The golf equipment landscape is constantly shifting, and one of the most enjoyable trends is the resurgence of retro brands with significant heritage coming back to prominence. MacGregor has tapped into this beautifully, honoring one of history's most influential club designers with the launch of the Toney Penna Tour Forged iron range.

Precision forged from premium 1020 carbon steel, these muscle-backs marry classic craftsmanship with modern direct-to-consumer (DTC) efficiency, even offering full custom fitting online.

In terms of shelf appeal, the "in the bag" look is superb. MacGregor has opted for minimal branding, leaving a sophisticated finish beautifully elevated by the addition of the Toney Penna signature on the hosel.

Down behind the ball, the head shapes are superb; fans of soft, rounded curves and shorter blade lengths will be completely in their element here.

For me, the only thing that cheapens the look or gives any indication of the price bracket is the painted grooves. Sometimes less is more, and if I were gaming these, the first thing I would do is scrape the paint from the grooves, leaving them clean and blank.

In terms of performance, the data stacks up - as it does with almost every iron in this category, frankly. There is only so much you can do to influence data output with a forged blade at a certain loft, and that is the case once again here.

Granted, I found a couple of extra yards through the air versus most other MB’s on the market, but I am putting that down to the slightly stronger lofts (7 iron is 32˚ whereas most other MB’s or blades are at 33˚ or 34˚). Interestingly, this didn’t manifest itself with a lower ball flight than other blades I have tested recently, so I treated the small yardage boost as just a little bonus.

To me, with data so tight, the only true differentiators in this category are looks and feel. We've covered looks, so how do they feel?

Well, I would place them at a solid 8 out of 10 in that category. While they are reasonably soft and offer good feedback, I found them to lack the real density and depth that, say, the Cobra 3DP MB or the Mizuno Pro S1 give you. But then, you have to weigh up whether a touch more depth of strike is worth upwards of £1000 to you! Honestly, for me, that was the only real difference on show.

At less than £400 for a 4-PW set (with the MB model coming in at an RRP of £399.99), the value is unbelievable when you consider many mainstream brands are £1200 plus as a starting point.

Overall, this is another brilliant example of what the DTC iron market can offer. I’ve said it before, and I will say it again: I am very fortunate to get my golf equipment free, but if I were spending my own hard-earned money on a set of irons, the DTC market is the only place I would be looking.

For many years, Benross has been a brand synonymous with value, often serving as the entry point for golfers looking for reliable equipment without the four-figure price tag.

However, with the release of the new RS iron range - comprising the RS100, RS200, and RS300 - the brand seems to be moving into a new tier and looking to challenge some of the best irons in the game.

At £549 for a seven-piece set, the value proposition is immediately clear. But after testing the range, it was immediately evident to me that these aren’t just budget clubs; they are serious performers that offer a strong alternative to the dominance of the major manufacturers in the hollow-body category.

The first thing I noticed about the RS range was the shelf appeal. Benross has opted for a minimalist, clean aesthetic from the back that is remarkably sophisticated.

For me, the finish is a particular highlight - a matt texture that reveals an almost sparkly quality in certain lights. It looks significantly more premium than the price tag suggests, avoiding the cluttered, busy graphics often found in value-driven irons.

Because the branding and design language are so consistent across all three models, they are strikingly similar from the back.

While this made picking the right club out in testing worryingly difficult(!), it makes the RS range one of the most cohesive options on the market for creating a combo set. You could easily transition from an RS300 long iron into RS200 mid irons and RS100 short irons without the set looking mismatched in the bag.

All three models share the same DNA: a two-piece foam-filled hollow body construction featuring a 431 stainless steel body and a heat-treated S450 face. This uniform construction means the feel remains consistent as you move through the range.

During testing, the aforementioned feel was impressive - solid and dampened, yet noticeably energetic. The 20% thinner S450 face certainly does its job in generating ball speed. If there is a caveat, it’s that the face can feel a touch lively for those used to traditional forged blades.

I experienced a couple of mildly jumpy strikes that flew about 5 or 6 yards further than anticipated. However, these weren't ‘card wreckers’; we’re talking about landing on the back edge of the green rather than pin-high, a potentially fair trade-off for the distance on offer.

While they look similar, the performance characteristics are clearly defined:

RS100: This is the "player's" profile. With a classic profile and minimal offset, it’s designed for the better ball striker. It flew a touch lower and offered the most workability in the range. In terms of look and flight, it would be comparable to something like the TaylorMade P770.

RS200: Positioned as a mid-handicap solution, the 200 model offers a mid-size head and moderate offset. It balances workability and forgiveness nicely, reminding me of the TaylorMade P790. The CG is slightly lower than the RS100, making it easier to launch while maintaining a predictable trajectory.

RS300: For the golfer seeking maximum help. This is the largest head with the most offset, designed to promote face closure and a more draw bias flight. It launched very high and was incredibly forgiving through the turf thanks to a wider sole. For me, this one is competing with the likes of the Callaway Quantum Max or Cobra King irons.

One of the most impressive aspects of this launch is the accessibility of custom fitting. On the American Golf website, there are double-digit shaft options to select from (including KBS and Fujikura), along with loft and lie adjustments and various grip choices. This level of customization at this price point is a real bonus.

I would genuinely have absolutely no reservations recommending the Benross RS range to friends looking to save money on their next purchase. They look great, feel decent, and the performance gaps between the models are perfectly judged.

Benross has proven that you don't need to spend £1,200 to get a high-performing, custom-fit set of modern hollow-body irons.

As an equipment reviewer, I have really enjoyed seeing the resurgence of a brand that was so prevalent during my youth and formative years. Having previously reviewed the excellent XC2 irons, I have been thrilled to see how well this kind of retro resurgence has been executed by Maxfli.

There are no unnecessary frills here, and nothing trying too hard to be overly nostalgic - just some beautifully clean, minimalist designs that let the craftsmanship do the talking.

Let’s find out if these can give the current best blades a run for their money...

In terms of the technology story, the XC1 irons are packed with hidden innovations. They are forged from 1025C Carbon Steel using an advanced five-step forging process. Inside the head, co-forged internal tungsten weighting and CMC (Ceramic Matrix Composite) provide precise vertical and horizontal CG locations.

Notably, Maxfli is the first manufacturer in the industry to use this CMC technology specifically for weight saving and precision CG location, aiming to produce tour-preferred feel, trajectory, and distance control. Additionally, CNC milled Multi-Groove technology places more square grooves on the face for improved consistency, trajectory, and spin.

So if you are a fan of the groove pattern of the TaylorMade P7TW or even the old Nike VR Pro blades, these may well be worth a look.

In the bag, the XC1 irons are sensational looking. The premium satin finish is absolutely stunning and almost glimmers in the sunlight. Anyone who has read any of my reviews will know how much I value a clean, unfussy look, and Maxfli has absolutely nailed it here.

Down behind the ball, you will find a longer blade length than in many of the blade irons on the market, which is the first visual clue that they might be a little more forgiving than many of their direct competitors in this category.

In the playing position, along with being a touch long, I wouldn't say they are my absolute favorites from this angle. Far from bad, I just personally prefer a slightly straighter top edge moving into a curved toe, rather than the gentle curve found on this top edge. While I enjoy roundness in my iron heads, I always feel that there needs to be some straight lines to offer visual balance.

On the XC1, the leading edge, top edge, toe section, and the leading edge-to-hosel transition are all somewhat curved. Obviously, this is totally subjective, however, and this profile may well be very much in other people's wheelhouse.

Generally, in terms of launch monitor performance in the blade category, there is very little to differentiate models in terms of carry, ball speed, and even spin, and that is very much the case here.

Gathered on my Foresight Sports GC3, with conservative, traditional lofts (the 7-iron sits at 34˚), all of the launch monitor numbers are exactly as I would expect, and very comparable to any of the leading contenders in this space such as the Mizuno Pro S1 or the Titleist 620 MB.

What I didn't expect, however, was the added forgiveness, presumably unlocked by the tungsten weighting and that innovative CMC technology.

Much like with the incredibly impressive Cobra 3DP MB irons - which implement a similar internal weighting- the ball speed retention on heel and toe strikes is outstanding. I tend to think of this technology as internal perimeter weighting, and it is incredibly effective.

Despite many people's concerns that cramming technology and ‘pockets’ into a forged blade would affect the feel, the only effect I find is overwhelmingly positive. No drop-off on centred hits, but a massive uptick in feel on heel and toe efforts.

At $999.00 for a 7-piece set, they are priced extremely competitively for what they offer in today's market. Sadly for the UK audience, they are currently only available in the US at Golf Galaxy and Dick's Sporting Goods, but I am sincerely hoping that changes soon (don’t worry, I will be stamping my feet with the powers that be!), as they are not only extremely good, they are exceptional value.

As an equipment tester, every now and then, a product arrives on the doorstep that stops you dead in your tracks, and I can say without a shadow of a doubt that the Ore Golf Foundry Edition irons may be the coolest-looking set of irons I have ever been sent to test.

In an era where complex computer-generated technology is packed into almost every clubhead on the market, the minimalist, robust look of the Foundry Edition irons has been executed staggeringly well.

From an 'in the bag' perspective, these irons are genuinely captivating. The hand-finished, acid-etched, pre-patina finish is nothing short of extraordinary and somehow looks even better in person.

More than just a visual treat, they may, weirdly, be the most appealing iron to touch ever made! The raw 1020 carbon steel leaves a kind of rough, powdery sensation; I simply can't put them down.

However, it is when you set them down behind the ball that the Foundry Edition truly shines. The look at address is stunning, framed by well-thought-out angles and razor-sharp lines. You get precisely 0.0mm offset in the 7-iron down to the pitching wedge, but don’t worry, they go up to a whopping(!) 0.5mm in the longer irons. It is a terrifyingly beautiful profile.

The allure doesn’t stop at the clubheads. A beautiful nod to golf’s golden era, the genuine leather wrap grips add undeniable character. Far from just a retro gimmick, they are a genuinely premium addition to the overall prestige of these remarkable irons.

In terms of performance, let's get one thing straight: if you are looking for any 'help', then look elsewhere.

These are unapologetically demanding and have been crafted with the requirement for pin-point ball striking in mind - you'll find no tungsten, hollow bodies, or perimeter weighting looking out for your best interests here.

Furthermore, unlike many modern irons that tend to bunch in loft, the Ore blades go up in consistent 4˚ increments from the 47˚ pitching wedge. This results in a very modestly lofted 7-iron of 35˚, so manipulated distance isn't on the menu here either.

For context, my current 7-iron (Cobra 3DP MB) flies 177 yards for me, and this went little more than 170, but that is far from the point.

The impact feel is every bit as soft and clean as I had hoped and imagined when you find the middle. But stray from the center of the face and you don't need to be Sherlock Holmes to solve the mystery of where impact occurred; your hands will do that for you! It is a pure, unadulterated, and refreshingly unfiltered connection between player and club.

Frankly, I love the whole vibe and concept here; it is like a journey back in time, offering up a completely different and refreshing way of looking at the game and specifically the equipment you use for the job.

As I have said many times on the Kick Point podcast, I think a lot of golfers would do well to consider what they genuinely want to get out of the game.

For years, marketing teams have rammed 'optimal performance' down our throats with promises of tighter dispersion, more distance, and AI-driven specs - but many players just aren't in it for that. For some, the score is secondary.

Many of us, despite what we’re told to think, don’t care about optimizing data. We are in it for the sheer satisfaction of one pure strike, or the feeling of looking down at a club that evokes genuine emotion rather than a soulless piece of tech designed to mask our flaws.

If that concept resonates with you, then I can't think of many more fun clubs to look down on than these.

You should, however, be aware that the Ore Golf Foundry Edition irons are severely limited in quantity (with only 50 sets available worldwide), so if they have piqued your interest, I wouldn’t dawdle. If you do decide to take the plunge, in my opinion, they are incredibly modestly priced at $999 for the exceptional craftsmanship and visuals on offer here.

Whether you would choose to use them in your club championship, or purchase them as a collectable or 'office piece' is a matter for your own psyche, but, whatever your preference, they will no doubt be enjoyed in any capacity they are employed.

LA Golf has always thrived as a high-end disruptor, carving out a niche with radical shafts and avant-garde driver faces.

However, the brand’s recent trajectory has shifted from bold innovation to a series of sudden, strategic pivots. With the UK site in heavy clearance and the US site reduced to a minimal placeholder following reports of significant restructuring, the company’s future in hardware feels increasingly precarious.

This foray into clubs has been a rollercoaster. We watched the brand develop bespoke prototypes with Bryson DeChambeau, only for that high-profile partnership to dissolve before the clubs ever saw a tournament bag.

While the headlines focused on those experimental projects, I was quietly testing something much more refined: the CB-26 player’s cavity back. It was meant to be their mainstream masterpiece. But as the brand’s retail presence fades, these irons have effectively become ghosts of a release that may never truly arrive. Having already gone to the effort of testing them, I decided to put the review out there anyway - if only as a tribute to what could have been.

The previous iron efforts I had seen from LA Golf amounted to a brief glimpse of some curved face prototypes, specifically for DeChambeau; however, the more traditional MB and CB models have clearly struck a chord with Sergio Garcia, who has been spotted testing and gaming a combo set of both.

Sitting in the bag, the shelf appeal of the LA Golf CB-26 is undeniable. Forged from 1020 carbon steel, the CBs feature a gorgeous premium matte finish that reduces glare and looks very high-end. The visible weight port in the back cavity gives off a strong industrial vibe, reminiscent of the classic Callaway Apex CBs, which is meant as a definite compliment in my book.

At the address, the club presents a profile that demands good ball striking. You get a fairly thin, rolled topline and minimal offset that frames the ball beautifully. However, I did find the toe profile slightly jarring. To my eye, the toe protrudes a bit too aggressively, creating a somewhat angular aesthetic rather than the soft, curved transition back to the topline that I usually prefer to see.

It’s a subjective critique - and perhaps I’m being overly fussy - but it’s a distinct visual trait that some may love, and others, such as myslef may question.

Strike the ball out of the middle of the CBs, and the sensation offers a good, solid thud. It is certainly not firm, but it doesn't quite possess that deep, melting softness you get from the absolute best-in-class forgings like the Mizuno Pro S3 or the TaylorMade P7CB. It’s a "business-like" feel - crisp, direct, and honest.

In terms of data, the results are exactly what you would anticipate from a classically lofted forged cavity iron (the 7-iron sits at a fairly traditional 33°). Nothing jumps off the page in terms of distance, but that isn't the point of this club.

What is fascinating is how closely the CB-26 mirrors the performance of its sibling, the MB-26. The feel and flight characteristics are almost identical, which may explain why Sergio Garcia found it so easy to blend them.

During my testing, the only discernible differences were a marginally (and I do mean minuscule) higher launch angle from the CB, and, if I am really clutching at straws, perhaps a touch more ball speed retention on mishits.

However, it is difficult to quantify the latter definitively, as no two mishits are created equal, and there is often a "placebo effect" of confidence when switching from a blade to a cavity back.

Where this iron truly separates itself is in the build quality and components. I am a huge fan of the weight ports allowing swing weight adjustments exactly where they should be - behind the strike. This avoids the need for tip weights, which can alter the CG or the application of unsightly lead tape.

Additionally, the stock shaft offering is tremendous. I tested the L-Series 120i graphite model in 5 flex (X-Stiff), and the stability was hugely impressive.

I've conducted several 'What's In The Bag' interviews over the past few years where players have been using the L-Series shafts, and it has now become clear why. It offers the tight dispersion of steel with the vibration-dampening qualities of graphite, making for a potent combination.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the LA Golf CB-26.

It is a genuine shame that these will likely never see a full public release. In a market crowded with "safe" designs from the major OEMs, the CB-26 was a sophisticated, high-performance alternative that allowed for incredible custom-build precision. To see such a polished product reach the finish line only to vanish into the vacuum of a corporate restructuring is a loss for gear enthusiasts.

The CB-26 isn't just a good iron; it’s a haunting reminder of a hardware dream that may be over before it truly began.

There is a persistent myth in the golf industry that to obtain a truly premium, precision-milled blade, you have to part with a sum of money north of $1,500.

After spending significant time with the Sub 70 669 MB irons, that notion hasn't just been challenged - it’s been dismantled. As an equipment tester, I see the best of the best, but the 669 MB is a stark reminder that incredible brands exist outside the local pro shop, offering performance that rivals, and often exceeds, the industry giants.

Visually, the 669 MB strikes a sophisticated chord. From the back, the minimal branding and soft CNC milling lines offer up an extremely premium aesthetic that wouldn't look out of place in a boutique Japanese forge.

The profile of the iron is particularly strong; it sits in that ‘Goldilocks’ zone of blade shaping. It isn't overly curvy like the Haywood CB, yet it avoids the hyper-boxy, angular look of the TaylorMade P7TW. The topline is thin enough to challenge you, but also a nod to the potential feedback on offer.

I also have to mention a personal quirk: I am a total sucker for the knurling around the hosel. It’s a small detail, but it adds a rugged, ‘machined’ feel to an iron that I have loved since first seeing it on Hogan clubs of yesteryear.

When you move from the aesthetics to the turf, the 669 MB continues to impress. The feel at impact is exceptional - soft, responsive, and remarkably ‘pure’ when struck out of the center. Much of this is aided by the very thoughtful pre-ground leading edge. It allows the club to move through the turf with superb efficiency, preventing the digging sometimes associated with sharper blades while maintaining that crisp connection every low-handicap player craves.

One of the most refreshing aspects of the 669 MB is the loft configuration. It is increasingly rare to see a true muscle back with a slightly stronger base loft than the traditional 34° 7-iron. The 669 MB 7-iron sits at 32°, with the pitching wedge at 45°. For a certain type of player, this will be really useful.

Usually, if you want a stronger flight in a blade, you have to bend them stronger, which will increase offset and reduce bounce - two things most blade players want to avoid. Starting at 32° provides a penetrating flight without compromising the clean, low-offset look.

On my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, this translated into a launch window that was a touch lower than my current Cobra 3DP MB irons. However, the data was reassuring; despite the slightly lower launch, the spin numbers didn't drop off noticeably at all.

This resulted in a very ‘heavy’ ball flight that cut through the wind with ease. Performance-wise, much like the 669 TC, the MB irons are brilliantly predictable. Whether it was the launch window, spin rate, or carry numbers, the predictable nature of these irons is exactly what you want to see when you're flag-hunting.

Finally, the DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) experience Sub 70 offers is something many larger manufacturers could learn from. The level of customization is excellent. Whether you want satin, black, or raw finishes, or if you want to go wild with twelve different ferrule options, Sub 70 makes it happen.

If I were reaching into my own pocket for a new set of irons this year, the Sub 70 669 MB would be very close to the top of my list. In my opinion, they represent the pinnacle of what a modern blade should be: beautiful, predictable, and fairly priced.

In the current golf equipment landscape, the ceiling for iron prices seems to vanish every season. With major manufacturers pushing sets well beyond the $1,500 mark (before you even get to your Cobra 3DP and McLaren’s of the world!), the barrier to entry for a premium, forged players' iron has never been higher.

However, spending time with the Sub 70 669 TC irons does nothing but reinforce my long-held belief: if I were a paying customer rather than an equipment tester, paying more than $1,000 for a set of irons makes very little sense.

It feels like a choice born out of habit, with most people seeing only what is available in their local pro shop and remaining unaware that incredible direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands like Sub 70 are producing world-class hardware at a fraction of the cost.

The ‘TC’ stands for Tour Cavity, and the 669 is definitely designed for the golfer who wants the workability of a blade with just enough perimeter weighting to take the sting out of a slight mis-hit. Forged from DT-4 soft stainless steel, the 669 TC undergoes a triple-forging process to ensure structural integrity and a dense, high-quality feel.

From the back, the 669 TC offers an extremely premium aesthetic. The branding is delightfully minimal, allowing the soft CNC milling lines to do the talking. There is a refined, industrial elegance here that suggests high-end craftsmanship. As a bit of a traditionalist, I am also a sucker for the knurling around the hosel - it’s a small, classic detail that adds a touch of character to a very clean design.

Down behind the ball, the profile is expertly executed. Sub 70 has opted for very traditional shaping and blade lengths in the longer and mid-irons, providing that sleek ‘players’ look that better ball-strikers crave. As you move into the short irons, the profile becomes a touch more ‘squat.’ It’s a subtle shift, but one that really suits my eye; they look compact and sturdy, framing the ball beautifully without looking oversized.

One of the most thoughtful design elements is the pre-ground leading edge. By softening the entry point of the club into the turf, Sub 70 has created a sole that glides through the ground rather than digging. Whether you are playing in firm links conditions or lush parkland turf, the interaction is superb, providing the meaty ‘thump’ every golfer loves to hear.

