Callaway Big Bertha Iron

Callaway Big Bertha Iron Review - Joel Tadman tests out Callaway's new and striking Big Bertha irons.

Callaway Big Bertha Iron Review
Golf Monthly Verdict

If money is no object and you’re seeking out-and-out distance with irons that are very easy to hit, look no further than the 2019 Big Bertha iron.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    One of the longest and fastest-feeling irons on the market that has appealing looks too.

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Very low spin reduces stopping power into greens.

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Callaway Big Bertha Iron Review - Technical Editor Joel Tadman tests out Callaway's latest distance iron for 2019, the new Big Bertha

Callaway Big Bertha Iron Review

This model is aimed at golfers seeking extra distance from their iron shots.

Key technology Faster ball speed and easier launch comes from the Suspended Energy Core, which comprises a floating tungsten weight suspended within Callaway’s urethane microspheres deep within the head. A thinner and faster 360 Face Cup – a shallow, flexible rim around the perimeter of the face – combines with the high launch from the Suspended Energy Core to deliver longer ball flights.

Our technical editor Joel Tadman tests out the new irons on the range.

How we tested We hit the 7-iron from the set on the launch monitor and then also on the range at West Hill to assess ball flight as well as true feel and sound.

Looks The smoked PVD finish creates a premium, anti-glare look. There’s a fair amount of offset but the top-line appears relatively thin for a distance iron. It sets up very inviting to hit behind the ball with the bottom white grooves assisting with alignment.

Performance This iron produces very fast ball speeds and very low spin, which contributes to extreme carry distances but still on a relatively high ball flight.

Everything about the Big Bertha iron has been designed for distance. At 26°, the 6-iron loft is strong, although it is the same as the Rogue iron. Yet, we got 3mph more ball speed and ten yards more carry distance on average with Big Bertha. Admittedly, the KBS Max shaft is 0.25 inches longer and the swing weight a touch lighter, but this also helps flight the ball higher.

The feel off the face is incredibly hot and very solid, almost metalwood like, and even poor strikes achieve good yardage. The very low spin won’t be beneficial for everyone; Rogue seems to be more playable for a wider spectrum of golfers and a little more affordable.

If you do decide to buy one of these great Callaway irons, first look at one of our Callaway promo codes.

Joel Tadman
Technical Editor

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