Callaway Apex TCB Iron Review
Our verdict on the Callaway Apex TCB Iron used by Jon Rahm
We were really impressed by the new Apex Pro but the Apex TCB might well be a better all-round offering for the better player looking to shape shots and attack pins while having some margin for error too.
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Ticks every box the low handicapper is looking for
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Feels soft but not overly so
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Can manipulate the ball flight at will with ease
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Some will want more distance and forgiveness
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Callaway Apex TCB Iron Review
Samples of the Apex TCB irons were tough to get hold of, partly because of the rapid take up amongst Callaway’s tour staff (including Jon Rahm) and that it is a custom-only offering, but having finally given them a test they were certainly worth the wait.
The tour-inspired shaping is immediately obvious, with the thin topline and narrow sole along with a premium satin finish. It won’t inspire confidence for the inconsistent player, unlike some of the other models in the Apex 21 iron range, but this isn’t the target market. Seeing two screws that house the tungsten weighting on the back of the head is unusual, but for some reason doesn’t detract from the aesthetics. In fact, it’s arguably one of the best golf irons we’ve seen for a while in terms of looks.
The hitting experience doesn’t disappoint either. The feel is crisp and solid off the face, a gentle thud sound contributing to a soft feel - not quite as soft as the Apex MB, but only just behind. In fact, because the Apex TCB is a hollow iron, balls spring off the face a little more lively than a one-piece forging.
With a 7-iron traditionally lofted at 34°, distance isn’t the main priority, although the 6-iron we tested regularly flew over 180 yards when testing on the Flightscope X3 launch monitor, which shows that centred strikes are rewarded with strong carries. Another benefit of a pure strike is a consistent, penetrating flight. Shots cut through the air with ease, while the ample spin ensure there is ample stopping power on landing.
This iron can hit all the shots you want. On demand, it will produce a draw or fade if that’s what you’ve intended. High or low shots were easily replicated, too. Miss-strike a shot, and you’ll get the feedback from the clubhead through your hands that lets you know, but the resulting shot won’t be as bad as you were expecting more often than not because this iron is more user-friendly than its modest size suggests. This makes it one of the best irons for low handicappers and it's no wonder the majority of Callaway's tour staff choose this model.
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Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.
One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.
Joel's current What's In The Bag?
Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9°
Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15°
Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18°
Irons: Ping i230 4-UW
Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind
Putter: Evnroll ER2V
Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x
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