The feel of these irons is exceptional - soft, responsive, and communicative. You know exactly where you’ve struck it on the face, yet the DT-4 steel provides a dampened, ‘buttery’ sensation on centered strikes.

Performance-wise, ‘consistent’ is the word that kept coming to mind during testing.

In an era where some players' irons are chasing distance at the expense of gapping, the 669 TC stays true to its mission. The launch window is stable, the spin rates are exactly where a low-handicapper needs them to be, and the carry numbers are remarkably predictable. For a better player, predictability is the ultimate currency, and these deliver it in spades.

A notable feature is the loft indexing. The 7-iron sits at 32°, which is a touch stronger than competitors like the TaylorMade P7CB or Titleist 620 CB (both at 33°). I find this to be a fantastic option. Often, when you seek out this category for the looks and feel, you are forced into very ‘traditional’ weak lofts. If you want more distance, you usually have to bend them, which can inadvertently increase offset and decrease bounce. Starting a fraction stronger allows for that extra bit of ball speed without compromising the club's visual or functional integrity.

One area where Sub 70 truly laps the field is the buying experience. They offer options the major manufacturers simply don't: Satin, Black, or Raw finishes? You got it. Twelve different ferrule options? Why not. The ability to customize the aesthetics of your set to this degree is something the top brands could learn a lot from.

If I were spending my own hard-earned money on a set of irons this year, the Sub 70 669 TC and the Haywood Golf CB would be at the very top of my list.

With their soft impact feel, superb turf interaction, and sheer predictability, the 669 TC proves that you don't need to spend $1,500 to get a ‘tour’ level experience. They are a masterclass in value and performance.

It isn't every day that a titan of industry decides to pivot into the hyper-competitive world of golf equipment. When that titan is McLaren, a name synonymous with Formula 1 dominance and automotive perfection, the anticipation is electric.

WATCH: Joe Ferguson tests the new McLaren Series 3 irons

Having a new entry into the manufacturing stable with the sheer technical expertise and R&D resources that McLaren possesses is, frankly, one of the most exciting developments in the industry for years. Its stated ambition is to bring the "exacting standards" of its racing teams to the fairway.

However, without wanting to start the review too negatively, I must admit to being marginally disappointed when I opened the box with the brand’s big launch as a whole.

Perhaps it was my own doing, but I had built up an appetite and expectation for a comprehensive, through-the-bag product lineup, whereas, in reality, we have a partially complete iron offering.

While we have the Series 1 and Series 3, the Series 2 is notably absent from the initial release, and furthermore, Series 1 won't even be available for testing for another month. So, after all the excitement and anticipation, for all intents and purposes, the big launch currently boils down to just one model: the Series 3.

For those wondering where they can view and possibly test McLaren product as and when it becomes available, you won't find these sitting in the racks of your local big-box store or pro shop. McLaren is opting for a Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) model through its website or via a very select group of specialist fitting accounts. It’s an exclusive approach that fits the brand.

Despite the undeniably high build quality, the Series 3 is visually far too busy for me. From an ‘in the bag’ perspective, the combination of a multitude of different materials and textures - while technically impressive - lacks the understated premium impression one expects at this price point.

Bearing in mind, we are talking about a £360 ($375) per iron asking price here. I'm not sure the look is helped by the unfortunately striking resemblance to the (it is fair to say) budget brand Benross. While - short of re-designing their whole logo - there isn't much McLaren could do about this, a more subtle and premium execution may have bolstered the overall look.

The design features a structural mesh, a carbon fiber 'bonnet', and visible tungsten weighting. While these allow for strategic weight distribution and vibration reduction, there is simply too much going on visually to put these in the same conversation as the clean, minimalistic lines of the Titleist T350 or TaylorMade P790.

The numbering on the clubs - which resembles the segmented text of a digital alarm clock - cheapens the look to my eyes but let me know in the comments if you feel differently!

The visual appeal didn't get much better for me at address either, although I appreciate this is entirely subjective.

The heel is a little too pinched, and the toe is very high and pronounced, creating a very angular look. The profiles are better in the long irons than the short, but overall, the shaping feels a bit disjointed compared to more traditional designs.

Fortunately, when you look past the superficial and subjective, the Series 3 irons are decent performers. The Metal Injection Molding (MIM) process delivers a sensation that is significantly more premium than the looks suggest. It provides the "superior sound and feel of forging" promised, with much higher technical precision.

The impact is rich, deep, and soft - something many game-improvement irons struggle to achieve. Much of this is likely down to the carbon fiber ‘bonnet’, which encapsulates the calibration weight while actively reducing vibration. Additionally, the heel cut sole design is extremely effective; it noticeably reduces turf drag and improves strike consistency.

In terms of raw data (collected on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor), the Series 3 is strikingly similar to the impressive Srixon ZXi5. It offers decent ball speeds and a slightly lower launch than many contemporaries in the game-improvement category.

While not ‘rocket launchers’ like the Titleist T250, the distance output was impressively consistent. The Tungsten CG System, which uses a hidden toe weight (3g - 16g) and internal calibration weights (10g - 17g), clearly does its job in stabilizing the head.

With design input from the likes of Ian Poulter and Justin Rose, I remain very hopeful for the Series 1 irons. However, for this initial Series 3 release, I can't help but feel a touch underwhelmed.

McLaren had a real opportunity to bring a touch of class and technological refinement to the market. Instead, we have an iron that, to me at least, is a touch brash and disjointed, despite its genuine performance merits.

Brand loyalists who have enough spare cash to drive a McLaren car will no doubt jump at the opportunity to match up their irons to their wheels, but for me, this is going to be very much a vanity or status purchase when there are significantly better irons available for less than half the price.

One relevant question to consider: as McLaren expands into a ‘full bag’ ambition (as we are told they will), will they refine this aesthetic to better match the elegance of their automotive heritage? Only time will tell.

The rise of direct-to-consumer (DTC) golf brands has transformed the equipment landscape, but few have managed to blend boutique aesthetics with high-performance engineering as seamlessly as Haywood. Its CB iron is a masterclass in this balance, aimed squarely at the "better player" who demands a clean look without sacrificing the playability required for modern competitive golf.

The first thing that struck me about the Haywood CB is the very clear "less is more" philosophy, which is a drum I have been banging on social media for some time!

In an era where many manufacturers clutter the cavity with badges, information, and neon accents, Haywood has opted for a stunningly minimal design. The satin finish and subtle milling marks create an incredibly premium feel.

At the address, the profile is equally impressive.

While it features a slightly thicker topline than its razor-thin MB sibling, it remains firmly in the "player's iron" category. The offset is minimal, and the toe section is beautifully rounded, creating a soft, curvy look that frames the ball superbly and is a look I crave in all irons. Its clever balance of shape and proportions creates a shape that inspires confidence without looking chunky.

While the exterior is simple, the manufacturing process is a touch more labour-intensive. The CBs are forged from 1020 carbon steel before undergoing an arduous CNC milling process. This is the secret to their consistency; milling the entire head allows for some of the tightest weight and measurement tolerances in the industry.

By milling the cavity, Haywood has strategically positioned mass around the perimeter. This provides a "safety net" of forgiveness that differentiates it from a pure blade. It’s not a game-improvement club by any means, but the stability on off-center strikes is a notable step up from the MB model.

During testing, the launch monitor data (collected on my Foresight Sports GC3) was eye-opening. The numbers were almost identical to the TaylorMade P7CB - an iron I hold in very high regard.

The Haywood CB is very much a control-oriented iron; it produces a lower, penetrating launch with higher spin rates than the modern "distance brigade" of hollow-body irons. If you are looking to "flight" your shots and hold firm greens, this is exactly the profile you want.

The feel is where the milling process truly shines, and impact results in a beautifully muted strike sensation. Even on slight miscues, there is an absolute absence of harshness transmitted to the hands as it provides the buttery feedback of a premium forging but with a dampened, high-end acoustic that reinforces the club's quality.

It is worth noting that the sole of the CB is quite thin throughout, measuring roughly 0.7". For the shallow player who "picks" the ball clean, these will work superbly; however, this thinness does put a demand on precision. Steeper players who take hefty deep divots might find the leading edge a bit sharp; for those golfers, it may be worth consulting a club maker to slightly soften that edge on a grinding wheel.

I am surprised to be writing this, but I honestly believe the Haywood CB is one of the most compelling irons on the market today. The value proposition is, quite frankly, astounding.

Starting from just $799/£609 and offering masses of customization options - from high-end shafts to a vast array of custom ferrule colors - on their website, Haywood is offering a boutique experience at a fraction of the "big name" price.

Another bonus is that they also combo beautifully with the Haywood MB irons. Because the aesthetic is so cohesive, you can transition from CB long irons to MB short irons without any visual interruption if desired.

For the serious golfer looking for a blend of precision, customization, and pure aesthetic joy, the major manufacturers should be seriously scratching their heads at what Haywood has achieved here.

It’s happening. The golf equipment landscape is shifting.

For years, the ‘big manufacturers’ have dominated the bag of the aspirational ball-striker, but the rise of Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) brands is forcing a total re-evaluation of what constitutes a "premium" iron in the blade sector.

Having spent some time on the course and practice ground with the Haywood MB irons, I’m not just impressed; I’m struggling to find a reason why anyone would pay double for a legacy logo.

Haywood takes a refreshingly purist approach to the design process.

The MB is 100% CNC milled from a single block of 1020 soft carbon steel. Unlike traditional forging, which can have slight weight variances, the milling process - which takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours per head - ensures incredible precision and consistency in CG (center of gravity) placement.

The aesthetic is, quite simply, outstanding. It is clean, minimalist, and features beautiful texturing on the back cavity that catches the light without being distracting, while the non-glare matte finish is a sophisticated touch that makes them look like a boutique, high-end tool.

Behind the ball, it just gets better. The profile is breathtaking.

I recently dubbed the Cobra 3DP MB as essentially "perfect" at address, but the Haywood might be the only blade I’ve seen to rival it in the playing position. In fact, there is half an argument to be made that these are better.

They feature slightly less offset and a rounded toe that suits my eye perfectly, avoiding the overly angular "boxy" look found in models like the Mizuno Pro 241 or S1. It is a silhouette that inspires confidence through its simplicity.

As ever, feel is obviously subjective, but the Haywood MB is undeniably "buttery." Impact is superbly soft, at the very least comparable to anything from the major manufacturers.

In fact, in my testing, I actually found the sensation at impact to be softer and more "dense" than a couple of the major players in the Titleist 620 MB or the Srixon Z-Forged II - two irons often cited as the gold standard in the best blade category.

Feedback is instant. You know exactly where you’ve struck it on the face, but even slight mishits don't produce the jarring vibration you might expect from a pure blade.

In terms of performance, truthfully, in this category, launch monitor data is almost entirely irrelevant as a comparison tool.

A one-piece forged blade with conservative lofting (7 iron is at 34˚) time and time again produces the same numbers for me (and I test a lot of clubs!), no matter what brand name is stamped on the bottom, because there is no hollow body or face flexion that can be tweaked or tuned for power.

What is important to note is that the Haywood MB delivered the exact same spin, launch, and carry windows as models twice the price.

One talking point is the turf interaction.

Featuring arguably the slimmest soles on the market at just 0.6", there is zero "fluff" here. If you are a shallow "picker" of the ball, this is your dream scenario. I tend to be a touch on the steeper side, so they demanded a bit more concentration to avoid digging. However, when my swing was on, the leading edge cut through the turf like a sharp knife through a well-cooked fillet.

The elephant in the room here - and what should be very concerning for the 'big-name' brands is the price. You can pick up a 4-PW set starting from a quite staggering $799/£608.

For a club that matches or exceeds the "big brands" in looks, feel, and precision, that is mind-blowingly good value.

Furthermore, the level of customization available on the website is phenomenal - even down to a wide selection of custom, artisan-style ferrules to personalize your purchase.

If you can move past brand-name bias, in my opinion, there is literally no discernible gain to be found by spending $1,600 elsewhere.

The Haywood MB represents the pinnacle of the DTC movement: premium performance without the "tour pro" tax. For those spending their hard-earned cash, these might just be the best-kept secret in golf.

Ping has long been the standard-bearer for the super-game-improvement category. From the early Karsten irons to the recent G730, the mission has remained the same: make the game as easy as possible.

The new Ping G740 iron arrives with that same DNA, but with a significant facelift and some clever engineering tweaks aimed at refining the "big iron" experience.

Under the hood, Ping has pushed the boundaries of perimeter weighting. The sole is 22% wider than that of one of its siblings in the lineup, the G440, and the blade length has grown by 3%. These changes, combined with a shallower face height, have been introduced to help lower the CG (Center of Gravity) significantly.

To help golfers who struggle with long irons, Ping has utilized a 3/4" length progression in the 5 and 6 irons. This is designed to help launch shots higher and farther, bridging the gap between irons and hybrids.

The first thing I noticed about the G740 was the improved "shelf appeal."

I much prefer the updated look in the bag compared to the outgoing G730. The branding just feels more premium and of its time, and the numbering font is significantly nicer.

Ping has also done away with the high-shine chrome finish that I didn't previously love on G730, opting for a cleaner, more contemporary aesthetic that looks far more sophisticated for a super game improvement club.

However, once you put the club down behind the ball, there is no mistaking its purpose. It is "more of the same" for the Ping faithful, designed with maximum confidence in mind. You are greeted by heavy offset, a vast heel-to-toe blade length, and a chunky topline.

Interestingly, the hosel is noticeably shorter on the G740 than the G730. This was engineered to save discretionary weight, but it has a secondary visual effect: it makes the blade appear a touch longer (more so than the 3% measurable increase) due to the shifting proportions.

One minor gripe at address is that in the longer irons, you can definitely see more of the back portion of the cavity bulging out beyond the top edge. It’s a byproduct of the low-CG and wider sole design, but it might be distracting for those used to a cleaner profile.

In terms of raw performance, the G740 feels like a refined evolution rather than a revolution. If you’ve played the G730, you’ll find the performance very familiar - which is no bad thing. Despite Ping's claims of a higher launch, I personally didn't notice any increase in launch or peak height over the previous model during testing.

However, ball speeds were exceptionally strong. Given the very strong loft profile (7-iron is 28˚), this was expected, but the consistency of those speeds was the real standout.

The G740 is unashamedly fast, but what impressed me most, however, was the feel. The new three-piece PurFlex cavity badge does a fantastic job of subduing vibrations. Super game improvement irons can often sound and feel "clunky" or "clicky," but the G740 offers a dampened, powerful impact experience that feels a little more refined than its predecessor.

As you would expect from a club with such high MOI, mishits were nicely flattered.

Whether I struck it out of the toe or low on the face, the ball-speed retention and directional stability were top-tier. The exceptionally wide, dual-camber sole also provides a great bit of insurance; even on slightly "fat" strikes, the club glides through the turf rather than digging, keeping the shot somewhat servicable.

From my testing experience, if you are currently playing the G730, you aren't going to see wild leaps in distance or height by upgrading to the G740. However, what Ping has delivered is one of the most user-friendly game-improvement clubs on the market, wrapped in a much-improved visual package.

The G740 succeeds in providing "insurance" for the amateur golfer, looks better in the bag, feels better off the face, and remains arguably the most forgiving iron in the game. It’s a job well done by the engineering team in Phoenix.

As with the full iron line-up from Ping, the i540s are available in standard, retro (weaker), and power (stronger) loft specs.

The G740 will retail at £185/$202.50 per club in steel, while graphite shafts will set you back £195/$217.50.

Ping has long been a titan in the players' distance category, and the release of the i530 last year set a remarkably high bar. For golfers in search of more speed and distance but who refuse to sacrifice stopping power, the new i540 arrives with a suite of score-lowering innovations.

I took them to the range and the golf course to see if they could surpass one of my favorite irons of recent times and compete with some of the best irons in the game.

Among the key advancements in the i540 is the patent-pending inR-Air Technology. This relies on an air bag (yes, you read that correctly) strategically placed behind the face inside the cavity. The goal is to filter frequencies for improved sound and feel without restricting the face bending that creates distance.

Ping’s engineers chose a specific molecular compound for the TPU insert to ensure it maintains pressurization through temperature changes and even air travel.

The engine of the club remains the forged, variable-thickness maraging-steel face, which is now 9% thinner. This allows for metal-wood-like flexing at the sole and top rail, resulting in faster ball speeds and a higher maximum height.

To support this, new i-Beam Technology adds structural support to the 17-4 stainless steel body, while tungsten weighting in the 4-7 irons lowers the CG to boost launch. Interestingly, some of the tech on offer here is very similar to that found in the iDi utility iron that I absolutely loved in testing, which certainly heightened my expectations.

While I really liked the i530 visually, the i540 is a step forward for me. The aesthetic is a lovely blend of clean and sleek, featuring some very visible nods to the performance element of the design without looking "busy."

Behind the ball, it is very nearly a copy-and-paste from the i530. However, the top line looks to have been slimmed down a touch. It’s a subtle change, but one that will certainly appeal to the better player who wants the help of a distance iron without the chunkier profile often associated with the category.

In terms of feel, I have to say that these aren't my favorite of recent times from Ping. Despite the internal work and the "airbag" technology, I personally found them a touch harsher at strike versus the i530.

Let me be clear, they are far from bad - offering an exceptionally powerful feel and plenty of feedback - but based on my pre-testing reading regarding the inR-Air tech, I was expecting something a touch softer. It’s certainly more of a "hot" sensation rather than a "buttery" one.

Performance-wise, the raw data collected on my Foresight Sports GC3 was exceptional. With relatively strong lofts (the 7-iron coming in at 29°), I was expecting significant ball speed, and that is exactly what I got. Crucially, this was coupled with a comfortable launch angle and spin rates that remained manageable throughout the bag.

The pitching wedge I tested was a particular highlight. Often in the distance iron category, the more lofted clubs lack a little control or finesse, but I didn't get that sense at all from the i540. The shaping was excellent, and it was superbly consistent in terms of carry distance - a vital metric for scoring.

If I were being fussy, I would have preferred to see less offset progression; the longer irons just have a little too much for my eye. However, that may well be a me problem, and many players in this sector will welcome the extra help in squaring the face.

For me, I don’t know if I would call it "progress" from the exceptional i530. In truth, with the improved aesthetic balanced against the slightly harsher feel, things net out about equal in my eyes. However, Ping may just be suffering from the high bar set by the predecessor - I’m sure Da Vinci wouldn’t have been devastated if his next effort had "only" turned out equally as good as the Mona Lisa!

It looks great, it’s fast, and it is extremely consistent. It’s more high-quality engineering from Ping that will undoubtedly find its way into many bags this season.

As with the full iron line-up from Ping, the i540s are available in standard, retro (weaker), and power (stronger) loft specs.

The i540 irons will be available at an RRP of £200/$235 per iron in steel, and £210/$250 in graphite.

The game-improvement iron market is perhaps the most crowded space in golf. Every manufacturer is vying to create the "holy grail" - a club that goes miles, looks premium in the bag, and remains easy to hit.

Tour Edge has long been the king of the value sector, but with the Hot Launch Max, they are making a serious play for performance parity with the industry’s heavyweights.

I took these "rocket launchers" to the range and the course to see if they could deliver more than just a lower price tag and whether they should seriously be worrying some of the best game-improvement irons in the game.

The Hot Launch Max is very much a stereotypical modern-day game-improvement distance iron. The specs tell a clear story: the 7-iron sits at a very strong 27.5°, which is essentially a traditional 5-iron loft.

To make this playable, Tour Edge has employed a 360-degree undercut cavity and a super-low CG (Center of Gravity) location. This design is specifically engineered to aid launch, aiming to ensure that despite the "de-lofted" face, the ball still gets into the air with ease.

Looks-wise, I personally think they are pretty sophisticated from the back. Tour Edge has opted for minimal coloring and a carbon-effect badge in the cavity, which offers a premium feel that you might expect from a much more expensive set.

However, behind the ball, the story changes to one of pure function. Players will be greeted with a very confidence-inspiring setup comprising a long blade length, some heavy offset, and a particularly chunky top line.

If you are looking for refinement and tradition, you should look elsewhere; but if you are after the peace of mind that comes with a good chunk of metal behind the ball, the Hot Launch Max could be the one for you.

Performance-wise, these irons are indeed absolute rocket launchers. Measuring the numbers on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, they offered some of the longest carries and highest ball speeds I have ever experienced in this category.

Normally, with lofts this strong, I would be now offering warnings regarding a lack of spin and reduced stopping power. However, the Hot Launch Max offers a very high level of initial launch.

