tour Preferred 360 Hotline – 855-654-TOUR (8687)
    • Annual loft/lie checks
    • Annual re-gripping
    • Access to additional content on taylormadegolf.com
    • Advanced communications on upcoming product launches

  • Cleveland CG Black Irons & Woods – Sneak Peak

    Cleveland CG Black Driver
    Click photo to enlarge

    For golfers who have lost distance over the years or are looking for a few extra yards (Who isn’t?) with forgiveness on off-center hits, Cleveland Golf is introducing the new CB Black line of woods, irons and wedges as a solution. The CG Black line is the next logical step from Cleveland’s ultralight drivers that debuted last year with great success.

    The Cleveland CG Black driver weighs in at a paltry 265 grams, making it the lightest driver on the market. Using an aerodynamic crown design called “Speed Crown Design” which is shaped like a teardrop helps to generate more swing speed by optimizing airflow around the head during the swing. Cleveland’s “MaxCOR2 Variable Face Thickness Technology” increases the trampoline effect on off-center hits, increasing distance. The CG Black driver features the ultra-light Miyazaki C. Kua 39 shaft and a Golf Pride Tour 25 grip, a combination that decreases the overall weight of the club. In my experience with several models of Miyazaki shafts, they have been very stable and consistent at weights from 39 grams all the way up to 85 grams. The minimum advertised price for the CG Black driver is $399.99

    Cleveland CG Black Fairway
    Click photo to enlarge

    Like the driver, the Cleveland CG Black fairways are among the lightest in golf. The teardrop crown shape increases swing speed and the weight screw at the rear of the sole plate to create a deep and low center of gravity, helping shots get airborne. As with the driver, the CG Black fairways are draw biased for greater distance and a strong trajectory. The same Miyazaki C. Kua 39 gram shaft is in the fairways. The minimum advertised price for the CG Black fairways is $229.99

    Cleveland CG Black Irons
    Click photo to enlarge

    The Cleveland Golf CG Black irons and wedges feature a multi-material construction that incorporates a thin titanium face for maximum forgiveness and distance. CG Black irons and wedges have an undercut cavity that positions the center of gravity low and deep to optimize trajectory, spin and playability. The irons are available with optional Miyazaki 59 gram graphite shafts or the Nippon NS Pro 850GH lightweight steel shaft. All irons and wedges sport Cleveland’s Tour Zip Grooves and Laser Milled treatment to maximize spin. The Cleveland CG Black irons carry a minimum advertised price of $999.99 (graphite) and $899.99 (steel) for a set of 7 irons. the CG Black wedges will be $139.99 (steel) and $149.99 (graphite)

    The prices are a minimum advertised price, but I suspect when the CG Black line is released on November 25, 2011 that the retail prices will be slightly lower. We’ll be getting a set of these very soon and posting our review as soon as we can so stay tuned!

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  • Titleist 712 AP1 & AP2 Irons – Sneak Peak

    Titleist 712 AP2 Iron

    Titleist has done it again. One of the most popular irons on the professional tours and amateur bags alike, the 710 AP1 and AP2 irons have been updated to the new look and performance of the 712 AP1 and 712 AP2 irons. They will be available in mid-November 2011. Titleist have made the new irons more forgiving and yet more playable. To get all the details, check out the following press release and pictures from Acushnet below.


    Advanced Performance Iron Technology Sets New Standard for Feel with Traditional Looks.


    Fairhaven, MA (September 13, 2011) – Dedicated to providing serious golfers with the highest performing equipment in golf, Titleist introduces the next generation of its groundbreaking Advanced Performance irons.  The new Titleist AP1 and AP2 irons (712 Series) stay true to the design mission of “Advanced Performance with Feel.”  Both models are multi-material, dual cavity irons that provide modern ball flight and forgiveness with the traditional looks, feel and sound that serious golfers have come to expect from Titleist irons.

    “The new 712 line of AP irons represents another step forward in iron design,” said Steve Pelisek, General Manager, Titleist Golf Clubs.  “With the development of the first AP irons in 2007, we knew we had created something special – irons that incorporated a true blend of classic golf club aesthetics with modern playability, forgiveness and consistency.  With the new 712 line we’ve taken this breakthrough technology to a new, game-changing level by increasing the stability and forgiveness without losing any workability or shot control.”

    HISTORY OF ADVANCED PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY:      Iron performance can best be measured, not only by the quality of shots produced by well-executed swings, but also by the quality of shots when less-than-ideal contact is made with the ball.  From an engineering standpoint, the key to maximizing shot quality on off-center hits is weight distribution.  Club designers learned that by placing more weight around the perimeter of the club they could reduce the amount that the club twists on off-center hits.  When the clubhead is more stable, off-center hits still fly relatively straight and far.  However, perimeter-weighted irons had an intrinsic drawback.  In order to redistribute enough weight to exact a measurable performance advantage, the clubhead shape had to change.  The typically larger heads of these irons with their wider soles and thicker toplines were visually unappealing to many serious golfers whose concept of an ideal iron is represented by the compact profile and sharper lines of a traditional forged blade iron.

    The rules changed when Titleist introduced Advance Performance technology.  By successfully integrating new materials in a new dual cavity, multi-component construction, Titleist not only launched an iron that delivered modern performance and playability, but one that would also satisfy the sensibilities of even the most ardent iron traditionalist.

    “The original AP irons changed the way golfers thought about irons,” said Dan Stone, Vice President, Research and Development, Titleist Golf Clubs.  “AP technology opened up a host of new possibilities in which design aesthetics and performance no longer had to be mutually exclusive propositions.   That original technology paved the way for the new advances that we’ve made with the new 712 line.”