This translates into steeper descent angles, which genuinely does a good job of making up for the lower spin rates in terms of stopping power on the greens. Essentially, you can stop a ball one of two ways, with spin or with height, and the Hot Launch Max very much veers towards the height side.

I was also quietly impressed with the feel, particularly from the center. It’s a lovely combination of lively, powerful, and soft enough to be enjoyable. Off-center, the experience definitely drops off more than some of the most forgiving irons, with notably harsher sensations from the heel and toe, but thankfully, that vibration doesn't translate to dramatically reduced ball speeds or wide dispersion.

The value is worth discussing, too. With a 4-PW set starting from $699.99 (£526.00), I couldn't help but be taken aback by what is on offer for that price. In an era where $1,200+ iron sets are becoming the norm, Tour Edge is providing a high-performance alternative that doesn't feel like a compromise.

Tour Edge has long carved out a reputation as the "Pound for Pound" leader in golf, and its latest addition to the Hot Launch stable, the Max D Ironwood, seeks to solidify that status.

Designed specifically for those who struggle with traditional irons, this is a club that prioritizes launch, forgiveness, and slice correction above all else. So let's see how it stacks up against some of the best irons in the game…

Undoubtedly, the visual profile of the Max D is unorthodox.

As the name would suggest, it is more of an 'ironwood' than a true iron, sitting in that hybrid-esque space that often divides opinion. However, quite honestly, I don’t mind it. In fact, that’s a little harsh; I quite liked it.

The dark grey fill-in piece of the cavity is executed nicely, giving it a premium, tech-forward vibe, and while the extremely wide sole could be deemed a touch fussy, the overall 'in the bag' appearance has been executed fairly well.

Behind the ball, you would do well to find a profile that inspires more confidence.

The massive head size is further enhanced by the inclusion of full-face grooves, which make the hitting surface feel endless. This is something that I also loved on the Cleveland Halo XL irons.

Predictably, the offset throughout the set is fairly prevalent - designed to help those who fight a right miss - but I didn’t find it too jarring. The proportions of the head are so large that they seem to minimize the offset visually, allowing it to blend into the overall footprint of the club.

I gathered my data on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, and in truth, I was surprised by the quality of the overall performance. If players can get past the unorthodox looks, this ironwood will tick an awful lot of boxes.

Firstly, the feel is tremendous. It offers a lively blend of iron and wood, which exudes masses of power at impact. It doesn't have the "clack" of some hollow-body irons; instead, it feels springy and playable.

Technically, the Max D utilizes a 450 Stainless Steel construction with a hollow-body design that pushes weight as low and deep as possible. This results in a launch that is incredibly easy to come by.

During testing, even thin strikes managed to get airborne with ease.

The wide sole proves hugely beneficial for a huge array of delivery types and turf conditions; whether you are steep and prone to "fat" shots or play on soft, lush fairways, the sole resists digging and keeps the club moving through impact.

As I mentioned, one of the standout features is the full-face grooves.

It really makes me wonder: when will we see a world where all iron faces are full-face grooves? What sense is there in stopping them before the edges when we know high-handicap players can strike almost anywhere on the face!

On the Max D, this ensures that toe or heel strikes retain more spin and control than they would on a traditional iron.

As is so often the case with Tour Edge, the value is a major plus point. With a 4-PW set starting from $699.99/£526.00, it undercuts the major manufacturers significantly while offering genuine performance-enhancing technology.

I am already eyeing up a set for both of my parents, who I am certain would benefit based on their dwindling swing speeds. If you are a slower swinger who struggles to achieve the height you desire or occasionally struggles with heavy contact, these could be exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Vice Golf has spent the last decade disrupting the golf ball market, moving from the realms of cheeky upstart to a legitimate hardware option for many players.

Its latest offering, the VGI03, is a one-piece forged 1020 carbon steel iron aimed squarely at the better player. While Vice is known for a "fun" aesthetic, the VGI03 is a serious attempt to challenge some of the best irons, which balance premium construction with a direct-to-consumer price point.

From the first glance, it is clear that the VGI03s are very "Vice." It’s a company that likes to do things a little differently, and the "in the bag" look is genuinely interesting.

The finish is almost a matte powder coating, and I really enjoy it; it diffuses glare perfectly and gives the club a rugged, modern industrial feel. A particularly classy touch is the subtle logo engraving on the hosel - the lack of paint fill here always makes a club look far more expensive than its price tag suggests to me.

However, the aesthetics aren't a total home run. In my opinion, the main Vice logo on the back of the club feels a bit loud and somewhat cheapens what is otherwise a very premium-looking forged head. Additionally, there is a black line in the "crease" on the back of the club that feels unnecessary (unless I am missing some technical relevance) and breaks up the clean lines of the muscle back.

Behind the ball, I found the VGI03s superb. This is where Vice has clearly done their homework regarding what a low-handicap player wants to see. The blade length is compact, the offset is minimal, and the top line is razor-thin without feeling intimidating.

I will say, however, I showed these to a few low-handicap friends of mine, and a couple of them pointed out a slight overlap of the top edge into the hosel in that all-important transition area. While it was a negative for some of them who like to think of themselves as purists, I didn't mind it at all. In fact, I found them a total joy to look down on, offering the kind of confidence at address that you usually only get from the "big four" manufacturers.

While I haven’t received a full spec sheet just yet, I put the 7-iron on my loft and lie machine, and it measured at 33°, placing it on the traditional side of the spectrum.

I might sound like a broken record here, but performance - in terms of launch monitor data - is essentially identical in terms of launch, spin, and carry to every other forged blade on the market in the 33˚/34˚ 7-iron area, simply because there is so little to play with in terms of technology. There are no flexing faces or hollow bodies to work with here, so the differentiators come in the untangibles in this iron category.

In terms of feel, the 1020 carbon steel provides exactly what you would expect from a quality one-piece forging. The strike is soft and muffled, providing plenty of feedback; you know exactly where you’ve hit it on the face, which is a vital trait for the scratch golfers and ball strikers Vice is targeting.

My one criticism regarding performance lies in the turf interaction. The sole feels a little harsh and unforgiving through the strike for me. It lacks the sophisticated contouring and leading-edge relief that allow the best players' irons to slip through the turf effortlessly. If you tend to be a little "diggy" or catch one slightly heavy, the VGI03 doesn't offer much insurance.

That said, at $999 for a 4-PW set, the value here is undeniable. You are essentially getting a premium forged players' iron without the luxury-brand markup. Vice even offers a 60-day return policy (even on custom builds), which is almost unheard of in the industry.

My only real concern is the market itself. Historically, the "blade" or "muscle back" user is the snobbiest demographic in golf. These players usually prefer to stump up the extra cash for the heritage and prestige of Mizuno, Titleist, or Miura, which gives me concerns about who will be buying this model.

That said, brands like Takomo and Ben Hogan have proven there is a growing appetite for high-quality, lower-priced DTC blades. If players can get past the "value brand" stigma, the VGI03 is a very capable performer that looks great in the bag and will offer some very comparable performance to some much more expensive options.

The Wilson Dynapwr Forged iron enters a crowded and competitive category, blending the aesthetics of a player's iron with the distance and forgiveness producing technology typically found in game-improvement models.

Aimed at players seeking added forgiveness and distance without sacrificing a premium look and feel, this iron promises to offer a lot.

I've been testing the Dynapwr Forged to see if its combination of forged feel and modern distance technology delivers on its promise and if it can compete with some of the best irons of 2026...

In terms of the tech, the Dynapwr Forged is built on a forged 8620 carbon steel face and body, and it utilizes variable face thickness technology, optimized by A.I. simulation, to increase face flexion and energy transfer for more distance and speed. To further enhance feel, the cavity is filled with TE-031 Urethane, which dampens vibrations at impact.

The visual story here is a mixed bag for me. In comparison to last year's model, the back cavity just feels a little fussier, lacking the clean simplicity I prefer. However, looking holistically, the overall aesthetic has probably taken a turn for the better.

I much prefer the Wilson shield when it is used without the letters, as they have on this model - it looks cleaner and more modern. I also like that it has decided to cover up the unpleasant black lines on the sole of last year's model, opting for a more traditional sole visual.

While it is great to hear about and feel the benefit of the technology stories, I don't need to see them all the time.

Crucially, I found them to be noticeably softer than last year's iteration, which is a significant improvement. The forged construction and urethane filling work well together to provide a satisfying, muted impact feel that is a step up from previous generations.

The distance and ball speed output from my testing on my Foresight Sports GC3 Launch monitor was pretty strong, and more importantly, very consistent. Even from some fairly poorly struck iron shots, the retention of carry distance was admirable, going a long way to proving the forgiveness claims of the variable face thickness technology.

However, I do have a hunch that these irons could be somewhat cannibalised by the Staff Model XB from its own stable. Based on my testing, I can't really find a compelling reason why someone would opt for this iron over the XB. Sure, it is marginally stronger in loft, but that can be quickly and easily altered on a loft and lie machine.

For me personally, a weakened off Staff Model XB presents a much more attractive overall package than the Dynapwr Forged for those seeking a 'better player' look with a distance boost.

However, if you’re someone who suffers with a slice and likes a bit of offset, or perhaps you prefer a more mirrored finish, then the Dynapwr Forged could well be the better choice. I would also suggest it offers a slightly more confidence-inspiring look at the address for the player who needs that visual reassurance.

Overall, the 2026 Dynapwr Forged is a nice enough-looking, solid-performing iron. It does everything it claims to do: it’s fairly long, forgiving, and genuinely feels good. However, despite all the good stuff from this iron, I just couldn't shake the feeling that I would much rather be playing the quite exceptional Staff Model XB iron.

For too long, Wilson has been arguably the most criminally underrated manufacturer in the iron game, making some of the best irons on the market over the past few years.

Watch: PGA Professional Joe Ferguson puts the full new Wilson Staff Model range through its paces in the Golf Monthly Performance Lab.

Despite a history laden with Major victories, they often fly under the radar compared to the "big four." However, with the release of the 2026 Staff Model line, this should absolutely be the year that narrative changes.

Having put the new Staff Model CB irons through their paces, I've been left wondering what more people could possibly be looking for...

Wilson has stuck to its guns with premium materials, constructing the CB from Forged 8620 Carbon Steel. This is a strategic choice; 8620 is one of the softest materials on the market, designed to provide instant feedback at impact and the kind of workability better players demand.

The engineering team has also integrated its "Fluid Feel Hosel" design. By eliminating unused weight from the hosel, it has redistributed it toward the toe, which elevates overall performance and stability without sacrificing the club’s classic silhouette.

Perhaps most crucial for scoring is the precision-milled face. This milling pattern allows for longer ball-to-face contact, giving the player more consistent spin and increased stopping power. It’s a feature that was very apparent during testing.

Visually, these irons are a masterclass. Along with the Staff Model Blade and XB, the new brushed satin finish on these irons is exquisite. It gives the club a premium, modern elegance that sits beautifully behind the ball, reducing glare while superbly highlighting the craftsmanship.

At the address, the shaping is superb. It features friendly curves and a marginally thicker topline than the Staff Model Blade, providing just enough confidence without looking chunky.

I particularly like that they don't look too boxy or squared off at address; the slightly curved leading edge softens the overall aesthetic nicely, making it very inviting to hit rather than intimidating.

The launch monitor data (collated on my Foresight Sports GC3) was exactly what I would expect from an iron of its type and loft.

With a 7-iron loft of 34°, this is a true players' iron, not a distance-chasing shovel. The carry numbers were predictable and repeatable - a non-negotiable for a low handicapper.

What stood out most to me, aside from the looks, was the sheer consistency of spin. Even when testing in very wet conditions, the numbers were encouraging, likely a testament to that precision-milled face.

If I have to nitpick, a little more attention and shaping on the sole would be a welcome addition to completely optimize turf interaction. It isn't bad by any means - they still do a decent job of offering versatility in a variety of ground conditions - but compared to the absolute best-in-class sole grinds such as the Tour VT sole of the Srixon ZXi7, there is maybe a fraction of room for improvement.

The Wilson Staff Model CB irons deliver a strong feel, consistent performance, and outrageously good looks. They offer a modern cavity back shape with a compact profile and reduced offset that will appeal to the purist, packaged with enough forgiveness to make them playable. Wilson has produced a serious contender here, and it is time more golfers took notice.

All of the 2026 Wilson Staff Model irons are available for £1,169/$1,399 for a seven-club configuration.

Wilson is a brand steeped in tradition and heritage, boasting more Major championship victories with its irons than any other brand in golf. This legacy is immediately apparent in the all-new Staff Model Blade iron, an expertly-crafted club designed for the purest ball-striker who demands ultimate control.

Watch: PGA Professional Joe Ferguson tests out the new 2026 Wilson Staff Model irons in the Golf Monthly Performance Lab.

After loving the Staff Model range last year, I was keen to see if the latest iteration continued where it left off, producing some of the best golf irons in the game.

Starting with the looks, we are blessed with some phenomenal-looking blades in the game right now, including the Mizuno Pro S-1, TaylorMade P7TW, and even the direct-to-consumer Takomo 301 MB, but the Wilson Staff Model Blade is right up there for me. From its compact head, reduced offset, and shorter, sharper edges, the attention to detail makes this club a work of art.

I love the blend of old nods - like the extra-long ferrules and the subtle knurling around the hosel - combined with the more modern, clean Wilson shield logo. The new, almost sand-blasted matte finish is absolutely superb to my eye.

This is a stunning new finish which carries through across the new Staff Model range in the CB and the all-new XB, making for easy, cohesive 'combo' options.

Beneath the elegant, timeless facade, the Staff Model Blade is packed with modern engineering aiming to elevate performance.

These irons are crafted from forged 8620 Carbon Steel, which is one of the softest materials on the market, providing exceptional workability and instant feedback at impact.

Furthermore, Wilson says that a precision-milled face pattern allows for longer ball-to-face contact, delivering consistent spin and increased stopping power.

The inclusion of a ‘Fluid Feel Hosel’ design eliminates unused weight by redistributing it towards the toe, thus elevating the club's overall performance and feel.

Finally, Precise Toe Weighting is employed to help eliminate the dreaded low-left miss among low handicap players by holding the club face open to maximize forgiveness and control.

Truth be told, the feel of the Staff Model Blade is a touch firmer on mishits than, say, the Mizuno Pro-S1, but that is like saying someone isn't as kind as Mother Theresa! They are still very soft and provide ample feedback.

On center strikes, the feel is buttery soft, with a quiet, dull acoustic.

In terms of launch monitor data (which was gathered on my Foresight Sports GC3), there's not too much to say - it is very much as you would expect for a conservatively lofted blade. The 7-iron is a more traditional 34° loft, which provides tons of control, is beautifully workable, and is all around just a pleasure to test.

Even with the relatively high lofts, the Staff Model Blade consistently delivered a reasonably penetrating ball flight, great stability, and first-class spin consistency.

In a superficial modern world, looks have never been more important, and the Wilson Staff Model Blade has the aesthetic to turn heads. It is time to stop thinking of Wilson Golf as a legacy brand; in the here and now, this new Staff Model range is outstanding and can compete with anything out there, especially among the best golf blade irons.

All of the 2026 Wilson Staff Model irons are available for £1,169/$1,399 for a seven-club configuration.

The Wilson Staff Model XB iron is the latest offering from Wilson in the competitive hollow-bodied players' distance iron category. This is an exceptionally crowded marketplace place so the XB has its work cut out to rival the best compact mid-handicap irons, but having become a bit of a fan of the Wilson brand over the past couple of years, I was keen to see what was on offer.

Watch: PGA Professional Joe Ferguson tests out the full range of 2026 Wilson Staff Model Irons.

The most striking change from last year’s model is the finish. I absolutely love the new, almost sandblasted, matte, light grey finish; it is massively improved from the high gloss chrome of last year's Staff Model range, to my eye at least.

This sophisticated, non-glare look immediately sets a premium tone. In the players' distance category, I genuinely think the Staff Model XB and the Titleist T250 irons are head and shoulders above the rest for looks.

The shaping is a sleek hollow-body design that maintains a minimal offset and a thin top line. When I put it side by side with its main competitors, it is arguably the most ‘low-handicap’ looking iron of its type in terms of the playing position. This is music to my ears, but I wonder if some mid-handicap players may prefer a bit more of a confidence-inducing visual?

When it comes to feel, the Staff Model XB delivers a solid all-around experience, featuring a specialized urethane injection that dampens face vibration. The urethane material is strategically injected into the hollow body to improve the sound. They definitely have a firmer feel than (in my opinion) the best feeling players' distance iron in the TaylorMade P790, but despite this robust quality, the XB still offers excellent feedback, giving a real sense of power at strike. In fact, in terms of feel, I found them very similar to the Titleist T250.

The Staff Model XB iron employs a hollow body construction to enhance speed and weight distribution for precision and power. This design is paired with Wilson’s face optimization, which uses simulation-based enhancement of the sweet spot to try and maximize forgiveness and ball speed across the entire face.

Wilson has maintained a sensible approach to lofts, featuring a 32° 7-iron and a 46° pitching wedge. This offers a lot more balance than a few of the brands that are pushing closer to the 30° 7-iron measurement, and while these lofts are a little weaker than both the P790 and T250 irons, the Staff Model XB actually kept up very well in terms of distance and ball speed (measured on the Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor), which was impressive to see.

For those seeking more length at the top of the bag, I love the fact that Wilson has included a 2-iron option in the set. Even though this will be a niche offering, this club (with a 17° loft) will more likely be used as a driving iron by players opting for the Staff Model Blade or CB irons, rather than players going with a 2-PW composition in the XB set.

The XB iron runs all the way from the 2-iron through the gap wedge.

The Staff Model XB set has an extensive range of customization options to fine-tune performance. For shafts, the stock offering is the Nippon Modus Tour 110 in R and S flexes, with additional stock and premium shaft offerings also available.

The stock grip is the exceptional Golf Pride Z Grip.

Custom fitting allows for further significant adjustments in club specifications: length is adjustable from -2" to +2”, the lie angle can be adjusted from 3° flat to 3° upright, and the loft is adjustable from 2° weak to 2° strong.

The brand new Wilson Staff Model XB is a brilliant new option that should not be ignored. It masterfully blends a clean, compact aesthetic with powerful, forgiving performance, making it a serious contender against the industry's best.

All of the 2026 Wilson Staff Model irons are available for £1,169/$1,399 for a seven-club configuration.

Cobra Golf has been pushing the boundaries of manufacturing for years, and with the expansion of its 3D-printed iron lineup to include the new MB and X models, it has truly arrived. While the original 3DP Tour iron (or the Limit3D, which was the early prototype I tested) was a game-changer, the new 3DP MB takes that technology and refines it into a package that is unapologetically designed for the purist.

From an 'in the bag' perspective, these irons are nothing short of astounding. The looks are a stunning blend of simplicity and sophistication, with a subtle nod to the ultra-modern manufacturing process that created them. The finish is clean, while beautifully highlighting the complex internal lattice structure that lies beneath.

However, it is in the address position where the 3DP MB truly shines. This is one of the few iron sets I have ever picked up where I can categorically say that, to my eye at least, every single iron is perfect in terms of its shaping and profile.

In 99.9% of iron sets I test, there is always at the very least one iron I would like to tweak - whether that be the offset, blade length, or general shaping. But these are absolute perfection to the eye, from the 4-iron right through to the pitching wedge. Not too boxy, not too curvy, just pure design excellence!

Influenced by a prototype made for Cobra staffer Max Homa, the shaping features a slightly thinner topline and subtly different offset compared to the standard King MB, resulting in a look that I don’t think can be beaten in behind the ball.

As with the 3DP X irons that I have previously waxed lyrical about, the feel here is as good as anything I have ever tried in any category. There will still be those who would defiantly say that 3D-printed golf clubs couldn't possibly feel as good as traditionally forged models, but they need to think again.

The 3DP MB irons are buttery soft, offering excellent feedback that lets you know exactly where you struck the ball without being unduly punishing.

The secret lies in the 3D-printed internal lattice core, which allows Cobra to fine-tune the acoustics and dampen vibrations without using a face insert. It is a pure, dense sensation that creates a genuine connection between player and club.

While the 3DP MB is undeniably a blade, it offers more forgiveness than I have ever felt in this category before. The 3D printing process allows for a lattice structure that saves weight internally, which Cobra has redistributed using tungsten weights in the heel and toe. This essentially creates perimeter weighting to boost playability, and it is genuinely noticeable during play.

If you have been desperate to ‘game’ some blades before, but have always been a little intimidated, you may just find these surprisingly accessible.

When looking at the launch monitor data from my Foresight Sports GC3, the numbers won't blow anyone away. This is exactly what you would expect from a conservatively lofted set of blades (the 7-iron sits at a traditional 34°); however, this iron is about a lot more than impressing with raw data; it is all about the hitting experience. The distance control is precise, the flight is workable, and the interaction with the turf is sublime.

The knockout looks and the stunning feel combine to make this one of the most desirable golf clubs I have ever come across. But, as with the 3DP X iron, there is a catch - an expensive one.

The Cobra 3DP MB irons are retailing at $1,980, and that isn't even for a 4-PW set. For your two thousand bucks, you are only going to see a six-iron configuration, placing them at an eye-watering $330 per stick.

Sadly, this is going to put these irons out of reach for many of the golfing public, and this is a crying shame for one of the most aspirational overall packages of an iron set I have ever seen.

This is not meant to be a brag, or to rub it in (as I certainly couldn't afford these out of my own pocket), but to highlight what high esteem I hold these irons in: Cobra will have to wrestle them out of my cold, dead hands if they want these samples back, as they are going straight in my bag!

This is a quite frankly astonishing manufacturing achievement from Cobra, I just hope that manufacturing costs drop in future iterations so that these stunning irons become more accessible to a golfing public that would absolutely love them.

Cobra has never been a brand to shy away from bold aesthetics or boundary-pushing tech, and the new King irons are a testament to that philosophy.

So, let’s take a look and see if Cobra’s relationship with its high-tech 3D printers has produced one of the best game improvement irons of 2026, starting with the tech story…

Firstly, a multi-piece construction is designed to create a perfect harmony of speed, launch, and feel. At the heart of this design is a lightweight medallion 3D-printed with an intricate lattice structure, which allows Cobra to optimize weight positioning and lower the center of gravity (CG) by 2mm. This works in tandem with an 80g catapult weight - 15g heavier than the previous DS-Adapt model - suspended in a shock-absorbing polymer to boost ball speed and distance.

To ensure this speed translates across the entire hitting area, the 360 Speedshell face insert provides 23 percent more flex than previous iterations. Finally, the updated Skid Sole design features a pre-worn leading edge with added bounce and a flatter mid-sole to improve turf interaction and further lower the CG for enhanced playability.

In terms of the looks, while these absolutely won’t appeal to the purists or traditionalists, I actually really enjoyed the "on-show" tech (which isn’t always the case for me) and futuristic look. It feels purposeful and modern, clearly signaling that these clubs are built for pure performance rather than just nostalgia.

Behind the ball, the shaping is exactly what you would hope for in a game-improvement iron designed for the 10-20 handicap range. The matte finish is a particular highlight, offering a premium look that elevates the overall shelf appeal. However, it is worth noting that the lack of visible loft in the mid-to-long irons - a byproduct of having very strong static lofts - may be a little visually intimidating to some golfers.

Despite this, the clubhead sits nicely on the ground, thanks in part to the updated ‘Skid Sole’ geometry that allows the head to sit closer to the turf. The high-bounce leading edge of the new sole design is a genuinely brilliant addition. For those players who get a little too steep and are prone to the occasional "fat" shot, this shaping choice offers a vital safety net, allowing the club to glide rather than dig into the ground.

I am really starting to buy into Cobra’s 3D-printing concept. Having seen some frankly unbelievable results in the 3DP X iron, it is great to see that technology being utilized, albeit more sparingly, in the King iron.

By using 3D printing for the medallion, Cobra has managed to lower the CG, which yields a higher launch angle and steeper descent for better stopping power on the greens.

In terms of raw data output, you will struggle to find a longer-hitting iron in this category.

I gathered my data on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, and the combination of the heavy 80g internal catapult weight, strong lofts, and the flexible 360 Speedshell face creates genuine power.

Despite those strong lofts, the design focus on pushing the CG as low as possible, still allows them to be relatively easy to launch. If you do find you need even more assistance, the King Max irons sit a couple of degrees weaker amongst some other subtle shaping differences.

The feel is certainly firmer and more robust in these irons than the 3DP X, for example, but it still compares favorably in that regard to many of its competitors in this category. The shock-absorbing polymer suspension for the internal weight does a reasonable job of dampening vibrations, resulting in a perfectly acceptable sound and feel on every strike.

Sadly, I think testing the 3DP X irons may just have ruined every other game improvement iron for me in terms of feel!

Overall, I genuinely did like these irons, and for those players seeking maximum bang for their buck in terms of distance, the Cobra King irons will be tough to beat in 2026.

A seven-piece iron set (4-PW or 5-GW) will set you back £899.

Cobra’s identity has always been rooted in bold innovation, often serving as the testing ground for the industry's most provocative technologies. In early 2026, the brand announces the arrival of the new King and King Max irons, a duo specifically engineered to redefine expectations within the game-improvement sector.

By merging complex 3D-printing techniques with high-density internal weighting, Cobra aims to offer a level of performance that helps recreational players achieve higher launch and more consistent distance. Let’s see if they have done so, and if the King Max irons can worry some of the best game improvement irons on the market.

If you want to hear the full tech story, head over to my review of the standard King irons. The only real differences in design here are a larger overall profile, increased offset, and 2° weaker lofts throughout to aid with launch.

Look-wise, behind the ball, the proportions are excellent for an iron in this category, offering a genuine sense of confidence. However, the offset is a little excessive for my liking, particularly in the mid-to-long irons. I still don’t know why this massive offset is considered standard design and necessary for almost all irons within the category, but for the slicer, it may provide some much-needed assistance.

I am really starting to become a big fan of Cobra’s 3D-printing concept. I have seen some stunning results in the 3DP X iron, to the point where I have ordered a set of the 3DP MB irons for personal use, so it is great to see it being utilized a little in the design of the King Max iron.

By using 3D printing for the medallion, Cobra has managed to lower the CG, seeking a higher launch and a steeper descent angle.

One of the standout features of this iron for me is what Cobra has done with the sole. The high-bounce leading edge of the ‘Skid Sole’ is a brilliant addition. For those players who get a little too steep - which, based on my pro-am experiences, can be many - and are prone to a fat shot, this just offers a little extra insurance by allowing the club to glide rather than dig.

In a move I really appreciate, Cobra has made the lofts two degrees weaker than the standard King iron. This is a welcome change that I think will actually end up putting this into more hands than the standard option, as it will help moderate swingers get the ball in the air more consistently.

The feel is certainly firmer and more robust in these irons than the 3DP X, for example, but if you are looking for that level of joy for your hands, you will need to cough up more than double the £899 required to purchase these. That said, the shock-absorbing polymer does a fine job of dampening harsh vibrations on off-center hits.

Overall, this is a good, solid option for the super game-improvement market. It is powerful, forgiving, and at a comparatively decent price point for the tech involved.

Callaway is a perennial heavyweight when it comes to the best game-improvement irons, and the new Quantum Max and Max OS look ready to fight for that title again. With a clear focus on making the game easier, these two models leverage high-tech construction, hoping to deliver exceptional speed and forgiveness.

While the previous Elyte irons were, in my opinion, a visual masterpiece, they perhaps alienated the core golfer who needed more help. I’ve been testing both new Quantum models side-by-side to see if Callaway has successfully recalibrated its offering to provide the perfect blend of performance and approachability.

The Quantum Max and Max OS share a core technology suite designed for speed. Both feature Callaway’s 360° undercut cavity, a two-piece design with extreme perimeter weighting to maximize forgiveness.

This is paired with a next-generation AI-optimized face, which intelligently shapes the hitting area in an attempt to match real-world impact patterns and boost ball speed and consistency, while the ‘Tri-Sole Design’ aims to ensure clean turf interaction, adapting from long irons to wedges.

In terms of looks, I like the clean, modern aesthetic of the Quantum range. I definitely preferred the visual of the Elyte irons last year, which were stunningly sophisticated. However, that may have been the problem with that iron.

Having spoken to some people at Callaway, an issue they felt was that the Elyte iron almost looked too good! Being as sophisticated as it was, they felt that it actually potentially alienated and intimidated some of the target audience. Better players like me loved the look, but it didn't matter because we'd never play this type of iron!

The Quantum models correct this, looking premium but purposeful and inviting.

The distinction between the two is clear: the Max is essentially 'game improvement,' with a refined shape, while the Max OS sits firmly in the 'Super Game Improvement' category with its slightly wider sole, more offset, and a thicker topline.

I would ordinarily do two separate reviews for these irons, but I found the performance characteristics and data (gathered on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor) so similar that it only warranted one combined review.

Genuinely, the only difference I could find was the larger visual of the OS version potentially inspiring a little more confidence for the higher handicap player, which is no bad thing.

The data, despite being basically identical for me between the Max and Max OS, was still very impressive in terms of ball speed output and carry distance. Both irons are very powerful.

It is worth noting that both have relatively strong lofts (the 7-irons sit at 29°). However, for players who struggle to get the ball airborne, both models can be ordered in a HL (High Launch) specification, which affords you another 2° of loft throughout the set (taking the 7-iron to 31°). This will be an appealing option for many, maximizing carry at moderate swing speeds.

If you enjoy robust and lively feels, then these irons will be right up your street. The inclusion of urethane microspheres does a good job of dampening harsh vibrations, but these irons still offer a very powerful, explosive sensation at impact. There are certainly softer irons on the market in this category, but those who prefer clearer, more direct feedback will certainly enjoy these.

Overall, the Callaway Quantum Max and Max OS are very strong performing irons offering exactly what you would expect from a market leader.

They prioritize forgiveness and power in a package that is easy to hit and easy to look at. While they might lack the "wow" factor of the Elyte's design, they are arguably better suited to the job at hand: helping golfers hit better shots, more often.

Both the Quantum Max and Quantum Max OS models will set you back £167/$164 per club or $1149.99 for a 7-piece set.

With the signing of Marco Penge and the early release of the Lightning family of metalwoods, it's been a busy few months for one of golf's loudest equipment brands. The 0311 XP is the game improvement iron of the family, designed to offer outright distance alongside a forgiving profile that benefits from PXG's new flagship dual-perimeter weighting system. Alongside the game improvement XP is the T (Tour) and P (Players) - all of which strike a very similar, and likely divisive, look from the 'in the bag' position.

The headline technology across the Gen8 family is the new dual perimeter weighting system. Unlike previous versions, this system uses larger interchangeable weights on the perimeter to significantly increase the Moment of Inertia (MOI). By repositioning mass away from the center, PXG allows fitters to tune the center-of-gravity (CG) to influence face position at impact, helping to tighten dispersion even before lie-angle adjustments are made.

Internally, the irons utilise QuantumCor, a proprietary polymer that works in tandem with Deep Core Recoil Technology. This internal structure is designed to facilitate explosive face flexion and maximise energy transfer. The heads are five-times forged from 8620 soft carbon steel and feature ultra-thin maraging steel faces with a refined Power Channel geometry to maintain ball speeds on off-center strikes.

I was fitted for the Gen8 irons at PXG's headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona, and saw firsthand just how significant moving the weights affected ball flight. Though I didn't need the weights to be moved out of the neutral position, when my fitter did toy around with different weight settings, it didn't take long for it to become apparent just how much they alter ball flight.

For those predominant slicers or hookers out there, this technology, plus any changes to lie angle during a fitting, will enable fitters to manipulate ball flight more than ever before with a PXG club. This technology is likely to benefit those higher handicap golfer which this iron is aimed even more. I saw firsthand at my fitting how much tinkering with this split weights can alter shot shape with similar club delivery. Higher handicappers who are fighting a slice now have another weapon to help them try to straighten ball flight.

At address, the Gen8 XP is very clearly a game-improvement iron. It features a wider sole, increased offset, and a strong-lofted profile than the other models in the family. This design is intended to inspire confidence, and while it's not the model I'd naturally lean towards, I can see how players shopping in this market would find the blade length and offset to have them feeling confident of a solid strike over the ball. For sure, it lacks the neater profiles found in its sister models, but such a footprint is often expected in this genre of iron to provide maximum stability.

In terms of feel, the XP produces a hot and springy sensation from the face. This is particularly noticeable on strikes caught low on the blade, where ball speeds were impressively high and front-to-back dispersion was pleasingly close even from some of the poorer strikes I delivered. This is undoubtedly one of the highlights of this iron, which I have seen across the whole Gen8 range.

However, also much like the sister clubs, the acoustics are a little 'clicky' and high-pitched for my taste. Because sound and feel are so closely linked, this resulted in an overall sensation that was firmer than what some distance irons, like the Cobra 3DP X iron, can offer.

The performance of the Gen8 XP is undeniably focused on distance. The combination of technologies delivers on the promise of explosive speed. For the mid-to-high handicap player seeking a significant yardage boost, these irons deliver.

The PXG 0311 Gen8 XP irons are a high-performance solution for those who need maximum help with distance and launch. The engineering - particularly the adjustable weighting system - is top-tier, offering a level of customisation rarely seen in distance irons. While the 'clicky' sound and long blade profile might not appeal to the purist, the forgiveness and insurance provided by the wide sole make them a formidable tool for the right golfer.

Notwithstanding the signing of Marco Penge to kick off 2026, PXG is celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2026. Now firmly established as a major player in the golf equipment landscape, the brand has already left a lasting impression on the industry in its relatively short time producing golf clubs.

Arriving off the back of the launch of its Lightning family of drivers, fairway woods and hybrids, the Gen8 0311 irons, of which there are three models, arrive with a substantial new fitting story as well as what will no doubt be a divisive look. The 'T' model sits firmly in the compact distance iron category with the 0311 Gen8 P and 0311 Gen8 XP offering a players' distance and game improvement iron to the range.

The most significant technology change introduced in Gen8 is the new dual perimeter weighting system. Very visible on the back of the clubhead, this development will give fitters even more control than ever before over centre of gravity placement and swing weight.

I was fitted for the Gen 8 irons at PXG's swanky headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona, and saw firsthand just how significant moving the weights affected ball flight. Though I didn't need the weights to be moved out of the neutral position (because I'm a ball striker), when my fitter did toy around with different weight settings, it didn't take long for it to become apparent just how much they alter ball flight.

For those predominant slicers or hookers out there, this technology, plus any changes to lie angle during a fitting, will enable fitters to manipulate ball flight more than ever before with a PXG club. Perhaps more pertinent for those golfers going into 0311 P or 0311 XP, there's no denying that the split weight system will provide a measurable difference to ball flight and allow fitters and golfers to experiment even more with set-up to help produce a desired ball flight.

However, as clever and effective as this technology is, I believe it is one of the causes of the Gen8 family's glaring issue: the sound. Paired up with the plastic PXG badge that sits between the split weights, the 0311 T creates a very 'clicky' sound at impact. To me, sound and feel are inextricably linked to one another, and the unappealing sound at impact creates a similarly awkward feel. I'd seldom hit a shot right out of the middle of the face, and my playing partners couldn't tell if I'd flushed it or thinned it, such was the jarring noise.

As fussy as I think these clubs look from the 'in the bag' position, they do look rather smart behind the ball. A compact blade length frames the ball nicely, and the top line, coupled with some moderate offset, isn't too threatening to look down at.

I can only attribute this to a mixture of the plastic badge and split weighting causing this issue. This particular iron is five times forged from soft carbon steel, but the mixture of noise and feel from the back cavity nearly nullifies all efforts to make this a soft-feeling iron. Considering the irons the 0311 T is going up against the likes of the TaylorMade P770, they would need to produce some impressive launch monitor numbers to keep the 0311 T in contention.

Thankfully, at the speed I deliver the club, it did offer good numbers from the Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, and it was a reliable performer from my indoor and outdoor testing. While it spun a little lower than I'd have liked, the carry yardage is near enough what I'd expect for a 7-iron that we measured in at 31°. Turf interaction was pleasant, while the compact look at the address certainly suited my eye. There's certainly a very pleasing 'pop' from the face from a centered strike, though you'll certainly be made aware of any strikes lower from the face.

So, overall, it's a tale of two halves for the returning T iron to the Gen8 0311 family. If you can park the sound and feel - both of which I will concede are subjective attributes to a golf club - you've got a solid performing iron for the mid to low handicap golfer. If you're fighting a prodigious shot shape in either direction that you just can't shake, a good fit for any of the 0311 Gen8 irons with the new weight system will no doubt result in a more desirable shot shape without having to drastically change the way you deliver the club.

It's been a busy few months for PXG. Notwithstanding the announcement that Marco Penge is now a part of the team, it has also launched its new Lightning family of metalwoods and now three new irons as part of the new 0311 Gen8 range.

The PXG 0311 P Gen8 irons represent the latest evolution in the brand's flagship player’s distance category. Positioned between the compact 0311 T model and the game improvement XP iron, the 0311 P aims to provide a mid-size profile with balanced forgiveness for a wide range of golfers. While PXG continues to push the envelope of engineering, do these irons offer a significant leap forward, or are they a refinement of a familiar formula?

The headline technology in the Gen8 series is the new dual perimeter weighting system. Unlike previous generations that used multiple small screws, this system uses larger interchangeable weights to allow fitters to precisely tune the center of gravity (CG) and swing weight. By shifting mass toward the toe or heel, PXG claims golfers can subtly influence face position at impact to help tighten dispersion.

Internally, the irons are packed with high-tech materials. They feature QuantumCor, a proprietary polymer designed to work alongside Deep Core Recoil Technology to maximise face flexion and ball speed. The heads are five-times forged from 8620 soft carbon steel, housing ultra-thin maraging steel faces with a refined Power Channel geometry to ensure consistent energy transfer across the hitting surface.

At address, the PXG 0311 P Gen8 P is a handsome club, one of the best looking among the leading compact distance irons. It offers a neat, confidence-inspiring look that will appeal to the mid-handicap player. The top line is thin enough to look professional but substantial enough to inspire mid to high handicappers with plenty of confidence, and the transition from the hosel to the face is clean.

The 'in the bag position' is a little less subtle, in my opinion. The large split weights at either side of the club, combined with the large PXG badge is a little on the loud side. Then again, these are the sort of design cues we have become accustomed to with PXG clubs.

I was fitted for the Gen8 irons at PXG's headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona, and saw firsthand just how significant moving the weights affected ball flight. For those predominant slicers or hookers out there, this technology, plus any changes to lie angle during a fitting, will enable fitters to manipulate ball flight more than ever before with a PXG club.

Perhaps more pertinent for those golfers going this P or the 0311 XP rather than the T, there's no denying that the split weight system will provide a measurable difference to ball flight and allow fitters and golfers to experiment even more with set-up to help produce a desired ball flight.

However, the sensory experience is where the P becomes a bit polarising. Despite the claims of a soft feel, the actual impact experience leans toward the firm side. While the face feels remarkably hot and springy, particularly on strikes caught low on the blade, the acoustics are noticeably clicky. I think this is largely attributed to the plastic medallion on the back, which results in a somewhat harsh vibration that may not satisfy those used to a traditional forged thud. This is a subjective feel thing for me, and I'm sure plenty will enjoy the feeling, but there is no doubt these are on the firmer side in this category.

On the Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, the Gen8 P delivered solid, if not spectacular, numbers. For the golfer seeking a distance boost without moving into a massive game-improvement head, these provide a reliable yardage floor. The more I tested this iron, the more I found my poorer strikes falling far closer to my better hits. If you miss a lot of greens short, this is the sort of iron I'd push you towards. Often, it's how an iron performs on your poor strikes, rather than your best, that you should be looking out for.

The dual perimeter weighting System is effective, providing a level of adjustability that is rare in the iron category. During testing, the ability to tweak the CG did help in neutralising a consistent miss, leading to more repeatable ball flights without having to drastically alter the way you deliver the club.

The PXG 0311 Gen8 P irons are a robust addition to the market. They successfully blend high-end adjustability with a footprint that looks the part behind the ball. While the 'clicky' acoustics might be a deterrent for feel-purists (I'll concede this element of iron testing is subjective) the performance benefits of the hot face and perimeter weighting are tangible for golfers shopping in this iron category.

Cobra Golf has always been a brand willing to push the envelope, but with the new 3DP X irons, it has pushed advancements maybe further than ever before.

Sure, the 3DP X will not be an iron for everyone - no iron can boast that - but I believe it is so far ahead of anything else within its category that dubbing it 'the best iron of 2026' is not an overreaction. Let me explain…

From a technology standpoint, these things are fully loaded! The Cobra 3DP X iron is engineered using advanced 3D-printing technology, specifically a ‘Direct Metal Laser Sintering’ (DMLS) process with 316L stainless steel. At the core of its design is an internal lattice structure that allows for significant weight savings and optimized weight distribution.

Unlike many game-improvement irons that rely on glued face inserts, the 3DP X features a one-piece construction, and the internal lattice supports a thin face design, attempting to offer high performance and forgiveness without sacrificing feel.