    NEW ADVANCES IN THE 712 AP IRONS: The improvements incorporated into the new AP irons came about as the result of continued research that indicated that serious golfers were looking for improvements in three main areas.  First, most players wanted even greater refinements to the clubhead's profile.  Both the new AP1 and AP2 models feature sleeker contours that result in a better address position.  Players also expressed a desire for more forgiveness, to get more out of their miss-hits, or said another way, better distance control.  Both the new AP1 and AP2 have been improved with internal weighting that utilizes higher density tungsten in order to distribute mass more efficiently which increases the moment-of-inertia (MOI) without changing the CG location or the blade length.  The higher MOI provides more consistent ballspeed across the clubface and better distance control.  Better distance control leads to more scoring opportunities and is the key to good iron play. The third wish-list item that research uncovered was that players wanted more forgiveness without any loss of workability or shot control.  Traditionally it has been thought that forgiveness and workability were mutually exclusive.  The new AP irons prove that they are not. "When speaking about iron workability, it's important to dispel the myth that adding forgiveness to an iron decreases its workability," explained Stone.  "In the golf industry, when we talk about Moment of Inertia, we're referring to MOI-y, which is the heel/toe stability of the clubhead on off-center impacts.  The higher the MOI-y, the better the accuracy and distance on off-center hits.  But the most influential property affecting workability is the Moment of Inertia around the shaft axis, which is mainly driven by blade length and the location of the clubhead's center of gravity from the shaft axis.   When we redesigned the 712 AP irons, we redistributed weight in the clubhead so that we not only increased clubhead MOI or forgiveness, we kept blade lengths the same and maintained the same CG distance from the shaft axis.  This allows players to flight and shape shots." CONSTRUCTION:  The new 712 AP1 and 712 AP2 irons retain the dual cavity design and multi-material construction that is the key to their advanced performance.  However, the designs have been significantly upgraded for more forgiveness, higher ball speeds on miss-hits and improved distance control.  Additionally, the new AP1 features a new topline shape and progressively reduced blade lengths resulting in more traditional-looking short irons.  Notable changes to the new AP2 include a new, tour-inspired square toe profile and reduced sole width in the short irons for more precise turf performance. Both new AP models incorporate Titleist's Tuned Feel System, a co-molded insert of soft elastomer and aluminum plate.  This insert has been specifically designed to improve the sound and feel of each new iron. Extensive improvements to the new AP1 structure include a redesigned stainless steel soleplate and integrated tungsten nickel sole weight that redistributes discretionary mass from the topline, center bar and sole cradle to low in the head, resulting in increased stability and forgiveness.  The new AP2 structure also makes use of a new steel cradle that holds tungsten weights located heel and toe, providing greater forgiveness on miss-hits and more consistent distance control. Titleist 712 AP1 IronNEW 712 AP1 IRONS FEATURES AND BENEFITS Overview/Player Profile:  Titleist AP1 irons are advanced performance, multi-material, dual cavity irons providing more forgiveness with solid feel and improved looks for the aspiring to skilled golfer.   Increased Forgiveness  through an advanced technology, multi-material, high MOI design featuring a precise stainless steel body and high density tungsten sole weight Higher Ball Speed  on miss-hits for improved distance control More Forgiving Long Irons  with a 4% increase in moment-of-inertial (MOI) More Traditional Short Irons  through a progressively reduced blade length Improved Solid Feel  from the high MOI design and tuned feel cavity insert Improved Confidence Inspiring Appearance  with a beveled topline, traditional shape and more precise address profile Stock Shafts and Grip: True Temper Dynalite Gold XP is a high performance mid-weight steel shaft with a more stable tip designed to optimize initial launch angle and maximize distance.  Stock graphite shaft is Tour AD by Graphite Design, exclusively for Titleist, a slightly higher launching shaft that matches weight and performance of Titleist lightweight metals shafts.  Stock grip is the new Titleist Tour Velvet by Golf Pride, a truly round, one-piece, injection molded grip with industry standard sizing.  Other shaft, grip, length and lie options are available through Titleist Custom. Grooves: Modified U, conforming to 2010 U.S.G.A./R&A groove specifications. Price/Availability:  Available in both right and left hand beginning November 18, 2011, with a suggested retail price of $112 per club/steel, and $135 per club/graphite. Titleist 712 AP2 IronNEW 712 AP2 IRONS FEATURES AND BENEFITS Overview/Player Profile:  Titleist AP2 irons are advanced performance, multi-material, dual cavity forged irons providing more playability, solid feel and an improved classic profile for the serious and skilled golfer. Increased Playability  through an advanced technology, multi-material, forged carbon steel body and high density tungsten weight design Consistent Ball Speed  and improved distance control on miss-hits from a 7% increase in MOI with no loss of workability or shot control Improved Solid Feel from increased MOI and the tuned feel cavity insert Precise Short Irons  with reduced sole widths in the 8, 9, P for improved turf performance Improved Appearance  with a new squarer profile Superior Shot Control  from the small progressive offset and traditional constant blade length Stock Shaft and Grip:  High performance, tour-proven Dynamic Gold steel shaft provides tour preferred feel, weight feedback and performance.  Stock grip is the new Titleist Tour Velvet by Golf Pride, a truly round, one-piece, injection molded grip with industry standard sizing.  Other shaft, grip, length and lie options are available through Titleist Custom. Grooves:  Modified V, conforming to 2010 U.S.G.A./R&A groove specifications. Price/Availability:  Available in both right and left hand beginning November 18, 2011, with a suggested retail price of $154 per club/steel and $175 per club/graphite. Specifications: 712 AP1  Irons 3              4              5              6              7              8              9              P             W Loft                        20°          23°          26°          29°          33°          37°          41°          45°          50° Lie                          60°          61°          62°          62.5°      63°          63.5°      64°          64°          64° Offset                   0.245"   0.220"   0.195"   0.170"   0.145"   0.125"   0.110"   0.105"   0.100" Bounce                 1°            1°            2°            2°            3°            4°            5°            6°            7° Length                  39.00"   38.50"   38.00"   37.50"   37.00"   36.50"   36.00"   35.75"   35.50" 712 AP2  Irons 3              4              5              6              7              8              9              P             W Loft                        21°          24°          27°          31°          35°          39°          43°          47°          51° Lie                          60°          61°          62°          62.5°      63°          63.5°      64°          64°          64° Offset                   0.160"  0.145"   0.130"   0.120"   0.100"   0.100"   0.90"      0.85"      0.80” Bounce                 0°            1°            3°            4°            4°            5°            6°            7°            7° Length                  39.00"   38.50"   38.00"   37.50"   37.00"   36.50"   36.00"   35.75"   35.5” ON TOUR:  The new 712 AP irons received instant validation from players at the PGA TOUR's AT&T National event, where the prototype irons were first introduced. A total of 19 players (out of an event-leading 40 Titleist iron sets) put sets of 712 irons in play the first week they were available, including the winner of the event, Titleist Brand Ambassador Nick Watney.  Success followed three weeks later when Scott Stallings captured the Greenbrier Classic with the new AP2 irons for his first career win. Among those who have already put the new sets in play with success include Ben Curtis with the AP1 and the following relying upon AP2:  Ben Crane, Brendon DeJonge, Jason Dufner, Brad Faxon, Hunter Haas, Marc Leishman, Jarrod Lyle, Matteo Manassero, SY Noh, Tom Pernice, Jr., Brett Quigley, Michael Sim, Scott Stallings, Josh Teater, Nick Watney.  Titleist and FootJoy comprise the major golf brands of the Acushnet Company.  For additional information or photography of the new AP iron line, please visit us on-line at: www.titleist.com

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  • Bridgestone Unveils J40 Irons

    Bridgestone J40 Forged Cavity Back IronBridgestone fans rejoice! The New J40 irons are here with two models available. These are essentially the same two models that were available last year as the Bridgestone J38 Irons, but with some design updates. The cavity back model looks different entirely, with a new triangular muscle shape in the cavity, but the J40 Dual Pocket cavity iron resembles last years J38 with just a few changes. Check out the official Bridgestone press release below, and stay tuned for a full review of both new models. I can tell you already from early testing that they will be on most golfers’ short list for 2012!

    Covington, Ga. — Bridgestone Golf, the #1 Ball-Fitter in Golf, announces the arrival of its highly anticipated line of J40 Forged irons.  Arriving in time for the holiday season, the J40 line will be available at golf specialty stores and green grass retailers nationwide in October 2011. The new precision-forged J40 series offers two different iron models providing greater precision and softer feel for a variety of golfers.


    “The J40 irons deliver on everything iron enthusiasts have anticipated from our new launch and continue what has been loved about our product from the J33 series onward,” said Corey Consuegra, Golf Club Marketing Manager, Bridgestone Golf, Inc.

    Bridgestone J40 Forged Dual Pocket Cavity Irons
    Click Photo to Zoom

    Building on the innovative weight management system introduced by its predecessor, the J40 Forged Dual Pocket Cavity irons are designed for the serious player that demands a buttery feel and more traditional topline, but needs a bit more help with squaring the clubface at impact. The J40 Dual Pocket Cavity irons key design features include:

    • Midsize head for producing a mid-to-high launch
    • Revamped dual pocket cavity that provides increased Tour Stability by moving more discretionary weight to the perimeter, creating even higher MOI than the previous version
    • Improved leading edge relief to help prevent digging in softer conditions

    Bridgestone J40 Forged Cavity Back Irons
    Click Photo to Zoom

    The J40 Forged Cavity Back irons offer the ultimate balance between form and function.  The J40 Forged CB’s striking good looks and clean traditional design is tailor made for better players who prefer a classy no-frills look and thin topline at address.  The J40 Forged Cavity Back irons key design features include:

    • Compact head with higher face progression for a mid-height launch
    • Unique v-cut cavity design that places more mass higher on the clubface for a higher center of gravity, resulting in a more controllable, penetrating ball-flight
    • Tapered sole-design for more versatility in shot making, allowing players to ‘work the ball’ and more easily control trajectory
    • Enhanced trailing edge relief for better performance from a variety of lies, especially out of the rough

    “With the J40s, we now offer even better performance and cleaner aesthetics.  The J40 series truly reaffirms that Bridgestone is THE brand of choice for premium iron enthusiasts,” said Consuegra.

    Both sets of the J40 irons are premium forged from 1020 mild carbon steel for the ultimate in soft feel and feature conforming grooves for optimum distance and spin control. The new J40 irons come standard with the Tour-proven Project XTM flighted shafts. Both come standard in a set of 5-pw and feature a street price of $699 (MSRP $799). An additional 3-iron and 4-iron will be available uponrequest ($115 per club).

    For more information on the J40 iron series and Bridgestone Golf’s entire Fall 2011 product offering, visit www.bridgestonegolf.com.


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  • Miura Golf Introduces Limited Forged Black Blades

    Miura Limited Black BladesI’m very excited to share the news coming out of Himeji, Japan about the release of the new Limited Edition black blades from Miura Golf. I’m a huge fan of Mr. Miura and his designs, and I feel like his clubs are second to none in the world of golf. I’ve already had the pleasure of reviewing the fantastic 1957 Small Blades, as well as the unique K-Grind Wedges, and there is no reason to believe that the black blades will not as good or better than his other offerings. The press release is below. Click on the photos to zoom in for a closer look.