To further enhance playability, the iron incorporates tungsten weighting in the toe and hosel. This has been introduced to improve the club's Moment of Inertia (MOI) and stability on off-center strikes, delivering forgiveness that exceeds even Cobra's super game-improvement DS-Adapt Max model.

Interestingly, in terms of where to place them, these irons have almost created a category all of their own, blending a sophisticated aesthetic with performance that feels like a cheat code.

Technically, I suppose they must be deemed ‘game improvement’ - but the incredibly soft feel and slick, minimalist looks make this very difficult to come to terms with - in the best way possible.

Anyone who read my review last year will know that I was absolutely bewildered by Cobra’s early prototype Limit3d irons. I was blown away at how they could look genuinely not far off a blade in profile, but somehow offer the forgiveness of game improvement giants like the Ping G730. I am equally as impressed here.

The 3DP X brings that same "impossible" combination to a wider market, designed specifically, Cobra says, for the 10-20 handicapper - although I think a far wider range of players would find success here.

The first thing you notice visually is that the 3DP X gives off distinct low-handicap vibes from the in-the-bag perspective. Clean and contemporary, but with nods to the tech story from the exposed lattice structure. The overall visual is as premium as it gets.

Furthermore, they look fantastic at address, framing the ball beautifully with enough topline and offset to offer the idea of being user-friendly without it becoming intrusive to the overall package.

The performance is absolutely the main story here, though, and I was blown away. The forgiveness on offer from a feel perspective is quite unbelievable.

I tested the 3DP X irons using my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, and while obviously you will still notice a little distance and spin drop-off on off-center strikes, I have never experienced an iron that feels this good on shots struck from so many parts of the clubface.

I cannot overstate this enough; it is genuinely astonishing. I began to think that I had just become one of the world's premier ball strikers overnight based on the feedback I was getting through my hands, but sadly, once I’d measured my strike locations, it became very apparent that the 3DP X was doing the work for me!

Heel, toe, low or high, every strike basically felt the same - buttery soft. While some players might say they would prefer more 'feedback' of strike, I would implore those voices to spend a session or two hitting these and see if they still value 'feedback' in the same way afterwards!

In terms of the raw data, it also stacks up to any of its peers in the game improvement sector with punchy ball speeds and impressive carry numbers. Spin was probably on the lower end of the spectrum for me, but that is down to the static loft profile.

The lofts are strong for sure, with the 7-iron I tested coming in at 29˚; however, even this shouldn't deter players.

Firstly, due to the CG properties achieved through the 3D printing process and tungsten weighting in the toe and hosel, I found launch - even at these aggressive lofts - pretty easy to come by. Secondly, if you still need a little more flight, you can simply get them adjusted a couple of degrees weaker. Job done.

This iron is nothing short of phenomenal, but creates a fascinating dilemma.

By Cobra's own admission, the forgiveness of this iron exceeds that of their current ‘super game improvement’ iron, the DS-Adapt Max, which begs the question: with the unbelievable looks, feel, and forgiveness of the 3DP X, why would you even consider buying something like the DS-Adapt Max that frankly looks and feels not even in the same league, and isn't as forgiving?

Genuinely, I cannot think of any compelling reason why anyone shopping in the game improvement iron market would look anywhere other than this incredible iron.

Well, maybe I can...

They are expensive. Very expensive, in fact. A set of Cobra 3DP X irons is going to cost you $1980, and not only that, your two thousand bucks will only secure you a six-piece 5-PW set.

While I am not going to try and justify a price tag like that with talk of expensive R&D and complex manufacturing processes, if ever I have tested a set worth breaking the bank for, this is it.

When TaylorMade releases a new game improvement iron, the golfing world pays attention. The brand has long been a dominant force in this category, pushing the boundaries of distance and forgiveness. With the new Qi Max irons, TaylorMade claims to have refined the recipe, promising a blend of superior feel, straight distance, and optimized flight.

I’ve been putting the TaylorMade Qi Max irons through their paces to see if they deserve a spot alongside some of the best irons of 2026…

WATCH: Kick Point: The Golf Gear Show gives their full verdict on the new Qi4D range

The headline technology story here is the pursuit of 'Straight Distance.' TaylorMade has utilized a patented face technology designed to control face flexibility and reduce the "cut" spin that it says often plagues fast-face iron designs.

While TaylorMade explicitly labels this 'Straight Distance', in reality, this is very much a predominant draw bias. For much of the target demographic, who often battle a slice - this will be music to the ears.

To address the sound and feel, which can often be a weak spot in hollow-body or cavity-back distance irons, the Qi Max features a new internal stability bar and what TaylorMade calls Echo Damper material. These are strategically positioned to support the topline and face, reducing unwanted vibrations.

TaylorMade has also implemented its FLTD CG technology, which strategically places the center of gravity lowest in the long irons for enhanced launch, moving it higher as the set progresses to aid precision in the scoring clubs.

Visually, the Qi Max is an interesting proposition. TaylorMade describes it as having a "Refined Players Shape" with a thinner topline and reduced offset.

While I would agree that this is the best-looking game improvement iron TaylorMade has created for a few iterations from the playing position perspective, it remains very much on the fussy side from the ‘in the bag’ angle.

Between the visible speed slot, the complex topography in the cavity, and the fluted hosel, there is a lot going on.

Personally, I wish TaylorMade would start hiding some of these tech stories rather than shouting about them. I don’t mind reading about the technical features, but I don’t need to see them plastered all over the clubhead. In my opinion, a cleaner, classier visual would elevate the premium nature of the club, but the exposed tech remains a staple of TaylorMade’s game improvement design language.

I mentioned in my review of the previous generation, the Qi irons, that I didn't love the "clickiness" of the impact sound, and I am pleased to report that this has been very much rectified in the Qi Max. The combination of the internal stability bar and Echo Damper does a fantastic job of creating a solid, satisfying sensation at impact.

In terms of raw data (captured on the Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor), these irons are exceptionally quick.

This is to be expected given the aggressive static lofts - the 7-iron comes in at a remarkably strong 28˚- however, distinct from some competitors who simply crank lofts to chase distance, I didn't struggle much for launch with the Qi Max. The low CG in the long irons works as advertised, getting the ball airborne with relative ease.

For players with slower swing speeds who might worry about keeping a 28-degree 7-iron in the air, it is worth noting that TaylorMade offers an HL (High Launch) version. This variation features lofts that are approximately 3˚ weaker throughout the set and utilizes an overall lighter construction to help generate speed and height.

Overall, while the fussy visual prevents it from being my absolute favorite iron in terms of aesthetics, the Qi Max is a significantly improved iron over last season’s offering.

The solid feel and strong distance output - backed by a helpful draw bias - make this a high-performing package. It should certainly be on the test list for anyone shopping in the game improvement market in 2026.

The TaylorMade Qi Max irons will be retailing for £999/$1099 for a 4-PW set in steel, with a slight upcharge for graphite shafts.

The direct-to-consumer (DTC) revolution in golf equipment has been steadily gaining momentum, and Takomo Golf has established itself as a frontrunner in this space.

Its original 101 irons were a massive success, proving that premium aesthetics and performance don't require a premium price tag. Now, with the Takomo 101 MKII, they aim to refine an already winning formula. As someone who has tested countless game-improvement irons, I was eager to see if this updated model could truly elevate the standard for affordable performance.

The 101 MKII has been designed with maximum forgiveness and distance in mind. It features a 431 cast body in all lofts, paired with a sophisticated face construction: a Cast 17-4 VFT (variable face thickness) face plate in the 5-8 irons for speed retention, and a Cast 17-4 flat (non-variable) face in the 9-iron to gap wedge designed for precise control.

It’s worth noting that the set features relatively strong lofts, with a 29-degree 7-iron, which positions it firmly in the modern distance category.

Visually, this iron is an absolute triumph. I thought the original 101 was the holy grail of clean, minimalist design in the game-improvement sector, but the MKII might be even better.

Amongst other things, I absolutely love the slight two-tone finish of the irons in the cavity, and combined with the overall quality of the finish, it elevates this iron well above its price point.

The Takomo badge has received a little makeover, creating even cleaner branding from behind, and they sit behind the ball beautifully, inspiring confidence without looking clunky.

If I were being super fussy, I probably preferred the profiles of the mid-long irons (I don’t love the hosel-to-leading-edge transition in the 9 iron and below), but the short irons are still well-shaped overall.

One very minor grievance of mine would be the addition of the painted bottom groove this time around, which to me cheapens the look fractionally, so I would be paint stripping that out if I were looking to put them in my bag, but I am willing to forgive and forget based on the rest of the exceptional aesthetic!

The performance and feel are nothing short of outstanding and genuinely comparable to anything else in the game-improvement market in terms of raw launch monitor data. We’ve known this for some time, but it still feels incredible based on the fact that much of its competition comes in at sometimes three times the price!

The impact feel is lively and powerful, providing a satisfying thump at impact.

In testing, on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, the 101 MKII delivered robust ball speeds and extremely consistent carry distances with no hint of a ‘jumpy’ or ‘hot’ strike.

My only negative note on performance would be that I found spin a little more inconsistent here than with some of the other models I have tested in this category. Just a little too much fluctuation to be considered optimal, but not so bad as to make it a huge concern.

While an iron like the Ping G440, for example, may offer a fraction more in terms of absolute forgiveness on the wildest mishits, the 101 MKII is in no way lacking. It maintains impressive ball speed and dispersion on poorly struck shots, ensuring that your misses are still very playable.

The 'fine-tuned progressive weighting' helps to optimize launch conditions through the bag, and I had no problem getting these airborne despite the relatively strong lofts.

The elephant in the room and obvious downside of the direct-to-consumer model is not being able to try before you buy or be custom fit for this equipment in a traditional sense. However, if you have a reasonable idea of your specs, there are a good number of custom options available to you, including shaft and grip changes, and length and lie alterations, allowing you to dial in the set to your needs.

The direct-to-consumer model is getting more and more compelling every single year, and Takomo is right at the forefront of that revolution.

If I were spending my own (kind of) hard-earned cash on a set of game-improvement clubs, based on the fact that I do know my own specs very well, I would have a very tough time justifying spending more than double the price to get essentially the same performance from a more established brand.

This is another fantastic release from Takomo that will only serve to strengthen its position as the direct-to-consumer king.

The Takomo 101 MKII irons are retailing at $579/£529.

The direct-to-consumer (DTC) revolution continues to force the golf industry to rethink its concept of value and performance, and Takomo Golf is, once again, leading the charge.

With the release of its 2026 lineup, it introduces a completely new model: the Takomo 201T MKII. Aimed squarely at better ball strikers who demand workability without sacrificing modern distance, this iron represents a bold new chapter for the brand. I've been testing this new offering to see if it can stand toe-to-toe with the best players' distance irons from the established giants.

Out of the gate, I admit I was initially confused as to why they have named it MKII, with it being the first iteration of this specific model, but that's a minor flaw in the grand scheme.

This iron is a hollow-body design that features a sophisticated split weighting system: tungsten is strategically placed in the long irons for stability and high launch, while the short irons utilize steel weighting for precision and control. It offers the most compact profile and least offset of the 2026 additions to the range, clearly targeting the discerning eye.

Visually, I didn't think Takomo could get much cleaner in their designs, but the 201T MKII has taken things to a new level with a stunning brushed finish while maintaining the signature Scandinavian minimalism that has become synonymous with the brand. It looks incredibly premium in the bag.

In the playing position, the longer irons are superb - sleek, compact, and inviting. However, the short iron shaping is a little more asymmetrical than I would have settled on; the toe section looks slightly out of balance with the angular heel and hosel, but that is a minor criticism of an otherwise beautifully proportioned set.

One detail I wasn't fond of was the painted white bottom groove. While many Ping iron fans might enjoy this alignment aid, I feel that it slightly cheapens the look for me, distracting from the otherwise pristine face.

The feel is exactly what I would have hoped for based on the hollow-body design and target market: lively and soft in equal measures. It provides a satisfying, powerful sensation at impact without feeling harsh, jumpy, or clicky in any way.

Performance-wise, I gathered data on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor and noted some interesting results. The ball speed was very impressive, comparable to competition from higher-end brands. In my testing against the TaylorMade P770 iron at the same loft (7-iron is 33°), the P770 offered me, on average, just over 124 mph, while the 201T MKII clocked in at 125 mph confirming its credentials as a genuine contender in the speed category.

However, I noted a lower and slightly more inconsistent spin profile than I would have hoped for. Only a few of my 7-iron strikes reached above 5000 rpm, which was a surprisingly low output based on the fairly traditional lofts. In contrast, the P770 offered me the best part of 1500 rpm more spin and less fluctuation, providing significantly more stopping power and predictability.

This low spin is great for distance, but might require adjustment for holding firm greens.

Overall, the Takomo 201T MKII is an excellent value proposition offering stunning looks, an impressive feel, and good speeds. It proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to get a high-performance, hollow-body iron.

While I would want to investigate the spin readings I saw a little more before parting with my money - perhaps experimenting with shafts or lofts to boost spin - it remains undoubtedly a standout release for 2026.

The Takomo 201T MKII is available for $679/£619.

The direct-to-consumer (DTC) market in irons is no longer just about budget alternatives; it’s about genuine market disruption through performance.

Takomo has been leading this charge, and its new 201 MKII irons are poised to make a massive statement in the players' distance category. Replacing the popular 101T, this new model arrives with a refined aesthetic and promises of tour-level feel.

I’ve been testing these irons for weeks now to see if they can truly compete with the best irons, not just on price, but on pure performance and desirability.

The 201 MKII should be thought of as a sleeker hollow-body iron, designed with less offset and a thinner topline than the previous 101 or the new 101 MKII iron. It combines this clean address look with a machine-milled VFT (Variable Face Thickness) face, engineered for high energy transfer and durability. This construction aims to deliver the best of both worlds: the look of a player's iron with the power of a distance club.

Visually, the 201 MKII is quite brilliant in terms of shelf appeal, featuring a superbly premium two-tone finish that screams sophistication. This finish mirrors the design found on the 101 MKII but in reverse within the cavity, with the slightly 'mottled' section coming closer to the top edge in the 201 MKII. It’s a subtle detail that adds to the cohesive, high-end look of the new family.

If I were being super fussy, I would weld over the toe hole just to neaten things up further. I never understand why this detail is left, as it’s not like a player will need access to the cavity at this stage, but it is hardly a terminal issue.

The playing profiles are superb. I prefer the overall shape more as I go up the bag into the mid and long irons, which are as good as anything on the market behind the ball. At that end of the bag, they sit neatly and squarely behind the ball and arguably look more ‘better player’ than ‘game improvement’.

Genuinely, the only thing I would tweak in the profiles would be the short iron shaping slightly - marginally softening the transition from hosel to top edge - but that is being very pedantic in the grand scheme of things.

The feel at impact is buttery soft, a testament to the hollow-body construction and internal damping. It provides a satisfying, dense sensation, which I really enjoyed.

Performance-wise, the 201 MKII is a beast. Strangely, despite being two degrees weaker than the 101 MKII (the 201 MKII 7-iron is 31°), I was seeing basically identical ball speed (if not a hair more) from the 201 MKII irons and identical carry numbers. This is a testament to the efficiency of the milled face and head design and was a pleasant surprise.

Crucially, this performance came with a little more spin and a touch more peak height. While still lower than I would need to make it playable for me personally, the additional 500 rpm over the 101 MKII was very welcome.

I am genuinely struggling to fault these irons in any significant way. The looks are outstanding, the feel is exceptional, and the performance stacks up against any of its players' distance competition from the major manufacturers. Allied to the fact that you can pick these up for less than half of what you may pay elsewhere, what more could you want?!

Custom fitting, I hear a few cry, is the obvious downfall of the DTC model, and critics would be right to point that out. But if you are comfortable with your specs, I can't for the life of me think why you'd be keen to part with an extra $600/£600 just to secure a more established brand name.

The Takomo 201 MKII irons are available for $649/£589. These irons, at this price, are a staggering proposition when it comes to value for money.

The Mizuno Pro 245 occupied a revered space in the "players distance" category, providing a powerful, hollow-bodied experience while managing to retain that sought-after Mizuno forged feel.

The successor, the M-15 Iron, arrives with a renewed focus on precise performance progression across the set. I have been rigorously testing this newest offering to see if it successfully refines the balance between extreme speed and the control demanded by the discerning player, and to see if it deserves a spot amongst the best golf irons in the game.

Beginning with the technology, the headline story of the M-15 lies in its unique progressive construction, integrating different materials in an attempt to optimize performance across the bag.

In the 4 through 8 irons, the design is defined by the Contoured Ellipse Face, which utilizes a multi-thickness forged construction supported by a hollow body. This powerful core has been put in place to optimize ball speed and consistency, featuring a Grain Flow Forged 4135+ Chromoly face paired with a stainless-steel back piece for maximum rebound.

To further enhance launch and stability, tungsten weighting (51g in the long irons and 50.3g in the mids) has been strategically suspended within the head. As the set transitions to the 9-iron and gap wedge, the construction shifts to a partial hollow 1025E Grain Flow Forged HD body with a stainless back, emphasizing control and precise shot-making.

Complementing this material progression, Mizuno’s Harmonic Impact Technology and copper underlay work to reduce sound pressure, looking to emulate the soft yet solid strike that Mizuno players instinctively recognise.

Mizuno may well be the master of aesthetics within the iron game. Obviously, it makes some stunning blades, but in truth, so do many brands. I always feel it gets a little bit more difficult to make beautiful, refined offerings as you start to increase in size and technology features, but Mizuno seems to consistently pull it off with ease.

Fairly significant increases in blade length are barely perceptible, and the tech is always where it should be, hidden.

The shelf appeal is, as always, off the charts, and the playing profile is probably the most sophisticated of anything in the players distance iron category, which I feel will once again help to put this into more low-handicap bags than much of its competition.

The overall performance of the M-15 is outstanding. The progressive CG height (getting higher into the shorter irons) genuinely positively influences the flight windows here. Often in the hollow body iron market, I find the short irons a little "poppy" in terms of launch and difficult to control.

However, with the M-15, I found it noticeably easier to keep the launch down in the shorter irons, which is a trait that better players tend to look for, and may once again help to put this iteration into the hands of some lower handicap players.

I conducted all of my testing with the Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, and the numbers were very strong, particularly from a ball speed and consistency standpoint.

The launch through the rest of the set is plentiful considering the stronger loft set up (the 7-iron is a strong 29°). The suspended tungsten in the long irons ensures the ball launches high despite the aggressive loft, promoting easier carry distance.

However, the feel is where the M-15 truly shines. Despite the hollow and multi-piece construction, it delivers the soft, responsive feel Mizuno players crave, and crucially, this feel is incredibly consistent across the entire set.

The refined sole geometry with added bounce is also a welcome feature, which is additive to the impressive impact feel, and definitely encouraged a cleaner entry and smoother exit through the turf in my testing.

The M-15 offers a fully integrated progression of performance from long iron to wedge. This seamless flow is crucial, as the modern player's distance iron must create smooth transitions in both shape and feel throughout the bag.

In the hollow-bodied "players distance" iron market, I see this and the Titleist T250 as the top choices for the more discerning player, or possibly the player that is graduating into this iron category from some more compact forged blades, rather than coming into the category from the game-improvement end.

The Mizuno Pro series has long set the gold standard for forged feel and player-focused design. The M-13, the successor to the Mizuno Pro 243, arrives with the promise of preserving that consistent feel while strategically introducing modern construction techniques across the set.

I have been testing this newest player’s cavity to see how it achieves its complex engineering goals and if it lives up to the revered Mizuno benchmark.

The technological heart of the M-13 lies in a three-part forging story that aims to adapt performance across the set.

In the 4 and 5 irons, a Pocket Cavity Grain Flow Forged construction merges Chromoly 4120 with 431 stainless steel for the purpose of creating Mizuno’s thinnest ever Contour Ellipse Face, just 1.37mm thick (around 35 percent thinner than the predecessor). Mizuno says this is key to unlocking higher ball speeds and distance in the longest irons, which was something I was keen to explore.

Moving into the 6, 7, and 8 irons, the construction shifts to a Micro-Slot Grain Flow Forged design; this model features a face 0.3mm thinner than the previous version, increasing flex once again in an attempt to deliver controlled speed gains with a mid-to-high COR performance.

Finally, the 9-iron through gap wedge utilizes a single-piece 1025 Elite forging, which is specifically engineered to prioritize precision, control, and the renowned soft impact feel that has defined Mizuno’s short irons for decades.

The Mizuno M-13 combines traditional head shaping with modern construction, aiming to create a set that offers more speed through the long irons and greater precision in the scoring clubs.

Having predominantly always played a single forged blade or cavity throughout my irons, I have always been a little uncomfortable with the concept of featuring different constructions of iron within one set.

I have always prioritized ultimate consistency and uniformity in my iron sets, wanting each iron to feel and perform the same. I've always wanted to make sure that my irons were offering the same levels of energy transfer throughout the set, even to the point where I have historically steered away from combo sets.

So I approached the M-13 with some hesitancy in that regard and was keen to see if they felt like three different sets within one.

Unsurprisingly, from Mizuno, from both the 'in the bag' perspective and the playing position, the M-13 irons look fantastic. The Nickel Chrome Satin Brush finish does a great job reducing glare and very much reinforces the premium aesthetic.

The shaping is immaculate and completely in keeping with what a true player’s cavity back should look like, in my opinion. In fact, this may be one of the shortest 'looks' sections I have ever written in a review. No notes, great job!

Fortunately, my initial hesitancy about the mixed construction was immediately alleviated as I worked through the set. I didn't see (in the data) or even feel any discernible difference in feel or energy transfer between the short, mid, and long irons in this set.

All of my data was gathered using my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, and the consistency of numbers was very impressive, suggesting that the intricate engineering behind the three-part forging successfully preserves the distinct and popular "Mizuno feel."

This could mean one of three things: 1) The tech doesn't actually work (highly unlikely); 2) The tech is very subtly integrated (most probable); or 3) I am just not sensitive enough to pick it up (a humbling thought for any equipment tester!).

In terms of the numbers, nothing radical has changed for me in terms of speed or trajectory from last season’s excellent Pro 243 iron; in fact, my launch monitor data was basically identical, so not much to report here. There could be an argument made that the data I gathered was a touch more consistent, but equally, there could be a counterargument that my swing may have been marginally better this time around; it’s tough to say.

The lofts are moderate to strong for this iron category, with the 7-iron coming in at 32˚ and the pitching wedge at 44˚, but I personally didn’t have any issues with launch.

The Triple Cut Sole works very nicely, particularly in the shorter irons, where I have a tendency to get a little steeper in attack angle. The sharper leading edges and bevelled trailing relief ensure dependable turf interaction from every lie, a feature that will very much enhance playability for the better player.

If you are currently a Pro 243 player and you are looking for a massive boost in performance numbers, then frankly, you are not going to get it. However, if you are just looking for a refresh of the bag with a beautiful-looking, great-feeling compact cavity, then the M-13 ticks all of the boxes.

No surprises here, just another fabulously crafted 'players' cavity from the masters of this genre.

Mizuno is renowned for making some of the best irons in the game and so when it brings out a new set, the golf world is keen to know about it. But there was a launch earlier this year that went completely under our radar. We never received the usual press release, nor was it listed on the Mizuno website. I discovered it a UK-based golf retailer and was immediately intrigued… why is Mizuno keeping this iron a secret and how does it perform?

The answer may lie in the proposition of the MX Speed Metal iron (that’s its name, in case you were wondering). Having been sent the technical information, I would class it as a game improvement iron for the budget-conscious golfer. MX was in fact Mizuno’s game improvement franchise before JPX came along (do you remember the MX-300 irons from 2010? Of course you do).

It appears MX is back, well sort of, as a more affordable alternative to the rightly popular JPX925 range, which tested very favorably for irons expert Joe Ferguson.

You can only buy the MX Speed Metal irons from American Golf - we’ve seen retailer SMU (Special Make Up) products in the past with examples like the Callaway Hex Bite Soft ball - and while the fitting options are limited, the price point is very appealing. A set from 5-PW will cost you around £649 whereas for the JPX925 Hot Metal, you’re talking upwards of £900. Is the price too good to be true? It was time to find out.

In terms of the tech, the MX Speed Metal has a Seamless Cup Face to create a deeper center of gravity for a higher launch angle and controllable land angle. It also allows the leading edge to act as a hinge, which facilitates greater ball speed.

A Cortech Face maximises this ball speed across the face while sound ribs across the top line and optimized head geometry are said to provide that signature Mizuno feel and feedback.

The look of this iron is simple and unfussy, which I like and actually prefer to the more filled in cavity of the JPX925 Hot Metal with its unnecessary white sections. Behind the ball, the MX Speed Metal inspires confidence through generous heel-to-toe length as well as a top line that isn’t too chunky. This does mean from 7-iron down, the sole creeps into view behind it, but this is only a minor visual gripe.

The impact experience is also very pleasant. There’s no harsh or hard sensation on strikes that connect with or miss the sweetspot. It feels lively and solid, like minimal energy is being lost in the collision of club and ball, with a relatively muted sound.

The 7-iron in this set comes in at 29°, which is a degree weaker than the JPX925 Hot Metal. I tested them both in the new Golf Monthly Performance Lab using the Bushnell Launch Pro Circle B Edition launch monitor.

The MX Speed Metal more than held its own here. Where the slightly more ball speed and carry distance from the JPX925 Hot Metal could be attributed to the loft differential, elsewhere the performance was where it needed to be and you could argue the higher launch, peak height and steeper descent angle will be suitable to a broader audience.

I wasn’t even testing in my usual stiff shaft (the samples I had were in a KBS regular steel shaft) but to be honest, they felt great and I didn’t experience excessive height or spin or a wide dispersion.

I tested this iron outdoors too and the ball flight was noticeably stable in terms of shot shape bias and where the balls finished. You could manufacture a fade or draw if you tried very hard, but the majority of shots, even pretty obvious mishits, held their line admirably, even in some pretty strong wind.

All in all, there’s a lot for golfers to enjoy here. For over £250 less, I’m not seeing a great deal of trade off against the more premium JPX925 Hot Metal irons. For inconsistent golfers seeking a new set that performs and doesn’t break the bank, the MX Speed Metal is a compelling, online-only alternative - providing you can get them built in a spec that closely matches what you need.

In an era of marginal gains, genuine golf club innovation can feel elusive. Yet, Avoda Golf has burst onto the scene with a concept so radical - and so immediately proven - that it demands your attention: the curved face iron.

This is not a theoretical experiment. In one of the great equipment stories of recent memory, Bryson DeChambeau won the 2024 US Open using Avoda’s curved face irons, immediately validating the technology on the toughest stage in golf. More recently, the momentum has continued, with Jason Day reportedly bagging a prototype set as he chases greater consistency in his ball-striking.

WATCH: The Avoda Curved Face iron is put through its paces on the Golf Monthly Reviews YouTube channel

The question is, can this Tour-proven concept translate to the everyday golfer? Perhaps more importantly, is it still beneficial when you're not swinging like a major champion?

The technical premise behind Avoda’s design is simple yet profound, borrowing directly from driver technology. The irons feature a horizontal ‘bulge’ or curvature across the face, which is precision CNC-milled to exacting standards. This curvature is designed to directly counteract ‘gear effect’ - the phenomenon where a toe strike causes the clubface to deflect slightly open, and the ball to roll slightly towards the centre in order to chase the CG (leading to a draw), and a heel strike causes the opposite ball flight tendency.

By starting the ball slightly in the opposite direction of the off-center hit, the curvature works like two meshing gears, effectively mitigating the tilted spin axis and delivering a straighter result. Avoda’s core promise is to dramatically reduce side spin on mishits and improve dispersion.

I have always loved companies that push the boundaries of convention, and I genuinely think there is something immensely powerful in this idea from a technical standpoint. In a game fixated on speed, Avoda is confident that these irons work better the quicker you are in clubhead speed, arguing that the increased face twist at high velocities is better managed by the bulge.

Prior to receiving this retail version for testing, I was fortunate enough to get access to a set of the most precise models available. In a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I played with Bryson DeChambeau’s spare set (one of only two in the world in his exact specification) in a UK PGA event, somehow managing to win, a performance I subsequently documented on YouTube. What I experienced that day had me utterly intrigued.

However, my further extensive testing revealed the critical complexity of this technology. My main concern was how shots hit with less than maximum effort would react, and this ultimately proved to be the sticking point.

At full speed, comparing the Avoda Curved Face to the flat-faced equivalent (in the exact same spec and shaft), along with my fellow testers, I was noticeably tighter in dispersion and observing exceptionally straight ball flights. The technology absolutely delivered on its promise.

However, when I tried to play some controlled, three-quarter off-speed shots or ‘knock-downs’ - the kind of scoring shots critical to scoring at an elite level - the dispersion patterns completely reversed. The flatness of the traditional face seemed to offer more predictable results at reduced speeds, while the curvature on this test set seemed to introduce unexpected variables.

The Avoda Curved Face iron is a breathtaking piece of engineering that has already changed professional golf. The ability to minimize spin axis tilt on a player’s iron is the holy grail of consistency and, at full speed, the data support the notion that this is the best concept on the market.

My hesitation rests entirely on the speed-dependence. I can't quite wrap my head around how this concept could work optimally for the entire spectrum of players, from 110 mph tour speed down to 75 mph amateur speeds, without compromise.

The future, I believe, lies in customization. I wonder if a different level of curvature could be matched to different swing speeds, similar to the variable bulge concept that LA Golf has tried to implement with its drivers.

As it stands, Avoda has produced a world-class iron for the player who swings hard and wants to eliminate curvature. If you fall into that category, these are a non-negotiable trial. For everyone else, Avoda has laid the essential groundwork for the next generation of iron design - but for me, the full potential of bulge and roll irons for all speeds has yet to be unlocked.

For the record, I absolutely believe that Avoda will be the company to do it.

The Srixon Z-Series has been the unheralded choice of the discerning player for some time now, offering sleek, forged irons that sit perfectly on the line between classic aesthetics and modern performance.

However, with the ZXiR and ZXiR HL irons, Srixon has made a long-awaited dip of a toe into the genuine game improvement market.

While the ZXi4 and its previous equivalents could be considered very user-friendly, it would be a stretch to call them true game improvement. The Srixon ZXiR family steps confidently and unashamedly into that space, designed for maximum distance and forgiveness, so I wanted to test them out to see if they could rival some of the best irons in the game.

Aesthetically, Srixon has done a predictably outstanding job from the 'in the bag' perspective on these irons. The ZXiR range simply oozes shelf appeal.

The two new models blend seamlessly into the ZXi iron family from that angle, featuring premium, cavity back badging and an extremely clean, sophisticated overall look.

The playing position, however, is where things really matter to me, and I have slightly mixed feelings here.

The topline, while noticeably thicker than other Srixon irons, is beautifully executed and is genuinely additive to the feeling of confidence on offer, rather than being bulky for the sake of it. Furthermore, the rest of the proportions and general shaping are also excellent and very much in keeping with what I have come to expect from one of my favorite iron manufacturers in the game.

For me, however, while the standard model just treads the right side of the line, in my opinion, the HL model features a little too much offset, which is more noticeable in the mid-long irons.

I get it, I do. The function of offset is primarily to help stop the right miss or the slice by allowing the leading edge a fraction of a second longer to catch up and reach square through impact; however, not everyone shopping in this market has that right miss. In fact, plenty of high handicap amateurs I play with have the exact opposite tendency and pull their irons.

As such, the fairly hefty offset on show here might actually be prohibitive to a good proportion of the target audience. However, that is a relatively minor point.

On to more positive notes, from a sound and feel point of view, this iron is as good as anything I have tried in the game improvement category, and a far cry from the clunky, harsh feels of yesteryear.

The construction uses i-ALLOY, a brand-new steel that is significantly softer than the 431 steel commonly used in this category, and it is very effective.

Although it is, as you would expect, a touch livelier off the face than, say, the more refined ZXi7 iron, the ball still melts into the face beautifully and offers great feedback from centered strikes. In addition, the levels of forgiveness off-center in terms of feel are of the highest order, with even some very severe toe strikes that would ordinarily sting a little, feeling almost subdued through my hands.

Srixon’s Mainframe technology is no doubt behind this success. This clever internal feature saves and redistributes additional weight, adding more MOI (Moment of Inertia) through an enhanced milled pattern on the back side of the iron face.

With this particular iteration of Mainframe, Srixon highlighted a predominant miss for the high handicap player being low in the face, and has added support specifically in that area.

Something I was thrilled to see make the cut in the design room was the Tour V.T. sole, which is the envy of many a manufacturer.

Although the sole width has massively increased, as you would expect on a game improvement iron (which flattens the pitch of the V sole a touch), this has been carefully thought about in other areas of camber on the sole, making it something of a 'modified' Tour V.T. sole.

I have to say it is an absolute triumph, operating like the bottom of a boat through choppy seas, gliding through with an ease I haven't felt in the game improvement category before.

From a performance standpoint, the standard ZXiR irons are absolute rocket launchers in terms of ball speed, exceeding almost anything else I have tried in the game improvement sector. However, that must be caveated with the fact that the lofts are very strong, with the pitching wedge coming in at 43˚ and the 7-iron at an eye-watering 28.5˚.

In truth, this worked impressively for me in terms of my own Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor numbers, but I swing a 7-iron at approximately 100 mph, so launch isn’t an issue for me. I would have serious concerns about slower players being able to generate enough height to make them an effective choice in some conditions.

This is most likely why Srixon has created the ZXiR HL (High Launch) version to complement the extremely powerful, low-lofted standard model.

For context, the HL version is exactly the same in terms of its core technologies, with the only differences (aside from the additional loft) being a fractionally longer blade length and (sadly for me) more offset.

The HL version offered me an entirely different launch window, with significantly more spin, and, crucially, nearly 30 feet more peak height, something not to be sniffed at for the low-ball hitters among you.

While the standard ZXiR lofts get a little bunched (only 2.5° difference by the time you get to the top of the bag), the HL version has its lofts spaced much more evenly, along with being significantly weaker (as much as 4° at points in the set) to assist with launch.

Personally, while I totally see the necessity for the strong-lofted standard model in the range to compete with distance irons such as the Cobra DS-Adapt and the Titleist T350 on the distance front, based on my experience, more high handicap players would see actual, genuine game improvement from the HL model, as opposed to just distance improvement.

Overall, I really like this first foray into genuine game improvement from Srixon, and I think it is a very smart move to offer the two models.

For the player who maybe has a touch more speed and generates a little more dynamic loft, the ZXiR will be a great fit to maximize distance output.

However, I see the ZXiR HL offering more players tangible game improvement qualities, such as height and stopping power, if they can avoid becoming bedazzled by that often misleading total distance number in the fitting bay. On the whole, I think these are excellent additions to the ZXi lineup.

Genuine innovation within golf club design these days is hard to come by. We see subtle variations in materials used, club face configurations and weighting systems - but broadly club head design has been consistent over the last decade or so.

The same can’t be said of the Q Gen 2 adjustable club, which you could justifiably describe as bizarre or ingenious depending on your perspective - having given it a thorough test over the last few weeks, I’m still on the fence and will let you make your own mind up!

The concept is a fully adjustable golf club that allows you to play a full round of golf without needing to use anything else (besides some balls and a tee) while also saving on the taxing process (both on the body and the bank balance) of transporting your clubs abroad.

The latest version of the Q Gen 2 club features a clubhead that can rotate into one of eight loft settings with a push and then a twist. These range from a four-degree putter all the way up to a 60-degree lob wedge.

The shaft comes in two parts, with each part fitting easily into a large ruck sack or hand luggage suitcase. You simple screw them together to lock them in place and I was surprised at how well connected the overall club felt. In fact, the shaft felt quite rigid and boardy, not soft or whippy like you might expect from a regular flex shaft that essentially has a weak point right in the middle of it, in theory anyway - something I’ve experienced with multi-material putter shafts in the past that have an obvious joining point.

My first experience with the Q Gen 2 club was on the 17th hole at Peterborough Milton golf club. It’s a medium length par four which meanders to the right and there’s a fairway bunker on the corner beyond the fairway at about 270 yards. So I adjusted it into its 12° ‘stinger’ setting and swung away, not knowing what to expect. The shaft at 38 inches (the same length as my 7-iron) felt very short for a club with this loft and the look at address is unusual to say the least.

But to say I absolutely buttoned this shot was an understatement - and the resulting feel off the face was very pleasant indeed - robust and powerful. The ball flew off like a rocket and never got more than four yards in the air. But it rolled out seemingly forever, eventually stopping in the semi rough just short of the aforementioned fairway bunker. I can't help but think those with less speed than me in the tank may struggle with height off the tee, but it was off the a decent start.

Upon reaching my ball for my next shot, this club had exceeded all my expectations. Unfortunately, things went slightly downhill from this point. I was left with 176 yards and so I adjusted the clubhead into its 28° loft 6-iron setting. It’s worth pointing out that the process is easy to execute, although you do need to look very closely at the markings when selecting the one you want as they are very close together.

As good as the stinger setting felt, the 6-iron came off a little dead. I’m not sure why - I thought I struck it ok but it could have something to do with the bounce on the sole, which was significant versus my usual Titleist T150 irons, and meant the turf interaction was a little clunky - especially if you don’t present a lot of shaft lean to the ball like me.

When you increase the loft setting, the leading edge essentially rotates up and forwards, sitting a long way in front of the hosel and increasing the effective bounce. For those that would benefit from a lot of bounce, this will work wonders, but for sweepers of the ball it may detrimentally affect your ball-striking experience.

It came up around 10 yards short of the green in the fairway, so I opted for a chip and run shot with the 8-iron setting and it came out well, finishing around seven feet short of the flag. In the putter setting, this is arguably as strange as the feeling over the ball becomes given the grip is obviously round in shape to accommodate full swing shots. That said, it is much longer than standard and has markings on it to help position your hands in the same place every time.

The par attempt missed left and raced about six foot past, which on reflection was no surprise given how fast the ball seemingly came off the face for my tee shot. Clearly, a degree of recalibration is required on the greens but once I fine tuned the required shorter stroke length, it was perfectly useable.

I really like the concept of the Q Gen 2 club. Being able to rock up to the 1st tee with one club in your hand and get the ball round the course is a thought-provoking one, especially for the casual, social golfer who isn’t too fussed about keeping score. Which is handy given this club is non-conforming to the Rules of Golf.

Also for those that play a lot of golf abroad and want to save on travel bag fees, which can be as much as £60 each way in my experience, or the cost of rental clubs that are barely more suitable. Then there are those golfers with physical limitations that struggle to get their clubs around the course - electric trolleys are expensive and potentially beyond budget, so this club provides a more affordable alternative.

I don’t think serious golfers will enjoy the experience, especially around the green where versatility is limited, but this club certainly serves a purpose and describing it as a gimmick would be unfair. Can I see myself using it? I doubt it, but I know a few people who would, and considering you’re basically getting eight clubs in one for the price of £249 or $299 - you’re getting a lot for your money.

The Cobra Baffler name has a long and storied history in golf, synonymous with forgiveness and playability, particularly from challenging lies.

Building on that legacy, Cobra's 2025 Baffler Hybrid-Iron Combo Set is designed to be the ultimate game-improvement package, a full bag solution for golfers who prioritize launch, distance, and forgiveness.

This set boldly steps away from traditional iron design, promising to make the game easier and more enjoyable for those with slower swing speeds. I've been testing this set to see if it is worthy of a place among the best irons in the game and, more importantly, how it performs for the golfer it's designed to help.

The modern golf equipment market is, in my opinion, a better place for its diversity. Where once there was a one-size-fits-all approach, there are now a multitude of clubs designed to help every type of player, all the way from the elite player to the beginner just starting out.

The Cobra Baffler Hybrid-Iron Combo Set is a perfect example of this, as it is unapologetically designed for golfers who need help with launch, distance, and consistency.

Looks-wise, the Baffler set certainly stands out. The chunky hybrids and wide-soled irons with their distinct rails are a far cry from the sleek, minimalist offerings of the best low handicap iron category. For the purists and traditionalists of the game, this visual won't be appealing, but it will undoubtedly offer a feeling of peace of mind and confidence to many.

Standing over the ball, the generous size and technology on display give a powerful sense of heft and security, which is a feeling worth its weight in gold for many golfers. The design is unashamedly bold, unique, and speaks directly to its purpose.

In terms of the technology story, the Baffler set is all about progressive design. The longer clubs (4 and 5 iron replacements) are true hybrids, built with a deep rail system that helps the club glide through the turf with minimal resistance. The knock-on benefit of these rails is that CG is moved very low in the head, making it incredibly easy to get the ball airborne from a variety of lies.

The set then transitions into what Cobra refers to as ‘hybrid-irons’ in 6 and 7-iron, which feature a slightly shorter blade length than the hybrids, and a progressively shallower rail depth.

Things change a little once again in the 8 and 9-irons, where we then head into ‘hollow irons’ before ending up in a more traditional cavity back pitching wedge (Gap and Sand wedges are available through custom order). I was particularly pleased to see that Cobra has tapered down the sole rail depth moving into the short irons.