    Beauty From the East

    Miura Golf, the Japanese company known for its excellence in forging fine clubs, also has a reputation for the beauty of its creations. The tradition continues with the company’s latest forged iron. Miura’s new LIMITED FORGED BLACK BLADE iron is a stunning version of the popular muscle back Miura Tournament Blade — but with the distinctive Miura Black finish. Company founder and club making expert Katsuhiro Miura and his sons, Yoshitaka and Shinei, and their staff took special care to create a no-glare, flat-black finish with a surface texture that’s pleasing to the touch. When golf club fans see these beauties, the effect is like coming around the corner and seeing your dream car parked at the curb. They can’t get that look out of their minds.

    Miura Limited Black BladesThe LFBB finish is the same as on Miura’s Black Wedges. Like the wedges, these irons will show gradual, desirable wear with repeated use. But “wear” doesn’t mean “wear out.” Instead, it’s more like a breaking in, a personalization no different than the one that occurs with your favorite baseball glove or the skates you want in the games that matter.

    This personalized settling-in of the finish will differ slightly for every player. But in general, the black finish will mature over time to a silvery gray, mostly on the center of the clubface and on the sole, starting at the leading edge. Time in the sun enters into it, as well as the turf the golfer usually encounters. In the end, the Limited Forged Black Blades will be distinctively Miura, and distinctively each golfer’s own – and always a joy to look at as well as play.

    “This is one of the great things about being the kind of company we are — small and focused on careful, handcrafted work. So we can satisfy golfers’ appetites for clubs that are beautiful as well as functional,” said Adam Barr, president of Miura. “When Miura-san has ideas like this for something special and exciting, we can do it, and to a very high standard. Of course, by definition, there can’t be many of these sets available. But that just adds to the allure.”

    The suggested retail price for the Limited Forged Black Blades will be $275 USD per club. Interested golfers around the world can check the list of expert dealer/fitters near them by clicking on this Miura Dealer List.

    About Miura Golf

    Miura Limited Black BladesJapanese golf club maker Miura Golf has been making the world's highest quality forged irons, wedges and putters for more nearly 50 years. The company was founded by Katsuhiro Miura, a deeply experienced golf club designer and steel forging expert from Himeji, Japan, the center of the Japanese steelmaking tradition that began with samurai swords more than 500 years ago. Miura-san and his sons, Yoshitaka and Shinei, work in Himeji with a small staff of craftsmen they trained to patiently make clubs of the finest possible quality, employing a careful mix of ancient metalworking traditions and modern forging and finishing techniques. Miura-san himself still works every day in the factory, honing his peerless grinding skills in what he considers a never-ending journey to the pinnacle of golf club quality. Although Miura never offers paid endorsement contracts, top players have won numerous championships with Miura-built clubs. For more information on Miura Golf in English, please go to www.MiuraGolf.com.

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  • Mizuno JPX-800 Irons – First Look

    Mizuno JPX-800 IronsMizuno Golf has long been known as a leader in forged clubs. Their forged blades have been very popular with low handicap players for many years and not many other companies can compete with the quality and feel of Mizuno irons. Recently, Mizuno has started to become a more attractive option for the mid to high handicap golfer, with the introduction of the JPX line of irons. Here’s a first look at this new game improvement club.

    I’ve spent a few days hitting the JPX-800 irons and I can tell you first off that these irons are long. So far after 18 holes and some time at the range I’ve come to the conclusion that they are about half a club to a full club longer than my current irons. They are also very forgiving. The large face, wide sole and generous perimeter weighting makes these irons easy to hit, but don’t expect much work-ability as this iron was designed for the 8 to 26 handicap range. They simply want to hit the ball high and straight.


    Now, let’s hear what Mizuno has to say about the clubs: “A serious looking iron designed to be amazingly forgiving and explosively long, the JPX-800™ is the first model to bring Mizuno’s Global JPX technology platform to the United States. The unbelievable distance of the JPX-800 irons is achieved by combining MAX COR Technology, Hot Metal™ Face construction, and an exotic pocket cavity to hit the maximum allowable limits for energy transfer. Hot Metal™ construction utilizes a new manufacturing process that increases the material’s natural strength to create an ultra-thin and multi-thickness face for maximum, consistent ball speed, while the innovative pocket cavity with external power bar design expands and extends the sweet area and lowers the center of gravity for unsurpassed forgiveness. An aggressive triple cut sole ensures solid ball striking from all types of lies, and a multi-material cavity badge provides tuned impact sound with enhanced feel and sharp looks. Simply put, the JPX-800 irons utilize the world’s most advanced Game Improvement technologies to help the serious mid- to high-handicap player score like never before!”

    FEATURES

    4-7 irons utilize MAX COR construction which delivers the highest allowable COR and low deep Center of Gravity for amazing distance and forgiveness.
    8-PW utilize deep pocket cavity design for maximum forgiveness and increased accuracy.
    GW & SW utilize a solid power bar design for greater control and pinpoint accuracy.
    A multi-level, multi-thickness exotic pocket cavity™ (4 – 7 iron) creates the largest MOI for the most forgiving iron in MIZUNO’s award-winning line-up.
    Massive external Power Bar design expands and extends the sweet area for maximum forgiveness across the face.
    Multi-material badge to enhance feel and deliver aggressive styling.
    Aggressive Triple Cut sole for consistent forgiveness from all types of lies and playing conditions.
    Durable double nickel chrome plated finish.
    Modified U-grooves, which conform to the Condition of Competition 2010, produce the ideal spin rate for maximum playability in all conditions.

    Club LH Loft ° Lie ° Offset ” Bounce ° Length ”
    4 Yes 22 60 0.209 2 38.25
    5 Yes 25 60.5 0.197 2 37.75
    6 Yes 28 61 0.185 2 37.25
    7 Yes 32 61.5 0.173 3 36.75
    8 Yes 36 62 0.161 4 36.25
    9 Yes 40 62.5 0.142 5 35.75
    PW Yes 44 63 0.122 6 35.5
    GW Yes 49 63 0.122 7 35.25
    SW Yes 55 63 0.102 12 35.25

    Shaft Availability: True Temper® Dynalite Gold® XP (R300 / S300), MIZUNO Exsar™ IS4 Graphite (Regular)

    Mizuno Swing To Win ChallengeMizuno Swing to Win Challenge

    Go to the sweepstakes website at http://mizunochallenge.com, enter your zip code to find a participating Mizuno golf club Dealer or Mizuno Demo Day location to obtain a Demo ID Code, and while you’re there, test out the JPX-800 6-iron and find the distance your game has been missing. When you’re finished, come back to Mizunochallenge.com, enter your Demo ID Code and the required entry information (as well as your club fitting/swing information if you participated in the demo). If you did not participate in the demo, please enter the number “5” for each required measurement. You will then be entered for a chance to win one of 800 prizes, including an all-expense paid trip for a Dream Round of Golf with Mizuno PGA Tour Staff Members Luke Donald and Charles Howell III.

    GRAND PRIZE ($7,000 ARV; one (1) Grand Prize to be awarded) The Grand Prize winner will receive roundtrip airfare and accommodations for winner and one (1) guest to Atlanta, Georgia, including:

    • Dream Round with Mizuno Tour Pros, Luke Donald and Charles Howell III
    • Custom fitting and custom-built set of Mizuno irons
    • Mizuno Golf Prize Pack (for Grand Prize winner)

    1st Prize ($299 ARV) Mizuno JPX Driver Golf Club (100 to be awarded)
    2nd Prize ($169 ARV) Mizuno JPX Hybrid Golf Club (100 to be awarded)
    3rd Prize ($149 ARV) Mizuno Aerolite IV Golf Club Bag (100 to be awarded)
    4th Prize ($119 ARV) Mizuno MP-T11 Wedge Golf Club (100 to be awarded)
    5th Prize ($49 ARV) Mizuno DryLite Drop Needle Golf Shirt (100 to be awarded)
    6th Prize ($19 ARV) Mizuno Tour Visor (100 to be awarded)
    7th Prize ($19 ARV) Mizuno Tour Hat (100 to be awarded)
    8th Prize ($12 ARV) Set of Mizuno Retroflex Golf Gloves (100 to be awarded)


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  • TaylorMade Introduces Three New Forged Iron Models

    TaylorMade Introduces Three New Models of Forged Tour Preferred IronsTaylorMade Golf has re-imagined and redefined the forged iron with the introduction of three new and distinctly different models: TPMB (Tour Preferred® Muscleback), TPMC (Tour Preferred Muscle Cavity) and TPCB (Tour Preferred Cavityback).

    The sophisticated design of each of the three new models incorporates specific features and technologies developed to promote improved superior performance. Created with major input from tour pros, each new iron is an exquisitely designed instrument that blends classic forged iron features with modern performance elements. The TPMB and TPMC are both created using a state-of-the-art shaping process and modern, 6-step forging procedure that results in pure feel. The TPCB employs a multi-material construction comprised of a forged face and cast body.

    “Forged irons are typically devoid of performance technologies,” said Bret Wahl, senior director of iron, wedge and putter development. “Their compact and solid construction, with thin sole, thin topline, high CG location and little to no offset, forces a very specific type of impact parameters to hit a good shot, with virtually no margin for error. The reward for that sacrifice is unparalleled feel and workability. We took a long, close look into the makeup of forged irons to determine if we could advance the performance with the use of technology, and we found that we could.”

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    TPMB: Innovation in a Forged Muscleback

    The Tour Preferred MB is a finely wrought muscleback blade expressly designed for the purist. With clear lines, a compact player’s shape and minimal offset, the TPMB delivers the pure feel, feedback and workability coveted by blade fans.

    “This is the iron that many of our Tour Staff pros been waiting for,” said Keith Sbarbaro, TaylorMade’s vice president of tour operations. “The lines are clear and clean from every angle, and the pure feel of the ball on the forged face at impact is as good as it gets.”

    The exclusive, 6-step forging process employed produces a more precisely shaped and finished head that looks and performs like a work of art. A thin topline, thin sole, straight leading edge, minimal offset and tapered hosel work in conjunction to promote the kind of pure face-to-ball connection sought after by skilled players.

    In addition, the TPMB incorporates TaylorMade’s innovative new precision-weighting port in the back of the clubhead to solve an age-old problem. In the past, clubmakers have installed cartridges of varying weight in the hosel to assure that each iron in the set is of uniform swingweight. Doing so, however, affects the location of the CG in terms of its position between the toe and heel. The TPMB’s precision-weighting port guarantees precise swingweights while ensuring optimal and consistent CG location in every clubhead.

    “The precision-weighting port proves that it is, in fact, possible to innovate and improve the performance of a true, forged blade,” said Brian Bazzel, manager of iron and wedge creation.

    The TPMB also incorporates an advanced, USGA-conforming groove design to promote more spin and control from the rough, a crucial advancement in making it the ultimate player’s performance iron. The standard shaft and grip properties were chosen with input from TaylorMade Tour Staff professionals, and include True Temper Dynamic Gold shaft —the most widely played on tour—and Tour Velvet grips, a combination deemed optimal for promoting consistent and responsive performance.

    TPMC: The Ideal Forged Players Cavityback

    TPMC irons are designed with a clean, classic and maneuverable player’s shape that offers the optimum blend of feel, workability, and forgiveness. By incorporating a compact, shallow cavity, the irons deliver the feel and workability of a forging plus a degree of added stability.

    “We worked obsessively with our Tour Staff to shape the TPMC irons into something that looks perfect to the better player’s eye, while at the same time incorporating feel, workability and stability,” said Bazzel.