In previous iterations, I found it incredibly difficult to chip and pitch with these clubs, as the wide sole and large protrusions would often provide some pretty clunky turf interaction, so the extra thought here is a welcome refinement that makes the scoring clubs far more playable.

The decision to stop at a 6-iron and introduce lofted hybrids thereafter is a smart idea for those struggling to launch the ball high enough. The hybrids have been designed with launch very much in mind, providing a high, soft-landing ball flight that, as we all know, is often difficult to achieve with traditional long irons.

Furthermore, there is a clear financial benefit to including the hybrids within the set, as hybrids as a single entity can often cost well over $250/£250, making this a nice value proposition.

Performance-wise, the Baffler set delivers on its promise. The hybrids are very good, providing high launch, impressive distance, and excellent forgiveness. The irons themselves are incredibly forgiving, maintaining ball speed and direction well on off-center strikes, while the high launch and generous spin provide a playable ball flight that will hold greens effectively.

If you like a lively feel off the face, then these are well worth thinking about. Cobra’s decision not to add any foam to the interior of the hollow head has definitely influenced a more high-pitched and wood-like feel to the strike. It is far from unpleasant, offering a powerful sensation; it is just something to note.

Overall, the Cobra Baffler Hybrid-Iron Combo Set is an exceptionally well-thought-out package for the golfer who wants maximum help. While the looks may not be for everyone, the performance is undeniable. It provides a comprehensive, high-quality, and very user-friendly solution at a pretty reasonable price point.

A set including 4 and 5 hybrids plus 6-PW starts from $899.

Vega, a brand revered for its deep roots in Japanese forging and unparalleled craftsmanship, continues to produce some of the most sought-after irons in the world. While its Mizar Pro Cavity irons strike a masterful balance between performance and forgiveness, the new Vega SS irons are a pure celebration of the blade, a club designed for the most discerning and skilled ball striker.

After seeing some initial images online, I was genuinely excited to get these in hand to see if Vega could deliver a club that not only honors the tradition of a muscleback but also competes with some of the best golf irons on the market.

I’m not often lost for words, but when I first pulled the SS irons out of the box, I was genuinely gobsmacked. They are breathtaking. The full aesthetic package of this iron is arguably second to none right now, with only maybe the Mizuno Pro S1 its equal in terms of the 2025 releases.

The shaping is nothing short of exquisite, with a pristine satin finish that exudes class and timeless elegance. The head is noticeably diminutive, with essentially zero offset, a profile that will absolutely appeal to the purist. The proportions are perfectly balanced, and the lines flow seamlessly from the hosel to the topline. I have nothing but admiration for what Vega has produced visually here.

In terms of performance, there will be many who say that due to their extreme proportions, these irons are simply unplayable to the masses, a sentiment I can understand. However, as a relatively competent ball striker, I did not notice any significant difference in difficulty to, say, a Mizuno Pro S1 or a Titleist 620 MB. It’s absolutely a player's iron, yes, but it is not unduly unforgiving within its category.

The concept of the changeable weight ports didn't sit right with me initially for an otherwise classic and traditional forged club. I feared they would negatively impact the feel of the club, perhaps introducing a harsh or hollow sensation; however, I'm happy to report that my fears were completely misguided; the weight ports are a modern, functional addition that has no impact on the sublime feel of the club.

Essentially, they are cylindrical weights of various masses that can easily be switched in and out to create your ideal swing weight. Normally, this would be done through tip weights in the shaft at the build stage, but the Vega method allows for fine-tuning on the go, and for a tinkerer like me, it's a lot of fun.

The Vega SS irons are the smallest and least offset heads Vega has ever produced, which allows for exceptional control and maximum workability, something I experienced in bucket loads. My testing sessions were an absolute joy, knocking down shots, cutting, and drawing at will, and I found perfectly playable distance out of the relatively conservative lofts (7-iron is 33˚).

The feel of the strike is soft and deep, a buttery sensation that communicates a well-struck shot with absolute clarity. The ball felt like it stayed on the face for an eternity before launching off with a pleasing, solid thud. On slight mishits, the feedback is clear and precise, allowing you to learn from your swing without the punishment of a jarring feel, but don’t expect much assistance in terms of ball speed retention.

While the appeal will certainly be niche here, for the player with a healthy budget, a finely tuned golf swing, and a desire to stand out from the crowd, the Vega SS iron is an absolute dream.

The SS irons sit very much at the pricier end of the market, starting from £1813 for a 4-PW set. There are several Oban and Shimada steel shaft options available, and those who require graphite will be looking at a proprietary Vega graphite shaft. There is also a wide variety of Iomic grips to choose from, which can be customised in terms of colour and thickness.

The utility iron market has never been more competitive, with manufacturers offering a wide variety of options for players seeking a long iron replacement.

In my testing experience, these clubs tend to fall into two camps: those that feel more like a mini-fairway wood, and those that retain the solid feel and playability of an iron. With the new Apex UT, Callaway has a strong contender, promising a tour-inspired shape with incredible versatility. I was eager to get this in hand to see how it performs and if it can stand out in a crowded field and establish itself as one of the best utility irons.

The technology package is pretty extensive, with the Apex UT Utility Iron featuring a multi-material Flexcore Technology, designed to promote more face flexure and faster ball speeds across the face, even on off-center hits. An Ai Face Design has been engineered specifically for utility irons, focusing on superior distance control and spin consistency, while the forged hollow-body construction aims to provide a solid, responsive feel with enhanced vibration dampening.

In terms of looks, I really like this latest Apex UT at address. It's clean, and even though it is relatively compact, it still looks perfectly playable, inspiring a fair amount of confidence.

I've heard a few comments here and there about the back section of the club looking like it has just been 'bolted on' and not a cohesive part of the design, which is a fair critique, but honestly, it's not something that bothers me in any way. Assuming the club can deliver the requisite level of performance, I'm happy to overlook any minor aesthetic point. For the record, I do actually like the techy, deconstructed look Callaway has opted for here with the back section and visible screws.

I was particularly pleased to see a slightly higher toe section in this version compared to the previous generation. No matter how upright I bent the old model, I just couldn't get it looking quite right to my eye; it always appeared a little too flat at address.

This new version is certainly better, and I know, having spoken to a number of tour players, that this was certainly implemented with feedback from the tour, with many of them opting for older models in their utility irons because the previous version just looked too flat at address.

I really enjoyed the feel of this utility iron; it feels like it is just that, an iron. A number of other models on the market are a little too jumpy or wood-like in their feel for me. The 2025 Apex UT delivers a solid, muted thud at impact that gives you the feedback you want without being harsh.

The Apex UT delivered a top-tier performance for me across the board in terms of data, which I gathered with my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor. The launch and spin windows were exactly where I would want them to be—not too aggressive and piercing, and certainly not floaty or weak.

The ball flight was a strong, mid-launch that was easily controllable, even in some particularly windy test conditions. The ability to flight the ball down or hit a little fade or draw also felt relatively intuitive, which was nice and is exactly what a better player looks for in a utility iron.

Furthermore, I also found the spin to be incredibly consistent across the face, suggesting that the 'Flexcore' technology is working as designed. This consistency is a massive confidence booster, as it removes the guesswork that can sometimes plague utility irons, particularly on off-center strikes.

The forgiveness on offer, particularly in that spin retention area, is also excellent for a club of this type. My off-center hits maintained a good degree of ball speed and stayed remarkably close to my intended target, making this a highly playable tool.

In my opinion, the Apex UT is a nice upgrade on the previous iteration. The visual improvements at address, combined with the performance characteristics and consistency, make it a strong contender for anyone looking to fill the gap at the top of their bag. While the 'in the bag' appeal may not be to everyone's taste (although I really like it), this is a club built for function and performance.

The new Callaway Apex UT will be available at an RRP of $299/£279.

In a market saturated with global giants and household names, Vega Golf has long occupied a slightly different space. The Japanese brand, founded on a legacy of traditional craftsmanship, operates in the artisan, boutique sphere. In my experience, Vega has always been for the golfer who wants to stand out, who appreciates a club that's as much a work of art as it is a tool to play the game.

The new Vega Mizar Pro Cavity irons are a clear statement to this philosophy, oozing with shelf appeal and an undeniable sense of quality. So I took them to the driving range and golf course to see if they can compete with some of the best irons on the market in 2025.

In the address position, the Mizar Pro Cavity irons present a profile that is clean and confident, and the overall dimensions are perfectly appropriate for a model that would sit in the low handicap irons market. Furthermore, Vega has played a clever hand by creating these irons from the same raw forging as the Mizar Pro Blade to allow for a cohesive look for those going down a blended set route.

To my eye, there is a specific design choice, however, that gives them a slightly unique appearance. Unlike many of their direct competitors, such as the TaylorMade P7CB or Mizuno Pro S3, Vega has not heavily beveled the top edge. This creates an optical illusion, making the topline appear slightly thicker than both the Mizuno and TaylorMade equivalents.

For some, this might add some peace of mind and enhance the club’s forgiving look, while others may prefer to look at a more streamlined, thinner profile.

It is also worth noting that the Mizar Pro Cavity presents a noticeable amount more offset than most irons in this area of the game. This will be very welcome to players who struggle with a right miss in their iron play, but to others it may not suit their eye or ball flight tendencies.

One of the most impressive and innovative features of the Mizar Pro is its interchangeable weight system, which allows for fine-tuning of the clubhead’s weight and feel. When I first saw this feature, I was skeptical. Would this mechanism compromise the club's feel, creating a jarring sensation or extra vibration at impact?

I was pleasantly surprised to find that it had no negative impact whatsoever. The club felt incredibly solid and responsive, with the interchangeable weights seamlessly integrated into the head's design, and it is a genuinely useful function for custom fitters to really dial in swing weight requirements. The feel at impact is what you would expect from a high-end forged iron, buttery and satisfying.

I tested the Vega Mizar Pro Cavity using TaylorMade TP5 golf balls on my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, and there is nothing out of the ordinary to report in any of the major ball flight parameters.

The 7-iron I tested was certainly on the longer side in terms of carry and fairly punchy in ball speed for a low handicap cavity, but that could probably be attributed to the slightly stronger than ‘standard’ lofts on offer. The 7-iron comes in at 32˚, and for context, many of its contemporaries in this category sit more around the 33˚ or even 34˚ number.

Those looking for a little power boost or slightly lower ball flight without the need to jump up into the hollow-bodied players' distance category will absolutely enjoy this iron.

For the golfer who wants a conversation-starting set of irons, the Vega Mizar Pro Cavity is a compelling option. They are very much a statement item for someone who is looking to be a little different and is prepared to pay a little more for that.

However, the question must be asked: does the performance on the course justify the price tag? In truth, when looking at the raw numbers on a launch monitor, there is nothing that would truly compel me to pay the higher cost (prices start from £1,813) over an iron like the TaylorMade P7CB or the Mizuno Pro S3, both of which offer exceptional performance in their own right.

The Mizar Pro Cavity delivers solid, consistent results, but they don't offer a significant performance advantage that would sway a purely data-driven decision. Ultimately, the choice to buy these irons comes down to a desire for something special and unique, rather than a quantifiable performance gain, but as a self-confessed gear geek, I am entirely here for that line of thinking too!

A 4-PW set will start from £1813.00, and is available in a multitude of Shimada steel shafts or a proprietary Vega graphite option. There is also a wide variety of Iomic grips to choose from, which can be customised in terms of colour and thickness.

New Level Golf has quietly carved a niche in the competitive golf equipment landscape, building a reputation for delivering high-quality, performance-driven clubs directly to the consumer. This approach often translates to exceptional value, and I have been testing the 702 CB irons to see if they continue that legacy.

As a PGA Professional, I'm always intrigued by brands that promise tour-level craftsmanship without the traditional tour-level price tag, so let’s see if the New Level 702 CB can muscle in on some of the best irons in the game…

New Level Golf 702 CB Irons Review: Looks

Pulling the 702 CB irons from the box, my immediate thought was "wow." These irons are a masterclass in players' aesthetics, exuding a seriously premium and sophisticated appeal. The exceptionally clean lines and satin finish are outstanding, but it's the shaping at address that really caught my attention.

The topline is beautifully thin and crisp, with minimal offset, creating a visual that just screams precision. In fact, the overall shaping of the playing position reminded me a lot of the sleek, confidence-inspiring profile of the Srixon ZXi7 irons – a truly high compliment for any player's cavity back. They frame the ball beautifully at address, inspiring a sense of control that I look for in an iron of this type, featuring an offset that I would describe as mid-level for a low-handicap iron.

New Level Golf 702 CB Irons Review: Feel & Sound

The feel at impact with the New Level 702 CB irons is exactly what you'd hope for from a beautifully forged cavity back, and may be derived from the addition of a tungsten toe weight, strategically placed to lower and balance CG placement. It's a sensation of solid purity, a soft yet responsive thud that resonates beautifully through the hands. There's no harshness or unwanted vibration, even on shots struck slightly away from the center; don’t get me wrong, there is feedback, but it isn’t unduly punishing to feel.

The sound perfectly complements this feel; it's a muted but authoritative confirmation of a well-struck shot without being dull in any way. This combination of refined feel and pleasing acoustics makes every pure strike incredibly satisfying and contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment of hitting these irons.

New Level Golf 702 CB Irons Review: Performance

In terms of raw numbers, the 702 CB Forged irons aren't chasing extreme distance; they are relatively conservatively lofted, with the 7-iron coming in at 33˚. What they deliver, however, is something far more valuable for the discerning player: predictability.

In my testing, the ball flights were exceptionally stable and supremely consistent in terms of spin and yardage, exactly what I would look for from an iron of this type.

The spin rates were well-optimized, providing ample stopping power on the greens, which is crucial for attacking pins, and the consistent, predictable flight gives you genuine confidence, knowing precisely how far the ball will carry and how it will react upon landing. Forgiveness, for a player's cavity back, was also impressive, with off-center strikes maintaining good ball speed and a tight dispersion, ensuring that slight misses still wound up relatively close to their targets.

The neatly ground and crafted sole needs a mention too, as the softly bevelled leading edge contributes to a brilliantly versatile turf interaction. On the linksy turf of Saunton Golf Club, where I tested them out with my Foresight Sports GC3 launch monitor, it cut through the ground with the ease and slipperiness so often present on some of the best blade irons.

For those who are looking longingly at the 702 CB but feeling like they are not adept enough ball strikers to use them, I would implore you to check out the 702+ irons on the New Level website. It is essentially just a supersized version of the 702 CB in terms of blade length, top line and offset, and is also a truly excellent option for those looking for a touch more forgiveness.

New Level Golf 702 CB Irons Review: Customisation

Beyond the exceptional on-course performance, New Level shines in its commitment to customization and overall value. I absolutely love the number of custom options available throughout its iron range. You can choose from a wide array of shafts and grips to perfectly match your swing profile and what's more, the option of selecting custom ferrules adds a fantastic bespoke touch, allowing you to truly personalize your set.

This level of tailoring, combined with a 4-PW set price of $1043/£805, represents real value for a product with such high build quality and refined performance. It's rare to find this combination of premium aesthetics, forged feel, consistent performance, and extensive customization at such a (relatively) accessible price point.

If you are reading this review, then I probably don’t need to give you a history lesson on Mizuno Golf. For years now, Mizuno has forged some of the best irons in the game from its Japanese base, and now it has released a new muscleback that will look to disrupt some of the best blades in the game; the Mizuno S-1.

Tech-wise, as always with a bladed iron, this section is a little thin on the ground; however, Mizuno would be keen for me to highlight some of the clever design features of the S-1. Starting with the new soft white satin finish that is designed to complement the refined aesthetic, but also to reduce glare.

The Pro S-1 is forged using Mizuno’s Grain Flow Forged HD process from a single billet of 1025E Pure Select Mild Carbon Steel. The inclusion of a copper underlay, which has become a Mizuno calling card, is designed to subtly refine vibration patterns to produce the purest, most satisfying feedback.

Furthermore, the S-1 incorporates a Channel Back Design that redistributes mass in an attempt to provide greater vertical stability and a more consistent center of gravity.

Finally, the S-1 introduces a re-engineered sole design that features a flatter camber, a sharper leading edge, and an additional degree of bounce to the Mizuno Pro 241.

In terms of the looks, I have precisely no notes! I will just let you admire the pictures I have taken, and hope that they do this beautiful club justice.

Based on tour feedback, Mizuno has produced a very compact profile with a square toe design, a thin topline, and straight edges that Mizuno says “convey discipline and purpose”. It is tough to argue with that. Along with the Pro S-3, Mizuno may well have the number one and number two in terms of best golf irons on the market for looks right now.

The performance in terms of raw launch monitor data would probably be exactly as you’d imagine from a moderately lofted (7-iron is 34˚) set of forged blades, and it was exactly what I would hope for. High levels of spin and predictable carry numbers were the order of the day, but it is the feel that is the real showstopper for me here.

Complemented by some nice, slippery turf interaction, the impact feel is otherworldly. The ball melts into the face, and it feels like I could tell you to within 0.1 of a millimeter where I struck each and every shot; the feedback is that good!

With the somewhat squat, compact blade length, manipulating the face is extremely easy, so the shot shapers out there will most certainly appreciate what is on offer from the Pro S-1.

Do you get high levels of forgiveness? No. Do you get much help with launch (other than the conservative lofts)? No. Is there any tech on offer to boost your distance output? Also no! However, what you do get with the Mizuno Pro S-1 is one of the most beautiful modern blades I have ever seen, combined with extraordinary feel and as much workability as anything I have tested. In the right hands, the Pro S-1s are as good as it gets.

Callaway Golf has made some of my favorite irons over the past couple of years, with the Apex CB being a particular highlight for me. So, when I heard that there was a new player's distance offering, I was thoroughly looking forward to putting it through its paces. Let’s see if the Callaway Apex Ai150 irons can rival some of the best irons in the game, and what they have to offer your game.

To give you the top line, the Ai150 sits in the compact distance iron category alongside the likes of the TaylorMade P790 and the Srixon ZXi5. The 7-iron loft of 31˚ is obviously still strong in traditional terms, but is between a degree and half a degree weaker than much of its competition in that iron category.

Tech-wise, we are looking at an iron whose design base was the very popular on-tour TCB iron. Essentially, Callaway just took the TCB profile, thickened the top line, added some offset, and widened the sole a touch, and the Ai150 is the result.

It features the Ai Smart Face, which is designed to not only promote ball speed but also deliver that ball speed consistently, a key component of any better player's iron. Callaway has also added its tri-sole to this model in an attempt to enhance the turf interaction experience.

In terms of looks, truth be told, I am not totally in love. From a shelf appeal perspective, they are fairly clean and minimal, which ticks my box, but I have to say, I never love the half-and-half combination of high gloss chrome and matt finishes. To me, it cheapens the look a touch, and I would much prefer to see a clubhead be one thing or the other, which always looks a lot more premium in my eyes. For example, the Elyte irons from Callaway look stunning with high gloss chrome throughout, while the Apex CB irons look equally as appealing with a more brushed matt finish. Irons simply don’t need both for me.

With none of the other models in the Apex range featuring any sort of chrome, it is a strange addition that somewhat interrupts the cohesion of the range. However, looks are all subjective, and plenty of people I have shown it to around the office loved the visual on offer with Ai150.

In the playing position, the dimensions and shaping are nice and frame the ball well. The fairly prevalent offset will appeal to players who fear the right miss, and while it isn’t my preferred look, this will offer a nice alternative to many irons in the category, like the TaylorMade P790, that have sought to minimize their offset.

As with the best Callaway irons I have tried in the past couple of years, the performance is undeniably excellent. Impressive ball speed output and excellent feel across the face are the real highlights of this compact distance iron.

Callaway is marketing these as a single-digit handicap player iron, but with the levels of forgiveness I experienced in my testing, I think they may be doing themselves a disservice. Many 12-15 handicap players I know would comfortably be able to game the Ai150 and be very happy about it.

As someone who has been banging the drum for some time, I am thrilled to see so many more companies paying attention to sole geometry, and Callaway has done a really good job in that regard. The tri-sole is extremely effective on both entry and exit to the turf, offering an extremely smooth ride.

My launch monitor data results were pretty much identical to one of my favorites in this category, the Srixon ZXi5, which can only be a good thing, and the consistency of the numbers was very encouraging to see.

The Ai150 is undoubtedly a good, solid offering in the players' distance category. I guess I am just struggling a little to see why the Callaway iron lineup needed it. While I suppose there was a bit of a loft gap between the Apex Pro (7-iron - 33˚) and the Apex Ai200 (7-iron 30˚), I am not sure what additional performance I am getting here versus just weakening the Ai200 iron by a degree.