    The end result is a sexy, workable player’s shape with a thin topline, straighter leading edge and less-cambered sole. Like the TPMB, the creation of the TPMC starts with an exclusive 6-step forging process, which produces a more precisely shaped and finished head that looks and performs beautifully. The sole is moderate to narrow in thickness and less cambered, preventing deep digging. The leading edge features minimal heel-to-toe radius with the ideal amount of camber to cut cleanly and precisely into the turf with little to no resistance.

    Additionally, the advanced groove design promotes more spin and control from the rough.

    TaylorMade’s precision-weighting port is incorporated into the TPMC, guaranteeing precise swingweights while ensuring optimal and consistent CG location in every clubhead to promote optimized ball flight in the long-, middle- and short-irons.

    Equipped with True Temper Dynamic Gold shafts and Tour Velvet grips.

    TPCB

    The Tour Preferred CB is a multi-material forged cavityback that’s beautiful, powerful and playable. Designed with a two-piece head, the TPCB’s advanced construction melds a forged face with a cast body that incorporates an undercut cavity to deliver the pure feel of a forged iron and the forgiveness of a deep cavityback.

    “Uniting a forged face with a cast cavity allows us to deliver the best of both worlds: the soft feel of a forging with the stability and forgiveness of a deep undercut cavity,” said Wahl.

    The TPCB boasts the highest MOI of the three new irons. That, combined with its Inverted Cone Technology (the only iron of the three with ICT), which promotes faster ball speed on off-center hits, helps make the TPCB extremely forgiving for consistent distance from shot to shot.

    The TPCB also features a precision-weighting port that guarantees consistent swingweight throughout the set while ensuring optimal CG location in every clubhead to promote optimal ball flight every iron.

    Additionally, the TPCB features the same new, advanced groove design to promote more spin and control from the rough.

    The TPCB irons is the only model of the three being offered in both steel and graphite shafts. The steel is a new, 110-gram, mid-flight True Temper Dynamic Golf XP, which is lighter and promotes higher flight compared to the standard Dynamic Gold steel shaft. The graphite shaft options, developed by Fujikura, are offered in 90-gram stiff flex and 80-gram regular flex. Tour Velvet grips are also standard.

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    Set Makeup, Pricing and Availability

    All three of the new TP forged irons are offered in three shaft flexes – X, S, R. The TPMB and TPMC are available in the 2-iron through pitching wedge in steel shafts only. The TPCB, offered in both steel and graphite shafts, will be available in 3-iron through attack wedge. The standard TP set includes eight irons—custom sets will allow combination of any eight irons offered in each models—at a street price of $899. The street price for the TPCB irons with graphite shaft is $1099. The TPMB, TPMC and TPCB irons become available at retail starting in March 2011.

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  • Fourteen Golf On The Rise

    Fourteen Golf TC-910 IronsFourteen Golf, a Japanese golf club manufacturer, established itself in 1981 as a golf equipment design company. The highly successful venture developed exclusive designs for Titleist, Yamaha, Srixon (formerly Dunlop Japan), Wilson, PRGR, and many more. The original team was credited with developing the first hybrid iron and the highly popular “Citation” cavity iron by Power Bilt which was one of the most popular irons of the 1980s. In the year 2000, the business transitioned into a branded design and manufacturing company, known now as Fourteen Golf.

    You may not have heard of them in the USA or Europe yet, but they make very high quality golf clubs, and they are on the rise! So far they are well known in Asia for very playable forged irons and wedges, and their most popular wedge design (MT-28 V5) has really caught on with the professional tours all over the world. The MT-28 V5 wedge features a classic design which features its signature Fourteen “reverse taper design” but has been improved by adding a groove strategically located in between the club sole and blade portion of the wedge. This structural change allowed the engineers to move the CG to a higher more stabilizing position for more precise shots.

    In preparation for the new groove policy on the professional tours such as the PGA and LPGA, the company spent years engineering a new head and groove combination for the MT-28 V5 that would be in compliance with the USGA’s requirements and yet maintained the ultimate spin rate. The company not only met that objective but exceeded their expectations.

    Fourteen GolfAccording to a recent press release, for spin and control the unique trapezoidal shaped groove works in unison with the MT-28 V5’s highly engineered head. This combination was tested in a variety of conditions and it outperformed the older MT-28 V4 in wet soggy conditions and maintained the same spin rate in dry conditions. The trapezoidal groove also undergoes a mirror-face milling process that precisely and carefully mills each groove for optimal spin.

    According to an independent equipment survey, the Fourteen Golf TC-910 Forged Irons continue to dominate the Asian Tour with the number #1 ranked iron model played. At the Queens Cup in Thailand, Fourteen Golf had almost twice as many TC-910 Irons in play as compared to Srixon, Titleist, and TaylorMade and three times more than Ping and Callaway. Fourteen Golf MT-28 V5 WedgesAccording to Fourteen Golf COO Marcy Kamoda, "We are proud that the professionals on the Asian Tour use our TC-910 irons weekly. It helps the company on many levels. First, it exposes our product to the golfing fans or spectators who attend the tournaments and it also brings a level of credibility to the performance of our products." These traditionally shaped irons are manufactured with soft Forged S20C steel and are slightly offset. The CG moves progressively higher as the clubs get shorter, creating optimal spin rates for each club. Initially these irons were designed specifically for the professional, so fittingly they look like a "Players Irons." They are designed with a clean muscle-cavity back iron head that produces a classic forged feel. "In addition to receiving praise and support from the professionals, our TC-910 Forged Irons were included in the highly coveted 2010 Golf Digest 'Hot List'. The judges graded them with four and half stars for performance as well as in the look/sound/ feel category," added Kamoda. In addition to the success Fourteen Golf and their TC-910 Forged irons are enjoying on the Asian Tour, the company has been credited with many tour victories and Top-10 finishes. Fourteen Golf Victories: Including the recent victory at the Bentonville Open at Lost Springs Golf & Athletic club, Fourteen Golf has celebrated seven professional tour victories during the 2010 golf season; The South Georgia Classic on the Nationwide Tour, The Maybank Malaysian from the European Tour, the Carolina Series on the Hooters Tour, the Cyber Agent Cup on the LPGA, the Ladies Titan Tire Challenge and the Teva Championship on the Duramed Futures Tour. Fourteen Golf Top-10 Finishes: Fourteen Golf has received recognition for Thirty-six Top-10 finishes this year, they are as follows: (8) PGA Tour: (1) Verizon Heritage, (1) Shell Houston Open, (1) PLAYERS Championship, (2) at the HP Byron Nelson, (1) The Memorial Tournament Presented by Morgan Stanley, (1) St. Jude Classic and (1) another at the US Open. (4) Nationwide Tour: (1) BMW Pro-Am, (2) at the Stadion Athens Classic at UGA, and (1) Fort Smith Classic on the Nationwide Tour. (24) LPGA Tour: (3) Top-10 finishes were captured at the HSBC Women's Champions, (2) clinched at the Kraft Nabisco Championship, (2) from the Honda PTT LPGA Thailand, (3) at the Kia Classic Presented by J Golf, (1) secured at the Mojo Jamaican Invitational, (1) at the Tres Maria Championship, (1) from the Bell South LPGA Classic, (6) impressive Top-10s at the Sybase Match Play Championship and (3) at the LPGA State Farm Classic and (2) from the Shop Rite LPGA Classic. Tour success usually equates to retail success, so we are eager to see how this record helps sales. Fourteen makes very high quality clubs, but they are priced in the ultra premium price range. The TC-910 Forged Iron set is offered in three through pitching wedge. They are finished with a Nickel chrome satin finish and are built with a tour weighted Dynamic Gold Steel Shaft. They began shipping in the early spring and suggested retail is $1,199.00. Keep a lookout for Fourteen golf. If you are looking for top of the line clubs and something a little different, these will be a must hit!

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  • Bridgestone J38 Dual Pocket Cavity Irons – Review

    Bridgestone J38 Dual Pocket Cavity IronsBridgestone Golf has gained lots of recognition in recent years with the media campaign revolving around its B330 and B330s golf balls and the fitting system they use to match players with the balls. Bridgestone has signed several well known pros to their staff, including Fred Couples, Lee Trevino, Nick Price, Charles Howell III and Brandt Snedeker, among others.

    Bridgestone has been making golf balls since 1935, and has been the leading manufacturer in Japan for years, so it’s no surprise that their golf balls are becoming more and more popular in the US, despite a very crowded golf ball market. As far as golf clubs are concerned, they have been in this arena for 38 years. They haven’t been well known for golf clubs in the US market, but I have a feeling that will change very soon.

    For 2010, Bridgestone Golf has introduced the J38 and J38 Dual Pocket cavity forged irons to go with their new J38 460 Driver, and if you overlook these when shopping for your next set you are making a mistake. I first saw these irons at the PGA Demo Day during the PGA Merchandise Show in Feb 2010. Just about every major golf manufacturer was there (about 90 in all) around the huge circular range at Orange County National showing off their new clubs, and the J38s were one of the top three irons that I hit that day, so I wanted to give them a more thorough trial.

    I was sent a set of the J38 Dual Pocket Cavity irons to try out, and I was able to hit about 300 balls and play a few rounds with them, along with letting a friend play a few rounds with them as well. How did they perform? Read on! (Click on the photos below for a closer look)

    Appearance

    Bridgestone J38 Dual Pocket Cavity IronsThe Bridgestone J38 Dual Pocket Cavity irons are a classic looking forged cavity back. There are no fancy graphics or weird technological features added to these sticks. The biggest difference these clubs have to most of the other forged cavity back irons I've seen is that these are a midsize head. The heel to toe length is greater than most other clubs, and this is noticeable at address, but isn't distracting by any means. Having a longer blade profile makes them more forgiving. The rest of the lines are very clean and traditional. They have the thin top line, shallow heel and minimal offset that many lower handicap players prefer.

    Performance

    Bridgestone J38 Dual Pocket Cavity IronsThe J38 Dual Pocket Cavity irons are designed for mid-handicaps down to professionals. Having classic lines and 1020 forged carbon steel heads, they would tend to appeal to lower handicap players anyway. Matched with the high quality Project X Flighted shafts, they would be a good addition to many golfer's bags. With the midsize heads, these irons were indeed more forgiving than my current set, the Srixon i701 Tour forged cavity backs. Hits towards the toe resulted in greater distance and the iron remains very stable at impact. While the J38 DPC irons are forged, they felt a bit firmer than other forgings, but still provide plenty of useful feedback to the player. The Project X Flighted shafts tended to hit the ball higher for me than my Dynamic Golds, but that is the idea. The "Flighted" shafts move the kick point lower in the long irons for a higher trajectory, and move it up in the short irons for better trajectory control. The 6.0 flex rating in my demo set was softer than my usual X100 shafts, also contributing to a higher ball flight for me. When given to my other play tester Tim, an 8- 10 handicap with slower swing speed, the shaft performed flawlessly. At first he didn't like the irons, favoring a club with slightly more offset and a darker finish like the Cleveland CG7 Black Pearl, but after a few rounds of golf with the J38s he didn't want to give them back! The Dual Pocket Cavity feature is simply two cavities in the back of the club that removes weight from behind the face so they can re-distribute it towards the perimeter to make them more forgiving. The cavities are painted black, which makes them blend in to the design so they aren't distracting. Bridgestone staff pro Fred Couples put these irons in his bag, and since joining the Champions Tour he's won just about everything in sight. In his first four events on the senior circuit, he finished 2nd, 1st, 1st and 1st. That's as good an endorsement as you can get! When I tried the J38 Dual Pocket Cavity irons at the 2010 PGA Demo Day in Orlando, I remarked that they were one of the top three irons I had hit that day. The other two irons that I was very impressed with were forged blades. The J38 was the best cavity back iron there in my opinion. They are forgiving without making it too hard to work the ball in either direction. The top of the line shaft offering is a plus as well, since the Project X shaft is usually an upgrade for most other companies. For the street price of $799, you get the stock Project X Flighted shaft.