That said, as a standalone product, it is a very good iron that achieves everything it set out to do from a design standpoint. The ball doesn’t care if there are too many irons in a lineup or not; the ball only knows impact, and everything that happens after impact with the Ai150 is truly very good.

The Ai150 is available in 3-AW and has an RRP of $229.99 per club.

The best utility irons in the game tend to offer very different individual performance characteristics. Some are great at launching the ball high, while others excel at providing that low, penetrating ball flight from the tee that players in windy conditions love. Some provide a lot of workability but maybe lack a little forgiveness, while others prioritize playability but lack a little finesse. I think I may have just tested one that covers all bases… let’s take a look at the new Titleist T250U utility iron.

In terms of the technology story, the T250’s singular design features a face and body made entirely of high-strength steel, which allows powerful performance technologies to be sneakily disguised within its profile. For increased speed, Titleist has incorporated a new forged L-Face with a V-taper design, which has been introduced to create greater ball speed across the entire face and increase launch on low-face strikes, something that could be useful when utilizing the T250U from the deck rather than the tee.

Enhanced consistency is a big part of the T250's design, with Titleist saying that Improved Max Impact Technology helps produce more consistent carry distance and tighter dispersion. For high flight & stability, split high-density tungsten is precisely utilized to produce an optimal CG with good stability in what is still a relatively compact profile.

Looks-wise, for once, I have precisely no notes! This is as good-looking a utility iron as I could ever imagine. From the limited branding and sparing use of color, all the way to the shaping and finish, from a shelf appeal standpoint, it is perfection.

In the playing position, the small offset is executed beautifully while all the dimensions and curves are precisely what I would have drawn up in my dream scenario. In case you hadn’t picked up on this, I really liked it!

Fortunately for me, the performance only served to enhance my admiration of the T250U utility iron.

I was fitted into a 3-iron model, with a Graphite Design Tour AD VF Hybrid 95X shaft, and testing was a joy -I felt like I could do anything with the ball. My stock shots flew with a beautiful, consistent, mid-height trajectory, only ever deviating by around 200rpm of spin at most, but when I wanted to hoist one up a little more or knock one down, I have never hit a utility iron where this felt easier.

With some utility irons, you have to work very hard to manipulate ball flight, but truly, the T250U offered me the most versatility I have ever experienced in this genre of golf club.

Feel wise, once again, the T250U was faultless. I noted in my T250 iron review that these were probably just on the firm side of the spectrum for a full iron set, and the T250U obviously feels the same (with essentially the exact same head design), but that marginally firmer feel seemed to suit a utility iron perfectly. And don’t get me wrong, it is far from harsh, just a nice solid feel with plenty of feedback. I don’t want or need my hands being molly-coddled in my utility iron as I would with a wedge or irons, I want to feel that power.

Crucially, I also found almost identical performance from the ground and off a tee in terms of launch and spin, which is huge in terms of predictability for the better player and is not always the case in this category. Often in the past, I have stood on the tee of a long par three debating whether to drop my ball on the ground or peg it up for fear of hitting a high-launching low spinner that flies 10 yards further than I anticipated. Not so with T250U. From a short tee or the turf, my spin, launch, and carry distances were exceptionally tight.

The Ping iDi utility iron I recently reviewed went in extremely high up my list of best utility irons for its simply outstanding performance and feel, but this at least matches it and, if I put my superficial head on, might just have the edge based on its visual.

The T250U is available in 2 (18˚), 3 (20˚), and 4 (22˚) iron head models with a variety of featured shaft options and is customizable by plus or minus 2˚ in loft, 4 degrees upright to 2 degrees flat in lie angle and by plus 2 inches or minus 4 inches in length.

The RRP for the T250U utility iron will be $279/£259 or $399/£379 (premium shaft).

The Titleist T-Series franchise has been a wildly successful one, and 2025 sees the latest versions hitting the shelves. While there are some familiar models returning, such as the T100 and T150, allow me to introduce you to the mysterious new T250, a model specifically crafted for golfers seeking serious distance out of their irons without compromising on looks.

I have been testing out the Titleist T250 for a few weeks now to see what innovations it brings to the table, and if it can muscle its way into the conversation among the best irons in the game.

In terms of the technology story, the T250, as Titleist describes, is "built different". Its singular design features a face and body made entirely of high-strength steel, which allows powerful performance technologies to be discreetly housed within its profile. For elevated speed, Titleist has incorporated a new forged L-Face with a V-taper design, which has been introduced to create greater ball speed across the entire face and increase launch on low-face strikes, which is a predominant miss for many players who will be shopping in this market.

Enhanced consistency is a core pillar of the T250's design. Titleist states that Improved Max Impact Technology helps produce more consistent carry distance and tighter dispersion, and complementing this, more aggressive mid/short-iron grooves are designed to promote enhanced spin control from any lie. For high flight & stability, split high-density tungsten has been utilized to produce an optimal CG with good stability in what is still a relatively compact profile.

Looks-wise, the T250 is simply outstanding and may actually be peerless in this iron category. It presents a genuinely clean, modern, minimalist design that oozes quality, and I believe will appeal to a wide range of discerning golfers. Without getting carried away, I am not sure I have seen many better-looking products in any iron category in terms of the ‘in the bag’ angle, and they will offer some serious shelf appeal in retail stores.

While T250 absolutely offers a slightly larger profile than the T100 or T150, I found this increase to be barely noticeable because it is so beautifully executed in terms of the shaping. It is genuinely confidence-inspiring at address, with a marginally thicker top line and subtly increased offset, the only clues to the style of iron in hand.

Those visual characteristics, however subtle, definitely offered a touch more reassurance for me in the playing position without compromising the clean, traditional aesthetic that I have come to expect from any Titleist product.

Performance-wise, the T250 truly delivered on its promise of elevated speed and enhanced consistency in my testing. The stronger lofts (7-iron is 30.5˚), combined with the refined internal weighting and muscle channel, provided some exceptional ball speed numbers and pretty explosive distance!

As long as I am testing irons, I will always be on the lookout for that destructive ‘jumpy’ strike in the players' distance category, and I can happily report there wasn’t even the merest hint of one with T250. I mean, they went miles, but they consistently went miles, which is the key point! Unpredictability is a killer in any iron, but the T250 delivered time and time again.

The impact feel, for me, was certainly livelier than the T100 and T150 models, but still gave a nice solid sensation at strike that provided excellent feedback, allowing me to truly feel where on the face I had struck the ball, which can’t be said for all irons in this genre. I would still put a model like the TaylorMade P790 just ahead in the feel department personally, being a touch softer, but there really isn’t much in it.

You’ll be pleased to hear there is forgiveness in bucket loads with the T250 iron, and that was most evident in the front-to-back dispersion from my testing. I had to miss it pretty badly to lose much more than 2 mph of ball speed from this iron, which is an excellent return.

It's also worth noting that the T250 irons are available in what Titleist calls 'Launch Spec'. This variant is specifically designed to take iron performance to new heights for players with moderate swing speeds or those who naturally produce extremely low ball flight. By subtly reducing the head weight and adding more loft than the standard T250, these irons are engineered to encourage effortless launch, increased carry, and enhanced stopping power. This thoughtful option ensures that a wider range of golfers can experience the T250's exceptional performance, but have it tailored to their unique swing characteristics.

I firmly believe that the T250 will be a roaring success at retail. Those players who need that distance bump but maybe don’t want people to know it by the look of their clubs will be flocking to this model. As new entries to the market, it is hard to imagine a better one than the T250 iron.

The Titleist T250 will be available for $1499/£1379 per 7-piece set (steel), $1599/£1479 per 7-piece set (graphite).

As the most played iron on professional tours worldwide, the previous iteration of the Titleist T100 is undoubtedly a favorite amongst the better players in the game. I have been testing out the newest version of this incredibly successful iron to see what has changed and if it can maintain its spot amongst the best irons on the market.

In terms of the technology story, the main headlines here are the introduction of a new, more aggressive groove in the shorter irons of the set, while a muscle channel has been strategically placed within the longer irons to help increase peak height. Both of these changes have come as a direct result of feedback from the tour, with players craving lower flying, higher spinning short irons, and higher soft landing long irons. Titleist believes that the new long iron design will see more players staying in the T100 irons further up their set rather than requiring the use of a utility iron to help raise ball flight.

Looks-wise, truth be told, it is more of the same from Titleist here, which is a good thing. The T100 has been one of the classiest-looking irons in the game for a long time now, and they have been very careful not to tinker too much with a winning formula with the 2025 model. In fact, this was almost a demand from players when the design team sought feedback from the tour: “DO NOT change the look!” was the overwhelming response, and Titleist listened. In all honesty, you would do very well to distinguish this model from its predecessor with just a glance, both from the playing position and the ‘in the bag’ angle.

As before, the address position offers us minimal offset and a nice crisp, thin topline that screams precision and control.

Performance-wise, I would say ‘no surprises’ would sum up my testing experience well. I saw all of the characteristics that made the previous T100 model what it was, with just the merest hint of progression in terms of the short iron spin rates and higher flying long irons. This was exactly what Titleist was looking to achieve, so it is a job well done.

The deep, soft feel I have become familiar with thankfully remains, and the nice short blade length allows plenty of wiggle room in terms of shot shaping.

While the longer irons definitely do launch a fraction higher, I fear the Titleist hopes that players will stay in the T100 model more in the 4 and 3 iron area may be scuppered by the quality of one of its other new releases, the T250 and T250U, which are nothing short of outstanding in those lower lofts.

This year, the T100 has been made 1˚ stronger throughout the set (7-iron is now 33˚), which is somewhat contradictory to the goal of higher peak heights, but there is nothing to tie you to these lofts. I was in fact fitted to 2˚ weaker than standard which worked really nicely for me.

While I was looking forward to putting the new grooves to the test, in truth, I didn’t see any difference in spin rates between this model and either my current set or the previous T100. In normal test conditions, throughout the bag, my spin rates were exactly where they would normally be, and other situational testing didn’t indicate any huge leaps either. During my fitting with Titleist, for example, I was taken to the rough with both the T100 and my own gamer iron, the TaylorMade P7CB, to measure spin both from the rough and with water sprayed on the ball. In both instances, my spin rates didn’t change at all.

I very much enjoyed the new Variable Bounce Sole, which slides beautifully through the turf even for a steeper angle of attack player like myself, and it feels like it would have the versatility to perform well in a variety of ground conditions.

Overall, can I report a groundbreaking new technology or performance characteristic? No, I cannot. But when your starting point is at the upper end of excellence, change may well be a bad thing. The subtle tweaks Titleist has introduced in the 2025 T100 are probably all it required, and whether that is enough for you to want to upgrade your current T100 set is entirely up to you.

The Titleist T100 will be available for $1499/£1379 per 7-piece set (steel), $1599/£1479 per 7-piece set (graphite).

Building on the success of its predecessor, Titleist is now introducing a brand new version of the U505 utility iron, which it is positioning as "The Advanced Driving Iron." This model is specifically crafted for players who want a hybrid-style performance but prefer a more compact shape to hit fairways or get home from long range, promising surprisingly playable distance with a sleek new look. Having extensively tested other models in the T-Series, I was eager to get this in my hands and see how it performs and if it could challenge some of the best utility irons in the game.

In terms of the technology story, the U505 is packed with innovations aimed at delivering a unique blend of performance. Titleist states that it "plays like an iron but performs like something more," and I found this to be a fitting description. Its 'Pure Muscle' look is achieved through a hollow, high-strength steel body, which concentrates power within a clean, compact shape.

As with the T250U utility iron option, Titleist states that Improved Max Impact Technology promotes consistent launch, speed, spin, and carry. Split high-density tungsten produces an optimal CG with high stability in its compact profile, designed to deliver consistent carry and improved trajectory control for forgiving shotmaking.

Looks-wise, from the ‘in the bag’ angle, the U505 generally presents a very clean, modern design that I believe will appeal to many. It certainly looks like an iron, which is the intention, blending beautifully with the rest of the new T-Series family, and the finish is superb.

However, if I’m being completely honest, I do have one personal visual note: I'm not in love with the look at address with so much of the back edge on show from the playing position. While it's a minor point (and is only really prevalent in the 1 and 2 iron head options) and clearly a necessary part of the design to house the internal technology, for my eye, it slightly detracts from an otherwise pristine appearance.

Sometimes, there is no getting around a design feature, but Srixon managed to disguise that rear bulge with clever mirroring on its ZXiU utility iron. However, having said that, high gloss chrome would look out of place on this model and lose cohesion with the rest of the range, so it may not be a problem that can actually be solved. All I know is that it doesn’t look great to my eye. That said, the overall shaping and finish are still very high quality, and the profile is definitely confidence-inspiring.

Performance-wise, the U505 truly delivered on its promise. It felt incredibly fast off the face, and I found it very easy to launch both high and far, even from the turf. My peak height was noticeably higher on average versus the T250U version with stock shots, which is exactly what it was designed to achieve. The consistency in launch, speed, and spin, whether hit from the tee or the deck, was also a major plus for predictability.

With a club so blatantly designed with launch in mind, I have to say knocking down the flight was a bit of a struggle for me, so if that level of versatility is something you had in mind, you might want to veer towards the excellent T250U utility iron model.

The impact feel, for me, was solid and responsive. It felt powerful without being harsh, providing good feedback on strike quality, and even when I missed the middle, sound, and feel were not unduly punished, which dramatically enhanced playability.

Overall, the 2025 Titleist U505 utility iron delivers on its core promise of speed, launch, and consistency for players who prefer a more iron-like profile. While my personal preference leans away from the visual of the exposed back edge at the address, its solid performance more than compensates.

If you're a golfer looking for a powerful, consistent, and forgiving utility iron to fill a crucial gap in your bag, I believe the U505 is a compelling option that truly delivers.

The RRP for the U505 utility iron will be $279/£259 or $399/£379 (premium shaft). It is available in 1 (16˚), 2 (18˚), 3 (20˚), and 4-iron (22˚) models, with a variety of custom options upon request.

The Titleist T-Series franchise has cemented its place as a cornerstone of modern iron design, catering to a wide spectrum of golfers. Titleist is now re-introducing the exceptionally popular T150, a model specifically crafted for golfers seeking players’ iron performance with a little extra injection of speed. Since extensively testing the new updated T100, I'd been eager to get this set in my hands and see how it could build upon the precision of the T100 while offering a more confidence-inducing profile and stronger lofts.
I have been testing out the 2025 Titleist T150 to see what has changed from the previous iteration, and if it can carve its own niche amongst the best irons in the game.

In terms of the technology story, the T150 is packed with innovations aimed at delivering elevated speed and unwavering accuracy. It features 1° stronger lofts (7-iron is 32˚) compared to the T100, which we all know is a very direct path to additional ball speed. This is complemented by an improved muscle channel that extends through the 7-iron, working in conjunction with a lower long-iron CG, aiming to generate even more speed, improve carry consistency, and increase peak height for softer landings.

Titleist has also utilized split high-density tungsten and a progressive dual-cavity construction to produce optimal CG and stability, aiming to ensure consistent carry and precise trajectory control.

Furthermore, a new Variable Face Thickness (VFT) maintains speed and launch across the entire face, while more aggressive mid/short-iron grooves have been added to promote consistent spin control, even when facing rough, wet conditions, or potential fliers.

Looks-wise, the T150 maintains the classic, player-preferred shape that Titleist is renowned for, but with a slightly larger head size than the T100. This (very) subtle increase in profile is genuinely confidence-inspiring at address, offering a touch more visual reassurance than T100 without compromising the clean, traditional aesthetic. It’s still a beautiful forged design that screams precision and control; there’s just a little added sense of security behind the ball.

From the playing position, the fairly minimal offset and crisp topline are exactly what you'd expect from a Titleist player's iron, a job well done.

Performance-wise, the T150 truly delivers on its promise of elevated speed and enhanced consistency. The stronger lofts, combined with the refined internal weighting and muscle channel, noticeably increased my ball speed and carry distances over T100, especially in the mid to long irons. Despite the increased power, my trajectory control remained excellent, with shots launching high and descending steeply enough to hold even very firm greens effectively, which would suggest that the internal CG work that the Titleist engineers have put in is working effectively.

The Variable Bounce Sole is also an unsung hero here, sliding beautifully through the turf, even for a steeper angle of attack player like myself, and despite only really testing off fairly firm turf thus far, it feels like it would have the versatility to perform well in a variety of ground conditions.

The impact feel is exactly what I have come to expect from Titleist – a solid yet soft sensation that provides excellent feedback, allowing you to truly feel the ball compress against the face. The enhanced stability from the tungsten weighting is evident, as off-center strikes maintain impressive ball speed and a tight dispersion, putting them high up on the forgiveness spectrum for a player’s iron of this type.

Overall, while the 2025 Titleist T150 iron offers only an incremental update, it's a thoughtfully designed iron that successfully caters to a very specific demand within the player's iron market. Providing the precision and feel Titleist is famous for, but with a tangible boost in speed and forgiveness, all wrapped in a confidence-inspiring package. If you're a golfer who loves the look and feel of a player's iron but wants a bit more help with distance and consistency, the T150 truly delivers.

The Titleist T150 will be available for $1499/£1379 per 7-piece set (steel), and $1599/£1479 per 7-piece set (graphite).

To sit among the best game improvement irons in the game, there are a lot of boxes that need ticking. Forgiveness, ease of launch, looks, and feel are just the start, and Titleist is releasing an iron that looks to satisfy all of the above. I’ve been testing the T350 iron for a few weeks now, so allow me to present my findings…

In terms of the technology story, the T350 singular design features a face and body made entirely of high-strength steel. Titleist says that this construction allows powerful performance technologies to be discreetly housed within a sleek, modern profile, helping to provide a subtle and clean look for a game improvement iron. For maximized distance, Titleist has also incorporated a new forged L-Face Design to generate more ball speed across the entire face and increase launch on those low-face strikes.

As you would imagine, forgiveness is another core pillar of the T350's design. Titleist states that Improved Max Impact Technology is designed to deliver more consistent carry distance and tighter dispersion. Complementing this, more aggressive mid/short-iron grooves are designed to promote enhanced spin control from any lie, even when facing rough or wet conditions. For higher trajectory & stability, split high-density tungsten has been utilized. This strategically placed perimeter weighting works to maximize stability and optimize the CG (Center of Gravity), to deliver ultra-high launch and consistency throughout the set.

Looks-wise, the T350, much like the rest of the 2025 T-Series range, is a triumph. Re-engineered with its high-strength steel face and body, the T350 presents a noticeably sleeker-looking head shape than previous game improvement models, which I found very impressive given the number of performance technologies housed within. It is without doubt a successful merger of form and function, crafted for powerful performance while satisfying the eye in a way that game improvement irons often miss the mark. From the playing position, while it's clearly a game improvement iron with a larger footprint, the fairly sizeable offset felt well-managed, and the top line, while not razor-thin, was certainly not chunky, which I appreciated. Titleist has struck an excellent balance with the visual of T350.

Another thing Titleist has executed extremely well here is the visual cohesion between all models in the T-Series, meaning you could easily combine multiple models throughout your set with no interruption to the aesthetic of your bag. TaylorMade is another company that has pulled this off extremely well with P7CB, P770, and P790, while Callaway also did a great job of it with the Apex MB, CB, and Pro lineup. It’s nice to see Titleist following suit.

Performance-wise, the T350 truly delivered on its promise of maximized distance and enhanced consistency in my testing. As one of the most powerful irons I can ever recall striking in terms of raw distance output, you would think that would be the standout feature here, but for me, it was the sheer consistency with which it delivered that power that truly struck a chord. In this category, I often see a large variance in terms of front-to-back dispersion, even with the technologies designed to retain ball speed, but the consistency of all parameters, such as ball speed, launch, and spin, produced very predictable and reliable numbers.

The launch was relatively high considering the strong lofts (7-iron is 29˚), which is a testament to the internal engineering, but you will certainly need to give some consideration to your gapping with the power on offer.

The impact feel, for me, was a touch clicker than some other game improvement style irons - the Srixon ZXi4 would be a good example of a better feeling iron - but it is far from offensive, offering clear feedback of impact location, even if that impact location doesn’t seem to have much effect on the shot outcome (in the best way possible)!

Overall, the 2025 Titleist T350 iron is a thoughtfully designed and highly effective game improvement iron. It provides the precision and quality Titleist is famous for, but with a tangible and very welcome boost in distance, and almost unmatched forgiveness, all wrapped in a stunning visual package. If you're a golfer who wants maximum help with distance and consistency, combined with a surprisingly pure and clean look, I believe the T350 is a compelling option that truly delivers on its promises.

The Titleist T350 will be available for $1499/£1379 per 7-piece set (steel), $1599/£1479 per 7-piece set (graphite)