    Specs and Options

    Bridgestone J38 Dual Pocket Cavity IronsBridgestone offers numerous custom shaft options for the J38 irons, including options from companies like Aldila, FST, Grafalloy, Nippon, True Temper and Royal Precision. The Project X Flighted and Project X shafts should be popular, as are the KBS Tour shafts and the old standby - Dynamic Gold and Dynamic Gold SL. The lofts and lies of these irons can be adjusted by Bridgestone's custom department in one degree increments, plus or minus 3 degrees. The lofts in this set are pretty strong, as with most modern sets. The PW here is 46 degrees, making a gap wedge likely a good idea. The J38 DPC irons conform to the USGA's new groove rule, making them OK for play under the new condition of competition on the PGA Tour - not that 99.99% of people that buy these are really concerned with that, but I had to mention it.

    Overall Impressions

    These irons can do it all, from high flying shots that stop fast to low, penetrating knockdowns. They perform well from the rough and are just as workable as any other forged cavity back irons on the market. They have a larger head than most other forged cavity back irons, but that doesn't hinder them in any way. These irons are solid, stable and look good. If you are in the market for high performance forged cavity back irons with premium shafts, these irons will deliver. I think these will be best for a mid handicap player that is working his/her way to single digits and wants a forgiving forged club that will provide enough feel and feedback to help them improve. Take some time to try these out, and you won't be disappointed!

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  • Adams Idea Pro Black CB1 Irons – First Look

    Adams Idea Pro Black CB1 IronsAdams Golf continues to come up with impressive looking clubs that perform well. A while back the Adams Idea Pro Black irons and Hybrids came out, and now the latest in the Pro Black series is the CB1 irons. Taking design cues and feedback from their staff of touring professionals, the CB1 irons are forged from 8620 carbon steel and milled to add detail and shape the grooves to the exact 2010 USGA legal dimensions. They also sport Adams’ very popular nickel chromium plated black finish, otherwise known as the black physical vapor deposition (PVD) finish.  These new irons are sure to be a hit, bridging the gap between the Idea Pro Black blades and the A7 game improvement irons. They have very classic lines and less offset, so mid to low handicap golfers should love these sticks.

    “Originally developed exclusively for our professional staff players like Tom Watson, the overwhelmingly positive comments about the feel and performance of the CB1s from the tour inevitably led us to make this set an integral part of the successful Idea family of irons,” said Chip Brewer, President and CEO of Adams Golf. “This stealth-looking set has already received high marks from golf enthusiasts plugged into the online community so we look forward to bringing the CB1s to low-handicap golfers everywhere who appreciate the control and workability of this forged set of irons.”

    The stock shafts for the Idea Pro Black CB1 iron set are the Rifle Project X Flighted steel shaft or the Mitsubishi Rayon Javln FX i95 graphite shaft, available in regular, stiff or extra-stiff flexes. Offered standard in a right-handed 4-GW set configuration, the Idea Pro Black CB1 iron sets begin shipping to golf shops April 15 with a suggested retail price of $899.99 for steel and $1,099.99 for graphite.

    We are trying to get a set of these for review, and when we do I’ll be sure to post it! Here’s some more detail and pictures:

    • Forged 8620 carbon steel construction provides exceptional feel, performance and feedback for the skilled player.
    • A precision milled cavity and precisely located center of gravity deliver a penetrating ball flight
      with workability.
    • Each head has milled grooves that comply with 2010 USGA competition requirements while maximizing spin from all playing conditions.
    • A thin top line and beveled trailing edge reduces turf interaction, delivering the look and workability in various turf conditions.
    • Constant offset throughout delivers seamless performance and control through the entire set.
    • Dramatic Ni-Cr plated black finish for a sleek and hot look.
    • Rifle Project X Flighted Rifle steel shaft or Mitsubishi Rayon JAVLN FX i95 graphite shaft.

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  • Cleveland HB3 Hybrid Irons – First Look

    Cleveland HB3 Hybrid IronsCleveland Golf/Srixon has been hard at work coming up with an entire lineup of new clubs for 2010. In the line up are the already very popular CG15 Wedges and CG7 Black Pearl irons. Add to that the new Launcher DST Drivers and Fairway woods, the new CG1 Tour irons and Classic BRZ Putters and I have a feeling it will be a good year for Cleveland.

    In the super game-improvement category, Cleveland looks to become a major factor with its new iron offering called the HB3 Hybrids. The third generation of their HiBore irons, they are lighter, faster and longer than any of Cleveland’s previous iron sets. They have aggressive internal weighting and a forgiving sole design as well as being a fully hybrid transitional set. Designed primarily for high handicap golfers, the HB3 Hybrids come equipped with Action Ultralight graphite shafts, which are 15 grams lighter and have a lower kickpoint than their predecessors.

    The combination of ultra light shafts with a low kickpoint and the low CD of the HB3, these irons will hit the ball high and straight. The will start shipping to retailers on April 1, 2010 and carry an estimated price tag of $599 (Steel) and $699 (Graphite)

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